That had saddened Chrissy as well. For all the technological advances and ways to communicate and stay in touch, there was no excuse for not doing so. “Yes, well, life can get away from you,” she said softly

  “Indeed it can,” Zac said primly.

  Chrissy realized introductions hadn’t been made as she gave Zac a side-hug. “Clint, this is Zac, my business associate, and my friend.”

  Zac leaned his head into Chrissy’s shoulder and playfully batted his eyelashes.

  “Nice to meet you, Zac.” To that, Zac nodded. “And how is your family, Chrissy?”

  She smiled, pleased he’d be concerned. “They’re great actually. Mom’s cancer has been in remission for years, and she’s been busy as ever with her volunteering. Dad has been retired from the Air Force since Mom’s initial treatment. They’re traveling quite a bit and loving life.”

  “Good to hear.”

  Chrissy waited for more from Clint, but he continued to stare as if in a daze. Just as she was going to ask about him, he spoke up and surprised her with his question. “Did you get Lasix surgery? No more glasses.”

  “Um, no. I wear contacts. I can’t stomach the thought of lasering my eyes.”

  “Yet fingering her eyes every morning to place contacts isn’t bothersome,” Zac teased. “I’ve tried to convince her otherwise, but she won’t listen. I’ve known plenty who’ve had the procedure done and couldn’t be happier.”

  “Yes, Zac, I know. I’m just not brave enough. Maybe one day.”

  “And maybe one day I’ll marry Sandra Bullock.”

  “Wouldn’t that upset Doug?” Chrissy laughed.

  Chrissy noticed Clint watching their exchange with a puzzled look. “Doug is Zac’s partner. They’ve been together a few years. They joke about their go-to gal. For Zac it’s Sandra.”

  “And for Doug it’s Shakira. He says if he wasn’t with me, he’d go in a completely opposite direction with Latina spice.”

  He and Chrissy broke out in laughter. “Oh, I hope this isn’t making you uncomfortable?” Zac asked of Clint.

  “Not at all. A person should be free to love anyone of their choosing.”

  “Oh, I am going to like you,” Zac all but cooed. “I think he’s a keeper, Chrissy.”

  Chrissy chuckled nervously and thought, if he only knew…

  “May I invite you to dinner?” Clint asked. “It’ll give us a chance to catch up.” He turned to Zac. “That is if you didn’t have other plans after your business here?”

  “That would be lovely!” Chrissy quickly supplied before Zac could respond. “Why don’t we arrange to meet around five for an early dinner?”

  “I’d like that. Zac, will you be joining us?”

  Chrissy gave him the subtle look of Heck, No! One he knew all too well.

  “Another time,” Zac said. “I need to finish up a few things and call Doug.”

  Chrissy pulled a business card out of a hidden pocket in her skirt. She grabbed a pen Zac had and wrote on the card. “Here’s my cell and where we’re staying. We can meet in the lobby. Call if anything comes up.”

  Clint raised an eyebrow, along with a corner of his mouth at her remark. “You’ll be the first to know.”

  As their fingers made contact, she couldn’t mistake the zip she felt. A warm rush flooded her from head to toe, not only from his touch, but also the innuendo of her remark.

  “Okay, well then,” Chrissy said, becoming flustered. “I’ll see you later.”

  “I look forward to it,” Clint said. “Zac, nice to have met you.”

  As Clint walked from the room, Chrissy still couldn’t believe what just happened.

  “Are you okay?” Zac asked softly.

  “I don’t know.” She turned to her friend. “Oh my God, Zac. After all these years, Clint Jessup.”

  “Yes.”

  “That’s all you have to say?”

  “What else would you like me to say, darling?” Zac rubbed her arms for comfort.

  “I don’t know,” she said again. “Oh my God, and I’m having dinner with him! What the heck?”

  “Why are you freaking out? The man of your dreams has just walked back into your life! Time to rejoice.”

  “Rejoice? I don’t even know if he’s available. He could be married for all I know. We barely got a chance to talk. What if—”

  “Chrissy, relax. Tonight, you’ll have a pleasant dinner, you’ll talk and catch up, and if the stars are in your favor, you just may have your fantasy fulfilled.” At that, he arced his arm while snapping his fingers, winking at her.

  “What do you mean? You think I’m going to have sex with him tonight?” She all but screeched.

  “You looked ready to climb him right here.”

  “I think I’m going to be sick.” Chrissy bent at the waste, gulping for air.

  Zac pulled her upright, looking sternly at her. “Chrissy, you are a smart, sophisticated woman. You are not going to fall apart.” He linked his arm with hers. “Come on. Let’s go get you ready for your date.”

  “I have hours yet. What about the art?”

  “I’ll handle it. You, my dear, need some pampering. And sheesh, a confidence booster! A trip to the spa, a new outfit, and Voila! I’m going to make sure you knock Mr. Jessup’s socks off. And that’s just for starters,” he said as he gently nudged her hip with his.

  “Zac, I love you.”

  “I know. Me too,” he replied as he kissed her hand.

  ****

  Clint arrived early at Chrissy’s hotel and went to the bar for a drink. He still couldn’t believe it. Christine Harrison, in Japan, after all these years.

  She did indeed blossom into a gorgeous woman. There was still a hint of shyness and uncertainty about her which he found endearing. He looked forward to learning more about what’s been happening in her life. And who was in her life, he thought.

  After her abrupt departure during the Christmas break all those years ago, Clint clung to every word Beth had to report about Chrissy’s situation. Learning about her mother’s cancer made him sick to his stomach, and he had prayed for her family. He also knew whatever miniscule hope he had of them getting together had evaporated at the time.

  While finishing his degree and securing a job, communication between the two women lessened, and before long, Chrissy became a long-ago infatuation to Clint. He had secured a promising job with the Cattlemen’s Association and loved his work and the strides he felt he was making.

  Unfortunately, he also stupidly fell under the spell of another man’s wife—a business associate, no less—engaging in an affair that nearly cost him his life, as well as those of others. Clint questioned so many aspects of his life afterward. Where had his integrity been, his loyalty? His scruples and discipline?

  Incredibly enough, he continued to remain close friends with the business associate—a fact that humbled him beyond words.

  So, now, on a leave of absence from his work, trying to figure out where his life was going, his thoughts were suddenly consumed by the sweet Chrissy from a lifetime ago. What grand adventures had she seen? What wondrous journey had her life taken, bringing her to Japan? His selfish reason to be here was simply because it was a place he had always wished to visit. And now with nothing but time on his hands…

  As he lifted his glass for another sip of his drink, he looked toward the doorway and lost all reasonable thought. Before the liquid passed his lips, he slowly placed the glass on the bar, his focus on the vision in front of him.

  Chrissy stood there in a form-fitting chocolate silk dress with gold edging. It stopped mid-thigh which allowed a nice view of her toned legs. Her hair was swept up in a loose knot as a few curls framed her face. Gold hoops hung from her ears and gold sandals adorned her petite feet.

  Clint was drawn to her, like the proverbial moth to the flame.

  ****

  Chrissy knew she’d made an impression from the look on Clint’s face. She just hoped she knew what she was getting herself into.

  She watched Clint approach, his eyes never leaving hers. When he stopped only inches from her, she could feel his heat, and whatever wonderful cologne he had on smelled heavenly. She felt dizzy with excitement. And desire.

  “I didn’t see you in the lobby,” Chrissy started, a bit breathless, “so I thought I’d check in here.” When Clint didn’t respond, Chrissy felt like she had to fill the silence. “Did you want to finish your drink? We could—”

  “I’m suddenly not thirsty for my drink,” he said, his voice as smooth and rich as she thought the finest brandy to be. “You look exquisite.”

  Chrissy thanked him for the compliment. “I thought we’d keep it easy and have dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. I’m told they have a wonderful menu.”

  Clint nodded. “I’ll let you lead the way.”

  Chrissy smiled and turned, heading back through the lobby toward the rear of the hotel. She felt Clint’s hand press against her lower back as he followed, and she thought for sure that touch alone would cause her to combust.

  I really need to get a grip, she thought. We’ve barely begun our evening together.

  They entered the restaurant and were seated immediately with Clint sliding in close to her. The waitress brought hot tea and sake along with the menus. As Chrissy perused the choices, she couldn’t help but notice Clint’s gaze never leaving her.

  “Aren’t you going to read the menu so you know what you’re having for dinner?”

  “What I’m hungry for isn’t on this menu,” he stated boldly.

  Chrissy’s eyes widened while a quiet “Oh” left her lips.

  “I apologize,” he said while he dipped his head a moment. When he looked back at her, his eyes were focused, determined. “I haven’t been able to stop thinking of you since this afternoon. I find it amazing we’ve run into each other halfway around the world after so many years.”

  “I was just as surprised. And I have to admit, I’m trying not to embarrass myself with my nervousness.”

  “Why are you nervous?” he asked as his hand reached out to caress the top of hers.

  Chrissy felt electric jolts with every pass of Clint’s skin on hers. She closed her eyes as she enjoyed the warmth spreading up her arm. “I feel like the awkward college girl again crushing on you,” she whispered. Her eyes flew open, a deep blush no doubt covering her face.

  “Believe me, Christine Harrison, you’re far from that awkward college girl. But I don’t mind telling you I like the sound of you crushing on me.” He playfully winked. “I find myself feeling more than a crush for you.”

  “You do?”

  Before he could answer her the waitress returned, asking if they’d like to order. Chrissy listened as Clint took the liberty of ordering their meal. Once the waitress was gone, Clint continued.

  “I liked you, Chrissy, and my lame attempts at asking you out obviously had no impact, as you refused or avoided me at all costs it seemed.”

  “I, well, I was so dumbfounded that someone like you would be interested in someone like me. I didn’t have much experience with situations like that. Beth tried to convince me to give you a chance, but I just couldn’t. We were going to talk more about it over break, and then, well, then I went home so suddenly.”

  Clint leaned in closer as he spoke. “And then life got away from us. But I’d really like to make up for lost time.”

  Chrissy trembled at his words, at his warm breath tickling her ear. If she turned her head, her lips would connect with his. As if reading her mind, Clint placed his hand under her chin and slowly guided her face around to his.

  When their lips brushed, she sighed. She closed her eyes and let him take the kiss as far as he wanted. She felt only the slightest increase in pressure as she tasted the lingering liquor on his breath. Angling her head, Chrissy suddenly wanted to take the kiss a little further herself. But before she could, she felt the absence of Clint’s lips from hers as he groaned. She opened her eyes to see his intent stare filled with sorrow, and she immediately wanted to soothe him.

  “What’s wrong?” she asked quietly.

  “I haven’t even asked whether you’re involved with anyone.”

  “I wouldn’t be sitting here with you like this if I were. And what about you? Are you—”

  Clint’s lips were on hers again before she could utter another word. The only sound that came from her was a contented sigh as the kiss lingered. She then felt his lips trail warmth over her jaw and up to her ear. His tongue flicked out, licking her lobe before he pulled it into his mouth to gently suckle.

  “Oh,” she softly moaned. As much as she would have loved to see what else he could do to make her moan, she didn’t think the restaurant was the appropriate place. Reluctantly she pulled back, clearing her throat.

  “So, tell me what you ordered for our dinner?”

  ****

  Clint watched color brighten Chrissy’s face as she fussed with the placement of her napkin on her lap before taking a healthy drink of her sake. He knew he’d been bold acting as he did, but he just couldn’t help it.

  She made his heart race, made his blood burn hot, and made his cock take over the thinking for his brain. Not a good combination when seated in a public restaurant. If he wanted a second chance with her, he needed to slow down, be smart, and be a gentleman.

  But he questioned whether he was worthy of any chance with her.

  The waitress came by to replace their now-empty sake bottle as he explained the food that would start to arrive.

  “I hope you’re not opposed to trying a little bit of everything.”

  “Not at all,” Chrissy answered. “I like to try new things. You know, broaden my horizons and all.”

  “So tell me about your studio.”

  Clint was entertained as Chrissy launched into an enthusiastic story about her business in Denver. Her drive and desire for the future she and Zac envisioned for their business was impressive.

  “Wait,” Clint interjected during one of Chrissy’s stories involving a client. “You’re responsible for the decorating of Bob Blackthorn’s offices.” He laughed, thinking of another business associate of his, and the tale the man told of his adventures in remodeling.

  “You know Bob Blackthorn?” Chrissy asked as a shocked expression transformed her face.

  “I do. Hard to believe our paths have never crossed since I spend the majority of my time in Denver for business.” He shook his head. “All this time, you were right under my nose and I didn’t know it.”

  “Incredible. Elaborate,” she added with a smile.

  Clint went on to talk about his work with the Cattlemen’s Association, leaving out any mention of the affair, of course. He also entertained her with retelling Bob’s version of the tale about the decorating of his offices, both at home as well as at the Association’s department. Apparently, Bob and Zac got on fabulously. His wife and Zac, not so much.

  “Oh, that woman was a menace,” Chrissy added. “Bob’s patience for her was commendable. Luckily, she wasn’t a factor outside their home.” She turned to Clint. “Which makes me question, how in the world did I never ran into you while doing his business office?”

  “Well, it is a rather large organization,” Clint fudged. He didn’t mention it was around the time his affair had taken a drastic turn, landing him in the hospital for a few days. And afterward, he had retreated to the ranch for a brief stay before taking off to … anyplace else.

  He quickly turned the subject to his family, telling of the unfortunate passing of his mother. Although not any better to discuss, it took her attention away from further questioning him about his work.

  Clint was working hard to put the mistake of the affair in the past in order to repair himself. To better himself. To find a new life for himself.

  But was he repaired? And did he even deserve to think he was ready to try again for happiness? Let alone entertain the idea that he may have a chance with Chrissy?

  Ludicrous!

  “I’m so sorry to hear about your mother,” Chrissy said as she reached for Clint’s hand.

  Clint felt her compassion like an infusion filling his veins, warming his soul. He wanted to tap into that and pray for an endless supply. He brought her hand to his lips, kissing her knuckles. He watched her eyes dilate as her pulse quickened beneath his fingers.

  “Let’s talk about more pleasant subjects,” Clint said.

  Their food arrived and they both dove in with gusto. Clint noticed Chrissy taking liberties with the sake, watching as bottle after bottle was brought to the table.

  Once their meal was complete, Clint suggested they take a walk around the spacious courtyard associated with the hotel. His underlying intent was to get her some fresh air and clear her head, as he could tell the drinks were getting to her.

  He was quickly at her side as she stood, wobbling a bit.

  “Am I going to embarrass myself? How much did I drink?”

  “Truth?” Clint teased, causing her to giggle.

  “That already tells me it was too much.”

  He took her hand and told her to lean on him anytime she felt she needed to.

  “I don’t usually drink. As you can see, I’m a light-weight. I’m sorry.”

  “There’s no need to apologize,” he stated as they made their way outside, the cool, humid air quickly bringing goosebumps to Chrissy’s skin as it washed over them. “I’ll take care of you.”

  “Mm hmm, I’ll just bet you could,” she murmured as she pressed closer to him. “It smells wonderful out here,” Chrissy said as she closed her eyes, inhaling deeply.

  “All I smell is you, and yes, it’s wonderful.”

  She chuckled. “You’re such a flirt.”

  “Am I?” Clint asked innocently while he nuzzled her neck.

  “But the gentleman in you is warring with himself.”

  “Is he now?” Clint leaned back slightly and cocked an eyebrow, making her giggle more.

  “He is indeed.” She nodded primly. “Continue to be the perfect gentleman,” she spoke slowly, enunciating each word perfectly. “Or go for it, which is—”

  Clint couldn’t hold back any longer. To hell with being the gentleman, he thought. He covered her mouth with his, expecting to swallow her surprise. Instead, her passion rivaled his. And that sent him even further toward the edge.

 

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