Hammer, Nails, and Happily Ever After?

by Mitzi Kelly

  Greg kept one hand at the small of her back as he guided her into the hotel, but instead of stopping inside, he continued all the way across the lobby and out another door. Ginger gasped in surprise. “The River Walk! I had no idea you could get to it through the hotel.”

  He smiled. “There are at least a million ways to get here, depending on what part of the River Walk you want to be on. However, with those heels, I didn’t think you’d appreciate walking too far. I’ll bring you back here one afternoon when we’re wearing tennis shoes and show you around.”

  “It’s beautiful.” She turned around slowly in a circle. “I’ve wanted to come down here since I first came to San Antonio, but I haven’t had a chance yet.”

  “Well, now you’re here.” He reached for her hand and led her down some concrete steps to a level below the street and right beside the river.

  She felt as if she’d just entered another world with European style flavor. Charming walkways with beautiful, lush landscaping bordered the path, winding lazily under towering cypress trees, which led to myriad shops, restaurants, and hotels. The walk was crowded with groups of people dining outside under the stars, sipping drinks at open air nightclubs, or just walking along the walkway. Soft lights were placed all along the path, reflecting off the water and creating a soothing, romantic ambiance.

  A distinguished looking maître d’ stood beside a wooden podium in front of a courtly restaurant. Greg gave the gentleman his name, and they were escorted to a secluded corner of the patio. Their table was protected by a large umbrella, slightly tilted so as not to obscure the view of the river.

  Greg held out her chair and then sat across from her. She breathed in the scent of lush landscapes and cool river breezes. “This is nice. I already love it here.”

  “I’m glad,” he said with a smile. “I hope you’re hungry.”

  “Starving. What kind of pizza do they serve here?”

  “Hmm…I’m not sure.” His dark eyes danced. “But since this place is known for its steaks and seafood, the odds are good they don’t even have pizza.”

  “Well, darn. I guess I’ll just have to settle for something on the menu.”

  A friendly waiter appeared at their table wearing a short red jacket and black slacks. Greg ordered a bottle of wine and a porterhouse steak while Ginger chose grilled shrimp and a filet mignon. The waiter left to turn in their order and then returned within a few moments to pour each of them a glass of red wine before placing the bottle on the table.

  Ginger reached for her glass and noticed Greg watching her. She smiled and held up her glass. “To you, Greg Tucker.” She lightly touched her wine glass to his. “Thank you for bringing me here.”

  “It is entirely my pleasure.”

  She was touched by the sincerity in his voice, the warmth in his eyes. Soft music skimmed the night air, coming from the interior of the restaurant. The conversation around them was muted, the wait staff moving soundlessly through the maze of tables and chairs. If she closed her eyes, she could pretend they were the only couple in the whole place.

  A sudden lump formed in her throat, and she quickly looked out toward the water. She and Greg were not a couple. They were two friends out sharing an evening together. She wasn’t a princess in a fairytale dream, and regardless of how much she might want it, he wasn’t her prince. She’d better push all this romantic stuff from her mind and try to lighten the mood, or she was going to make a fool of herself.

  There was only one problem with her efforts to destroy the vision of them being a couple in love, though. Tonight, the illusion was just too perfect.

  She watched an energetic eight-year-old boy pull his father by the hand along the pathway in front of the restaurant. Smiling, she took a sip of her wine. “The River Walk certainly appeals to people of all ages, doesn’t it?”

  “It does. It’s one of the most famous destinations for tourists, but it’s also a favorite among locals. You should see it around Christmas time. The trees all along the river are lit up with tiny white lights. It’s pretty impressive.”

  “I’d love to see that.”

  He smiled and tilted his glass toward her. “We have another date scheduled, then.”

  “Don’t push your luck, buddy.” She grinned. “Do you come here often?”

  “Not as much as I used to, but whenever I have a special occasion—like tonight—this is my first choice.”

  She swallowed. How was she going to keep things in perspective if he kept making comments like that? Averting her eyes, she leaned back in her chair and watched as a river cruiser, completely full with passengers, moved quietly through the river, its light reflecting off the water. She could faintly hear the announcer pointing out areas of interest to his passengers.

  She was going to make a point of coming back here soon so she could see some of the sights. This was her town now, and San Antonio had a vibrant and colorful history. The Alamo, the various Missions, and of course, the River Walk, were just a few of the places she wanted to get familiar with. It was a shame she hadn’t already taken the time to visit some of the major historical places, but that was going to change.

  As she watched, the river cruiser disappeared behind a bend in the river. She turned back around just as the waiter brought their meal, the smell of the food making her mouth water. Greg cut off a small part of his steak and placed it on her plate. “You’ve got to try this. It’s delicious.” And it was.

  For the next half hour, she and Greg fell easily into their pattern of fun, interesting conversation as they ate and drank until they were both so full the thought of dancing was almost painful.

  He leaned back in his chair. “Are you sure you don’t want to go paint the town red, or whatever color you’re supposed to paint the town when you’re out for a good time?”

  She laughed. “Red. And as much as I love music and dancing, I really don’t think I could handle it. Are you upset?”

  “Hell, no, I’m having a good time just sitting here with you. But I’m not letting you off the hook. We are going to a nightclub soon. However, when we do, we’ll stick with eating something a little lighter. Care for dessert?” he teased.

  She wiggled her eyebrows. “Since we’re not going dancing, let’s split one of those chocolate-covered brownies with ice cream.”

  “You’re kidding me.”

  She wasn’t, and by the time they got up to leave, she was wishing she had worn something a little less tight.

  He reached for her hand. “Can you walk for a little while in those heels?”

  “We’ll find out. If not, you may have to carry me, and after what I just ate, that would be torture for you.” She followed him across the patio to the walkway bordering the river.

  “Oh, I don’t know about that.” He laughed and lightly squeezed her hand. “I wouldn’t think carrying you around would be a hardship at all, much less torture. At least I’d know where you were all the time—right where you belong.”

  She stopped suddenly and stared at him.

  “Are you all right?” he asked, concern etched on his face.

  “Of course, I’m not all right! What kind of remark was that?”

  “What remark?” The innocent expression didn’t fool her for a minute.

  “You know what remark. Right where I belong?”

  “Oh, that.” He grinned, releasing her hand only to tuck it in the crook of his arm as he began walking again. “I was just teasing you. It would be impossible for you to eat the way you do if you were constantly in my arms.”

  She shot him a look, but he wasn’t paying attention to her. Walking slowly, with a seemingly avid interest in their surroundings, he began pointing out several beautiful architectural designs on the old buildings across the river. The small smile on his face gave him away, though. He had gotten under her skin, and he knew full well she was flustered at the thought of being in his arms, right where she belonged.

  Taking in a deep breath, she decided to let the matter drop. If h
is intention was to increase the sexual tension that always seemed to be simmering right below the surface between them, then he was going to be disappointed. She wasn’t going to give another thought to how she longed to be wrapped in his arms, especially in this lovely atmosphere with the subdued lighting and the tropical landscaping. Mentally giving herself a shake, she pushed the romantic thought from her mind.

  “Are you cold?” he asked.

  Uh-oh, maybe her movement hadn’t been just mental, after all. “No, I’m fine,” she replied, but he was already taking off his suit jacket and folding her into its warmth.

  Then he pulled her closer, his arm resting across her shoulders. “It can get a little chilly in the evenings next to the water.”

  She almost groaned. How could she not think of being in his arms…when she was in his arms and loving every minute?

  They walked quietly for a while, and soon she found herself relaxing. The crowds of families were starting to thin out now, but the hardy party-goers were still having a wonderful time with friends and loved ones. A stone bench sat in a quiet alcove of the walkway, and Greg guided her over to sit down.

  “How are your ankles holding up in those heels?”

  She raised her feet and circled her ankles in the air. “Just fine. You know, I can run in these if I need to, so walking isn’t going to bother me.”

  He laughed gently. “That’s good to know, but let’s hope we don’t have to do any running tonight.”

  A couple passed in front of them, holding hands and talking quietly, so absorbed in each other they didn’t seem to notice Ginger and Greg sitting a few feet away. A nightclub with live music must be right around the bend because soft music wafted through the air, intermingling with subdued conversations and an occasional burst of laughter.

  Ginger leaned back and closed her eyes. “This is wonderful. I think I could live here. If I’m late for work tomorrow, you’ll know where to find me.”

  “Fat chance of that. I’m driving you home, remember?”

  “Oh, yeah, I forgot.” As if.

  Chapter Eighteen

  Ginger only half-listened as Greg continued to describe the attractions downtown San Antonio offered. From the moment he took her hand in his, a strange melancholy had settled over her. Or maybe it had happened when that couple passed them, their entire countenance exposing they were more than just friends. Whatever was responsible for her change in mood, she recognized she had been lying to herself. Her friendship with Greg was important. She cherished it and would fight to keep it at all costs, but she also knew it wasn’t enough.

  A part of her would always want more, and that’s why the tension between them was becoming harder to accept. In all the weeks she had known him, Greg had done nothing to suggest she couldn’t trust him. In fact, quite the opposite.

  The only question was, could she risk the threat of having her heart broken again? For all of his wonderful characteristics, they still worked together, and he had a reputation, deserved or not, of playing fast and loose with women.

  But that was why she’d developed her list of requirements in the first place. It was supposed to protect her in situations like this. It was her secret backbone to help her walk away when she became weak and susceptible to her own heart.

  Greg’s words finally broke through her reverie. Confused about her attitude? What was he talking about? She tried to bring a lightness to her voice she didn’t feel. “That’s a woman’s job, you know. If you aren’t confused, then I’m dropping the ball. But just for the sake of conversation, what are you confused about?”

  He didn’t smile. Raising his head, he looked into her eyes. He seemed to be fighting a battle within himself. Finally, he must have come to a decision, but what he said made her breath catch in her throat.

  “I’m confused as to why you’re so afraid of me.” His voice was almost a whisper. “You can’t deny you want me, and God knows it’s clear I want you. We’re good together, in all the ways that make a friendship very special. None of that has to change just because we stop fighting the reality we are physically drawn to each other, as well.” A soft smile crossed his face, and he reached out a hand to gently cup her cheek. “I’m not Todd, Ginger. And I’m not Joe, Bob, Tom, or anybody else who let you down in the past. You’re going to have to let the wall you’ve built around yourself crumble sometime so somebody can get close to you. And I want that somebody to be me.”

  She swallowed, not able to pull her gaze away from his. He must be a mind reader. Either that, or she had spoken her earlier thoughts out loud. She swallowed again. Was it worth the risk?

  She didn’t speak for several moments as her mind warred with her heart. And then suddenly, a sense of calm settled upon her. She had her answer.

  “Take me home.”

  His face fell, and he looked down at their hands. Then he gave a small nod and stood, pulling her up beside him. “Of course. I’m sorry, Ginger. I promised not to pressure you, and that’s exactly what I did. Just forget I said anything.”

  Reaching out, she copied his earlier movement and placed her hand on his cheek. “I want you to take me home,” she said softly as she gazed up at him, “because I don’t think I’d be comfortable in your home.”

  His expression turned from one of resignation to delighted understanding. His eyes lit up, and a slow, sexy smile spread across his face. He took her hand from his face and kissed her open palm. “Did you mean it when you said you could run in those heels?”

  She shuddered, desire rippling through her from the feel of his mouth. “I, um…I may have been exaggerating a little bit, but I’m willing to try.” She’d do anything to speed up their journey home.

  “Not a chance. You’re not getting injured tonight, lady. I want all of you in perfect working condition.” Then his voice dropped, and he pulled her close. “All of you,” he repeated, right before his head lowered and his lips captured hers in a searing kiss.

  Desire poured through her. Hunger grew. Instinctively, she pressed her body against his, the groan escaping from his lips proof he was as affected as she was. And just when she was on the verge of yanking him over behind the palm trees in the corner of the alcove, he pulled his lips away and rested his forehead against hers, his breathing loud and shallow. “We better go before we’re arrested.”

  She gave a trembling sigh. “You’re probably right.” Still, it would take a while for the cops to get here…

  Before she could finish weighing the downside of ignoring basic decorum, she was swept up into his arms, and he was walking quickly back down the pathway.

  “Put me down!” she exclaimed, her eyes wide in shock. “What do you think you’re doing?”

  “I walk much faster than you do, and I’m in a pretty big hurry.”

  “People are staring at us,” she whispered fiercely. “Put me down.” She could hear laughter behind them, followed by a spattering of hand claps. With her face on fire, she buried her head in his neck.

  “Nope. I’m a man on a mission, and nobody is going to stop me.” He wasn’t even breathing hard as he marched forward, carrying her as though she weighed no more than a duffel bag. Which spoke volumes about his strength…and stamina.

  She thought he would put her down when they reached the doors to the hotel, but a very nice young man opened the door for him. Greg never broke his stride. Oh, what the hell. She lifted her head slightly and pressed her lips against his neck, her tongue trailing a small circle on his warm skin. His flesh broke out in goose bumps. Smiling, she moved her mouth to his ear. “Nobody is trying to stop you,” she said, her whisper erotic. “Can you go a little faster?”

  He could.

  The drive back to her house was made in record time. She hated the new seat belt laws that prevented her from curling up next to him, but maybe the bureaucrats knew what they were doing for once. It would be very easy to distract him from his driving right now. So she kept her hands in her lap and watched the familiar landmarks pass that let her kno
w they were getting close to her house.

  They spoke very little during the drive, but the heated glances they exchanged said more than words ever could. She felt anticipation, an intoxication that had nothing to do with the wine they’d drunk at dinner. There was one thing she did not feel, though, and that was fear.

  Greg pulled into her driveway and turned off the engine to the truck. The inside of the truck was plunged into darkness. He reached for her hand. “Are you sure?” he asked quietly.

  Uncertainty was in his voice, as if he thought she might have changed her mind during the ride home. For an answer, she pulled her hand from his and jumped out of the truck. He’d just climbed out on the driver’s side when she walked up to him and grabbed his head between her hands, pulling him down to plant a hard, possessive kiss on his lips. “I’m very sure,” she said, pulling away and reaching for his hand as she led him to her front door. “Now stop asking questions and follow me, cowboy.”

  ****

  Ginger closed her bedroom door. On the other side of the door, she heard Jack plop down on the floor with a loud sigh before he began to eat his dog biscuit. “He’s never been shut out of my room before,” she explained as Greg walked over to her nightstand and turned on the bedside lamp. “He has a bad habit of jumping on the bed.”

  He walked over to her, a mischievous grin on his face. “At least we know your bed won’t fall apart due to vigorous activity.” He placed his hands around her waist and pulled her close.

  Her hands reached up to his shoulders, and she cocked her head. “Are you sure you’re up to vigorous activity after carrying me around down at the River Walk? We don’t have to rush this, you know. You could take a nap, if you like.”

  Immediately after the words left her mouth, she was swept up into his arms and carried over to the bed where he dropped her unceremoniously in the middle. “Is that a no on the nap thing?” she asked, laughing up into his playful expression.