“You didn’t lose me, Caleb. You let me go.”
“Agreed.” He lowered his head.
“We can’t keep rehashing this,” Addison said. “What’s done is done, and we have to move on.”
Caleb shook his head. “I can’t do that. Not until I know that I’ve tried my best to get you back.”
“Dammit, Caleb!” Addison rose from her chair, stormed to the window and glared out of it. “You can’t come back here and do this.”
Caleb must have eased out of his chair stealthily because suddenly Addison felt his presence behind her. Then she felt his hands on her shoulder, felt him spinning her around to face him. “Addison—”
“Hey, girl, I’m here for lunch,” Collette said as she swept into Addison’s office breezily. She stopped short when she saw Addison and Caleb standing close together with his hands still on her shoulders. “Oh, I’m sorry. Am I interrupting something?” She stared daggers at Addison.
Addison stepped away from Caleb. “Of course not. Caleb was just leaving. Weren’t you?” She looked at her former lover. He seemed to understand without her having to ask.
“For now,” he answered. “Colette,” he said, nodding to the redhead as he made his way to the door, “it’s good to see you again.”
“I wish I could say the same,” Collette responded curtly and then turned to Addison once he’d left. “What the hell are you doing? What if I’d been Raphael? Can you imagine how that would have looked to him?”
“Nothing was going on.”
“Do I look stupid to you?” Collette asked, placing a hand on her hip. “I know what I saw. I don’t know what you were talking about, but I do know I caught you both in an intimate moment.”
“It wasn’t like that.”
“Girl, you’re in danger of losing your man if you continue down this path.”
“Can we just go to lunch?” Addison asked. “I don’t want to talk about this.”
“Fine, you’re living on the edge, Addison, and if you don’t watch yourself, this could end badly for you.” Collette grabbed her bag. She held open the glass door, and Addison preceded her out.
Caleb slammed his fists on the steering wheel of his Aston Martin Vanquish. He’d been so close to getting through to Addison if only Collette hadn’t interrupted them. They were getting real with one another, and if he’d had more time he was sure he would have made some progress in breaking through the wall Addison had erected up around her heart. A wall he was responsible for. When he’d first met her, she’d been open, giving and ready to let love in, but now she was closed off, and it wasn’t going to be easy convincing her to give them another try. It was why he’d taken the unconventional approach and used her working environment as a way to get close to her. He knew it was sneaky, but he was desperate.
He wouldn’t be able to reach her personally or at home, with Raphael, her father and now even Collette against him. He needed a way for them to spend some time together so she could see that there was more to him now than the arrogant bull rider she fell for four years ago. Like her, he’d matured. He’d had to.
If he hadn’t, he would never have been able to push himself day after day with the grueling rehabilitation that had been required after his first surgery. It had taken him nearly two years, but he’d done it and he was a better, stronger man and not just physically. His ordeal had taught him humility and patience, but it also had given him a dogged determination, which is exactly what he would need to win Addison back despite opposition from all around her.
Chapter 19
“Caleb, oh my goodness,” Madelyn Hart exclaimed when her son walked into the Hart family living room two days later. On the spur of the moment, he’d decided to go home. He rarely visited the ranch much these days, except for a holiday or odd birthday here and there for his nephew, Zane. Noah and Chynna had produced a beautiful little boy.
“Hey, Mama.” Caleb bent down and kissed his mother’s cheek.
“Daddy.” He walked over and gave his father a one-armed hug.
“Good to see you, boy,” Isaac Hart said. “It’s been too long.”
Caleb smiled. “Good to see you too.” He walked over and gave his brother some dap before heading toward Chynna and his nephew sitting next to his mother on the sofa. “Come here, little man.”
His chubby-cheeked nephew walked over to him. “Uncle Caleb.” It still amazed Caleb that Zane was walking and talking. He’d missed so much of his early life because of all those months in rehabilitation. Caleb bent down, picked him up and swung him in his arms. Zane laughed uncontrollably.
“Easy now,” Noah said.
“I’ve got ‘im.” Caleb playfully sat his nephew on his shoulder.
“What brings you to Golden Oaks?” asked Noah.
Caleb frowned and stopped playing with Zane. “I didn’t realize I needed an invitation.”
Their mother looked at both her sons. “Of course you don’t need an invitation. It’s just been awhile, and we’ve all missed you.” She glanced at Noah. After Caleb’s accident, Caleb’s relationship with Noah had never been the same. Caleb had pushed them all away during his recovery. The only person he seemed to want around was her brother, Duke. She’d been happy for that much—at least he would have someone.
“I’m sorry.” Caleb glanced first at Noah and then his mother. “I know I haven’t been around much the last few years. I had a lot to work through, but I’m here now.” He picked Zane up and kissed him on the cheek. “And I’d like to change that.”
“Well, it’s about time,” Noah said with a smile.
A smile which Caleb happily returned. He’d missed his brother and couldn’t wait to talk to him later. He could use some advice on what he should do next with Addison.
The next morning, Caleb got his chance. He’d specifically woken up early because he knew Noah’s habits. As general manager, his brother was up at the crack of dawn and after a quick shower, followed by some piping hot coffee that Noah had brewed and left warming in the kitchen, Caleb found him in the stables.
Noah’s shocked face told Caleb that he was the least likely person he’d expected to see.
“Good morning.”
“Good morning,” Noah said as he saddled up a horse. “What are you doing up this early?”
“Well, I was hoping we could talk. That is, if you could spare a few minutes.”
“For you? Of course.” Noah stopped what he was doing and faced Caleb. “What’s on your mind?”
“I need some female advice.”
“From me?” Noah laughed. “I have to admit I’m surprised because you’ve never needed that before.”
“There’s a first time for everything.” Caleb laughed too, leaning against the nearby column. “Seriously, though, I’m in a bit of a sticky situation.”
“Please tell me you’re not messing around with a married woman.”
“No.” Caleb rubbed his goatee. “Not exactly.” At Noah’s frown, he continued, “She’s with someone. Dating that is.”
“I see.”
“Yeah, I know. It’s not cool in your book, but it’s not just anyone, Noah. It’s Addison.”
Noah’s eyes widened. “Addison? The Addison you sent packing four years ago?”
Caleb nodded.
“Damn! That’s a flash from the past.”
“I know,” Caleb said, “and I never thought I’d ever have another chance with her. I thought I’d blown it, so imagine my surprise when I’m with Uncle Duke, Rylee and Amar at some party and she shows up with her father and beau. Jesus, Noah! It was like time ceased to exist and I was brought back to that club in Vegas when I first saw her across the room and knew I had to have her.”
“But she’s with someone else now.”
“Yes, but—”
“But what? Would you want someone messing with your lady?
”
“Of course not! But here’s the thing: I think she still loves me.”
“You think? Or you know?”
Caleb shrugged. “I don’t know, but I have to find out. I’ll never forgive myself if I don’t try. I already messed up once when I let her go. If I did the same thing when I could have had a chance with her, I’ll always wonder.”
“I don’t know, Caleb. This is pretty messed up.”
“So you think I should steer clear?”
Noah chuckled. “When have you ever done as I said? Even when you were a little boy, if I said left, you went right, so what’s the difference now?” When Caleb didn’t answer, Noah continued, “All I can tell you is that you shouldn’t play around with Addison again if you’re not going to go the distance.”
“What do you mean?”
“If you’re not going to marry her, Caleb.”
“Marriage.” Caleb hadn’t thought quite that far out, but now that Noah mentioned it, he should be. He’d been thinking commitment for sure, but marriage? Then again, why should Addison leave Raphael for him when he wasn’t offering her anything other than a good time? She and Raphael were headed to the altar, according to the gossip in Dallas. If he didn’t strike soon, he would lose her ... and he didn’t want that.
“You’re right,” he agreed with his brother.
Noah was stunned by his response. “I am?”
Caleb nodded. “If anyone knows how short life is, it’s me. I won’t make the same mistake twice. Raphael isn’t the only marrying kind.”
“Wow! I have to say, little brother, you’ve come a long way from the wandering and arrogant and at times selfish man you once were.”
Caleb frowned. “Tell me how you really feel, Noah.”
“If anyone can speak honestly with you, it should be family, and you had a lot of growing up to do. And I can see that that’s happened.”
“Losing the ability to walk and having to learn all over again can do that to a person,” Caleb returned.
“I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you.”
“I’m sorry I wouldn’t let you be,” Caleb responded. “I let my stubborn pride get in the way. But not anymore. I’ve missed you, Noah.”
“And I’ve missed you, Caleb.” Noah pulled him into an embrace.
Addison was not looking forward to the meeting ahead of her. Her morning had gotten off to a bad start thanks to another row she’d had with Raphael. It had been several days since Caleb had come to her office, and it hadn’t taken long for Stella to ensure he had a proposal, which it so happened, Hart Enterprises then proceeded to sign almost immediately upon receipt. Raphael hadn’t been pleased to learn over the breakfast table that she was going to meet with Caleb later that morning to tour the HE refinery facilities. It didn’t matter that she wouldn’t be alone with him and would be with Stella too. Raphael was pissed that she’d agreed to take on the campaign, but what was she supposed to do? Tell her boss she couldn’t take on a big client? Then she would be forced to explain her personal life, which she wasn’t prepared to do. So she would do what was necessary and in so doing make it clear to Caleb that their relationship had ended a long time ago.
Stella was waiting for her when she arrived, leaning up against her Mercedes Benz as she talked on her iPhone. Addison nodded to her as she exited her own vehicle.
Right on time, Caleb pulled up and hopped out of his Vanquish. “Good morning,” he said to Addison and then noticed Stella standing not far off by her Benz. “I see you brought re-enforcements.”
“This is a business meeting, is it not?”
“Yes, it is,” Caleb replied. “You’re looking good.” His eyes traveled down her face and the entire length of her body, from her designer boots, past her skinny boyfriend jeans and up her leather Moto jacket.
“Are you done?” Addison asked.
He continued eyeing her. “Not quite.” He walked behind her and openly stared at her bottom as he walked toward Stella, who’d just finished her call. “Stella, so glad you could make it out. I think it’s important you understand the process before you present to the public.”
“I couldn’t agree more, Mr. Hart,” Stella said, walking toward Addison.
“Please call me Caleb.” He smiled at her and then at Addison as he led them inside.
An hour later, Addison had to admit she was impressed by all that Caleb and his uncle had accomplished. Her mind was racing with ideas of how to put the best possible spin on this so they could get the biggest bang for their buck.
“How about some lunch?” Caleb asked.
“Oh, no.” Stella shook her head. “I have to get back to the office, but Addison can stay. Can’t you, Addison?” She gave her a look that indicated her answer had better be affirmative.
Addison smiled warmly. “Of course. Anything for a client.”
“Good, I’ll leave you both to enjoy lunch. Addison, I’ll see you back at the office this afternoon.”
After she’d gone, Addison glanced at Caleb and could see he was grinning like a Cheshire cat. Clearly he was pleased with the outcome of events that had put them alone together. Just like he’d wanted, no doubt.
“Alright, let’s get this over with. Where would you like to go?”
“Follow me,” Caleb said. They walked through the facility corridors and toward a metal ladder. He pulled it down and began climbing. When he noticed she wasn’t following, he looked at her. “You coming?”
“Do I have a choice?” She grabbed a rung. “I’m glad I wore jeans,” she said as she climbed. When she reached the top, she swung her leg over the metal enclosure and realized they were on the roof. Addison glanced around. “What are we doing up here? You did say we were having lunch.”
Caleb grabbed her hand and a spark shot through her, but she ignored it. “We are.” He pulled her forward, and they walked a short distance until they came to an area that looked like grass ... and on top of it was a blanket with a picnic spread.
Addison glanced at Caleb. “This looks awfully romantic, Caleb.”
“I meant it to be.”
“And what if Stella could have attended?”
“Well, I had no idea she was going to show up with you. But after I saw her, I figured that as a principal of a PR firm she would leave you to attend to lunch with the client ... so I still asked you to lunch, and my gamble paid off.” He walked on the grass toward the blanket, bent down on his knee and held out his hand. “Care to join me?”
Addison knew she shouldn’t, knew she should leave before the situation got out of control, but instead of listening to her head, she followed her heart and accepted his hand.
Caleb was relieved. He’d thought when Addison saw the romantic spread she’d bolt, but instead she’d stayed; that told him that all was not lost. There was still a part of her that felt a pull toward him, and he intended on taking full advantage of that. He pulled her down, and she knelt on the blanket beside him. Touching her reminded Caleb how classy Addison carried herself. She’d never been flashy and wore a simple French manicure on her nails while her fingers were graceful and elegant, yet soft. He could remember those same elegant hands caressing him.
“Champagne?” he asked, reaching for the bottle that was chilling in an ice bucket on the blanket.
“In the middle of the afternoon?”
“Why not?”
Addison shrugged, so he went ahead and pulled out two flutes from the wooden basket. “Hold these.” He handed her the flutes as he took care of uncorking the champagne. When he popped the cork, she quickly placed the flutes underneath before the bubbly spilled out. He poured them each a flute. “To the future.”
Addison paused several seconds before clicking her flute with his.
He watched her sip the champagne and wished he was the flute so he could taste her lips. He knew she would taste sweet just like
he remembered. He blinked and reminded himself that he needed to take things slow. He’d already pissed her off by creating this working relationship; he didn’t want to push her away by trying too hard.
“So how did you get involved working in PR? If I recall, you were working for your father.”
“Are we really going to make small talk?” Addison’s tone was snarky.
“Would you rather we talk about us?”
Addison thought better of her previous response, and she answered, “Yes, I was working for my father because that’s what he expected of me, but it was never what I wanted to do. My degree was in Marketing and Finance. When I graduated, my father pressured me into joining his company when I really wanted to stretch my creative muscle. So when I decided to leave the States, I chose to go back to my first love.”
“You left because of me?”
Addison stared at him long and hard, and Caleb was wondering if she wasn’t going to answer him, but she did. “Yes and no. I wanted to get away and make a clean break from my father, and our breakup was just the excuse I needed. He seemed to understand and was glad that I was getting away from you. And while I was in Paris, I started working for a large PR firm and slowly began building a reputation for good work. So when I was ready to return to the States and heard Stella had an opening, it seemed like the right fit.”
“And Raphael followed you?”
She seemed surprised by his interest, but answered, “Yes, he’d wanted to leave Paris and try something new, and our relationship was solid, so yes, he followed me here. Does that satisfy your curiosity about your competition?”
“A little. It tells me he’s a smart man and knew a good thing when he found it and wasn’t about to let you go.”
Her expressive face became somber. “Yes, he did.”
They stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity before he said, “How about some lunch? Salmon or beef?” He reached inside the picnic basket and pulled out containers of lightly smoked salmon, dill caper aioli and chilled petit fillet of beef with caramelized onions and horseradish cream.
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