Page 36 of Storm Warning
He held a bottle of red wine in one hand; the other cradled a plate of two impeccably marbled steaks. The silence stretched between them as his eyes roamed over her, thick and charged, amplifying her growing desire.
When his blazing eyes belatedly found hers, confidence blazed through her, and a smile broke free, spreading across her face as she stepped back and waved a hand in welcome.
“Hi. You are right on time!” Kate blurted, pulse racing.
“You look amazing.” Nick stared, eyes taking in every detail. Warmth flooded her veins from the surge of pride at his compliment. Callie was so getting a raise.
She giggled, a mischievous grin tugging at her lips. “Thank you. All credit goes to my assistant. She repacked my suitcase behind my back with a bunch of clothes she purchased without me knowing. I’ll have to tell you that story later.”
“Come on in—I just need to finish up the veggies. Let’s open the wine while we wrap up dinner prep.” She spun, movements fluid and purposeful as she crossed into the kitchen, excitement bubbling within her as Nick followed.
“I lit the grill, so it should be ready for the steaks in another minute or two,” Nick said, placing the plate on the counter. “How’s our timing?”
“Perfect, I think.” Kate couldn’t help but smile. “The squash will finish in the time it takes to cook those steaks. I love filet mignon, and those look excellent.” The anticipation of the evening had butterflies soaring. Or was that a Nick effect?
“They better be—Marguerite stole them from the hotel kitchen.” Nick’s voice held a playful lilt as he reached into the drawer for a bottle opener. With a swift, practiced twist, he popped the cork free, releasing a burst of rich aroma while Kate pulled down two wineglasses.
“How would you like yours cooked?” he asked, his emerald eyes turning toward her.
“Medium-rare for me, please.” Kate checked the stove. The mushrooms were sautéing over low heat. “I hope you like mushrooms—I thought they would go well with our steak.” A hint of nervousness crept in.
“Love them. Actually, I love most any food as long as someone else prepares it.” His easy smile comforted her. “The grill should be ready, so I’ll go put these on now.” Nick scooped up the plate. “Be right back!” he called, his voice trailing off.
The kitchen was too quiet after Nick slipped out. Kate busied herself with the vegetables, hoping the familiarity of cooking would steady her first date nerves. She blew out a relieved breath, the initial awkwardness melting away. They’d found their rhythm, the first tiny victory of the night.
She pulled the squash from the oven, golden-brown, bright and enticing. Her fingers trembled as she reachedfor salt, added pepper, then poured on the magic ingredient: maple syrup. With practiced ease, she tossed it using tongs, until the syrup glistened and coated every piece.
She stood on tiptoes to reach a serving bowl in the top cabinet when a rush of air announced Nick’s return.
“Let me.” He murmured, pinning her lightly to the counter, heat radiating from his body as he pressed against her to retrieve the bowl. Their date had barely started, and she was ready to combust.
“Anything else you need?” His breath ghosted over her neck, sending shivers down her spine.
“No.” Kate’s answer came out breathless. “Everything else is out.”
When Nick stepped back, a wave of relief mingled with loss. She could breathe again, though she didn’t quite catch what he muttered. Had he said,that’s too bad?
She dragged in a ragged breath, steadying her racing heart, and pivoted on her heel with a determined smile. “So, what do you think? Eat inside or out on the pergola?”
“The pergola. It’s beautiful out.” He glanced at his watch. “Time to flip the steaks. Be right back.”
As soon as he left, Kate rushed to gather plates and silverware, eager to finish setting the table.
The pergola stretched out from the suite, creating a cozy corner between the living room and office—a hidden retreat. The thick wooden beams overhead offered a comforting barrier of privacy from the main house.
The night unfolded around her, heavy with deep blues and purples, as emerging stars twinkled like ancient diamonds scattered across the sky. Cool night air filled her lungs with the intoxicating scent of fresh-cut grass and blooming flowers. A sense of quiet wonder coursed through her. Magical.
Nick headed out, fire-starter gripped in his hand. “I’ll light the torches to fend off any mosquitoes or midges that might be hungry for a bite,” he said, glancing her way with a mischievous glint that made her heart flutter. His gaze lingered, and her cheeks warmed when a brash leer slid across his features. “I’m the only one who gets to take a bite out of you,” he declared in a ludicrous Dracula accent, eyebrows wiggling in exaggerated mischief.
A laugh bubbled up at his silly banter. “Vampires in Florida?” She shook her head in mock regret. “I guess I should’ve thought to add garlic to the squash!”
Nick chuckled, warm and infectious. He sauntered back toward the grill with a casual, “The steak should be ready.”
The rich aroma of roasted squash enveloped her as she entered the kitchen. She scooped the tender pieces into a serving bowl, the vibrant orange brilliant against the ceramic.
The earthy scent of sautéed mushrooms drifted up as she dished them into another bowl. She moved to the oven and pulled out the potatoes, their skins crisp and golden. Everything was coming together.
Outside, she heard the clink of a plate as Nick set the steaks on the table before joining her.