Sunset Seduction - By Charlene Sands Page 0,66

and brightened her entire outlook.

Casey came out to greet her and they hugged tight. He was full of questions about the baby, and as they headed inside the cabin, she laughed at some of the silly notions he had in his head about pregnancy. Not that she was an expert, but she was pretty sure that no, the shape of the woman’s belly did not determine the baby’s sex. And yes, it was true that she would probably develop a dark hormone line that would run from the top of her torso to below her navel that would divide her body almost in half. No, she wouldn’t need to drink the two half gallons of milk in his refrigerator to build up her milk supply. “Goodness, Casey. I’m only staying two days. You’ve got enough milk in here for an entire kindergarten class.”

“Well, just making sure you have what you need.”

She kissed his cheek and they spent the entire afternoon being lazy on the deck, stretched out on cushioned chaise longes and watching a few local sunbathers trying to catch the last rays of warmth for the season.

“Pretty soon, snow will top the mountains,” she said.

“Not soon enough for the skiers,” Casey said. “They can’t wait for the cold weather to hit.” He tilted his head and gave her a tentative look. “I’ve got reservations at Emeralds for tonight. We never had a chance to celebrate you having a baby. You up for it?”

Audrey reached over to touch his hand. “That’s sweet, Casey. Yes, I’m up for it.”

“No pets allowed. Think Jewel here will let you go?”

Jewel’s head perked up from her prone position on the patio deck at the mention of her name.

“Knowing Jewel, after she eats she’ll probably pass out in front of the fireplace. She won’t know I’m gone.”

Casey gave her a nod of approval. “Smart cat.”

Audrey chuckled. “Thanks, Casey for…well, for not being so, so…”

“I’m trying, honey. You’ll always be my little sis, and I’ll always watch out for you, but I get that you’re all grown-up now. You don’t need me anymore.”

“I need you, Casey. Just not your interference in my life. I’m ready to make my own decisions,” she said softly.

He swallowed and stared out at the lake.

That evening they had dinner at an exclusive restaurant with a spectacular view of Emerald Bay. The crescent-shaped alcove cradled shallow, pale emerald-green waters. Fanette Island reached out of the center of the bay with a Hershey Kiss–topped peak. The food was delicious and Audrey’s mood lightened being with her brother.

By the time they returned to the cabin, Audrey was beat. “I’m going to bed,” she said to Casey. “Thanks for a wonderful dinner. I’ll see you in the morning.” She reached up on tiptoes and gave Casey a peck on the cheek.

“Good night, Sis.”

Audrey showered and dressed in an old T-shirt. Some people had comfort food, but Audrey had comfort wear. She was cozy in worn-out, old bed clothes that felt soft against her skin. The baby seemed to love it, too. She snuggled into the bed and when the ringtone barked, she picked up her phone and read the text. It was Luke.

How r u?

Fair. How r u?

Fair. But now that I’m talking to you, I’m better.

Audrey squeezed her eyes closed. A viselike grip tightened on her heart. More and more now, Luke would say something sweet like this, or make an innuendo that begged an invitation from her. She didn’t have the courage to act upon it. She couldn’t face another rejection. And then, there was the guilt she harbored that reminded her daily of the injuries she’d caused him.

I’m glad you’re feeling better.

R u in bed?

Yes.

In a T-shirt?

Yes.

Well?

It says Cowgirls Party in the Paddock.

Luke didn’t waste a second to answer.

Sounds like a party I’d want to attend.

Mercy. Audrey nibbled on her lower lip.

I’m not a party girl.

Could’ve fooled me a few months ago.

Are you still pissed?

That you seduced me then ran away? That you lied to me? That you disobeyed my orders with Trib?

Her hopes faded.

I guess I have my answer.

I’m mellowing.

Doesn’t sound like it.

Do you still love me?

Audrey couldn’t believe he was asking her that. A person didn’t fall out of love that easily. It just showed how little Luke knew about love. And about her. She’d loved him for ten years. She couldn’t just forget about that because things didn’t work out. Life was messy and she’d certainly stepped in it this time. If anything, her love for him had grown