to be my date at the dance.”
She licked her bottom lip. “The charity dance?”
He could tell she was nervous. Was it because she was scared of what she felt for him or because she just wasn’t so sure about him? “Yes, it will be fun, and I think it will be more fun if you’re there with me.”
“Another date?”
He waited patiently, knowing he was close.
Finally, she nodded. “Yes, I would like that.”
“Great. I’ll look forward to it.” He put his hand on hers and when she didn’t resist, he tugged her forward. He claimed her lips, without giving her time to think about it. The rush of desire that careened through his body was strong and powerful. Her lips were soft, and his were demanding. He actually felt her tremble as she nestled in his arms. He put his hands on her waist, and the warmth of her skin seeped into his fingers. Thrusting his tongue inside her mouth, he tasted every nook and cranny. She was sweet and warm, and more delightful than the cream puffs he’d tasted.
When he stepped away, her eyes were glazed.
“I’ll see you soon.”
“Yeah.”
He strode away, knowing his heart was now in the hands of the woman who was still making up her mind about him. Lando never came this close to falling in love, and the idea of it scared him more than anything he ever experienced before. Still, it might just be an amazing adventure.
Chapter Five
T ime sped by on rapid wings. Paige could barely catch her breath. It seemed like it was only hours ago they were planning for the charity gala, and now she was actually getting ready to attend. Tonight was the night. She could hear the music as it pumped out of the speakers. Everyone had done a wonderful job. She was impressed with the decorations that Shayne dreamt up, and they’d painstakingly made them at the farm in the evenings. Graeme was the one who selected the music and set up the system with Lando. Juston was, of course, in the kitchen with Jackie, while Cullen and Paige looked after the other details.
It was a combined effort, and one she was proud of.
As she inspected her reflection in the mirror, Paige was happy with what she saw. She’d donned a destructed denim jacket and matching jeans.
Jackie strode in. “You’re not wearing a dress.”
They had this argument countless times, while she was growing up. Paige smiled as she put some mascara on her eyes. That and the lipstick was the only concession she made for the event. “No, mom.”
“You would look lovely in a dress.”
“Are you saying I don’t look lovely in this?”
Jackie sighed. Walking over to her daughter, she rested a hand on her cheek. “Of course, you do. You look amazing.”
“Thanks, mom. So do you.”
Jackie was wearing a smart, holly berry colored dress. For someone of her age, she was quite fit and beautiful.
Paige hugged her mother. “You’ve done a good job with this event. We’re all very proud of you.”
“You have all helped, and there’s no way I could have done it without anyone of you. Now go on and have fun.”
“Don’t spend all your time in the kitchen, mom. Dance a little,” she said as she walked out.
When she saw Lando in the foyer, her breath caught in her throat. He was wearing a tuxedo. She’d never seen him dressed formally before, and boy, did he stand out. As his gaze settled on her while she strode down the stairs, her heart hammered against her chest. “You look handsome.”
“And you’re the most ravishing creature I have ever seen.” He took her hand in his and gently planted a warm kiss on it. “Shall we?”
“Yes, let’s go.”
As they stepped outside, the energy of the crowd was contagious. The dance floor Lando constructed was well-sanded, and polished to perfection. It felt good to watch everyone as they danced on the work he created. “You could have made a fabulous living as a carpenter. You’ve got some real talent.”
“But my heart wouldn’t have been in it.”
Graeme drew Cullen