“Yeah, but I can’t give it up, so thanks for having it fixed. I feel strong, Everett. I think I’ve got this beat, and I look forward to going home soon.”
“We’re ready to see you around the store again. Franklin misses you. I think he’s eager to have your help again.”
“I’m ready to get back to work and to riding again, and I want to buy a house soon.”
“Whoa, slow down there.”
“Look, about all I got time to do in this place is think, so it’s hard not to make plans for the future.” I look away from my brother.
“Uh, I’ve been thinking about Becca a lot, too. Once some time has passed, I’m going to work on making things right with her.”
I roll my eyes. “AA advises us not to start a new relationship for a while, but Becca and I are different. We were great together once.
“I’m going to be her friend first, but I’m hoping that someday she might give me another chance at more than a friendship.”
Everett’s smile falters, and I wonder why. I thought this news would thrill him.
Everett
I stare at Travis, unsure of how to respond. I can’t tell him what Reese told me earlier today, which is that Becca is going out with Clay Carlton this evening. I can’t set his progress back. Damn, I shouldn’t have asked her to work for us this soon.
“I, uh, I think you should focus on one thing at a time. Like, uh, let’s get you well first and back to work.”
He studies me. “You’re keeping something from me. You never stumble on your words.”
I scratch my head. “I don’t want you to get discouraged, so let’s focus on the things you can make happen as soon as you’re discharged.”
“Tell me now, Everett.”
“Shit, I’ve royally screwed up.”
“What did you do?”
Resting my elbows on the table, I slide my hands over the sides of my hair.
“I gave Becca a job, and she should stay in the back mostly, but damn I should’ve waited. You don’t need the stress of it. I mean if it goes badly, then you could be tempted to drink.”
“Everett, slow down. This is perfect. I’ll have an excuse to talk to her every day. She’ll see how much better I am.”
I avert my gaze. I see nothing good coming from this situation I’ve screwed up and created. I wish I did see the positive, but I don’t.
“There’s something else, isn’t there?” he asks.
“She has a date tonight with Senator Carlton’s son, Clay. Travis, I swear I didn’t know about this when I hired her.”
He swallows and forms his hands into fists.
“That doesn’t mean she’ll see him again. Isn’t he like in his mid-thirties?”
“Yeah. I don’t see it working out, but Reese says he’s been real nice to her since they met.” I reach over and secure my hand around Travis’s wrist. “Bro, please don’t let this set you back in your recovery. It’s one date.”
Staring straight into my eyes he nods.
“I’m good, Ev, and you can’t start babying me. I don’t want to witness any of that shit when I get back to Casteel. Do you understand me? Tell everyone else, too.”
“OK.”
“I’ve got this beat, and I’m gonna make sure Becca sees that, too. One day she’ll be mine again.”
Chapter Fourteen
Becca
Spotting the headlights in the driveway, I yell to my mom that I’m leaving. The fact I’m living back home again makes me feel even younger than Clay.
He’s standing at the door and about to knock when I open it.
“Hi,” he says, smiling.
“Hi. Ready to go?” I ask while praying he turns around. The last thing I want is for my parents to ambush him.
“Sure.” He holds his arm out to allow me to pass him. Being a gentleman, he opens the car door for me, too.
“I love your car.”
“Thank you. It’s a BMW 7 Series.” Once Clay’s inside, his eyes travel over me, and he smiles. “You look beautiful.”
“Oh, thanks.” I glance down at my long-sleeve burgundy dress and fidget with the hem of it that rests mid-thigh.
He continues staring, so I turn to him and smile as I now play with the end of my fishtail side braid.
“You look great, too.” He’s in a pair of dark tan khakis, and the light green sweater over a plaid button-up shirt he’s wearing brings out the green in his hazel eyes.
“I’m sorry I’m staring, but you’re incredible to look at.”
I touch his forearm. “That’s sweet, but I imagine you’ve dated a lot of attractive women.”
“Actually, no. It’s why the media is intrigued. I was surprised that I approached you in the hospital since I tend to be on the shy side.”
He finally backs out of the driveway and tells me we’re going into Atlanta for dinner. The temperature this fall evening is pleasant, so I’m tempted to suggest we roll down the windows, but I remain quiet once I recall we have to get on the freeway.
We arrive at Aria in the Buckhead district. I’ve never eaten here, but I know it’s one of the finer restaurants in Atlanta.
As we stroll inside, I mess with the silver bangle bracelets on my wrists until Clay grabs my hand and entwines our fingers.
The first thing I notice when we enter the grand space is all the white. The room is made up of intricate white molding, and the tables are masked in white linen cloths.
As we follow the hostess to a round table, I dwell on whether I should’ve dressed nicer or worn my hair down.
Clay insists on pulling my chair out. He sits across from me, and a waiter is promptly at our service.
“Ma’am, may I get you a drink?” the young man asks.
“A sweet tea please.”
Clay smirks. “You’re welcome to have wine or a cocktail.”
“Oh, tea sounds good to me.”
“Since I’m driving, I’ll take tea, too, but unsweet please.”
I glance over the menu and feel my nerves growing. I’m worried I’ll tremble, so I take a drink of the water we already have in front of us.
“Have you eaten here before?” I ask.
“Yes, many times.”
“What do you recommend?”
“You can’t go wrong with anything, but the duck or short ribs are my favorite.”
“I think I’ll have the ribs.”
Clay orders for us, and my tea arrives. I take a sip and lay my napkin in my lap.
“So, your home is in an established subdivision. Have you lived there long?” he asks.
“It’s actually my parents’ home. I’m living with them.” I glance away. “I shared an apartment with a roommate, but some things happened over the summer, so I moved back home. As soon as I begin working, I’ll get back out on my own.”
“Does this have anything to do with why you were at the hospital?”
“Not exactly. I was in a car accident this summer in Europe. My roommate, who was my best friend, died.” I hold up my hands. “It’s how I got these scars, but I’d rather not discuss it right now.” Shrugging, I smile and meet his gaze again. “I’d like to enjoy our evening.”
He reaches across the table and squeezes my hand.
“I’m terribly sorry, Becca. I understand you not wanting to discuss it now, but please know that I’m available to listen if you ever want to.”
“That’s kind of you. Maybe I’ll take you up on that one day.”
“I thought I’d be the most nervous tonight, but you seem nervous to the point of uncomfortable.”
“Oh, no. I’m sorry. I’ve never been on this elegant of a date before, and I don’t want to embarrass myself.”
“I can’t imagine you’re capable of that.”
“So, I know you want to be a congressman, but what do you do now for a career?”
“I’m a corporate attorney, but I’m only working part-time since I’m busy campaigning.” He smirks. “I’m guessing you didn’t Google
me.”
“No, I didn’t.”
“That’s refreshing.”
“Should I have Googled you?”
“Uh, no. I’d rather you learn who I am in person.”
“Well, I appreciate that you’re doing the same. Not that you’d find me on the internet, but I’m glad you didn’t dismiss the thought of dating me based on my social status or wealth. I have little of either.” I let out a clipped laugh, and Clay just stares at me in amusement.
“You worry too much. You’re a catch, Becca. I’d be honored to spend more time with you.”
Our dinner arrives, rescuing me from a reply, and I savor every bite. The ribs are fabulous, and although the side dishes are not something I’d normally eat, I try them, and they’re good, too.
“I’m not a fan of turnips, but these are delicious.”
He smiles. “I’m glad you’re enjoying your dinner.”
“I think you mean I did enjoy it.” I look at my empty plate I’ve wiped clean. Clay lets out a laugh, too, and I feel less nervous than when we arrived.
Our waiter returns, and before I can object, Clay orders two desserts to go.
“I’m grateful you didn’t have him serve those to us. I’m so full.” I cover my stomach with my hand.
“They’re both for you … to eat tomorrow. I’m hoping you’ll think of me while you’re doing it.”
I giggle. “Clever move, Clay. You’re wanting me to associate you with the sweet goodness of chocolate and sugar.”
“Whatever it takes for you to go out with me again.”
“The night’s not over, but you’re presenting a good case for yourself.”
His hand wraps around mine across the table again, and he squeezes it.
“I think we could have a lot of fun together.”
“So do I,” I utter. Even through his glasses, I can admire his sexy hazel eyes that are giving a hint of his desire for me, and I must admit I’m feeling excitement, too.
Upon wrapping up dinner, Clay pays the bill and we leave. His hand stays at the small of my back until he’s holding the car door open for me. He’s gentlemanly, and I believe I could get used to this.
“Thank you for tonight. Dinner was fabulous.”
“You’re welcome, but I hope that’s not your polite way of saying ‘take me home’ since I have a surprise for you.”
“Oh, I love surprises.” I catch a glimpse of his relief before he shuts my door. Once he’s in the driver’s seat, I lace our fingers and watch his lips curve upward when he notices.
This man is attractive, kind and intelligent. I don’t get how he’s still single. I know he said he’s shy, but he’s doing a fine job out with me tonight.
“The Fernbank Science Center …” I say as we pull into the parking lot. “Aren’t they closed?”
“Not for us.” He takes a glimpse at me and winks. “My family makes hefty donations to the center, so I have connections.”
“We’re not going through the front door?”
“No. We’re going to the observatory. The astronomer is going to let us in through a side door.” He parks and comes around to help me out of the vehicle. “Wait, do you have an interest in astronomy?”
“Yes. I love gazing at the stars.”
“That’s a relief. I imagine this would’ve been boring for you otherwise.”
I grasp his hand. “Don’t be nervous. I’m having a great time.”
Clay and I climb steps lined with granite stones until we’re at the door of the observatory dome. He knocks, and a woman opens it, giving a glowing grin.
“Mr. Carlton, I’m glad you made it.”
“Thank you for opening up for us tonight.”
“I’m Greta, your astronomer this evening.” The attractive lady, I’d guess to be in her early thirties, stretches her hand out to shake ours.
Admiring her long red hair that is shining from the light over the entrance, I’m curious if Clay finds her attractive. I can’t fathom why he doesn’t date when he could have his pick of incredible women.
“This is Becca Abbott.”
“It’s nice to meet you,” I say. Greta takes us through the observatory and tells us a little about the place and the planetarium that’s also on the property. The dome we’re in is about thirty feet tall.
We reach a telescope that is enormous.
“Wow, I’ve never seen a telescope this size,” I say.
“The quality of what we’ll be able to see will be superior,” Clay replies. “You first.”
As I look through the large lens, Greta helps me identify the planets. It’s unreal how clear they are.
“Oh, my gosh, Clay! You can see the rings around Saturn. This is amazing.”
“Have you never looked through a telescope before?” he asks.
“Only once in high school, but it was nothing like this experience. I’m ruined now. I’ll have to come back here and do this again.”
Greta points out the moon, and I’m astonished over how detailed some of the craters are. The powerful lens allows me to see binary stars, too, with great clarity.
Clay takes his turn, and I admire his physique as he gazes through the lens. His ass is firm in his khakis, and the sleeves of his sweater hug his shapely biceps. I’m getting another enthralling view this evening.
He pushes his glasses up his nose a few times, and it’s cute. I was a nervous mess coming into this date, but with every passing minute, I’m more comfortable with him.
It’s cool we’ve found something we’re both interested in, too. How romantic that he planned this. I mean, he arranged for Greta to give up her Saturday night to allow us this private viewing.
Once Clay finishes up, we thank Greta and exit the observatory. I can’t help but grab Clay’s hand as I gaze up at the clear night sky. A crisp coolness from the air sends a shiver through me.
“You’re cold. Let’s get you in the car where I can turn on the heat.”
I feel the tug of his hand before he realizes I’ve come to a stop.
“Maybe you could warm me up right here. I think I owe you a thank you kiss for this amazing evening.”
In a beat, Clay’s arms circle me. He brings me in close and gazes down at me.
“I can’t express how much I enjoyed your enthusiasm as you looked through that telescope. It made me happy.”
“I’m glad. I enjoyed watching you, too, as you looked through that telescope.”
He smirks, and it’s short-lived as he brings his hands up to cradle my face. His lips land on mine, and they’re warm in the cool air, so I open my mouth to feel his warm tongue, too.
He exhales a light groan, and it ignites something in me I haven’t felt in months. I lean in against him and slide a hand over his shapely butt.
This is nice. I could get used to this, too.
Our lips separate, and his forehead falls against mine. His thumbs brushing along my cheeks give a gentle affection, and I believe appreciation, as well.
“Say you’ll see me again and soon.”
“I’ll see you again and soon.”
His chest lifts from his snicker.
“This is the most fun I’ve had in years, and I can’t thank you enough for being the reason.”
“I should thank you, too. My summer sucked. I’m glad the fall season is looking up.”
***
It’s Monday morning, and I’ve just arrived at Casteel Motorsport for my first day of employment. I’m excited yet nervous, but today shouldn’t be too difficult; I’m only setting up my office and computer and getting more familiar with the place.
After entering the hallway at the back of the store, I tap on Reese’s open office door.
“Hi, sis. Ready for your first day?” she asks after looking up and smiling.
“Yep. I’m excited.”
“How was your date the other night?”
I step all the way into her office and close the door. I lean back against it and sigh.
“It was a
mazing. A perfect first date. He was kind, romantic, and attentive. He’s a good kisser, too.”
“Then why is there a crease in your forehead?”
“I feel guilty talking about it here. This is Travis’s second home. It feels wrong to talk about another man.”
“You’re going to have to get over that. Yeah, don’t go rubbing it in his face, but we can talk in private about it.”
“I did have a good time, and we’re going out again soon.”
“I’m happy for you, Becca. You deserve evenings like that.”
I cock my head to the side. “All you’ve said for months is that you want me with Travis. What changed your mind?”
Reese exhales loudly and leans back in her chair. Her blond hair that is draped over the front of her shoulders has a silky sheen today and is curled at the ends.
“In my perfect world, you’d end up living happily ever after with him, but the world isn’t perfect. Everyone has problems and baggage.
“I hear he’s doing great at rehab, and I truly hope it means he’s getting his life back together, but I know that doesn’t take away the baggage you two share.
“Because of everything that’s happened, it wouldn’t be fair of me to push you toward him. What matters most to Everett and me is that you’re well and happy. If another man can make that happen, then we’ll support the relationship one hundred percent.”
“Thank you, sis. Travis will forever hold a piece of my heart, but I want to give Clay a chance. He’s mature and seems to have it together. I need that stability after the accident and the baby.”
Reese gets up and strolls over to hug me.
“Speaking of maturity … I never got to tell you how proud I was of you when you stood your ground with Travis while he was drunk. You were mature enough to see he couldn’t give you what you deserve.
“Maybe one day he’ll be able to, but I wouldn’t worry about crossing that bridge unless it’s one he’s built securely that you can feel confident about crossing toward him.”
I smirk at her. “I think Everett’s been giving you classes on how to hand out words of wisdom.”
Fail to Trust (The Casteel Trust Series Book 2) Page 9