Page 5

I’m leaning forward, holding her close. We’re both breathing fast, our noses almost touching. Her eyes blink open, and when they meet mine, golden-brown as whiskey, I think I’m falling.

A sharp inhale, and I’m surrounded by fresh spring and flowers. She’s soft as silk, her breasts against my chest, and her full, glossy lips part in front of mine.

I could kiss her…

“Sweet Jesus, an angel…” It’s a breathy whisper, a little raspy and a lot sexy.

“I’m Taron.”

Both plates are still in her hands. She blinks a few times before looking around. “Oh, hell.”

She pulls back, and I move to the side, helping her find her feet. When she stands, her legs are right in my face, smooth and muscular, and I resist the urge to reach out and slide my palm against her skin… Shit, get a grip, Taron.

“Are you okay?” I stand quickly, lightly touching her arm.

“I think so.” She glances up at me and smiles shyly, and I swear the earth moves. “I mean, yes… Thank you. That could’ve been bad.”

Her gaze captures me, and her tanned cheeks flush.

“Noel, Jesus!” We both jump as Sawyer enters the room shouting. “Can you use the damn step ladder!”

I step away from her fast, leaning against the counter, and she goes to where he’s standing in the doorway.

“Lord, Sawyer! You almost gave me a heart attack.”

“You’re going to give me a heart attack if you keep pulling stunts like that. I’m about to be out of the country, and you’re climbing around the kitchen like a circus performer with no net.”

“Shut up and give me a hug.” She reaches up to embrace him.

He glances at me. “Thanks for saving my idiot sister.”

“Jerk.” She pushes his shoulder. “Thank you, Taron.”

She smiles, but her eyes don’t quite meet mine. I can’t tell if she’s embarrassed or shaken up or something else. Either way, she turns and gives me another view of her cute little ass. My hand goes to my stomach, and I rub the sudden ache there.

“I hope you’re hungry. I made a half dozen eggs and a pile of biscuits.”

“I’m starving.” Sawyer goes to the table.

I force myself to stop staring at her like I’ve never seen a girl before. “How can I help?”

“Just wash up. The table’s set.” She moves quickly around the small space in her bare feet while I go to the sink and wash my hands.

She skips over to where I’m standing and hands me a towel, and the scent of her wraps around me again, fresh and warm, and my dream flickers through my head.

“Let’s eat.” Sawyer’s voice is sharp, and I join him at the table.

I’m not here for a summer romance. I’m here to help with the harvest. In a few short weeks, I’ll be gone, and I can’t lose sight of that—no matter how hot Sawyer’s “kid” sister is.

“Praise the Lord and pass the biscuits.” She sits across from me, and this time when our eyes meet, a hint of a grin

curls her lips.

Our gaze tangles like we’re sharing a secret, and all my good intentions slip right out the window.

2

Noel