“It wasn’t bad at all. Ellen was really sweet, and I was glad of her help getting into and out of the dress that I tried on.” She gave him a shy smile. “Thanks for your input, by the way. It was really helpful. I’ve never been shopping with a man before.”

  “Of course. I enjoyed it. You look lovely in anything you wear, but I want you to have something really special for Saturday night.”

  He could tell that their second stop was going to be different. The dresses in the window were made for a younger woman, and he liked one of them very much.

  “This place looks nice, don’t you think?” Alexis asked.

  “I do. Let’s go in and see if we’re right.”

  They were met by a woman who looked to be in her mid-thirties. “How can I help you today, ma’am?”

  “I’m looking for a dress, something just above the knees, elegant but sexy. Do you have anything like that? I’m a size eight.”

  “Do you have a color preference? I’m Jessica, by the way.”

  “I’m Alexis. And I’m not sure. I guess it just depends on the dress.” She looked at Dane.

  He shrugged and decided to let the cat out of the bag. “We’re going to the symphony.”

  The woman perused the shop and gathered an armful of garments. “Let’s go into the dressing rooms, Alexis. Our model is out sick today, I’m afraid. You can try on the ones you like, though, and I’ll tell you what I think, if you don’t mind.”

  “That would be great.” Alexis glanced over her shoulder at Dane.

  He smiled. “I’ll be right here.”

  She nodded before disappearing into the back.

  The first was a form-fitting red dress that showed her beautiful shoulders and curves, but it didn’t have the oomph he was craving for her. She decided against it.

  The next was a blue number that enhanced her figure nicely but seemed plain in comparison to what he’d imagined. She was undecided.

  There were several more before she walked out in the dress he’d noticed in the window. He sucked in a breath. She was stunning in the ruffled black dress that showed off her figure without announcing it to the world.

  Jessica must have noticed his awestruck expression. “Isn’t this wonderful? It’s made of tulle fabric with an asymmetrical hemline, and you’ll notice that it’s higher in the front than the back. The fitted bodice and spaghetti straps are a very elegant look on her.”

  Alexis turned in a slow circle. “I love it, Dane. What do you think?”

  He smiled, mesmerized by the vision she made. “It’s perfect.” After a pause in which he couldn’t take his eyes from her, he said, “Jessica, will you find shoes and a clutch to go with it, please? Oh, and she’ll need some kind of wrap, too.”

  Alexis said, “I’ve got—”

  “Remember our agreement.”

  She smiled and shook her head before returning to the dressing room.

  After paying for their purchases, he carried the bags out to the limo. She surprised him by clasping his hand on the way. He asked, “Happy?”

  Her sparkling eyes told him everything he needed to know. “Yes, I am. That was so much fun.”

  He squeezed her hand. “I’m glad. I enjoyed myself too.” He nodded at the driver as the man opened their door and then took their purchases. “I hope you’ve worked up an appetite, Alexis. We’re going to The Mansion Restaurant for lunch.”

  “I hadn’t realized it, but I’m starving.”

  He splashed some scotch into her glass. “I am too. I didn’t know that shopping could be such work.”

  She grinned. “All you did was sit, Rodeo.”

  He laughed. “Hey, my eyes worked hard, woman.”

  “Oh wow, the pain of it all.” She took a small sip, still smiling.

  Her obvious joy pleased him. When he’d first heard her story, it had broken his heart. The Snowdens had been a hard-working ranching family in the area for generations, and to see what they’d been reduced to by her parents’ tragedy was more than he could bear. Doing something to help her had become all-important to him. Getting her away from her troubles like this was just the thing to start with.

  The Mansion was a sophisticated place to dine, and he hoped she’d enjoy the fare it offered. It was a chilly spring day, and inside the restaurant a fire was burning in the large fireplace centered on the back wall. A tall, intricately carved white mantel rose above the flames. White linen tablecloths, opulent place settings, and vases of white roses on every table completed the elegant surroundings.

  Half of the tables were full. As he’d suggested, the hostess took them to a table near the fireplace. Dane held Alexis’s chair and seated her. A look of surprise flitted across her face. He wanted her to know that he considered her a lady and hoped that she would begin to shed her rancher persona as he showered her with similar attentions. She deserved to be pampered and cherished.

  “I haven’t told you what we’re doing this evening,” he said as he seated himself across from her. “We’re going to the Majestic Theater. Lyle Lovett will be there. I thought it would be fun.”

  “Oh my goodness. What a blast from the past. I remember listening to him when I was little while I rode around the pastures with my daddy. He’s great,” Alexis said.

  “I have those same memories. My dad always had country music playing on the radio while he worked,” Dane said. “I thought we might spend some time in the jacuzzi this afternoon, and then we could relax and order room service for dinner. We’ll leave for the Majestic at seven-fifteen. How does that sound?”

  “Heavenly.”

  The waitress came then and handed them menus while they ordered drinks.

  Alexis decided on ice water. “I’ve had enough scotch.”

  He nodded. “The same for me, please.”

  Alexis reached across the table for his hand. “Dane, I can’t remember when I last enjoyed myself like I did today.” Her eyes were warm and inviting.

  He smiled. “I’m glad. I hoped it would be something you’d like once you tried it.”

  She increased the pressure of her fingers. “You’ve been so kind. I don’t have words to tell you how much it means to me.” She looked around the room. “These special places that you’re taking me to, the gorgeous clothes you bought for me—I don’t know what to say. It’s just so unexpected...and wonderful.”

  He laced his fingers with hers. “Alexis, I’m having a blast spending this time with you. It’s not all one-sided. I’ve needed to get away and have fun for a long time, and this is the perfect opportunity for both of us.”

  They both ordered the crispy-skin salmon.

  Alexis took her first bite, and a low hum of satisfaction escaped her. “This is fabulous. And I love the vegetables. Have you eaten here before, Dane?”

  “Once, and I liked it. That’s why I wanted to bring you here.” He smiled at her obvious pleasure as she took another bite. It was his first time trying the salmon, and he was enjoying it too.

  “I called Jace this morning. I couldn’t help it. I started worrying about the late calving, and I couldn’t sleep last night. He’s kept a close eye on everything, though, and there’s no problem so far.” She took a sip of her water, seeming unworried.

  “Jace is a top hand. He’ll take good care of you,” he said.

  “I haven’t thanked you for sending him to manage my place while I was gone.” She paused. “Dane, I never realized how special you are. I’d hear people talking about what a great cowboy you were in Opal’s, but nobody mentioned that you were this sweet, kind man. I’m amazed that word hasn’t spread about that too.”

  He chuckled. “I’m a prince, all right. I promise you, I’m not all that special. Anybody who knew your story would want to help.”

  She raised her brows. “Really? Then how come you’re the only one who has?”

  He shrugged. “I’m the lucky one, I guess.”

  She shook her head. “No, I’m the lucky one. Believe me, I know that.”

  On the ride back to the hotel, she clasped his hand and leaned her shoulder against him, and a wave of desire swept through him. Did she have any idea how her actions affected him? She seemed relaxed and happy—not the least bit aroused. Damn, was this all one-sided? But their kiss hadn’t been one-sided at all. No, he’d bet that wasn’t it. She was just happy to be with him right now—happy with the day and the fun they’d had.

  He was surprised, therefore, when she stepped up to him at his door, slipped her arms around his neck, and kissed him for all she was worth. His head was spinning when she stepped back and grinned.

  “I’ll see you at seven-fifteen, Rodeo.”

  He put his fingers to his tingling lips and grinned. “I look forward to it, Cowgirl.”

  Chapter Six

  Alexis twined her fingers with Dane’s as the curtain rose at the Majestic. She was looking forward to hearing Lyle Lovett sing—but even more than that, she was enjoying Dane’s company. She’d come to feel so close to him in the past two days—and to say that she was surprised was an understatement.

  She tried not to think of the fact that he was a rodeo cowboy, although she knew that she was fooling herself. It just felt so good to be with him like this—no pressure, no responsibilities; just a handsome man taking care of every single detail of her life. She’d never experienced anything like it, and she was enjoying it immensely.

  He glanced at her and smiled. Her tummy fluttered in response. When he released her hand and slipped his arm around her shoulders, she welcomed it. As Lovett belted out “Cowboy Man” and crooned the lyrics of “Pontiac”, she leaned against Dane’s chest and returned to her childhood days. Dane seemed as transported as she was when Lovett sang the sweet words of “Step Inside This House”.

  When the show ended, they clapped and clapped. It’d been a special evening, both because of the music and because of the connection that she and Dane had forged. After texting for an Uber, he took her hand and led her to the aisle, then slipped his arm around her waist.

  She’d worn a dress to the theater, and she could feel every one of his fingers through the fabric. A shudder of desire went through her. He drew her closer to his side, probably thinking she felt chilled.

  Rodeo cowboy, Alexis. He’s a rodeo cowboy. She glanced up at his handsome profile and told herself to shut up.

  “I was thinking of asking the driver to take us somewhere for a nightcap,” Dane said. He glanced at her. “But why don’t you stop at my room instead? I have that bottle of Lagavulin from yesterday. Tempted?”

  She leaned against his shoulder. “Totally. It’s too early to turn in. I’m all wound up.”

  Dane poured two fingers of scotch into a glass while Alexis took a seat in a concave blue chair by the window, one of the ultra-modern pieces of furniture that made up the decor. He poured himself a drink from his Maker’s Mark bottle and took a seat across from her. His matching chair was actually pretty comfortable. He held up his glass. “To oldies and Lyle Lovett.”

  She smiled. “And to a lovely evening with my newest good friend.”

  He took a sip from his tumbler. “Maybe someday we’ll be more than good friends.” He grinned. “Hope springs eternal with us rodeo cowboys.”

  She raised a brow. “So I’ve heard.” Then, with a somber look, she said, “It’s just that I haven’t had much luck with rodeo cowboys.”

  He answered her serious mood. “You’ve never been with me.”

  “True, but it would take a giant leap of faith for that to happen, Cowboy. I don’t know if I’m ready.”

  He took another sip. “I can live with baby steps.”

  She chuckled and raised her glass. “To baby steps, then.”

  He got up and tapped her glass. “To baby steps,” he said and then grinned. “And plenty of them.”

  She laughed. “You’re incorrigible.”

  “Yep.”

  They talked cattle and ranching then, and as she relaxed, so did he. “In the morning we can sleep in. How about we meet at ten, and we’ll find a pancake house for a good, old-fashioned breakfast? Then I scheduled another massage for us since you enjoyed the last one so much. But would you prefer your own room this time?” he asked.

  She examined the contents of her glass for several seconds, then met his gaze, her mouth in a firm line. “I’m up for the challenge. Don’t change a thing.”

  He laughed. “It wasn’t meant to be a challenge, Alexis. I’d just thought we could talk a bit and get to know each other last time. I really don’t mind if we split up.”

  “Nope.”

  He chuckled. The woman would never cease to surprise him. “I’ll leave a message and let them know. We’re scheduled for one-thirty.”

  After they’d each had another finger of their favorite drinks, Alexis covered a yawn and stood up. “Rodeo, I need my beauty sleep.”

  “Do not.” He rose and took her glass, setting both of the tumblers on the small table by his chair. When he turned around, she’d drawn near. Before he could say anything, she’d slipped her arms around his neck and looked into his eyes.

  “Goodnight, Cowboy. Sleep tight—and don’t let the bedbugs bite.” Then she stood on her tiptoes and swept a soft, gentle kiss across his lips. But, instead of drawing back, she did it again, long and slow, sweeping him off his feet.

  Pulse speeding, he pulled her close, claiming her mouth in a deep kiss, exploring her depths, stroking her tongue with his. A tiny moan escaped her, and his heart slammed his chest wall.

  She cupped his face in her hands and drew back, looking into his eyes. “Dane, you’re a special man, and I’m lucky to have you in my life. Thanks for today and for such a fun evening.” Then she bussed his cheek and strode to the adjoining door.

  Stunned and incredibly aroused, he watched the door shut behind her. A long sigh escaped him. “Well, damn.” Then he rested his hands on his hips and grinned at the closed door. Alexis Snowden was one hell of a woman.

  Alexis took Dane’s hand and stepped out of the limo in front of the Meyerson Symphony Center, then wrapped her wide black satin shawl around her bare shoulders against the brisk evening breeze. A gust of wind flipped up the top layer of sheer tulle on her dress, and she quickly trapped it beneath her hand.

  Dane leaned in and spoke in her ear. “You look stunning tonight.”

  She smiled and then bit her lip as she noticed a man in his forties with a younger woman on his arm staring at her. He smiled, and she nodded and then looked down at herself. She did look pretty tonight. Her dress was a dream, simple yet sophisticated, and the tall heels and bag that Jessica had paired with it were both eye-catching and elegant.

  She’d been shocked when Jessica had shown her the sticky silicone push-up bra she needed because of the dress’s plunging neckline. She’d never felt so sexy in her life.

  Dane put his arm at her back, his fingertips resting lightly at her waist. It made her feel amazing, so cherished—and warm despite the cold wind that swirled around the building as they approached.

  “We’re sitting near the front in the center orchestra section. One of my sponsors helped me with the seats. He’s a season ticket holder.”

  Her brow lifted. “I take it these are great seats.”

  “You bet they are. I want you to enjoy your first symphony. We’ll be seeing them perform Brahms Symphony No 3.”

  She leaned into him slightly. “I’m sure I’ll love it.” She met his gaze, hers warm as she made it clear that she felt more than friendship for him tonight.

  His gaze clung to hers, and his arm tightened around her.

  She turned her attention to the crowd milling inside the building. Women were dressed in everything from formal gowns and furs to dressy blouses and black pants. Many wore dresses of similar length to hers, although she had to admit that hers was one of the prettiest.

  Dane was in a black suit that might have been bespoke, it was so perfectly tailored to his tall, muscular frame. It had totally taken her by surprise. And dress shoes instead of boots? Would wonders never cease? She noticed that he wasn’t wearing his arm brace so that he could button his cuff. Was that safe? She hoped so.

  The man was absolutely gorgeous tonight, and other women were noticing. Knowing that she had his full attention went to her head like three fingers of scotch.

  “We have time for a drink while we people-watch, if you’d like,” Dane said.

  “I’d love that.”

  He clasped her hand and headed off in a different direction, easing them around other patrons in the crowded lobby.

  It was warm in the building, and she let her shawl fall to her elbows, baring her shoulders. A man’s eyes widened in appreciation, and she looked away. The only man she wanted to look beautiful for tonight was Dane, a thought that both surprised and pleased her. She did want the handsome cowboy to notice her. She was drawn to him, attracted to him more than she’d ever thought possible, given what he did for a living.

  Dane released her hand. “I’ll be right back. Would you like scotch? It won’t be your favorite, so don’t get your hopes up.”

  She laughed softly. “I think I can cope.”

  He grinned. “Okay.”

  When he returned with their drinks ten minutes later, he said, “Sorry it took so long. There’re only two bars serving everyone.” His hand was firm at her waist as he guided her through the crowd. Finally, they stopped in a quiet corner where they could sip their drinks in relative peace.

  “Oh my goodness, look at that silver fox coat,” she said, restraining herself from pointing. “It’s magnificent!” The dark-haired woman wearing it was tall and beautiful, and the coat came to within inches of the floor. Alexis knew that she should feel sorry for the poor little foxes that had given their lives for the garment, but it was all she could do to keep herself from drooling over it. Then she sighed. “I’d feel too guilty to wear it, but she’s stunning.”

  “It’s quite a coat, all right.” Dane’s lips brushed her ear. Then he sent shivers racing down her spine when he added, “But you’re more beautiful than she is tonight.”

 

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