Cowboy Promise

by Janalyn Knight

  She smiled, at a loss. Until recently, she hadn’t much thought of him in this way. Pushing gently against him, she sat up. “What a perfect sunset. You were right about this area. It’s an amazing place for an evening picnic. I’m so glad we came.”

  He handed over her wine and sipped his. “I want to ask you something before we go. You’ll probably have to think about it. We’ll exhaust the date possibilities in Wichita Falls pretty fast, and I was hoping you might consider branching out. I understand your work at the dancehall funds your school. What if I were to contribute what you’d earn in a weekend to your education account if you took time off once in a while to do something special with me? We have the nanny service now, and maybe your parents can keep your daughter overnight. It wouldn’t be often.”

  His look pleading, he continued. “We could go to the symphony in Dallas, to plays in New York, and to Cowboys’ games. We could stay in a hotel, separate rooms, no strings. Will you consider it?”

  It sounded exciting. But immediate red flags popped into her mind. How would Piper handle that much time with a nanny? Her daughter had never been away from Dallas for any length of time. What if there were an emergency? She was Piper’s only parent. Weekends were always hectic at the club. The few times she’d needed coverage, it had been hard to come by. Of course, in this instance, with advance notice, it might not be so difficult to get someone to fill in.

  She bit her bottom lip and nodded. “I’ll think about it. It sounds like so much fun. Thanks for asking, Ethan.”

  When there was just enough light to make it to the car, they folded the blanket and headed back.

  A COUPLE OF EVENINGS later, Dallas opened a second bottle of wine in the kitchen. Sarah had just arrived and Kate was due any second. Thank goodness Piper had been asleep since eight o’clock.

  As she poured a glass of wine, Kate knocked at the door. Dallas answered and gave her friend a hug. “Come in, come in. Sarah’s in the back. I’ll get another glass and meet you out there.”

  Dallas exited the back door and walked to the area lit by candles. Her yard had no covered porch, no patio. But it had trees, and she had three inexpensive lawn chairs with a side table for each. This was a favorite spot for the three of them to sip wine and catch up on gossip. However, this time, she needed advice.

  As Dallas sat down, Sarah said, “Remember Acacia from Howelton? We were best friends with her at Midwestern State? She’s been engaged to a cowboy named Johnny for quite a while now, and she’s getting married in a couple of months.”

  “How wonderful. Give her my congratulations, will you?”

  Kate settled into her chair and took a drink of wine, nodding at Dallas. “So, what’s up, sister? Let’s hear the skinny.”

  She twirled her glass, searching for clarity in her thoughts. “I ... well, I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m dating for the first time in years, and what the heck happens? Of course, I’m seeing two men at once! It’s so confusing. I have real feelings for both of them.”

  She put her wine down and gestured to herself. “And this body? It rocks and rolls for both of them. How can I do that?” She drew in a deep breath and picked up her glass.

  Sarah spoke up. “Well, my body revs for Ethan, too. Whose wouldn’t? The same goes for you and your handsome cowboy. That’s nature, baby.”

  Kate asked, “You told them you’re dating someone else, right?”

  Dallas nodded. “No real specifics, but yes.”

  Sarah said, “Well, I don’t see your problem, worrywart. You’re being honest, and these guys are really into you.”

  Dallas grimaced. “The other night, after I kissed Ethan, I felt somehow disloyal to Cash.”

  Kate plopped her wine glass down. “Well, that’s crap. You don’t have a commitment with either guy. You’re just getting to know them. It may turn out that one of them is the man of your dreams, and maybe not. But, right now, you’re exploring. If the shoe was on the other foot, they’d do the same damn thing with you.”

  Sarah raised her glass. “You tell ’em, girl!”

  Dallas laughed. “I love you both. You know that, don’t you?”

  To a chorus of damned straight and hell, yeah, they tapped their glasses together.

  Chapter Six

  Cash pulled into Jesse’s driveway and parked behind his truck. Jesse said he’d be home this evening, which was surprising for a Friday night. As crazy as it sounded, Cash had actually come by for some relationship advice from his free-wheeling bachelor friend.

  Jesse answered the door with a cold unopened beer in his hand. He thrust it forward. “Here, let’s get this party started.”

  Cash laughed. “I’m not up for a party tonight, partner. But I’ll take the beer.”

  Jesse walked over and slouched down on the couch, picking up his longneck. “So, what does my best bud want to talk about? You’ve had me guessing ever since I got your text.”

  Cash sat in the opposing chair. His forehead wrinkled as he considered what to say. How could he bring this up without sounding like a pussy? “Uh ... I was wondering. What would you do if someone you liked—a girl—was seeing someone else? I mean, at the same time as you?” Heat rushed to his face. This was bad. He so regretted coming over.

  Jesse, watching Cash’s face turn red, cracked up. “We’re talking about you, right? Oh, man. I never thought I’d see the day. The mighty Cash Powers is getting two-timed.” Jesse slapped his thigh and chugged his beer.

  Cash scowled. “Ha-ha. Very funny. Are you going to answer me, or do I walk out the door?”

  Jesse quit grinning and took another gulp from his bottle. “Sorry, bud. You got to admit, though, this is kind of hilarious.” He rubbed his hand across his jaw. “I wouldn’t like it, I know that. I expect my women to be faithful. The question is, though, is she your woman?”

  Cash heaved a gusty sigh. “Not really. We talk on the phone, and we’ve done a few things together. But I like her a lot and her daughter’s a great kid. I want her to be my girl.”

  Jesse smiled. “Wishing and being are two different things, bro. Sounds like you two are just getting to know each other. There’s no commitment yet. So, no harm, no foul. Come the time you’re both ready to be exclusive, it’s a whole other story.”

  “That’s what I thought you’d say. I tell myself that, but I can’t wrap my head around her going out with this other guy.”

  Jesse laughed. “Aw, you’re just jealous. You want her all to yourself. Who wouldn’t?”

  Cash grinned sheepishly. “You’re right. I guess I am.”

  “Hey, buddy, you’re the better man. I haven’t met this other dude, but I know you. You step up and show this girl what you’re made of. She’ll choose you, hands down. I’m damn sure of that.”

  Cash nodded, his eyes narrowed. “I need to get over myself. She’s worth fighting for. I’ll make sure she chooses the best man, and that’s me.”

  ETHAN CHECKED HIS REFLECTION in the glass of his framed diploma, straightening his tie and smoothing his already perfect hair. The letters on the document swam into focus. That diploma had cost him so much—and not just the money he paid for school. His father had wanted Ethan to study business and become CEO when his father stepped down at retirement. But the challenge of the courtroom had always pulled at Ethan. He couldn’t imagine anything more boring than chairing the Board of Directors’ meeting and managing a corporation. He wanted the contest of wills with the opposing attorney and the thrill of the win that trials could afford him.

  After incredible pressure from his father, he agreed to become Board Certified in corporate law after graduating. In the end, it didn’t matter. His father died before Ethan could prove to him that he would be a success in his legal career. It was his greatest sorrow.

  He sighed and headed down to speak with Dallas.

  When he approached, she looked up and smiled.

  “Hey, Dallas, you ready for lunch?”

  She glanced at the clock on her computer. “I
guess it is about that time.”

  “Great. Can I talk to you for a few minutes? Outside?”

  Locking her screen, she said, “Sure. No problem.”

  They chatted until they reached the shade of the trees. Ethan took his hands out of his pockets and gestured enthusiastically. “Dallas, I have this wonderful opportunity, and I hope you’ll share it with me. A friend of mine got me tickets to the Cowboys’ training camp in Oxnard next week. It’ll be an overnight stay, but I’ll pay for the nanny for your daughter. It’d mean so much to me if you’d come. What do you say?”

  Dallas, eyes wide and slightly out of focus, looked a little overwhelmed. “What, we’d, like, fly to California?”

  He laughed. “Yes, and I checked. There’s a nonstop both ways that will work for us. I’ll book a car and driver. We can relax, drink wine, and have a fantastic time. I know a beautiful place to stay. I reserved a two-bedroom suite in case you’re able to come.”

  She sucked her lower lip between her teeth. “Wow, let me think. I’ve never done anything like this before—gone off and left Piper. But it sounds amazing. You know how much I like the Cowboys. Can I let you know tomorrow?”

  Ethan followed Dallas back inside, wanting to kick his heels in the air. The excitement in her eyes was unmistakable. He figured there was a ninety-percent chance she’d say yes. He’d make sure every detail was nailed down and show her the best time of her life. Let that cowboy match this!

  THE FOLLOWING WEEK, Dallas clicked her wine glass with Ethan’s and leaned her head back into the lush, butter-soft leather seat of the limo Ethan had rented for their two-hour ride to the Dallas airport. When she walked out of the office and he led her to the long, shining black car, her mouth fell open. She assumed Ethan would drive to the airport and hire a car for their time in California. This was an unheard-of extravagance.

  Her day had been hectic. The temp covering her desk tomorrow would do little more than answer phones so Dallas had tried to cram two days’ work into one before leaving today. All the while, she anxiously considered what impact her long absence would have on Piper. And if the nanny would be the same one they had before, as the agency had promised. Or if Piper would get sick while she was gone. Basically, she worried herself to death the whole day long.

  Realizing her forehead was scrunched, she reached up to smooth it with her palm.

  Ethan frowned. “You okay? What’s wrong?”

  “I’m tired. Today was crazy. And I spent the day concerned about things I can’t do anything about.”

  He gave her hand a squeeze. “Relax and enjoy yourself, Dallas. You deserve this.”

  He was right. Smiling, she returned the pressure of his hand. “I will. No more worries.”

  They arrived at the airport just in time. Ethan had booked them in first class, so they were able to board right away. As the plane rose above the city, it was as if her troubles dropped away with the ground below. First class served dinner once they were settled into their flight, and Ethan ordered wine. And, as always, he kept up an interesting conversation. She was quite relaxed by the time the pilot turned on the fasten seat belt signs for landing.

  While the plane taxied to the terminal, Ethan called their driver, letting him know they had landed. As they exited the building, the town car pulled over to the curb and the driver got out, holding up a sign with Ethan’s last name on it.

  Ethan waved to him.

  The driver was dressed in a black suit and tie and extended his hand as he approached. “Mr. Keys?” At Ethan’s nod, he continued, “I’m Killian. Let me get those bags for you.” Ethan and Dallas had each only brought a carry-on to save the whole baggage-claim thing.

  She leaned her head back and closed her eyes as the car sped off into the night. Ethan’s hand settled over hers, and she squeezed it, thankful for this wonderful experience. He led such an exciting life. How lucky she was to be included in it this time.

  Ethan rubbed his thumb across hers. “What are you thinking?

  She opened her eyes and stared dreamily at him. “Nothing, really. And that’s amazing. I’m just relaxed ... and happy. I’m glad I came.”

  He tilted his head back and laughed. “I’m happy, too. I can’t tell you how glad I am you’re here with me, Dallas.” He increased the pressure on her hand, encouraging her to slide close to him. Then he wrapped his arm around her.

  Leaning her head on his shoulder, she closed her eyes again. Maybe it was the wine, but this was heaven.

  When they arrived at the hotel, they agreed to meet in the suite after dropping off their bags in their rooms.

  Dallas checked her makeup in the mirror, stalling for time. Now that she’d arrived at the hotel, everything had changed. Suddenly, she was aware that she and Ethan would be sleeping with a single shared suite between them. Why hadn’t she thought of that before? It had seemed okay until she got here. Now, it was all too intimate, too personal. What had she gotten herself into? What was he expecting? Oh, why had she drunk so much wine? Her hand shook as she applied more lipstick.

  She couldn’t put it off any longer. Taking a deep breath, she opened the door to the suite.

  Ethan turned and smiled at her. “There you are. I wondered if you fell asleep.” He held out a glass of wine.

  Dallas shook her head. “Oh, no, I don’t care for any.”

  “Oh, come on. You’ll like this one. I insist.”

  Reluctantly, she accepted the glass and took a small sip. At Ethan’s inquiring gaze, she said, “It’s quite good.”

  He smiled and led her to the dining table. “The dinner on the plane was small, so I ordered something to snack on. There are several types of cheese.”

  After cutting a slice, he laid it on a cracker and placed it on a napkin in front of her. All the while, he carried on a breezy conversation.

  Dallas took a nibble and tuned in to Ethan. He was so easy to talk to. It was no wonder his clients liked him. The knot in her belly slowly unwound. She was being silly. This was Ethan, and he was the same kind man she’d worked with for years. Smiling, she took a sip of wine.

  Ethan still looked as fresh and put together as he had when he arrived at work this morning. Her gaze traveled over him as he walked to the sink. Unlike Cash, whose muscles swelled through his clothes, Ethan’s lithe muscular body hinted at its strength in his grace of movement and the stillness he could hold when he listened to her. Her pulse beat stronger as he turned and smiled. He was like a magnet, pulling at her.

  He seated himself, the beginnings of a smile on his face. Reaching out, he brushed her hair from her temple and caressed her cheek. “You’re gorgeous, Dallas. I don’t think you realize how beautiful you are.”

  She licked her lips. Warmth swirled through her belly as Ethan rubbed his thumb across her hand, the simple caress incredibly sensual. “Thank you. I have good genes. I’ve seen pictures of my mom when she was young, and I look a lot like her.”

  He picked up the snack tray and his wine. “Let’s make a move.” Walking further into the suite, he placed the food on the coffee table.

  A trickle of anticipation slipped through her veins as she followed Ethan’s trim backside. “What time do we need to leave in the morning?”

  Holding his hand out to her, they settled on the couch. After pulling her in close, he answered, “Let’s have breakfast here in the room and leave around eight-thirty. Does that sound all right with you?”

  “Sure. I can’t wait to get there.” At Ethan’s smile, she tilted her head to his shoulder.

  Ethan set his wine on the table then did the same with hers.

  Her pulse thrumming, she felt the first brush of his lips like a bolt of electricity, revving her up like a racing engine. She pulled back. She had to get a grip.

  He raised his brows. “You okay?”

  Biting her lip, she nodded. “Yes, sorry. This is all a little overwhelming.”

  Ethan smiled. “I’m still me. You’re still you. We just hopped a thousand miles in the air.�
� With a gentle smile, he squeezed her hand.

  Expelling a gusty sigh, she knew he was right. “I’m being silly.” She smiled. “Where were we?”

  He grinned and reached for her. “Let me see if I can remember.”

  Dallas leaned into his kiss, in control and ready to savor his touch.

  Slipping his hand into her curls, he explored every inch of her mouth with his soft kisses. Breasts tingling, she caressed his chest and kissed him back, wanting to be closer, to feel his body against hers. He eased her down on the cushions and nibbled her neck, drawing a hissing breath from her. Running her hands up his back, she searched for his mouth.

  Ethan commanded, “Kiss me.”

  Her heart pounded in response, and she complied.

  He interlocked his fingers in hers and raised both arms above her head. “Harder, Dallas!”

  Yearning for his lips, her pulse throbbing in her ears, she kissed him hard, biting his lower lip.

  Brushing his mouth across hers, he smiled and pulled back. “Good.”

  She gazed into his blue eyes and wondered what had just happened and why it had affected her so.

  Ethan raised a brow. “You okay with that?”

  “Um, I’m not quite sure what that is.”

  “Does it scare you? It needn’t. We’re meant to enjoy it.”

  “It was unusual, but ... nice, I think. Different. More ... ravenous?” She giggled.

  He laughed. “A good choice of adjectives. I feel ravenous too.”

  Dallas sat up. “I need some sleep. I’ll be getting up early if I’m to have any breakfast before we leave.”

  He stopped her when she turned to go to her room. “A kiss goodnight?” He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close. The pressure of his chest hardened her breasts, bringing them intensely alive. As Ethan caressed her tongue with his, heat swept over her skin like a fever. She sucked his lip and nipped playfully before pulling away.

  He moaned and slipped his hand into her hair, giving her a bruising kiss, melding her body against him in a tight embrace.