Page 76 of Cherished Lands

Dad's eyes twinkled as he passed Tessa's hand to mine. "Take care of our girl."

Our girl.The words echoed in my head as I pulled her close.

"Having fun, Princess?"

She settled against my chest. "Mhm. Your dad was just telling me about the time you and Chase tried to turn the barn into a water park."

"That was mostly Chase's idea."

"Sure it was." She slid her hand to the back of my neck and toyed with the hair at my nape.

I pulled her closer as the band switched to a slower song. Her body melted against mine. The scent of roses and applesfilled my nose—a unique combination of Tessa and the land that I loved.

"Natalie looks beautiful," Tessa sighed.

"So do you."

She looked up at me and smiled demurely. Fuck, but I loved how she could be a sassy brat one minute and sweet as pie the next. It kept me on my toes, never knowing what side of her was coming out to play.

"Maybe you'll get a big wedding like this someday," I teased

Her spine stiffened. "I never wanted a big wedding. I wasn't that girl."

"I'm sorry, Tess. I didn't mean?—"

"It's fine. I don't want to worry about the future right now. Tonight, I just want to enjoy this wedding. Can we do that?"

It felt anything but fine, but I didn't want to push.

"Of course," I said gently.

She tucked her head back into my chest and relaxed. Her fingers stroked lazy circles on my neck, sending tingling sparks down my spine. The silk of her dress whispered against my slacks with each step, and the rest of the wedding faded away until it was just us. Just this moment.

We swayed together under the fairy lights. I splayed my hand across her lower back, pressing her closer. The move earned me a hitched breath, and her nails scratched lightly at my neck. My cock swelled.

"Careful, Princess."

She tilted her face up, eyes full of mischief. "Or what?"

I dipped my head, brushing my lips against her ear. "Or I might have to drag you into the barn and remind you what happens when you tease me."

Her whole body shuddered. "Is that a promise?"

The raw need in her voice made my blood burn.How did we get here? From bitter rivalry to insatiable lust, to?—

"You're thinking too loud," she murmured, her lips grazing my jaw.

"Just thinking about how perfectly you fit in my arms."

She melted further into my embrace, like she never wanted to be anywhere else.

I couldn't wait any longer. I had to get her alone.

Stepping back, I grabbed her hand and tugged, pulling her behind me and away from the party.

Tessa giggled. "Where are we going?"

I pushed the barn door open. It was blessedly dark and empty. The door fell closed as we stepped in, taking the light from the party with it.