Honey Kisses (Romance on the Ranch Series #2)

by Clay, Verna

  "How did you meet him?"

  "He's friends with Charles and Sissy Johansen. They own Imaginings Publishing. Although they only publish Romance novels, the industry is well connected—seems somebody knows somebody, who knows somebody, who knows…somebody," she laughed. "Anyway, I met him at a party at the Johansens. I sat next to him during dinner and I guess I had stars in my eyes because of all the famous authors. In his no nonsense manner he leaned over, raised an eyebrow, and said, 'They put their pants on one leg at a time.' Of course, I was embarrassed at being so transparent, but when I thought about what he'd said, I quickly got over being awe struck. After that, he called to ask my advice on a romance scene he was writing and we've kept in touch."

  "I don't think I've read anything about his family. Is he married?"

  "Nope. Although, I think he came close once. He mentioned something in passing but didn't elaborate. Are you interested, Ann?"

  Ann felt herself blush. "Goodness, no. Believe me; I don't want to get involved with a man ever again." Images of Jackson floated into her mind's eye: laughing, riding his horse, sitting behind his computer, pouring a cup of coffee.

  Sarah said, "Hey, there's Dixie. Now you can meet her. Excuse me a sec." She walked to the counter and Ann heard her call Dixie's name. A pretty woman with bouncing sable hair tied back with a scrunchie turned around and grinned at her. A few minutes later, carrying a cup of coffee, Dixie followed Sarah to meet Ann. As soon as introductions were made, Ann instantly knew Dixie was sweet and likeable, nothing like Pritzy.

  Dixie said, "I'm happy we're finally meeting. Jacob and Julie come in often and speak wonderfully of you. And so does Sarah."

  "Thank you. I've heard great things about you, too." Ann's heart sank. She had a feeling Dixie would be perfect for Jackson.

  "Looks like business is booming," said Sarah.

  "Yes, it always picks up during summer with tourists on their way to sightsee Anasazi ruins. So tell me the latest, Sarah. We haven't talked in ages."

  Sarah munched on her bear claw and filled Dixie in about Jacob and Julie trekking off to Alaska. She didn't mention anything about Miles Brightman arriving, however. After that, she said, "Ann is working at Triple T overseeing the main house."

  Dixie looked interested, "Jackson was in earlier. He's always so nice." She leaned in, "And sexy as hell."

  Ann smiled but felt her heart kick. It looked like Dixie was interested in him.

  On the drive back to Lazy M, Sarah asked, "So, what do you think about Dixie? Should I invite her to dinner with Jackson?"

  Ann gazed out the window at pastures of cows whizzing past. "Definitely. She's a lovely person, inside and out."

  "Yeah, she's got that girl-next-door look with her freckles and big brown eyes. My only question: How can she be around all those pastries and not gain weight? Okay, I'll tell Sage you gave her a thumbs-up."

  Ann forced a smile at her friend.

  * * *

  Ann nervously rubbed her hands together. The day before had been her one month anniversary at Triple T and she hadn't seen Jackson. Since today was Tuesday, she'd prepared dinner for him. She wondered if he'd tell her she'd passed her trial period or ask her to find other employment. He'd seemed happy with her work; although she'd learned years ago with her husband that she couldn't count on anything. If Jackson didn't bring the topic up, she was going to ask because the suspense was too much. She loved working at the ranch and needed to know her fate. The buzzer on the oven distracted her thoughts.

  She was setting out place mats on the patio table and had her back to the open terrace doors when she heard, "Hello, Annie." Jackson's voice startled her and she whirled around with her hand over her heart.

  "Sorry. I didn't mean to startle you." He stretched. "The house smells wonderful. I'll take a quick shower."

  "Okay." She watched his retreating back and bit her bottom lip. She was such a weenie sometimes. Her grandmother Molly had often lovingly chastised her for being so timid. She'd say, "What the hell, Ann, stand up for yourself." Ann smiled at fond memories, and then laughed. She'd called Molly a few days earlier and had to say a hasty goodbye when her grandmother had informed her Newt was on the other line.

  Ann returned to the kitchen and set the food out buffet style on the island so they could dish their plates and take them to the terrace.

  "I'm so hungry my stomach is touching my backbone," Jackson said from the doorway.

  "Well, help yourself."

  "No, you first."

  Jackson was always gentlemanly. On the patio, he set his plate down and then pulled her chair out. She sat and watched a flock of cowbirds land in the pasture. "How was your day?" he asked.

  "Oh, quite lovely. I ordered a new light fixture for the mud room and some extra shelving. I got a really good deal at the Ace Hardware."

  "Annie, you're a fabulous shopper…and cook," Jackson said between bites.

  "Thank you. I enjoy finding sales and cooking. In fact, I've baked cookies for you to take to the men tomorrow. I asked Jim Bob if he'd mind and he said they'd love it."

  "The hands are still raving about that chocolate cake."

  "Uh, Jackson?"

  He reached for his iced tea.

  "I…ah…was wondering."

  He sipped his tea and set it down.

  Ann heard Molly's voice in her head. Spit it out, girl.

  In a rush, she said, "Yesterday was the end of my one month trial period and I was wondering if you wanted to keep me on. You know, offer the job on a permanent basis if I was a good fit?" She gnawed her bottom lip and looked at her plate.

  * * *

  Jackson watched Annie chew on her lip and heat flooded him. She wanted to know if she was a good fit. The woman was driving him crazy. Everything about her turned him on. She was as timid as a mouse and yet it suited her.

  He reached across the table and touched his index finger to her hand wrapped tightly around her glass. "Annie, I'm such an idiot. The day you interviewed for the job, I knew it was yours. I just figured you did, too. Yes, the job is yours for as long as you want." He withdrew his hand.

  Annie lifted her eyes to his and the smile she gave him practically turned him to ash.

  After dinner, he quickly helped clear the dishes and then high-tailed it to his office. He needed to get away from Annie. If he didn't, she'd probably catch on to how aroused she made him and then he'd be up shit creek. Heaven only knew how much she'd had to endure from that low-life husband of hers. The thought of him touching sweet Annie made him sick to his stomach.

  He switched on his computer to check his latest venture, but mostly to distract his thoughts from Annie's slim curves.

  Oh, yes, his investment was looking good. Next, he sorted through his emails and read his monthly report from Mitchell Brokerage. He'd made a crap load of money. Good, now he could start remodeling the ranch hands' quarters. He'd wanted to enlarge the game room and add another pool table and card table, maybe even some video games, and now he could.

  He checked his calendar. Sage and Sarah had invited him to dinner that Friday.

  * * *

  Ann hated the fact that she was attending the same dinner Sage and Sarah had conspired to get Jackson and Dixie better acquainted. At first she'd refused when Sarah had called begging her to come. They didn't want the dinner to look like what it was—a set up. But, because Ann was wont to deny her friends anything, she had finally agreed and now rode to the Lazy M with Jackson in his big pickup.

  He popped a CD in the stereo and George Strait sang I Just Want to Dance with You. He said, "I really like what you've done to the guest room. I think Alligator will feel more comfortable when he visits."

  Ann laughed, "Alligator?"

  Jackson turned the music down. "Yep, Alligator. His real name is Al Kosky. He's a friend who lives in New York. He was born in the Bronx and he's built like a tank. Nicest guy you'll ever meet, but he scares the crap out of most people because of his size."

  "Will he
be visiting anytime soon? I'm glad you warned me," Ann chuckled.

  "Maybe. He vacations once or twice a year and usually ends up at Triple T for a week." Jackson laughed, "He says that's all the time he can stand bein' around horseshit; excuse my French." The song ended when he pulled into the long drive leading to the Lazy M Ranch. He said softly, "I like that song, Annie."

  Ann didn't trust her voice and nodded.

  Jackson said, "I'm glad you're coming to dinner, too."

  "Thanks." She felt suddenly shy. She wondered if he knew Dixie was going to be there. She got her answer when they pulled in front of the main house and he said, "I wonder whose car that is? Looks like it's not just us for dinner."

  Sage opened the door to Jackson's knock. "Hello, Jackson, Ann. Come on in and take a load off. Sarah and Dixie are on the terrace watching a beautiful sunset."

  Jackson handed him the bottle of wine he'd brought. "Smells wonderful in here."

  Ann agreed, "It certainly does."

  "Thanks. It's all Sarah's doing." Sage accepted the wine, looked at the label, and quirked an eyebrow. "Niiiccceee." He motioned with the bottle for them to follow him. "Let's join the ladies."

  When they entered the back porch through the kitchen, Dixie and Sarah stood to greet them. "Howdy, Ann, Jackson," Dixie greeted warmly.

  "Grab a seat," said Sarah.

  Ann's heart twisted when she saw how perfect Jackson and Dixie looked together. He'd removed his hat when they'd entered the house and his golden hair glistened in the fading light. Dixie's pale complexion contrasted strikingly with his dark one, and she was tall and beautifully proportioned. The top of her head reached Jackson's chin, whereas the top of Ann's head met his lower chest. Sage motioned Jackson to a chair beside Dixie. Sarah patted the one between her and Sage for Ann.

  Ann asked, "Where are the boys?"

  Sarah said, "Jacob and Julie took them to the movies to see the latest 3-D animation flick. It's about a flying horse, something the twins will be talking about from morning til night for weeks to come. I suppose we'll have to buy the flying horse toy and all his cohort toys," she laughed.

  Sage joined her laughter, "I'm preparing myself for the onslaught."

  For the next hour, the small group discussed the weather, ranch issues, coffee shop issues, children issues, and a mish mash of other topics. Sarah got up a few times to check on their meal and when she called from the back door that supper would be served in ten minutes, Ann jumped up to help her. While Sarah removed the pot roast from the oven simmering with potatoes, carrots, and onions, Ann tossed the salad.

  "What do you think?" Sarah whispered. "Did I do good in matching them up?"

  Ann forced a smile. "You did great. They look wonderful together."

  "Thanks for coming. I didn't want it to look like a set up, although I think they know it is."

  Ann poured some more dressing on the salad. "I wonder if he'll ask her out?"

  "Let's hope so," Sarah said with enthusiasm.

  "Yeah, let's hope." Ann tried to sound just as enthused, but it came out kind of flat.

  "Well, looks like we're ready."

  * * *

  After their guests left, Sage and Sarah washed dishes and discussed the evening. While drying the wine glass Sarah had rinsed and handed him, Sage said, "I'm not sure what our next step should be. It's obvious they've got a hankerin' for each other."

  "I know. Every time I looked at Jackson, he was looking at Ann. And she kept trying to look happy thinking we were matching him up with Dixie. Believe me, I know how she feels. When Chrissy Cabot showed up looking for you the summer we got together, I thought I would die of jealousy. It didn't help that she was tall, curvy, and gorgeous."

  Sage stopped drying the wine glass. "You want to know what I thought when I drove up and saw her at the door?"

  Sarah nodded.

  "I thought, 'What the fuck have I done to deserve this'?"

  "Sage!"

  "It's the truth. I had been on cloud nine because of our developing relationship—that's a nice way of saying I was on cloud nine because we were sleeping together and you weren't looking at me with daggers anymore."

  Sarah reached a wet hand to caress her husband's cheek. "I love you."

  Sage tossed his towel down. "What do you say we forego the dishes and do something we're really good at?"

  Sarah stood on tiptoe and lightly kissed his lips. "I'm always striving to improve myself."

  Turning the kiss into a passionate one, Sage said, "Baby, I love you so much."

  * * *

  Ann needed to get her mind on anything other than how well Dixie and Jackson fit together. As far as set-ups go, the night had been a success. Jackson had laughed and joked in such an easy manner with Dixie that it made Ann green with envy and she hated the feeling. The only good thing was that Dixie was much better suited to Jackson than Pritzy.

  Reaching for the book on her nightstand, she decided to lose herself in Honey Kisses.

  Fannie ran wildly through the woods. Seeing Johnson with Priscilla speared her heart worse than any physical pain could have accomplished. Inadvertently, while performing her daily task of collecting eggs from the henhouse, she had heard voices inside the barn, and gone to check it out. Oh, the torment of finding Priscilla with her lips pressed against Johnson's.

  "Fannie, wait!" Johnson yelled.

  His voice only made her run faster. If he saw her tears, he would realize how deeply she cared for him.

  "Please Fannie, stop and listen to me!"

  The tree root protruding from the soft soil accomplished what Johnson's pleading could not. She fell roughly on the ground and wind whooshed from her lungs. For seconds she struggled to inhale.

  Johnson went down on his knees in front of her. "Don't move until I can make sure nothing is broken or sprained." He circled his hands first around one ankle and then the other. In a burst of adrenaline she attempted to jump to her feet and run again.

  Capturing her waist in his hands, he dragged her back to his body. With a tortured voice, he said, "Nothing happened with Priscilla. She cornered me in the barn. I don't desire her!"

  Fannie stopped struggling against his iron grasp and turned to look into his smoky eyes.

  He rasped, barely above a whisper, "I desire you."

  Ann fell asleep with the book cradled in her hands.

  Chapter 9: Molly's Surprise

  Standing on Sage and Sarah's front porch, Ann hugged Jacob and Julie goodbye. She swiped her tears.

  "Mom, it's only for three or four months," said Jacob.

  "I know. I'm just being a mom."

  Toby tugged on Jacob's Levis. "You wanna toss me 'fore ya go?"

  "Yeah, me too." Preston ran across the porch to wait his turn.

  Jacob bent and picked Toby up. "You mean like this." He tossed Toby in the air and caught him again.

  Toby squealed. "That's what I talkin' 'bout."

  "My turn, my turn," yelled Preston.

  After Preston got tossed, Sage said, "Okay boys, say goodbye to your sister and Jacob."

  The boys obeyed and then ran in the house to find their next adventure.

  "Well, I guess that's it," said Julie. "Everything's loaded in the truck." She and Jacob hugged everyone again. "Thanks, Dad, for making this possible."

  "Anything for my little girl," he teased.

  "I know what you mean," Jacob agreed. "Anything for my wife." He kissed her cheek and then nipped her ear.

  "Ouch," she playfully pushed at his chest and then grabbed his hand to pull him to the truck Beaner was waiting in to drive them to the Denver Airport. "I'll call when I can," she yelled, ducking inside the cab. After Jacob got in, she leaned across him to his open window and shouted, "Love y'all!"

  Ann saw Sarah and Sage both dab their eyes. A crashing noise from the front room interrupted the melancholy moment.

  Toby yelled, "Mom, we had acc'dent!"

  Sarah rolled her eyes and started toward the door.


  "I'll take care of it, honey," said Sage, and opened the screen door.

  Ann said to Sarah, "I've got to go to town. Do you want to join me?"

  "Thanks, but I'll have to pass. These boys are over-the-top rambunctious today. I better stay and help Sage. We talked about taking them on a horseback ride to the river so they can swim off some of their energy."

  "Okay. I'll call you next week."

  When Ann reached Main Street, she stopped at Dixie's Cuppa Joe and ordered a fancy frozen drink. Dixie stood behind the register.

  "Hello, Ann. It's nice seeing you again. The drink's on me."

  "Goodness, no." Ann opened her purse.

  "Goodness, yes," Dixie laughed. "I insist. I really enjoyed dinner with Sage and Sarah and you and Jackson."

  "Yes, they're good people." Before she could talk herself out of it, she said, "Would you like to join me at the Triple T for lunch next week? I can manage just about any day that's good for you."

  Dixie slipped a stray lock behind her ear. "You know, that would be peachy. I'm free on Thursday."

  "Perfect. How does noon sound? Do you know how to get to the ranch?"

  "Noon would be great. As for finding the Triple T, I've passed the entrance many times. I guess the road just winds into the hills and to the ranch?"

  "Yes. It's about two miles past the main gate, which is always open during the day. Here, let me give you my cell phone number."

  Dixie reached for a notepad and jotted the number down.

  After Ann left the coffee shop, she pondered how she could get Jackson to eat with them. She decided that being straightforward and asking him to join them would be the best plan. When she got home, she was going to call Sarah and give her the scoop on her own matchmaking efforts. She turned the ignition in her paint challenged Corolla and pulled away from the curb feeling depressed.