Forsaking All Others
Forsaking All Others
Linda Hudson-Smith
They are all wrong for each other…Jessica Harrington knows what she doesn't want for Christmas–to be roped in to her parents' matchmaking scheme. Ever since she and Weston Chamberlain were children, their fathers hoped they would marry and merge their families' fortunes. One problem–Jessica and Wes can't tolerate one another! But love can make everything right…Wes, who arrives in Aspen for the families' shared ski vacation, has grown up…in delicious ways. And beautiful Jessica is nothing like the awkward teen Wes remembers. The breathtaking setting fuels a sizzling attraction that surprises them both. But living on opposite coasts is only one of many obstacles ahead. Can romance last once they've left their winter wonderland behind?
Forsaking all Others
Linda Hudson-Smith
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
Dedication
This novel is dedicated to the loving memory of
Michael Bruce Randolph, my friend of 40 years.
Michael, your warm and loving presence will be forever
missed by all of us who love you. May you rest in peace,
safe in the hull of God’s unchanging hands.
Sunrise: August 28, 1951
Sunset: March 18, 2007
This novel is dedicated to the latest addition to
the Smith family; a sweet little bundle of joy.
Our 6
grandchild and 2
granddaughter.
Synia Justice Smith
Born: May 1, 2006
Contents
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 1
Stunning twenty-five-year-old Jessica Harrington couldn’t believe the beauty of the Aspen, Colorado, resort areas. She and her parents, Roman and Sahara, and her older sister, Jennifer, and her husband, Samuel Ellington, were actually spending the Christmas and New Year holidays in this wonderland. The other family members had been to Aspen several times, during different seasons of the year, but Jessica’s acrophobia, her fear of heights, had kept her away.
Jessica had finally learned to conquer her fear of heights and close spaces. There was no place or tight space on earth she wouldn’t now dare to venture to. Flying in an airplane had never been a problem for her. Driving up into the mountains and dealing with heights had been a major one, though, for as far back as she could remember. Just getting up on a six-foot ladder had once scared her silly.
The plush condominium/town house resort of Snowmass was located in the heart of Snowmass Village at Aspen. Base elevation of Snowmass Mountain was 7,870 feet, with a vertical rise of 2,030 feet.
Not so long ago those were heights Jessica wouldn’t have even considered taking on. Now, she couldn’t be happier to have made the trip to this winter paradise. She could hardly wait for all the festive holiday events to begin.
The Harrington family was joining up with Roman’s lifelong best friend, Jacque Chamberlain, his wife, Sandra, and their only son, twenty-six-year-old Weston. The two families would share separate three-bedroom town houses across the corridor from each other.
Jennifer and Samuel had leased a two-bedroom condo in the same resort, in the opposite building. A couple of other families were also joining the small group, good friends of the Chamberlains, who were not due to arrive in Aspen until the day after Christmas. The Carlyle and Holloway families and their two teenagers, a boy and girl, had also leased town houses at Snowmass.
Sahara stepped out on the balcony and lowered her arm around Jessica’s shoulder. “Isn’t it breathtaking way up here? Are you okay with the heights?”
Jessica reached up and patted her mother’s hand. “I’m fine. It’s a wonderful vision to behold. The stark whiteness is near blinding. Haven’t decided to try skiing, though. That may be a little too much bravery for my first trip up such a high mountain. Sledding sounds more interesting to me as an alternative to skiing. I think it’ll be fun.”
“Everything we do will be fun. The Chamberlains should be here any minute. Are you nervous about seeing Weston? You guys haven’t been together since your teens.”
Jessica shrugged with nonchalance. “Nothing to be nervous about. He’s probably the same nerdy guy he was back then. We never did see eye to eye. I don’t expect a different outcome this trip.”
“Oh, Jess, I hope you don’t act nasty with him. Pulling hair is what most boys do at that age. Are you still holding the pigtail incident against him?”
“Incident, my foot! He nearly scalped me, pulling my hair so hard. But I don’t hold it against him.” Jessica sighed. “Hope I meet an interesting guy up here, but there won’t be anything happening between Wes and me. That’s Dad and Mr. Jacque’s dream. Not ours. I’m only here out of all the guilt you guys made me feel about going away with my girlfriends for Christmas.”
“Guilt was not our intent. That’s nonsense. We’ve never been apart for Christmas. We’re not starting now. Just concentrate on having a good time. Don’t put restrictions on yourself. I’m going in to wake up Dad. He wants to be up and dressed when Jacque and Sandra arrive. Jenny and Sam will be over any minute. We’ll all go to dinner once everyone gets here. Besides, you and Wes might find something in common. Who knows?” Sahara kissed her daughter’s cheek before stepping back indoors.
“Fat chance,” Jessica mumbled under her breath. The only thing she and Weston had in common was their intense dislike for each other. She hoped he had at least grown up some. His immaturity had gotten on her nerves the last time they’d seen each other in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
Jessica shivered as a blast of cold air hit her head-on, her hazel eyes watering at the shock. “Wow!” She didn’t waste another minute getting back inside where a warm fire roared in the stone fireplace. She hadn’t been used to this type of cold weather where she grew up, although California did get lots of snow up in the mountainous areas.
The Christmas music playing on the CD player was so nice. Jessica loved Nat King Cole’s mesmerizing voice. Her parents always played songs by him, Johnny Mathis and other singing greats during the holidays. This was the season her family practically lived for all year long. They had never visited a ski resort area at Christmastime because Jessica had only recently conquered her fear of heights. Seeing the beauty of the mountains had her repeatedly thanking God for what He had helped her accomplish.
While Jessica warmed her hands by the fire, rubbing them together vigorously, she enjoyed the blazing show of colors. The oranges, yellows, reds and warm blues helped to further light up the romance of the candlelit room. Her mother had set out most of the candles she’d brought along from home soon after they had checked into the resort. Sunset had occurred over thirty minutes ago.
The sound of a key being inserted into the door caused Jessica to jump involuntarily. She figured it had to be Jennifer and Sam. Sahara must have heard the key, too, because she had just come running into the room.
It always gave Jessica a warm feeling when her mother was affectionate with her and Jennifer. Neither of their parents had ever failed to show unconditional love for the girls. Sahara and Roman also thought of Samuel as a son, not just a son-in-law. They had wanted at least one male child, but they still felt incredibly blessed to have had such beautiful, healthy daughters.
Jessica had light hair and was fair-complexioned like her father. Jennifer had the same olive skin color and dark hair as her mother. Everyone knew they were sisters despite their hair and skin coloring. Two years apart in age, both Jessica and Jennifer had sparkling hazel eyes and full-dimpled smiles.
“Hey, Jess,” Jennifer sang out, “how you doing with the heights so far?”
“So far so good. It hasn’t bothered me yet.”
“Then it probably won’t.” Samuel crossed the room and gave Jessica a warm hug. “Proud of you, sis.”
“Thanks, Sam. I’m proud of me, too.”
“We’re all proud of you,” Sahara said, smiling brightly at Jessica.
The hard knock on the door caused Jessica to speed from the room. This time she was sure it was the Chamberlains. She had intended to comb her hair and put on fresh makeup long before they had arrived. Her face felt naked and a tad raw. For sure, she would have to keep her face moisturized against the cold weather. Sunblock protection was also a must. The cold air outside had done more than freeze her tail off.
All the animated greetings could be heard from the bedroom where Jessica repaired her makeup. The love between her father and Jacque Chamberlain was amazing. The men had grown up on the same street in southern California and had been as close as brothers. Amos and Gardenia Harrington, Roman’s parents, had treated Jacque like a son, making him very welcome in their home. Jacque’s mother had been ill a good bit of his youth so he had spent a lot of time with the Harringtons. After she’d died when he was seventeen, they had taken him in. His father was a long-distance trucker and had lived on the road a good bit of the time, even more after his wife had died.
Roman and Jacque had also attended the same college and had ended up working in the same profession. The two men had made their fortunes in real estate and had high hopes of merging their two companies in the near future. They also still hoped that Jessica and Weston would one day merge their families in holy matrimony.
Jacque planned to move back to California from New York City within the next year or so. He had grown tired of the harsh winter weather and longed to be back under the extremely agreeable Southern California sun. He had only moved to New York because his wife had wanted to be near her parents. Sandra’s wishes were his commands. Jacque had often said he lived to please his wife and only son, Weston.
After taking one last glance in the mirror, Jessica headed for the bedroom door. She couldn’t wait to get through the trauma of seeing Weston. She hated that she had to be around him for the next ten days, but she’d do anything to make her parents happy. Anything but marry the man her father and his best friend had in mind for her. The two friends had always said their kids would marry. Jessica didn’t even think Weston was marriage material, sure that he had grown up only to become all into himself.
Jessica was pulled into the warm embrace of Jacque and then Sandra before she had barely stepped into the room. She had seen them a couple of years ago, when they had visited in California. They were really nice people. Like her parents, they were big on doling out loads of love and affection.
Weston had the most stunned looked on his face as he stepped forward and brought Jessica to him for what he had planned on as a quick hug. Her warmth went straight through him—and he ended up holding her longer than anticipated. His mouth felt bone-dry as he affectionately pecked her on the cheek. He couldn’t believe this was the same person he used to taunt and rib unmercifully. Weston cringed when he thought of how he had nearly torn off her pigtail.
It had shocked Weston to see that Jessica was no longer the pudgy, clumsy, tomboyish teenager he remembered. The ugly duckling had turned into a magnificent swan, beautiful and graceful. He was so taken with her, but he had to hide it for fear of her shooting him down.
It wasn’t as though Jessica and Weston had gotten along famously as children; he wasn’t so sure they could be amicable as adults. The two of them thrown together every single day and evening for the next ten days would make it doubly hard for him to hide his wild attraction to her. Weston could only hope Jessica was as sweet as she was beautiful. Would wonders never cease!
Jessica clearly remembered Weston as a gangly, acne-faced, nerdy teenager, one who had possessed very little personality, if any at all. She nearly fainted when she first laid eyes on the drop-dead gorgeous, magnificent specimen he had turned into. It was then Jessica admitted that deep down inside she had always had a serious crush on Weston, though the feelings on his part had never been mutual.
Oh, how beautiful are those long lashes and dreamy eyes? She tried hard not to stare at him. It was obvious to her that the boy was in the gym on a regular basis. Muscles were bulging in all the right places on his rock-hard anatomy. When had he been blessed with such dark, softly piercing eyes and full, pouting lips? Her new attraction to him was as instant as his had been to her. His curly hair looked soft and silky, making her desperately want to drag her fingers recklessly through the strands.
Jessica tried hard to hide the tumultuous feelings inside her. She knew she would have constant thoughts of him whether they were together or apart. She knew for a fact she’d find it pretty hard to sleep at night with him right across the corridor. Thank goodness they weren’t sleeping in the same town house. That had been suggested initially. Jessica had been the one to protest the arrangement vehemently, vowing not to make the trip to Aspen if she had to sleep in the same space with the nuisance of a boy she recalled all too well. Now she had to wonder.
As if Jessica and Weston were the only two people in the room, they had become oblivious of the other family members, until Roman had asked if everyone was ready to go to dinner. She was happy for the timely interruption. Her uncontrollable thoughts had taken her to places she had once dreamed of on a daily basis, pining away for one Weston Chamberlain. Her thoughts about him had been torrid ones. That hadn’t changed.
In the car with her parents, Jessica suddenly felt so darn empty. It was as if someone had suddenly snatched away from her the warmth of intense sunlight that had nearly blinded her earlier. Her reaction to Weston was impossible. How could she feel like this about someone she didn’t even like? Oh, she liked him, all right. Jessica hated admitting how strong her liking was for him. Jessica couldn’t believe how silly she felt. The passage of time hadn’t changed a thing.
At the restaurant, it really surprised Jessica when Weston sat down in the wingback chair next to hers at the long table. There were so many empty chairs he could have sat in, but he had opted for the one closest to her.
The others in the Harrington party were all milling about, pointing out their favorite points of interest. The restaurant had high, vaulted ceilings and a massive wood-burning stone and marble fireplace, a definite focal point from nearly every seat in the house. A large rustic bar also made an interesting topic of conversation. The latest tunes were piped in over a state-of-the-art audio system.
“So, Jessica, how’ve you been? Long time no see for us.”
Too long, she thought, wishing she had some kind of control on her wretched emotions. She found it so hard to believe her heart was still going gaga over this man. “I know. Busy with work and all. Since we’re both in real estate, you know how long the hours can be. Sometimes I overdo it. I always find one more thing to do before I go home. What’s up with you?”
“Pretty much the same as it is with you. I stay busy at the job. Guess that’s why I don’t have much of a social life.”
What was Weston trying to tell her, if anything? Did very little social life mean no steady girl? Jessica had to wonder. She didn’t know how to respond to what he had said, so she said nothing. She wouldn’t be surprised if women were lined up to go out with him. Weston was really that good-looking and he hadn’t annoyed her once thus far.
As the rest of the party came and took seats at the table, Jessica and Weston’s conversation was abruptly interrupted. This time she wasn’t too relieved about the disruption, but she then figured they had lots of time to catch up on each other’s lives. She was certainly eager to find out everything she could about the new and improved Weston.
A waiter and waitress came up as soon as everyone was settled down at the table. Menus were quickly passed around to each of the patrons. The waitress took the drink orders and then left the food orders up to the waiter. Teamwork was the obvious intent.
In a matter of minutes everyone at the table had ordered their meals.
Jessica was impressed by the quick service. She had been to restaurants with large groups of people, where it had seemed to take forever to get the orders taken. When she had looked around the place a moment ago, she saw there was no shortage of waiters and waitresses. Under-staffing was a big problem in a lot of restaurants, even the extremely popular ones. It was not a problem here at the illustrious Rustic House Restaurant.
Conversations flowed with relaxed ease as the diners sipped on hot or cold drinks while waiting for the meals to be served. Roman and Jacque were chatting and laughing to beat the band. Sahara and Sandra were also catching up, talking up a storm.
Jessica loved seeing her parents so happy. She knew for a fact her father had never been as involved with a male friend as he was with Jacque. He had a few good golf buddies, as well as his bowling-league friends, but his relationship with Jacque was unrivaled. The two men and their wives saw each other three or four times a year at realty conferences or while vacationing in exotic locales. Each couple was often a guest in the other’s home. Her parents loved to visit the Chamberlains in New York City.
Weston had a hard time keeping his eyes off Jessica. The changes in her were remarkable. Perhaps she had always been pretty. In his adolescence he might not have been able to see it. It had taken him a long time to get interested in girls, period. Most guys had had several different personal relationships by age seventeen, which was the age at which Weston had had his first date. A young lady had asked him to take her to her senior prom. That evening had been one disaster after another. Weston hadn’t bothered to learn to dance, and his date had been furious with him when she had figured it out.
Weston had tried hard to get it going, though, but his soulful coordination hadn’t come together quite yet. Rhythm didn’t move into his body until a couple of years later. Now Weston could hold up against the best on the dance floor.
The variety of great music made Weston think about the possibility of dancing with Jessica. There should be plenty of opportunities. The formal New Year’s Eve gala sponsored by their parents was to be held in one of the resort ballrooms. A slow tune worked best for him, though he also loved to dance to faster-paced music.
Holding Jessica close to his body was right up there on the top of Weston’s list of desires. She had fitted perfectly into his arms when he’d hugged her earlier. His limbs seemed to have wrapped around her of their own accord, holding her much longer than he had anticipated. It had felt good, too. The feelings surging through him had been wild.
The delicious scents from the food caused Jessica’s mouth to water. She hadn’t realized how hungry she was until now. The family had had lunch right after they had arrived at the resort, eons ago.
Jessica was a perfect size-six petite, but the girl had a ravenous appetite. However, the only fried foods she ever ate were French fries and the occasional fish sandwich. The weight problems she had had in her youth had one day up and disappeared, without her resorting to dieting.
Weston gently nudged Jessica. “Pass the salt, please.”
That little insignificant touch from Weston had Jessica’s heart doing flip-flops. But it was those dark, dreamy eyes that made crazy things happen inside her body. “Sure.” She picked up the saltshaker closest to her and handed it to Mr. McHunk. In her mind she had already referred to him as such a few times.
As Jessica looked over at Jennifer and Samuel, she had to smile. The two sweethearts had been in love since junior high school. They were the same exact age, twenty-seven. She had often prayed to find the kind of relationship they had, with no immediate interest in forever after. She thought thirty was the perfect age for women to marry and thirty-three or even a bit older for men. That gave her five years to find her Mr. Right. Jessica wasn’t sure she wanted kids, but she hadn’t ruled them out, either.
The grilled Chilean sea bass Jessica had ordered tasted so scrumptious she closed her eyes to savor the expertly prepared seafood. Her salad greens were fresh and crisp; the tomatoes had to have been grown in the Garden of Eden. They were the most flavorful ones she had ever tasted. The others also seemed pleased with their meals, Jessica noted. Her family were huge seafood lovers, evident by what each one had ordered. Roman and Samuel’s favorite was grilled salmon. Sahara and Jennifer were into the different varieties of shellfish.
Weston had ordered a huge porterhouse steak that looked grilled to perfection. He had also ordered a Caesar salad, loving the tangy taste of the dressing. His baked potato was stuffed with everything imaginable. He had dug right into his meal as soon as Roman had passed the blessing.
Jessica would love to eat steak, but she had a hard time digesting beef. The only ingredients she liked on her baked potatoes were butter and sour cream, at a minimum. Jessica could tell that Weston was enjoying what he had put on his.
“Mind if I taste your fish, Jess?” Weston asked. “It looks good.”
Jessica was once again surprised. She didn’t object to giving Weston a bite, but how was she supposed to serve it to him? It was out of the question for her to put some on her fork and feed it to him. Weston handed Jessica a small bread plate and indicated for her to drop it there. She was glad he had solved her dilemma. She didn’t have to look up to know all eyes had been on her, anticipating how she might respond.
On purpose Jessica refused to make direct eye contact with anyone in her family. The look in her eyes might just be a dead giveaway for how besotted she had become with Weston. No matter what her misguided feelings were for him, they just couldn’t happen as a couple. That was like falling right into the trap their parents had set for them as mere babes in arms. No one with any common sense ever walked into a visible trap.
The small group had moved over into the lounge, where several tables for two had been put together. There was no odd man out.
Jessica was highly aware that she and Weston were the only two single people in their party. She was sure it had been by design, that both sets of parents were still hopeful they would become an item.
Jessica had thought about asking her best friend Jarred Wilkerson, to come on the trip with her. Her parents would’ve done their level best to talk her out of it. She and Jarred enjoyed each other’s company tremendously. Each valued their special friendship. He was happily single now after recently breaking off his two-year relationship with Melanie Holt. However, he and Jessica weren’t remotely interested in each other in a romantic way. They just hung out together a lot.
On the other side of the coin, Jessica had hoped and prayed Weston would bring along a lady friend. That hope had vanished in the same moment her mother had informed her he was coming to Aspen alone. Now she was glad he hadn’t brought along a date and that she hadn’t invited Jarred. She liked having Weston’s undivided attention. Of course, he hadn’t paid her an ounce of attention since his plate had first arrived, other than to ask her for a bite of her fish. It looked as if she had a meaty rival.
Jessica chuckled inwardly at her last thought.
Swallowing the lump in her throat came hard for Jessica after Weston had asked her to dance. Jennifer and Samuel were already on the floor gyrating to the funky beats. The four parents hadn’t stopped talking since sitting down in the lounge.
What was a girl to do? Accept his invitation. She tried to hush the little voice inside her head. Still finding it difficult to speak, Jessica simply got out of her seat. That move should be evidence enough that she wanted to dance with him. She had wondered if he would ever ask her. Now that he had, she was ecstatic about it.
Four songs later Jessica and Weston were still on the dance floor. A couple of times they had changed partners with Jennifer and Samuel, but only for short periods. When a step-dance tune came on, Weston didn’t miss a beat. He began stepping, glad that Jessica also knew how to. Their laughter rang out as they put on a show.
Many of the patrons gawked at Weston and Jessica’s spirited moves.
As Weston’s hands spanned Jessica’s waist through several of the steps, she continued to keep pace with the music, though his deliciously warm hands had set her body ablaze. He didn’t seem to miss the nervous look on her face when the music suddenly turned slow and romantic; before her fears could take her over completely, he tenderly brought her into his arms, pulling her closer in to his body. Perhaps he found it comforting that she was as nervous about him as he was about her.
The urge to lay her head against Weston’s chest was overwhelming to Jessica, yet she kept her head raised, her eyes straight ahead. She’d have to look up to peer into his sexy eyes, something she would love to do. Jessica knew she could lose herself there.
The slower set had consisted of three songs. Jessica and Weston stayed on the floor for each one. Each dance had drawn them closer and closer together.
As the smiling couple were about to return to their seats, Roman came up and took a hand of each of his daughters. Jessica and Jennifer often danced with their dad. It was always a highlight of any event for them. One song later Sahara eagerly joined her husband and their two girls for a family dance.
Weston kept his eyes trained on Jessica as she laughed and got down with a line dance she had a ball doing with her family. The girl was as sexy as women came, having gotten him all hot and bothered when he’d held her in his arms. She had a cute little way of twisting her hips and making her upper body wiggle in rhythm to the music. He’d been surprised to learn that she could step, had been pretty darn good at it. He had to admit to the numerous surprises, expecting even more. This was going to be one interesting holiday trip.
Chapter 2
Weston and his parents waited in the parking lot for the Harrington car to make it back. The families had decided to have a nightcap and watch a movie or do something else fun in the Harrington town house. The Harrington family had been right behind the Chamberlains, but when Weston had last looked, they weren’t anywhere in sight. That caused worry in the Chamberlain clan. The roads could be treacherous.
Weston sighed with relief when he spotted the van pulling in, glad everyone was safe. He hurried over to the van to open the door for the passengers seated in the rear. Of course, he knew where Jessica was seated, because he had opened the vehicle door for her to get in.
Once Jessica was out of the car, Weston took her by the hand. “How about taking a short walk? It’s a beautiful night.”
Jessica rolled her hazel eyes, wondering if Weston was kidding. It was freezing outside. “Kind of cold out here, don’t you think?”
Weston halfway closed his eyes, slightly tilting his head to the right. “I think I can keep you warm. In fact, I know I can deliver the heat.”
Jessica had seen Weston’s eye and head gestures as so adorable, his remarks confident. There was no doubt in her mind he could deliver on his word. He had a way of making her hot all over just with a visual connection. “Let’s do this, already. Standing in one spot is freezing my feet to the ground.”
Weston grinned. “Okay. First things first, though.” He lifted the hood of her heavy jacket and pulled it over her head. As he tied the strings snugly under her chin, he wanted to kiss her ripe lips so badly it hurt. Even outdoors where the icy wind blew hard, he smelled her sensuous perfume. He’d asked the name of the scent earlier.
The trek around the resort started out with Weston’s arm tightly around Jessica’s waist. She silently promised not to fight any of her romantic urges. If she felt like laying her head against his arm, she would. Her mind wasn’t so sure about any lip action. Her heart certainly wasn’t opposed to it. She couldn’t help recalling all the times she had dreamed about kissing him in the past.
Minutes later the numbing cold no longer seemed to matter to Jessica. The couple were now scooping up handfuls of snow and tossing it at each other, seemingly oblivious to the freezing temperatures. When she lost her balance, nearly toppling over, Weston was right there to keep her upright. She rewarded his rescue mission with a warm hug, sending his body temperature right up to the sky. He found her protesting when he had thought they should get indoors funny. Seconds afterward, large snowflakes began to fall.
Back in the town house, Jessica and Weston totally ignored the curious looks from their parents. All they were interested in was something hot to drink. Jessica loved hot cocoa and hot chocolate, and Sahara had packed up both drinks, along with delicious flavored teas and coffees. She was the type of mother who easily anticipated the needs of her family. No matter how old Jessica and Jennifer got, they would always be little girls to Sahara and Roman.
Jessica didn’t know what the others were watching on television, but she wasn’t interested in viewing anything. She had a television in her bedroom and liked to fall asleep with it on. She planned to do that a little later, but now it was only 10:00 p.m.
Jessica instead pulled out the travel Scrabble board and challenged Weston to a game. He told her he was a terrible speller, but he’d indulge her in one game. He immediately commenced beating her pants off. His ability to spell and come up with words she hadn’t even heard of was top-notch.
“Was that a white lie you told about your spelling skills or a bald-faced one?”
Weston had the good grace to look ashamed. “I guess both. If I’d told you I was an excellent speller, you might have backed out. Most men are terrible spellers so I figured I’d just play the part.”
“You lied, is what you did! That’s okay. Look for a rematch tomorrow.”
“You’re on! We can play chess, too. Want a refill on the hot chocolate?”
“Please.” She wouldn’t warn him on how good she was at chess.
Amazed at how well things were going, Weston got up from the kitchen table and refilled both mugs. He had actually expected the fur to fly the entire vacation, just as it had done years ago. This was a pleasant diversion from how they had once acted. As he thought more about it, Weston had to admit that he had treated her badly. There was a time when he’d been stupid enough to believe she had a thing for him. No real proof of that had ever come forth.
Weston carried the mugs of hot chocolate back over to the table. He placed Jessica’s down in front of her. “Here you go, sweetie.”
Sweetie! Hmm. Jessica liked that term of endearment, especially coming from Weston’s pouting lips. Those babies looked so kissable. She closed her eyes just to conjure up an image of him seducing her mouth in the hottest way possible. When his fingers began to slowly trace the under-wire of her bra, she quickly popped her eyes open. She couldn’t let her mind go there, not in his presence. She wasn’t ready for him to leave, even though she was eager to conjure up more erotic images of him in bed later.
“What’re you thinking about? You should’ve seen that sensual look. I hope I was somehow involved in your thoughts.”
Jessica had to clear her throat. “Dream on, fellow. Dream on.”
“Like that, huh?”
Jessica failed to stifle a giggle. “Uh-huh. Just like that.”
Weston got to his feet. “I know when I’ve worn out my welcome. I’m out of here. Are we on for some serious skiing tomorrow morning?”
Jessica shook her head. “Not sure about that yet.”
“Still scared of heights, huh? How’d you manage to get up to this elevation without losing it?”
“Is there nothing sacred with my parents? How much do they tell you about me?”
Laughing, Weston shrugged. “I actually got that one from Mom, who got it from yours. But I remember your reaction to getting up on the monkey bars when we were kids. You weren’t having any part of it.”
“God forbid that you should remember all the bad stuff.”
“I do remember the past. But this is now. I’m for making new memories, good ones. What about you?”
“Didn’t you say you were leaving?”
“What I said was I know when I’ve worn my welcome out.” He stretched out his hand to her. “Come on and walk me next door. If we’re to have a good day tomorrow, we’d better get plenty of rest.”
“I agree. Sledding is more appealing to me than skiing. I hope you’ll join me. Don’t give me an answer right now. Sleep on it.”
Weston gave Jessica his brightest, sexiest smile. “You have no idea what I plan to sleep on tonight while sleeping in nothing. Care to star in my wildest fantasies?”
Jessica jumped to her feet. “Let me see you out. You’ve gotten punchy.”
“It happens. I’m overly tired.”
“Tell me about it!”
“I’ll tell you anything you want to know. All you have to do is ask.”
Jessica smiled smugly. “Gee, thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.”
Jessica lay comfortably in bed. As she thought about all the things that had transpired between her and Weston, she wondered if maybe they’d gotten too friendly too quickly. Many of his remarks to her after the walk and the game of Scrabble had become extremely flirtatious. Maybe so, but she had liked the attention.
Care to star in my wildest fantasies? had flattered the heck right out of her, not to mention that sexy little smile of his. Had there been real sexual connotations in his comments? She sure hoped so.
Deep down inside her heart Jessica hoped that Weston found her as sexy as she did him. She was trying hard not to come up with any reasons she couldn’t or shouldn’t get romantically involved with him. Surprisingly, she wasn’t terrified of her feelings for him. Being attracted to him before, with no favorable outcome, didn’t make a good case for compromising her feelings again.
Of course, Jessica had been barely a teenager then. She hadn’t known the first thing about true love, yet she had been impressionable. His cruel treatment had hurt her pretty badly. Still, she wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. He hadn’t known any more about love than she had. They had been kids, for goodness’ sake.
Weston hadn’t shown an ounce of cruelty toward her this evening; quite the contrary. If she had gotten the signals right, he definitely had a romantic interest in her. The feelings were mutual. It hadn’t gotten past Jessica when both had said they wouldn’t want to live anyplace other than where they now resided. She couldn’t imagine how they’d ever have a long-distance relationship. It wasn’t like they’d be living a couple of hours apart; they lived on totally opposite coasts.
This was merely a vacation. Jessica felt foolish entertaining the idea of anything happening beyond the holiday. Enjoy this time and move on, she quietly told herself. Make the best of the next ten days. Then give Weston a warm farewell hug. With her mind made up not to take anything too serious, she closed her eyes, hoping to fall right off to sleep. Tomorrow had already been ushered in. It was well after midnight.
Weston had been tossing and turning for over two hours. Thoughts of Jessica had nearly consumed him. It wasn’t a problem to admit being quite intrigued with her. What to do about it was his biggest dilemma. It was hard not to look ahead to when they’d part company. She’d go back to Los Angeles and he back to New York City. Not seeing her again after Aspen troubled him, despite the nine days of vacation they had left.
For a few moments Weston wondered if he could possibly live in Los Angeles after his parents moved there. It didn’t take him long to realize he was acting downright ridiculous. It was silly to give the idea any more thought. Nothing assured him that he and Jessica would hit it off so much that either would consider moving to be near the other. He was way ahead of himself and he vowed to stop the mad thinking run before it drove him insane.
Weston quickly decided that he and Jessica would enjoy each other while in Aspen. That would be the end of it. They might even find other people they were attracted to while on vacation. No one really knew what would happen. They would be meeting a lot of different people at the numerous social functions planned by their parents. After Weston plumped his pillow for the umpteenth time, he settled down in bed, falling asleep minutes after he completely turned off his thoughts.
The sun was high, seeming to shine brighter than Jessica had ever seen before. The resort was covered in a glistening white blanket from the previous night’s snowfall. It was like stepping into a fairy-tale village nestled snugly between tall mountain ranges.
The waiter at Café Aspen had already given Jessica and Weston breakfast menus. The café was only a couple of miles down the road from the resort. Weston had taken a quick jaunt to the men’s room, leaving Jessica at the table.
The two families had gotten up bright and early to hit the slopes. Sahara had prepared breakfast for the ski group before they’d taken off, excited to get the adventurous day under way.
Jessica reflected on how quiet Weston had been on the drive to the café, wondering what that meant. He hadn’t made one flirtatious comment, yet he’d held her hand on the way to the car. The kind gesture might have been to keep her upright. She had been slipping and sliding all over the place. If his attitude changed toward her, she hoped she’d know how to get him back into the fun, flirtatious mode she enjoyed tremendously.
Jessica and Weston planned to go sledding later since she had chickened out on skiing. She had to take things slow. She had already conquered her fears enough to get up the mountain. Jumping on a ski lift? She wasn’t there, though proud of what she had already accomplished.
Both sets of parents had requested Jessica and Weston’s presence when they went into town to pick out the Christmas tree. It was a family tradition in both households to pick out the tree together—and later to trim it.
The warmth on the back of Jessica’s neck caused her to look up. Her heart leaped at the beautiful smile on Weston’s face.
“I heated my hands by the fire. Did they warm you?”
Jessica smiled and nodded. “Sure did. Where is the fireplace?”
“A cozy room in back of the place.” Weston took a seat. “Lots of tables for dining, but the room is empty. Want me to ask if we can eat back there?”
“I’d like that. The employees likely fill up the outer rooms first.”
“You’re probably right, but it won’t hurt to ask. I can be pretty persuasive.”
Jessica didn’t doubt that. “Go for it.”
Jessica looked after Weston as he walked away. She could hear his fine body screaming out her name. She loved the beautiful black-and-white Italian knit sweater he wore with a pair of dark wool pants, casual in style. He had earlier complimented Jessica on her navy-blue wool sweater and slacks, and a crisp white shirt. Her thick-soled winter boots were burgundy in color.
Weston had yet another huge smile on his face as he winked at Jessica. “I’m good, girl. You have no idea.”
Jessica laughed. “Oh, I think I do. Incredible charm runs in your family.”
“Come with me. The hostess said to take any table we want. She also said we might be the only ones dining there. As you can see, they’re not busy this morning. Are you okay with that?”
Shrugging, her mouth turned down at the corners, Jessica said, “Fine by me.”
Weston picked up the menus off the table and carried them into what appeared to Jessica as a cozy alcove. The space was very intimate and she liked the feel of it.
The waiter showed up within a few minutes of the couple taking seats, bringing along with him a carafe of hot coffee. Jessica wasn’t big on coffee, but she did drink it occasionally. She let the waiter know she preferred a small pot of chamomile tea when he took their breakfast orders.
Weston’s order indicated to Jessica that he was a hungry man again this morning. She wasn’t that surprised by the amount of food he ordered, considering the size of the meal he had practically inhaled last evening.
Jessica’s order consisted of two boiled eggs, a turkey sausage patty and a small order of home-fried potatoes. Instead of toast, she ordered a freshly baked blueberry muffin, and then orange juice as an afterthought.
“How did you sleep last night, Jess?”
“Once I managed to get there, I knocked out completely.”
“Did you have as hard a time getting to sleep as I did?”
“I wasn’t able to fall right off. Had quite a few things on my mind.” Mainly you.
“Sure you don’t want a cup of coffee? It’s pretty good stuff.”
“No, thanks. I’ll wait for the tea.” She looked out the window. “It’s such a beautiful morning. I can’t get over the magnificent view from our town house. I’ve heard so much about Aspen. I’m glad to actually experience it. It’s like another world.”
“You haven’t seen the half of it. This place is amazing. I read somewhere that Mariah Carey’s been living here for a couple of years.”
“I read that, too. Quite a few celebrities live here in Aspen, either full-time or part-time.”
“A wonderful place to visit, but I don’t want to live here.”
“Yeah, I know. Nowhere for Wes but NYC.”
Weston leveled curious eyes on Jessica. Something about the way she had snapped out her last remark had him wondering. She had sounded a bit annoyed. He quickly dismissed the thought since it made no sense at all.
The waiter came and dropped off Jessica’s tea and immediately took off again.
The couple got into a conversation about how the real-estate market had boomed in California. It was unbelievable the way it had suddenly shot through the roof.
Jessica mentioned that the folks who had taken out interest-only or arm home loans were in for a rude awakening. Weston figured they could beat the odds if they could refinance at a fixed rate before the bad stuff happened. A lot of people had also opted for balloon payments, all just to own a piece of hot California property. Shanties and fixer-uppers were even selling for indecent amounts. Things were now starting to cool off a bit. Both Jessica and Weston expected a lot of home foreclosures to occur in the very near future.
“New York real estate has been high for a long time. I’m sure you do well.”
“Extremely. That’s why I don’t understand why my parents want to up and move to L.A.”
“Maybe because your father was born and raised there.”
“I guess. They’re financially set, so they don’t have to worry about money. Dad does complain about the harsh winters in New York.”
Jessica faked a believable shiver. “If it’s anywhere near as cold in New York as it is here, I can’t blame them for wanting to move to California. Don’t think I could brave winter weather like this year after year. The roads are frightening. Seeing the snowstorms on television is enough for me.”
“If you grew up in winters like this, it’d be just a way of life. People manage it all the time.”
The return of the waiter kept Jessica from responding to Weston’s comments. Not wanting to get into the subject of living so far apart, she saw the interruption in conversation as a good thing. The very idea of it bothered her to no end, no matter how much she didn’t want to make it an issue. Sticking to the plan she had laid out for herself last night was hard to execute. Denying her wild attraction for Weston wasn’t happening. Jessica wanted him in the worst way.
There were far too many beautiful Christmas trees to make it easy for the visiting families to choose quickly. They had been on the tree lot for nearly an hour when Jessica had spotted the perfect tree, its branches full, long and sweeping. After a couple of minutes of deliberation, everyone had agreed it was indeed the one. The men had taken care of the hard work to load the tree onto the top of one of the vans.
Once the ideal tree had been deposited back at the Harrington’s town house, Jessica and Weston had promised to return home in time to help with the trimmings. The group had decided to order food to be brought in for the evening meal before the younger generation had left to go snowmobiling. Weston thought Jessica might enjoy riding a snowmobile more than sledding. Samuel also preferred snowmobiling.
Jessica constantly laughed and screamed as Weston expertly maneuvered the snowmobile around the area he and Samuel had chosen to take the two sisters. She hadn’t had this much fun since she didn’t know when. It was cold outdoors, but she was able to endure it. The extra layer of clothing was helping tremendously. She didn’t feel chilled to the bone as she had without the double layer of warmth. The leather gloves had lamb’s wool on the inside and really kept her hands warm. The hood on her jacket was pulled up with the strings tied under her chin.
Weston didn’t necessarily drive the snowmobile recklessly, but he made enough dramatic twists and turns over the snowswept terrain to make it fun and exhilarating. Jessica screamed out of fear a few times. Samuel also had Jennifer howling. She had done this with her husband before so she was no stranger to the fun sport.
Samuel and Jennifer always had loads of fun together. They had learned about a salsa class to be held at the resort and had just about convinced Jessica and Weston to join them.
The snowmobile-rental time had flown by. Weston and Samuel had gone to turn in the vehicles and settle the accounts. This was Jessica and Jennifer’s first time alone since the families had arrived in Aspen and they were seated in the lodge’s lounge sipping on hot drinks.
“You really like him, don’t you, Jess?”
Knowing her secret was no longer just hers, Jessica lowered her lashes. “I’ve always liked Weston. The truth of the matter hit me square in the heart yesterday. Guess I’ve known it all along but have refused to admit it. Even to myself. I felt so hurt only because he rejected me. Been kidding myself for years by saying I couldn’t stand him. I just wanted him to notice me, acknowledge me in some way—and he didn’t.”
“He notices you now, big-time. The look on his face when he saw you yesterday was so revealing. Had his parents not hugged you and called you by name, I’m not sure he would’ve guessed that you and the girl he used to torment were one and the same.”
“Maybe so. I’d think he would have seen all the updated pictures of us that Mom and Dad always send to his parents.” Jessica looked at her sister with open curiosity. “Did you ever have a crush on Wes, Jen?”
“Heck no!”
“Not even a teeny-weeny one?”
“Hardly. I loved Sam even before we started dating in junior high. That is, for as much as I did or didn’t know about love back then. But you already know our history. Took Sam a long time to notice me, too. At any rate, Wes is just not my type.”
“I don’t know if it’s even about them noticing us. Most boys just don’t start liking girls until they reach a certain age. Up until then, they believe their one purpose on this planet is to torture girls. Adolescent boys are cruel.”
“Don’t leave out the girls. There were some mean, overbearing chicks out there when I was in junior high. Talk about cruelty. They seemed to have had a monopoly on it. Don’t you recall all the trouble I had with the so-called upper-class brat pack? I also agree with everything you’ve said. But look at what happened when Sam did notice me. We’ve been inseparable ever since.” Jennifer was a nurse and Samuel a paramedic.
Jessica smiled broadly. “You guys got it going on. I want so badly what you two have. Not ready for marriage, though. Yet I desperately desire the romance. Eating dinner every single night by candlelight has to be the bomb.”
“That and more.” Jennifer blushed at a couple of other things Samuel and she indulged in by candlelight. “We do more than eat by the light of burning candles. The more sensual stuff keeps us hot for each other.”
Jessica put up her right hand in a halting gesture. “No details, please! It’ll only let me know how lonely and pitiful I am. Passion is lacking in my life.”
“Don’t say that.”
Jennifer went on to remind Jessica that she had a great job and a wonderful group of girlfriends who loved doing adventurous things and taking exotic vacations. “You guys always do something fun and unique. And you also have a great male friend in Jarred. I’d say you have it all. All but the husband you admitted to not wanting now.”
“Put like that, I don’t have a choice but to agree. Thanks for always showing me the glass is half-full as opposed to half-empty.” Jessica gently nudged Jennifer’s arm. “Here come the guys. We should cool it.”
“Yeah, wouldn’t want Wes to know you’re out of your mind over him.”
Jessica frowned. “It’s not that bad. But the potential for such is great.”
Both women laughed at that.
All Jessica could do was sit and stare in utter amazement when Samuel sat down next to Jennifer. Taking her in his arms, he kissed her as if he’d been apart from her for weeks instead of twenty minutes or so. Their passion couldn’t be charted since it was off the scale. Those two couldn’t keep their hands and mouths off each other.
Weston sat down next to Jessica. “Wow! Your sister and her husband are sure deep into each other. Their love is so strong,” he whispered.
“Been that way forever,” Jessica whispered back to him. “Some people call it sickening. I call it incredible. If Jen weren’t my sister, I might envy her.”
Weston raised an eyebrow at that statement. Jessica’s remarks made him think she wanted exactly what her sister had. Well, he thought, didn’t everyone want to be involved in a true-blue, passionate love affair? His eyes softened even more as he looked closer at Jessica. He had to wonder if they could ever have what their parents and Jennifer and Samuel had an overabundance of, together or separate. He had to admit he preferred together to separate.
Chapter 3
Entering the town house, Jessica was immediately drawn to the kitchen, overwhelmed by the delicious aromas. So much for ordering food in for the evening meal.
Sahara had cooked and Jessica was sure her father had helped out her mother. Both were excellent chefs and they often worked side by side in preparing meals. Her parents loved to whip up delicious foods and Jessica hated everything to do with cooking, period. She liked cleaning up the kitchen even less than the meal preparations. No man in his right mind wanted a woman who couldn’t or wouldn’t cater to the needs of his stomach.
Sahara walked up and lightly popped Jessica on the hand. “Stay out of my pots and pans, girl. All the food is for our little get-together this evening. Want me to fix you a sandwich?”
Jessica looked at Sahara as if she had to be kidding. “You fixed all this delicious food—and you want to feed me a measly sandwich? That’s scandalous, Mom.”
“Okay, you win, number-two daughter.” Sahara referred to her daughters’ order of birth, not to how they ranked in her sight. She loved her girls equally. “Get a plate from the cabinet and take some of whatever you want. You know I can’t stand here and deny my youngest child a meal.”
“Thanks, Mom.” Jessica kissed Sahara on the cheek. “Where’s Dad?”
“Off somewhere with Jacque. He left here right after he finished helping me out. They’re probably sitting somewhere talking shop. Those two eat and sleep real estate.”
“And they both have their kids doing the same thing.” Jessica put small samples from each pot on her plate and then took a seat at the table.
Sahara retrieved a cold drink from the refrigerator before joining Jessica at the table. “Speaking of our kids, how was the snowmobiling outing for you and Jen?”
“Lots of fun. The guys were acting a little crazy while driving the snowmobiles, making sharp twists and turns all over the place, but they pretty much stuck to most of the safety rules. I liked it enough to want to do it again. I think I’d like to drive one the next time. It might take a minute or two to get the hang of it. Jen and I were whooping and hollering it up out there. The guys had a tremendous time, too.”
Sahara pressed her lips together, choosing her next words carefully. “Having a good time with Wes?”
Jessica looked down the length of her nose at her mother. “Why don’t you go right ahead and ask me what you really want to know? Your curiosity about us is written all over your face and you’re dying to get up in our business.”
“Just asked a simple question. Why are you trying to make a federal case out of it? My goodness, you’re really sensitive on the subject.”
“The only thing I’m sensitive about is you and Daddy trying to choose a husband for me. It’s not like that with Wes and me. But to answer your question, I’m having a grand time. On January third the vacation will be over with and so will Wes and I. All we’re doing is having some fun and trying to make the best of this situation our parents have thrown us into. Mom, it’s not going to happen for us. Please share that with Dad and the Chamberlains so you all don’t continue speculating.”
“I think you are making way too much out of us wanting to share our holiday time with the Chamberlains. However, I’m glad you’re having a good time.”
“Whatever, Mom. Okay for me to eat before the food gets cold?”
Sahara knew that Jessica meant she wanted to be left in peace. “If you need anything, I’ll be in the bedroom.” Sahara got up from the chair, her head hung low.
Jessica could tell by the look on her mother’s face that she had hurt her feelings. That hadn’t been her intent, but she needed everyone just to get off her and Weston’s backs. No one could choose a mate for another person, even though she knew there were many cultures in the world that still arranged marriages.
“Sorry, Mom,” Jessica yelled out before Sahara could disappear. “I’ll try to be a little less sensitive, but please just let Wes and me be ourselves.”
Jessica knew Sahara was a bit upset with her when she didn’t accept her apology or even bother to respond to her plea. Sahara wasn’t the type who stayed upset long, nor did she hold grudges, so Jessica wasn’t worried that their little tiff would ruin the rest of their stay in Aspen. Both she and her mother would soon forget this had ever happened.
Keeping a covert eye on Weston was difficult to do, especially when Jessica kept catching herself staring at him outright. He looked so darn sexy, though he was only dressed in a neatly pressed burgundy shirt and heather-gray wool slacks, all of which appeared to be of excellent quality. It was how his athletic physique filled out the attire that turned Jessica on; it looked as if it all fit him to a T. His broad shoulders were more accentuated when they weren’t buried beneath a bulky sweater.
Like the rest of the men, Weston was intent on seeing that the full Douglas fir Christmas tree was put up correctly. No one wanted to see it topple over at some point during the planned festivities. Jacque had suggested that the group purchase an artificial tree just before they had gone out to shop for a fresh one. His not-so-brilliant idea had met with clucking disapproval from the four women.
Looking down at her own attire, comparing it to what the other females wore, Jessica was still pleased with the outfit she had chosen for herself. Tucked neatly into the waistband of slim, black wool crepe pants was a long-sleeved black-and-white striped Ralph Lauren shirt. Over the designer shirt she wore a stylish black quilted vest.
Jessica’s long, light-brown layered hair had been blow-dried straight but curled slightly at the ends of each layer to allow her shiny tresses to flow softly about her shoulders. Just the right amount of makeup to her pretty face and hazel eyes gave a gently dramatic flair to her normally wholesome appearance.
Weston thought Jessica looked cover-model perfect, though she hardly measured up in height. Her five-foot-even frame fell way short when compared to many statuesque, leggy models. But he liked how she carried herself. She was every bit as graceful and stylish as any top model in the country today. Jessica was a far cry from the preteen he’d once known, and he was still amazed by her unbelievable transformation. He loved how she was gently curvaceous in all the right spots, the ones his hands craved to tenderly caress. Though she had a small bustline, the twin mounds appeared to stand proud. The vest she wore over her shirt didn’t allow him nearly the exciting view of cleavage he had seen the first day.
Christmas music, the popping and crackling of the fire burning brightly in the fireplace and the sounds of joyous laughter created a wonderful holiday setting. A wondrous winter scene of mountains, snow and large evergreen trees through the large picture window delighted the senses. The draperies had been pulled completely back, making it look as if the scene had been painted onto the glass pane.
Gaily colored rolls of foil wrapping paper, with every kind of decoration on them, from reindeer to Santa Clauses, were laid out on the table, along with bunches of ribbons in bright colors of green, red, gold, silver and white. There were also bows made up of more than one hue. White gift boxes waiting to be filled with presents and then wrapped in the paper were stacked high in one corner of the dining room.
Weston quickly snapped out of his reverie when he heard the others howling. He couldn’t help but join in the laughter even though a sudden rush of empathy for Jessica had just hit him. It looked to him as if she had gotten herself all tangled up in the tinsel she was working with. The bewildered look on her face was comical but so endearing.
Jessica didn’t like the glittery stuff, anyway, so it didn’t bother her that it might be ruined. The tinsel had been Sandra’s bright idea. The Harringtons had never used it on one of their family Christmas trees, although its use was traditional in many a household. Now that the tinsel could no longer be used, Jessica grabbed up the tray of delicate gold-and silver-edged angel and snowflake ornaments to hang on the tree’s sweeping branches.
The delicious aromas of food, hot apple cider and freshly popped popcorn filled the air, mixing with the heady pine scent of the Douglas fir. Jennifer and Samuel had just finished popping the corn and warming the cider and putting out all the reheated foods Sahara and Roman had prepared earlier. The smell of the baked hot wings and grilled chicken tenders eventually ruled over the other scents. Swedish meatballs and beef cocktail wieners simmered in a light but very flavorful teriyaki sauce. Three kinds of pasta had also been made: spaghetti, penne and an angel-hair/vegetable salad.
The group hadn’t finished trimming the tree, but they decided to stop long enough to enjoy the evening meal together. The ladies quickly began to hustle around the room to tackle several chores. Jessica laid out the plates while Sandra took care of the silverware. Sahara busied herself filling the drinking glasses with snowball-shaped ice cubes. She had seen the cute trays on one of the aisles inside a convenience store in town and she hadn’t been able to resist purchasing a few of the cleverly designed items.
Roman requested that Weston ask for the blessing on the food and all the hands that had prepared it. Jacque and Sandra had prepared the sinful desserts. Apple cobbler was their son’s favorite and the triple-layer devil’s food cake was the one dessert Jacque loved most. Sandra and Jacque had also baked sweet-potato pies, an absolute favorite of all the Harringtons, including Jennifer and Samuel. Once the simultaneous “amens” rang out, the group wasted no time at all digging right in.
The tree duties had resumed right after the two families had polished off their dessert. The group worked well together and had worked rather quickly to complete the fun tasks. Everyone had been designated a job and each person had taken it seriously. The families finally stood back to view the end results of their handiwork.
It was now time for the colorful and brilliant show of light. Roman was to do the honors. Jacque scurried around the place, turning off all other lights.
“Lights, action,” Roman breathed excitedly. One flick of his finger on the switch caused the tree to come to life with hundreds of dazzling miniature white lights.
The magical moment had taken everyone’s breath away. All hands were linked together as the oohs and aahs continued to ebb and flow. There was not one pair of eyes without tears of holiday sentiment. Then the laughter broke out, loudly and freely.
“Oh, we forgot one thing,” Weston said. He ran over to the kitchen counter and picked up the mistletoe, holding it up for everyone to see. “Who wants the honors?” Weston looked directly at Jessica, hoping she might step forward. He would like nothing better than to kiss her breathless beneath the fresh sprig of mistletoe.
“I’ll hang it,” Jennifer sang out, moving toward Weston. As soon as she reached for the mistletoe, she saw the disappointment in Weston’s eyes. She didn’t have to be a genius to figure out what was wrong with him.
After Jennifer took possession of the mistletoe, she walked over to Jessica and handed it to her. “You should be the one to do the honors. Does everyone agree?”
Enthusiastic hand-clapping thundered in the room.
Jessica knew what everyone hoped for; she would hang the mistletoe and Weston would kiss her while she stood under it. She had no desire to disappoint anyone, especially herself. Jessica took the offered mistletoe from Jennifer and quickly stepped up to the plate, her heart beating rapidly. The thought of Weston kissing her had her heart rate going berserk. She couldn’t wait to feel his mouth on hers.
“Get the camera,” Sahara told Roman. “This is a special holiday moment.” Although the video camera had been running throughout their time in Aspen, its adapter plugged into the electrical wall outlet, Sahara also wanted still photographs.
Jessica ended up having to get a stool to stand on because the space at the top of the kitchen entry was too high for her to reach without one. Weston rushed over to help her up on the stool, holding it firmly in place as she tacked up the small green and white sprig. Once the mistletoe was set in place, Weston reached up and brought Jessica down and into his arms. Without allowing her feet ever to touch the ground, he tenderly kissed her mouth, doing his best to stave off his desire to use his tongue to deepen the kiss.
In the next second Weston lost himself in the sweetness of Jessica’s lips. She had also slipped away into paradise. The arms that held her so securely made her feel safe and protected. So this was what it felt like to be in Weston’s arms. She had waited a long time to find out, believing she would never experience such an enchanting moment.
Jessica could only imagine the expression on her face once Weston set her down on her feet and released his hold on her. If hers was anything like the bewildered look on his face, he more than likely had also experienced what she had. A brief kiss could be every bit as sensual as a long, passionate one. His kiss had just proven that. It had also left her trembling inside and desperately wanting more of the same from him.
Jessica was relieved that no one had resorted to catcalling, whistling or clapping. Hiding her embarrassment was hard enough without all that. However, Weston didn’t look the least bit embarrassed. After all, he had initiated the kiss between them.
The other three couples went back to chatting with each other, taking their focus off Jessica and Weston purposefullly. Jessica was happy about that. She had never liked to be the center of attention.
Jessica wanted to gently touch her lips with her fingers, hoping she might still feel Weston’s kiss there. Her mind was somewhat befuddled, making her feel as if she were in a daze. She wanted him to kiss her again and again, but she wasn’t so sure it would ever recur. At any rate, Jessica knew she shouldn’t be having these types of thoughts.
Although Weston’s kiss had been soft as a whisper, the impact on Jessica’s senses was profound. Weston had her rocking and reeling and wishing they were off somewhere alone. As far as she was concerned, his kiss had impacted her way more than her first kiss had. Logan Langston had been the first male to deliver the first kiss to her “sweet sixteen” lips. She had been kissed many times since, but she hadn’t ever felt anything akin to what she now felt. The floating sensation she experienced was rather surreal.
Weston was very pleased with the ardent response his mouth had received from Jessica’s. His body was still tingling all over from their brief but very impressionable encounter. He had already begun to crave the sweet taste of her full lips. Weston knew he was addicted and he couldn’t help wondering when his next fix might come, hoping he never had to go into withdrawal. No doubt that would be painful. He thought perhaps he should say something to Jessica, but he just didn’t know what to talk about when his mind was only on one thing. Making love to her until she begged him never to stop.
Weston was positive that he and Jessica had more than just a little bit of chemistry going on between them. He hoped she had experienced the same wonderful sensations as he had. Was this the beginning of something beautiful for them or had their intimate kiss marked the end? Intimacy between a man and woman more often than not resulted in the couple taking things to the next level or it could have just the opposite effect.
Did either of them even want things to go to a higher level?
Although Weston couldn’t speak for Jessica, he was sure he wanted to take their relationship as far as it could go, wanting that more than he’d ever wanted anything. He had never desired any woman this way. Jessica had him seriously interested in making her an integral part of his life.
After deciding to put a hold on his thoughts, Weston went into the kitchen and poured two cups of hot cider. One cup was for Jessica even though she hadn’t asked for anything to drink. His desire was to reconnect with her as soon as possible so she wouldn’t find a reason to disconnect from him, period.
Weston made it back to where Jessica was and then handed over the hot drink to her. “Here you go. Be careful. It’s still hot.”
Jessica smiled at Weston as she accepted the cup from him. Although she wanted to speak to him, she was afraid of how her voice might sound. If it came out as high-strung as she felt, that would prove embarrassing. Jessica swallowed hard.
“The tree is beautiful, isn’t it? We all did a great job,” Weston said.
Jessica looked over at the Christmas tree. It was magnificent. Positioned in front of the picture window, it appeared as part of the outdoor scenery. “It’s stunning! This group has skills.”
Weston had to agree with Jessica. They had really delivered on a beautiful tree. “Think you might want to take another walk later on? It’s another great evening.”
“I’d love that.”
Jessica hadn’t hesitated in the least to reply to Weston’s query because she was very eager to spend as much time with him as he desired to spend with her. She no longer had to wonder where he was coming from. His intent toward her had been right there in his kiss. She had no desire to thwart a single intimate advance from him. Jessica recalled earlier wishing for them to be off somewhere alone—and that lofty wish was about to come true.
Weston had Jessica in his arms no sooner than they had stepped outside. His hands brought her in to him until there was nothing between them but their bulky clothing. His mouth hungrily sought hers and she responded with no less fervor. More kisses from Weston, all in the same day, had her beyond excited. Despite the heavy clothing he wore, Jessica could still feel his heat, not to mention her own. Her body felt on fire, in spite of how cold it was.
Although Jessica wished she could stay in Weston’s arms forever and a day, she slowly pulled away, hoping his feelings wouldn’t get hurt. She certainly wasn’t trying to reject him, but making a spectacle of herself in public wasn’t her cup of tea. Since they were both staying in the town houses with their parents, there was nowhere else for them to go to ensure privacy.
Weston pulled Jessica back to him. “I just leased a cabin this morning. Come back there with me? It’s close by, near the middle of the forest.”
Jessica looked surprised by Weston’s revelation. Why had he suddenly decided to get his own place? If he had leased the cabin with the intent of seducing her, shouldn’t that make her feel a bit weird? It didn’t. Did he think she was easy? Perhaps she should be concerned with what he thought about her, but she really wasn’t offended by him wanting to be alone with her. She wanted the same thing. They were adults, not teenagers.
Weston lifted Jessica’s chin with his two fingers. “What’s wrong? Did I do or say something you didn’t like?”
“What would make you think that?”
Weston stroked with his gloved hand the length of Jessica’s hair, the section that wasn’t covered by the brand-new cute winter hat she wore. “You look surprised. That’s why I asked.”
“The cabin. Why are you no longer staying with your parents in the town house they leased?” She began walking. It was really cold enough to freeze her solid.
“Oh, that.” Weston stifled his urge to laugh. He bent down and grazed her lips with his own. “Do you know how long I’ve been living on my own? I’ll tell you. Nearly ten years if you count college-dorm time. A time came when I realized my mother and father made love—terribly shocking. It’s one thing to know what your parents do in their bedroom…and another one to hear evidence of it. Let’s just say my mother was a little overzealous last night in vocalizing her physical state of euphoria.”
Jessica knew exactly where Weston was coming from, which caused her to blush heavily. Her parents had also gotten a bit rowdy a time or two in their bedroom, but those incidents had occurred way back when she and Jennifer were teenagers.
“Think they forgot I was in the house?”
“That’s pretty obvious. No parent, especially a mother, wants their child or adult son to hear them making love. I’d be mortified if it happened to me. What went down when you two saw each other this morning?”
Weston shrugged. “Mom tried not to let on. I know she knew I knew. The expression on her face changed the minute I walked into the kitchen—like she had suddenly remembered the wild escapades from the previous night. Like you did a few minutes ago, Mom blushed hard. On top of that, she looked thoroughly embarrassed. For the next half hour or so she and Dad kept exchanging questioning glances.”
“Does he know or doesn’t he? That’s what they were probably thinking.”
“Oh, no doubt. They’d like to know the truth but won’t ever ask. This is one of those uncomfortable situations they’ll always wonder about. I know that because they didn’t even ask me why I’d leased the cabin.”
“I wouldn’t have asked, either. Speaking of the cabin, we can go there now. I was just curious about you getting your own space.”
“Like my parents, I won’t ask what you thought before I told you the story. I don’t want to know, especially if it’s not favorable to me.”
“Nothing unfavorable. Not at all.”
Weston looked relieved.
The two-bedroom cabin was smaller than the town houses the Harringtons and Chamberlains had leased. Though very rustic, it was every bit as comfortable. On the way there Weston had told Jessica how lucky he had been to rent it. The guest who had held the reservation on the cabin had called to cancel only minutes before he had walked into the leasing office. The entire lodge had been booked solid up to that point; not unusual for such a major holiday.
Weston had gone to the local store to purchase some of the items he needed. He had had Jessica in mind when purchasing the Earl Grey tea, her favorite. Figuring how cold she had to be after their walk, though much shorter than their previous stroll, he went into the kitchen and turned on the teakettle.
Jessica was busy looking the rest of the place over, so Weston began lighting the candles. He burned candles at his home all the time, even in broad daylight, something his parents had done all his life. He always enjoyed the relaxing ambience they created. Lighting the fireplace came next.
Jessica stepped into the room at the same time Weston finished with the fireplace. He preferred to burn real wood, but a lot of the resorts had begun using gas-burning equipment. The firelight was just as beautiful, but he regretted the absence of the woody scents he loved. The town houses had wood-burning fireplaces.
The warm sensations Jessica experienced over the tea Weston had prepared made her smile. He had been a busy man in her absence, since he had also taken care of the fireplace. He seemed to like to take care of her and his attentiveness made her feel special.
Chapter 4
Curled up on the large rug in front of the fireplace was right where Jessica longed to stay. Positioned right behind her, his hand lying flat on her abdomen, Weston pressed his body against hers. She hoped she wouldn’t need to disrupt their serenity for a bathroom break, feeling as though she had drunk enough tea to float a small ship. She also felt very drowsy. A short nap could only do her body good. Sleep should be the last thing on her mind when she had such a sexy live wire lying next to her.
Weston nibbled at Jessica’s ear, slowly outlining it with his tongue. He felt her tense up and then relax in the next instant. “Warm enough?”
If Jessica’s anatomy got any hotter, she’d find herself begging Weston to help cool her down by any means necessary. Being in such close proximity to him made her feel as if she was amidst a firestorm. The inability to get his earlier kisses out of her mind had only added more heat to the mix. The man definitely knew how to dole out the passionate kisses. His full, pouting lips moving over hers was one of the most sensual experiences she had ever encountered.
It was very easy for Jessica to imagine Weston making wild, hot and heavy love to her. All she had to do was close her eyes to envision them entwined in a compromising position. She had only conjured up that very erotic image of them hundreds of times over the past years. He was an expert in keeping her mind and body turned on, even when he wasn’t in her presence. A cold shower would work wonders for her right about now.
Jessica had decided not to answer Weston’s question about being warm enough, since she couldn’t answer it candidly. The truth could set them both on fire. If he knew how often she thought of them making love, he would want to make certain all of her dreams and fantasies about it came true.
Weston buried his nose in Jessica’s hair, inhaling deeply of its fresh scent. As he tenderly kissed her neck and ears, periodically allowing his tongue in on the action, he had a hard time suppressing his arousal. Over the past twenty-four hours he had had his own erotic thoughts about the two of them. He couldn’t help wondering what kind of intimate apparel she wore. Silk, lace or cotton? A thong, bikinis or briefs?
It wasn’t hard for Weston to conjure up an image of Jessica wearing a hot lace or silk teddy. Her long hair swinging loose and free over her perfectly rounded breasts caused him to have a painful stiffening. The image of her in nothing at all was the one he loved most. He wanted her in the worst way, desired to lose himself deep inside her. He couldn’t wait until Jessica was ready for that.
Weston wasn’t the kind of guy who indulged in any sort of casual sex and he was pretty sure Jessica wasn’t into that lifestyle, either. There just wasn’t enough time for them to develop a deep, meaningful relationship before they had to go their separate ways.
Weston knew he had to remedy that. Seeing her beyond Aspen was the key. Jessica agreeing to his proposition was anyone’s guess, but he would suggest visiting her in California soon. It wasn’t about sex, either. He wanted her, period.
The intense heat burning between Jessica’s thighs had her turning over and pressing her body fully against Weston’s. Foreplay had its benefits even though it could get a body into lots of trouble, literally. Turning off the turn-on wasn’t always easy to accomplish. Despite her warning thoughts Jessica engaged Weston in a hot, wet kiss.
Weston responded to Jessica’s kiss with the same degree of passion, loving the way her mouth fitted perfectly against his. He couldn’t get enough of the sweet taste of her soft, crushable lips. He hated that he had missed out on all this sweetness and heady passion over the past years. Wishing he had gone along to California with his parents on their visits was no good. Those particular opportunities were lost, never to be recovered. Get over it.
Jessica pulled her head slightly back, eyeing Weston intently. “You seem to be quite a guy, directly the opposite of what I’d thought. I’m astonished by how well you turned out. I love who you’ve become. I love how you make me feel.”
“How do I make you feel?”
“Special. Whether we’re alone or with the group, I know you’re with me in mind, body and spirit. You are attentive to me. Your entire being is expressive. You don’t make a woman guess what’s going on with you. That’s a unique quality to possess. Not a lot of people can lay claim to that.”
Weston’s eyes had an undeniable way of telling Jessica he thought she was special. His hands and body language easily conveyed the messages he intended to get across. He wanted her—and his body language was easy to read. “I don’t know how I should feel about all that. You make me sound like an open book, one that’s pretty easy to read. Do I really put it out there like that?”
“Right out there in plain sight. I’m not usually bold in speech or in deed, but you are one hot man. If I were the kind of person who indulged in meaningless sex, we’d be getting it on right now. The chemistry between us is scorching hot yet so magical.”
If Jessica didn’t look so serious, Weston would have laughed. As he went over in his mind her galvanizing remarks, he sobered. She wasn’t opposed to making love under a different set of circumstances. She had voiced aloud her desire.
How was that for bringing it on home?
Weston couldn’t help wondering if Jessica already regretted her boldness. He hoped not. He also hoped she wouldn’t withdraw from the sexually charged arena. Things were just beginning to heat up…and the temp was at the top of the thermometer. Weston was a man who liked the chemistry to be hot, hot, hot.
As if Jessica had read Weston’s mind, she indulged him in another lingering kiss. Just as before, the kisses grew in intensity, making both parties wish they had been together over the past years.
Weston deeply regretted he hadn’t been able to see Jessica for who she was inside. He had focused too much on her outer appearance, but he hadn’t been anything to write home about, either. Maybe that was the reason he had mistreated her. Had she rejected him during his awkward teen years he couldn’t have handled it. Life for him as a teenager had been very difficult. Surprisingly, he could now admit to himself that he had had a serious crush on Jessica. Perhaps he hadn’t known how to show it.
Jessica pulled away from Weston and smoothed her clothing. She quickly got to her feet, leaving her companion looking bewildered. After crossing the room with deliberate strides, she stood in front of the large picture window. Why had she come to the cabin with Weston? Deeply conflicting thoughts and emotions had her at war with herself. One part of her wanted to throw caution to the wind and make steamy love to the man of her dreams. The sensible part of her makeup was telling her to run for her life, get out while she still had the strength to do so.
Weston came up behind Jessica and circled her waist. “You’re trembling. I’ve frightened you, haven’t I?”
Jessica leaned her head back against his chest. “I’ve scared myself. What we’re doing scares me even more. We’re strangers, Wes. We haven’t seen each other in ages yet we’re all over each other like two silly teenagers. Is that stranger than fiction, or what?”
Weston kissed the top of her head. “It’s called attraction, sweetie. I don’t know about you, but it’s more than just a physical magnetism on my part. If you think all I want to do is get you into bed, you’re wrong. I really want to get to know you.”
Jessica turned completely around and looked up into his eyes. “Are you serious?”
As Weston’s lips connected with Jessica’s, he closed his eyes for a moment. “I’ve never been more serious. This is not a holiday fling for me. What’s happening to me has nothing to do with a festive atmosphere. My heart is compromised. I hope that’s not too much information.”
Jessica stood on tiptoes and kissed him deeply. “Just enough information to keep me from questioning my sanity. So, do we just wait and see what develops between us?”
“I think to do otherwise would be insane. I’m in. Are you?”
Jessica smiled sweetly. “In.”
The couple fell into an easy, warm embrace, hugging each other to show they were on the same wavelength.
“I have an idea, Jessica. What about ice-skating away the rest of the evening?”
“I’m all for your idea, though I’m afraid I might kill myself on the skates. I’m terrible at skating. Will you help me up when I fall?”
“You bet I will.”
“Should we see if the others want to go?”
“This is a family holiday. Let’s stop by and see what they’re up to.” Weston looked down at his wristwatch. “We’d better get a move on since the ice rink closes at eleven and it’s almost eight-thirty now.”
As the two families filed out of the vehicles, Jessica could see that the arena was filled with patrons. All the colorful winter clothing worn by the skaters, not to mention the dazzling lights strategically posted around the place, brought the outdoor arena to life. Once both vehicles were unloaded, everyone made their way inside the ice rink, where the skate-rental booth and refreshment bar were located. The place was also equipped with a wood-burning fireplace.
“What size skate do you need?” Weston asked Jessica.
It was time for Jessica to get her payback against Weston. She laughed with enthusiasm. After reaching down into the small duffel-style bag, she pulled out a shiny pair of white ice skates. “Ta-da,” she exclaimed, holding up the skates for him to see.
“Oh, no! You set me up, girl. I’ve been had. You lied about not knowing how to skate, didn’t you? How you going to play me like that?” Because she came from Southern California, he’d been sure she wouldn’t know a thing about ice-skating.
Jessica howled. “Just as you lied about your spelling skills. Now we’re even.” She had the most devilish expression on her face. “Two liars, and we’re not ashamed,” she sang out, using the tune to Mary Wells’s song “Two Lovers,” a great Motown sound.
Weston laughed heartily. “You have the gear. Now let’s see what the little girl from Southern Cal can do. I’m putting twenty bucks on myself. Before you take the bet, keep in mind that you’re competing with a guy who skates in New York’s famous Central Park. Among some of the best ice-skaters around, I might add.”
Jessica smirked. “Cut the boasting. Let your feet do the bragging. Twenty bucks is all you’re in jeopardy of losing. You probably drink up at least that much at Starbucks in a week’s time. You won’t miss the money.”
“That’s not too far-fetched. I do need my caffeine fix, but you’ll be the one paying my coffee bill the first week I’m home.”
“We’ll see. If I were you, I wouldn’t count my chickens before they hatch.”
After Weston was in possession of his size-eleven rentals, he and Jessica found an empty bench, where they sat down and laced up their skates. She couldn’t wait to hit the ice to show off her talent. Weston wasn’t as eager about revealing his skills after seeing Jessica’s skates. They looked somewhat used so he knew they hadn’t been purchased for show. He hadn’t given any thought to indoor ice rinks, but he had known they existed. Los Angeles wouldn’t have come to mind.
Whether Jessica was talented enough to compete against him remained to be seen. However, the only competition he was interested in was the one that’d win him her heart. She had already won his.
The songs being played were up-to-date rhythm and blues hits. A song by Usher and one by Lionel Ritchie had played while everyone had laced up their skates. The tune currently playing was Beyoncé Knowles’s “Crazy In Love.” Jessica couldn’t remember if it was off the first or second album, but it was one of her favorites, a really upbeat song to skate to.
As if Jessica was playing a game of tag, she hit Weston playfully and then took off for the ice, hoping he’d chase after her. He did. Seeing that he was up to the challenge, giving her the opportunity to skate circles around him, Jessica started whirling around the ice as though she owned it. She was good on the ice.
Weston nearly fell when he had a hard time taking his eyes off Jessica’s fascinating technique. That made him more determined to win. He was darn good at ice-skating, too, much better than she gave him credit for. He had learned to ice-skate as a young boy, taught by his parents. It was often considered a sissy sport in many circles, but not among his New York City friends. Men were always seen skating in Central Park’s ice arena during the winter; it was a favorite pastime for a lot of couples Weston knew personally.
When Jessica saw Jennifer hit her behind on the ice pretty hard, she started toward her, hoping she wasn’t hurt. Before she could reach her sister, Samuel was already assisting his wife. Once Jessica saw that Jennifer was okay, both husband and wife laughing about the mishap, she took off again.
After Jessica had covered the entire arena, skating a fun routine with lots of enthusiasm, the music slowed down. Weston quickly skated over to her and engaged in a couple’s skate. The competition was over. His skills were no match for Jessica’s. He planned to dig into his pocket and hand over the twenty-dollar bill. She had won it fair and square. The lady from sunny California was a dynamo on the ice.
Jessica liked the protective feel of Weston’s arm wrapped snugly around her waist. As they glided atop the ice, she laughed inwardly, thinking of the romantic ice shows on television. Pairs skating was her favorite. She imagined the two of them executing a great lift. Slithering seductively down his body would make a great ending. He would then look at her as though she was the only woman in the world for him.
Weston was McDreamy, McSteamy, McSweetie and McSensitive all rolled into one sensuous human being. Life is good. Sooo good.
“Hey, Miss Olympic champion,” Jennifer yelled from the side rail, “you’re looking pretty hot out there. Work those ice skates, girlfriend.”
Jessica flashed her sister a bright smile and the thumbs-up sign. The others waved as she and Weston appeared to fly by on wings.
Weston gently tightened his grip on Jessica’s waist. “You are good, you know.”
“Yeah, I do. Wish I could reach my back with ease. I’d give it a good pat.”
Weston couldn’t help laughing. What kind of man laughed along with a woman who had just kicked his butt on a twenty-dollar bet? A man who had begun to fall in love with the same woman who’d dished out one can of whoop-butt.
“Instead of paying up twenty dollars, you can buy me dinner tomorrow night. How’s that for a compromise?”
“You deserve both. I’d do anything to hang out with you. Dinner alone, just the two of us?”
“Just the two of us. Sounds nice and cozy. I don’t think our families will protest, seeing how badly they want us to become an item. Ugh, we’re starting to fall right into their perfectly set trap.”
“Hmm. Maybe, maybe not.”
As Jessica and Weston joined their families, he looked at her and sighed heavily. “I don’t know why I ever thought we’d get along with each other. You’re still insufferable. The older you get the more unbearable you are. You need to grow up, Jessica. Life is passing you by while you’re still stuck in your adolescence.” He looked at his mother. “And to think I let you guilt-talk me into this trip. I must’ve been insane.”
Jessica’s brow furrowed. “What?” She looked totally puzzled. Where had Weston’s sudden flash of anger come from? His odd behavior was so off the wall.
His unexpected outburst made no sense at all to Jessica; they’d just been laughing and joking up a storm. The concerned looks made her wish she could sprout wings and fly away. How dare Weston embarrass her like that…and in front of both their families? It looked as if perhaps he hadn’t changed at all.
Had McBratty risen from the ashes?
The others looked like they felt sorry for Jessica. She felt kind of sorry for herself. Weston’s tongue had been rather sharp. Then she saw his barely noticeable wink. She had to work hard to hide her astonishment. The “maybe, maybe not” response made sense now. He’d been trying to make the others think they weren’t getting along. The funny thing was it looked as if everyone had bought into his melodrama. Weston had even sold her on it.
Jessica smiled inwardly as she returned to the ice.
As Weston joined Jessica, he got out in front of her and began skating backward.
Smiling with admiration, Jessica gave him an approving nod. “You were very convincing. But there’s one problem.”
“What’s that?”
“How do we continue hanging out and enjoy each other’s company when we’re supposed to be at odds?”
Weston scratched his head. “Hadn’t thought about it like that. Anyway, let’s let them think we’re making up. You know what they say about making up.”
Weston winked at Jessica again. She stopped and he skated up to her. Taking her into his arms, he gave her a warm hug. “We don’t want to pour it on too thick. Everyone will be watching our every move from here on in. When we’re in private, we’ll do the make-up bit right.”
“As if they haven’t already been watching us,” Jessica said. “I bet our relationship is their first topic of discussion and the last one.”
“You’re probably right. Can I interest you in a cup of hot chocolate?”
“Sounds divine. I’m also intrigued by the promised make-up session.”
The Commodores’ “Brick House” came pounding out from the speakers before Jessica and Weston could clear the ice. Loving the oldie song, one of her parents’ favorites, Jessica whirled away from him and began ice-dancing. As if she were the only person out there, she lost herself in the hip-stirring rhythm. Jessica ice-danced every bit as well as she danced.
Watching Jessica’s seductive moves had Weston hurrying across the ice to join her. As his hips gyrated wildly to the funky beat, she moved to the center of the rink, summoning him to follow her. It didn’t take long before many of the other skaters decided to join their routine. A line dance ensued as the next song came on.
Back inside Weston’s rented condo, seated at the breakfast bar, he dropped several tiny marshmallows into Jessica’s cup of hot chocolate. “Want more?”
“That’s plenty. Thank you.” Jessica scooped up a handful of marshmallows and dropped them one by one into his mug. “I’m worn out. What about you?”
“Same here. We’ve had a very long day, an even longer evening. I’ve enjoyed every second of it. Not only that, the time is moving too quickly for me. Our winter wonderland vacation will be over before we know it.”
Jessica was saddened by his remark. It would be over soon, much too soon, as far as she was concerned. She’d had no idea that Weston could be this much fun, not to mention how romantic and sensual he was. She’d miss him. “It is going by pretty quickly. Getting back to work will be tough after I’m finished playing so hard.”
Wearing a serious expression on his face, Weston made direct eye contact with Jessica. “Now that we’re on this subject, I want to ask you something. What’s the chance of us getting together after we leave Aspen?”
Jessica shrugged. “We live on separate coasts. I don’t know how we’d manage it. California to New York is at least a five-hour flight, one way.”
“What if I agree to do the traveling? Can I visit you in L.A.?”
Jessica looked surprised by the questions. “You’d be willing to do that?”
“In a New York minute.” He grinned. “No pun intended. What about it?”
“I’m okay with it if you are. I have a guest bedroom. Just let me know when.”
“We’re on!” Weston was obviously pleased by the outcome of his probe.
Jessica fished out a melted marshmallow from her cup. She then held the tiny morsel up to Weston’s lips. After taking the tidbit from her hand, he licked her finger in a provocative way. “Sweet, so sweet. Think I can get another one?”
Jessica repeated the act. This time he drew her finger into his mouth and sucked on it gently. His eyes connected soulfully with hers, causing her to blush. “I think it’s time for us to make up. What do you think?”
Jessica responded to Weston’s question by offering up her lips to taste. He quickly accepted the sweet offer in the spirit it had been presented. Kissing her had already become his most favorite thing to do.
Jessica’s cell phone abruptly interrupted the intimate moment. After identifying the caller, she thought about not answering. She then thought better of it. It could be something important. She really cared about her friends. And Jarred might be having a hard time over the bad breakup with Melanie. She wanted to be there for him.
“Where are you?” Jarred asked Jessica, sounding rather anxious.
“You already know where I am. What’s up?”
“You’re not with your family, because I just called there.”
“And? What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Nothing, really. I just wanted to make sure you’re okay. It bothers me that you’re in Aspen with some guy who doesn’t value you as a person. Please tell me you are not off somewhere alone with him.”
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Linda Hudson-Smith
They are all wrong for each other…Jessica Harrington knows what she doesn't want for Christmas–to be roped in to her parents' matchmaking scheme. Ever since she and Weston Chamberlain were children, their fathers hoped they would marry and merge their families' fortunes. One problem–Jessica and Wes can't tolerate one another! But love can make everything right…Wes, who arrives in Aspen for the families' shared ski vacation, has grown up…in delicious ways. And beautiful Jessica is nothing like the awkward teen Wes remembers. The breathtaking setting fuels a sizzling attraction that surprises them both. But living on opposite coasts is only one of many obstacles ahead. Can romance last once they've left their winter wonderland behind?
Forsaking all Others
Linda Hudson-Smith
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
Dedication
This novel is dedicated to the loving memory of
Michael Bruce Randolph, my friend of 40 years.
Michael, your warm and loving presence will be forever
missed by all of us who love you. May you rest in peace,
safe in the hull of God’s unchanging hands.
Sunrise: August 28, 1951
Sunset: March 18, 2007
This novel is dedicated to the latest addition to
the Smith family; a sweet little bundle of joy.
Our 6
grandchild and 2
granddaughter.
Synia Justice Smith
Born: May 1, 2006
Contents
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 1
Stunning twenty-five-year-old Jessica Harrington couldn’t believe the beauty of the Aspen, Colorado, resort areas. She and her parents, Roman and Sahara, and her older sister, Jennifer, and her husband, Samuel Ellington, were actually spending the Christmas and New Year holidays in this wonderland. The other family members had been to Aspen several times, during different seasons of the year, but Jessica’s acrophobia, her fear of heights, had kept her away.
Jessica had finally learned to conquer her fear of heights and close spaces. There was no place or tight space on earth she wouldn’t now dare to venture to. Flying in an airplane had never been a problem for her. Driving up into the mountains and dealing with heights had been a major one, though, for as far back as she could remember. Just getting up on a six-foot ladder had once scared her silly.
The plush condominium/town house resort of Snowmass was located in the heart of Snowmass Village at Aspen. Base elevation of Snowmass Mountain was 7,870 feet, with a vertical rise of 2,030 feet.
Not so long ago those were heights Jessica wouldn’t have even considered taking on. Now, she couldn’t be happier to have made the trip to this winter paradise. She could hardly wait for all the festive holiday events to begin.
The Harrington family was joining up with Roman’s lifelong best friend, Jacque Chamberlain, his wife, Sandra, and their only son, twenty-six-year-old Weston. The two families would share separate three-bedroom town houses across the corridor from each other.
Jennifer and Samuel had leased a two-bedroom condo in the same resort, in the opposite building. A couple of other families were also joining the small group, good friends of the Chamberlains, who were not due to arrive in Aspen until the day after Christmas. The Carlyle and Holloway families and their two teenagers, a boy and girl, had also leased town houses at Snowmass.
Sahara stepped out on the balcony and lowered her arm around Jessica’s shoulder. “Isn’t it breathtaking way up here? Are you okay with the heights?”
Jessica reached up and patted her mother’s hand. “I’m fine. It’s a wonderful vision to behold. The stark whiteness is near blinding. Haven’t decided to try skiing, though. That may be a little too much bravery for my first trip up such a high mountain. Sledding sounds more interesting to me as an alternative to skiing. I think it’ll be fun.”
“Everything we do will be fun. The Chamberlains should be here any minute. Are you nervous about seeing Weston? You guys haven’t been together since your teens.”
Jessica shrugged with nonchalance. “Nothing to be nervous about. He’s probably the same nerdy guy he was back then. We never did see eye to eye. I don’t expect a different outcome this trip.”
“Oh, Jess, I hope you don’t act nasty with him. Pulling hair is what most boys do at that age. Are you still holding the pigtail incident against him?”
“Incident, my foot! He nearly scalped me, pulling my hair so hard. But I don’t hold it against him.” Jessica sighed. “Hope I meet an interesting guy up here, but there won’t be anything happening between Wes and me. That’s Dad and Mr. Jacque’s dream. Not ours. I’m only here out of all the guilt you guys made me feel about going away with my girlfriends for Christmas.”
“Guilt was not our intent. That’s nonsense. We’ve never been apart for Christmas. We’re not starting now. Just concentrate on having a good time. Don’t put restrictions on yourself. I’m going in to wake up Dad. He wants to be up and dressed when Jacque and Sandra arrive. Jenny and Sam will be over any minute. We’ll all go to dinner once everyone gets here. Besides, you and Wes might find something in common. Who knows?” Sahara kissed her daughter’s cheek before stepping back indoors.
“Fat chance,” Jessica mumbled under her breath. The only thing she and Weston had in common was their intense dislike for each other. She hoped he had at least grown up some. His immaturity had gotten on her nerves the last time they’d seen each other in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
Jessica shivered as a blast of cold air hit her head-on, her hazel eyes watering at the shock. “Wow!” She didn’t waste another minute getting back inside where a warm fire roared in the stone fireplace. She hadn’t been used to this type of cold weather where she grew up, although California did get lots of snow up in the mountainous areas.
The Christmas music playing on the CD player was so nice. Jessica loved Nat King Cole’s mesmerizing voice. Her parents always played songs by him, Johnny Mathis and other singing greats during the holidays. This was the season her family practically lived for all year long. They had never visited a ski resort area at Christmastime because Jessica had only recently conquered her fear of heights. Seeing the beauty of the mountains had her repeatedly thanking God for what He had helped her accomplish.
While Jessica warmed her hands by the fire, rubbing them together vigorously, she enjoyed the blazing show of colors. The oranges, yellows, reds and warm blues helped to further light up the romance of the candlelit room. Her mother had set out most of the candles she’d brought along from home soon after they had checked into the resort. Sunset had occurred over thirty minutes ago.
The sound of a key being inserted into the door caused Jessica to jump involuntarily. She figured it had to be Jennifer and Sam. Sahara must have heard the key, too, because she had just come running into the room.
It always gave Jessica a warm feeling when her mother was affectionate with her and Jennifer. Neither of their parents had ever failed to show unconditional love for the girls. Sahara and Roman also thought of Samuel as a son, not just a son-in-law. They had wanted at least one male child, but they still felt incredibly blessed to have had such beautiful, healthy daughters.
Jessica had light hair and was fair-complexioned like her father. Jennifer had the same olive skin color and dark hair as her mother. Everyone knew they were sisters despite their hair and skin coloring. Two years apart in age, both Jessica and Jennifer had sparkling hazel eyes and full-dimpled smiles.
“Hey, Jess,” Jennifer sang out, “how you doing with the heights so far?”
“So far so good. It hasn’t bothered me yet.”
“Then it probably won’t.” Samuel crossed the room and gave Jessica a warm hug. “Proud of you, sis.”
“Thanks, Sam. I’m proud of me, too.”
“We’re all proud of you,” Sahara said, smiling brightly at Jessica.
The hard knock on the door caused Jessica to speed from the room. This time she was sure it was the Chamberlains. She had intended to comb her hair and put on fresh makeup long before they had arrived. Her face felt naked and a tad raw. For sure, she would have to keep her face moisturized against the cold weather. Sunblock protection was also a must. The cold air outside had done more than freeze her tail off.
All the animated greetings could be heard from the bedroom where Jessica repaired her makeup. The love between her father and Jacque Chamberlain was amazing. The men had grown up on the same street in southern California and had been as close as brothers. Amos and Gardenia Harrington, Roman’s parents, had treated Jacque like a son, making him very welcome in their home. Jacque’s mother had been ill a good bit of his youth so he had spent a lot of time with the Harringtons. After she’d died when he was seventeen, they had taken him in. His father was a long-distance trucker and had lived on the road a good bit of the time, even more after his wife had died.
Roman and Jacque had also attended the same college and had ended up working in the same profession. The two men had made their fortunes in real estate and had high hopes of merging their two companies in the near future. They also still hoped that Jessica and Weston would one day merge their families in holy matrimony.
Jacque planned to move back to California from New York City within the next year or so. He had grown tired of the harsh winter weather and longed to be back under the extremely agreeable Southern California sun. He had only moved to New York because his wife had wanted to be near her parents. Sandra’s wishes were his commands. Jacque had often said he lived to please his wife and only son, Weston.
After taking one last glance in the mirror, Jessica headed for the bedroom door. She couldn’t wait to get through the trauma of seeing Weston. She hated that she had to be around him for the next ten days, but she’d do anything to make her parents happy. Anything but marry the man her father and his best friend had in mind for her. The two friends had always said their kids would marry. Jessica didn’t even think Weston was marriage material, sure that he had grown up only to become all into himself.
Jessica was pulled into the warm embrace of Jacque and then Sandra before she had barely stepped into the room. She had seen them a couple of years ago, when they had visited in California. They were really nice people. Like her parents, they were big on doling out loads of love and affection.
Weston had the most stunned looked on his face as he stepped forward and brought Jessica to him for what he had planned on as a quick hug. Her warmth went straight through him—and he ended up holding her longer than anticipated. His mouth felt bone-dry as he affectionately pecked her on the cheek. He couldn’t believe this was the same person he used to taunt and rib unmercifully. Weston cringed when he thought of how he had nearly torn off her pigtail.
It had shocked Weston to see that Jessica was no longer the pudgy, clumsy, tomboyish teenager he remembered. The ugly duckling had turned into a magnificent swan, beautiful and graceful. He was so taken with her, but he had to hide it for fear of her shooting him down.
It wasn’t as though Jessica and Weston had gotten along famously as children; he wasn’t so sure they could be amicable as adults. The two of them thrown together every single day and evening for the next ten days would make it doubly hard for him to hide his wild attraction to her. Weston could only hope Jessica was as sweet as she was beautiful. Would wonders never cease!
Jessica clearly remembered Weston as a gangly, acne-faced, nerdy teenager, one who had possessed very little personality, if any at all. She nearly fainted when she first laid eyes on the drop-dead gorgeous, magnificent specimen he had turned into. It was then Jessica admitted that deep down inside she had always had a serious crush on Weston, though the feelings on his part had never been mutual.
Oh, how beautiful are those long lashes and dreamy eyes? She tried hard not to stare at him. It was obvious to her that the boy was in the gym on a regular basis. Muscles were bulging in all the right places on his rock-hard anatomy. When had he been blessed with such dark, softly piercing eyes and full, pouting lips? Her new attraction to him was as instant as his had been to her. His curly hair looked soft and silky, making her desperately want to drag her fingers recklessly through the strands.
Jessica tried hard to hide the tumultuous feelings inside her. She knew she would have constant thoughts of him whether they were together or apart. She knew for a fact she’d find it pretty hard to sleep at night with him right across the corridor. Thank goodness they weren’t sleeping in the same town house. That had been suggested initially. Jessica had been the one to protest the arrangement vehemently, vowing not to make the trip to Aspen if she had to sleep in the same space with the nuisance of a boy she recalled all too well. Now she had to wonder.
As if Jessica and Weston were the only two people in the room, they had become oblivious of the other family members, until Roman had asked if everyone was ready to go to dinner. She was happy for the timely interruption. Her uncontrollable thoughts had taken her to places she had once dreamed of on a daily basis, pining away for one Weston Chamberlain. Her thoughts about him had been torrid ones. That hadn’t changed.
In the car with her parents, Jessica suddenly felt so darn empty. It was as if someone had suddenly snatched away from her the warmth of intense sunlight that had nearly blinded her earlier. Her reaction to Weston was impossible. How could she feel like this about someone she didn’t even like? Oh, she liked him, all right. Jessica hated admitting how strong her liking was for him. Jessica couldn’t believe how silly she felt. The passage of time hadn’t changed a thing.
At the restaurant, it really surprised Jessica when Weston sat down in the wingback chair next to hers at the long table. There were so many empty chairs he could have sat in, but he had opted for the one closest to her.
The others in the Harrington party were all milling about, pointing out their favorite points of interest. The restaurant had high, vaulted ceilings and a massive wood-burning stone and marble fireplace, a definite focal point from nearly every seat in the house. A large rustic bar also made an interesting topic of conversation. The latest tunes were piped in over a state-of-the-art audio system.
“So, Jessica, how’ve you been? Long time no see for us.”
Too long, she thought, wishing she had some kind of control on her wretched emotions. She found it so hard to believe her heart was still going gaga over this man. “I know. Busy with work and all. Since we’re both in real estate, you know how long the hours can be. Sometimes I overdo it. I always find one more thing to do before I go home. What’s up with you?”
“Pretty much the same as it is with you. I stay busy at the job. Guess that’s why I don’t have much of a social life.”
What was Weston trying to tell her, if anything? Did very little social life mean no steady girl? Jessica had to wonder. She didn’t know how to respond to what he had said, so she said nothing. She wouldn’t be surprised if women were lined up to go out with him. Weston was really that good-looking and he hadn’t annoyed her once thus far.
As the rest of the party came and took seats at the table, Jessica and Weston’s conversation was abruptly interrupted. This time she wasn’t too relieved about the disruption, but she then figured they had lots of time to catch up on each other’s lives. She was certainly eager to find out everything she could about the new and improved Weston.
A waiter and waitress came up as soon as everyone was settled down at the table. Menus were quickly passed around to each of the patrons. The waitress took the drink orders and then left the food orders up to the waiter. Teamwork was the obvious intent.
In a matter of minutes everyone at the table had ordered their meals.
Jessica was impressed by the quick service. She had been to restaurants with large groups of people, where it had seemed to take forever to get the orders taken. When she had looked around the place a moment ago, she saw there was no shortage of waiters and waitresses. Under-staffing was a big problem in a lot of restaurants, even the extremely popular ones. It was not a problem here at the illustrious Rustic House Restaurant.
Conversations flowed with relaxed ease as the diners sipped on hot or cold drinks while waiting for the meals to be served. Roman and Jacque were chatting and laughing to beat the band. Sahara and Sandra were also catching up, talking up a storm.
Jessica loved seeing her parents so happy. She knew for a fact her father had never been as involved with a male friend as he was with Jacque. He had a few good golf buddies, as well as his bowling-league friends, but his relationship with Jacque was unrivaled. The two men and their wives saw each other three or four times a year at realty conferences or while vacationing in exotic locales. Each couple was often a guest in the other’s home. Her parents loved to visit the Chamberlains in New York City.
Weston had a hard time keeping his eyes off Jessica. The changes in her were remarkable. Perhaps she had always been pretty. In his adolescence he might not have been able to see it. It had taken him a long time to get interested in girls, period. Most guys had had several different personal relationships by age seventeen, which was the age at which Weston had had his first date. A young lady had asked him to take her to her senior prom. That evening had been one disaster after another. Weston hadn’t bothered to learn to dance, and his date had been furious with him when she had figured it out.
Weston had tried hard to get it going, though, but his soulful coordination hadn’t come together quite yet. Rhythm didn’t move into his body until a couple of years later. Now Weston could hold up against the best on the dance floor.
The variety of great music made Weston think about the possibility of dancing with Jessica. There should be plenty of opportunities. The formal New Year’s Eve gala sponsored by their parents was to be held in one of the resort ballrooms. A slow tune worked best for him, though he also loved to dance to faster-paced music.
Holding Jessica close to his body was right up there on the top of Weston’s list of desires. She had fitted perfectly into his arms when he’d hugged her earlier. His limbs seemed to have wrapped around her of their own accord, holding her much longer than he had anticipated. It had felt good, too. The feelings surging through him had been wild.
The delicious scents from the food caused Jessica’s mouth to water. She hadn’t realized how hungry she was until now. The family had had lunch right after they had arrived at the resort, eons ago.
Jessica was a perfect size-six petite, but the girl had a ravenous appetite. However, the only fried foods she ever ate were French fries and the occasional fish sandwich. The weight problems she had had in her youth had one day up and disappeared, without her resorting to dieting.
Weston gently nudged Jessica. “Pass the salt, please.”
That little insignificant touch from Weston had Jessica’s heart doing flip-flops. But it was those dark, dreamy eyes that made crazy things happen inside her body. “Sure.” She picked up the saltshaker closest to her and handed it to Mr. McHunk. In her mind she had already referred to him as such a few times.
As Jessica looked over at Jennifer and Samuel, she had to smile. The two sweethearts had been in love since junior high school. They were the same exact age, twenty-seven. She had often prayed to find the kind of relationship they had, with no immediate interest in forever after. She thought thirty was the perfect age for women to marry and thirty-three or even a bit older for men. That gave her five years to find her Mr. Right. Jessica wasn’t sure she wanted kids, but she hadn’t ruled them out, either.
The grilled Chilean sea bass Jessica had ordered tasted so scrumptious she closed her eyes to savor the expertly prepared seafood. Her salad greens were fresh and crisp; the tomatoes had to have been grown in the Garden of Eden. They were the most flavorful ones she had ever tasted. The others also seemed pleased with their meals, Jessica noted. Her family were huge seafood lovers, evident by what each one had ordered. Roman and Samuel’s favorite was grilled salmon. Sahara and Jennifer were into the different varieties of shellfish.
Weston had ordered a huge porterhouse steak that looked grilled to perfection. He had also ordered a Caesar salad, loving the tangy taste of the dressing. His baked potato was stuffed with everything imaginable. He had dug right into his meal as soon as Roman had passed the blessing.
Jessica would love to eat steak, but she had a hard time digesting beef. The only ingredients she liked on her baked potatoes were butter and sour cream, at a minimum. Jessica could tell that Weston was enjoying what he had put on his.
“Mind if I taste your fish, Jess?” Weston asked. “It looks good.”
Jessica was once again surprised. She didn’t object to giving Weston a bite, but how was she supposed to serve it to him? It was out of the question for her to put some on her fork and feed it to him. Weston handed Jessica a small bread plate and indicated for her to drop it there. She was glad he had solved her dilemma. She didn’t have to look up to know all eyes had been on her, anticipating how she might respond.
On purpose Jessica refused to make direct eye contact with anyone in her family. The look in her eyes might just be a dead giveaway for how besotted she had become with Weston. No matter what her misguided feelings were for him, they just couldn’t happen as a couple. That was like falling right into the trap their parents had set for them as mere babes in arms. No one with any common sense ever walked into a visible trap.
The small group had moved over into the lounge, where several tables for two had been put together. There was no odd man out.
Jessica was highly aware that she and Weston were the only two single people in their party. She was sure it had been by design, that both sets of parents were still hopeful they would become an item.
Jessica had thought about asking her best friend Jarred Wilkerson, to come on the trip with her. Her parents would’ve done their level best to talk her out of it. She and Jarred enjoyed each other’s company tremendously. Each valued their special friendship. He was happily single now after recently breaking off his two-year relationship with Melanie Holt. However, he and Jessica weren’t remotely interested in each other in a romantic way. They just hung out together a lot.
On the other side of the coin, Jessica had hoped and prayed Weston would bring along a lady friend. That hope had vanished in the same moment her mother had informed her he was coming to Aspen alone. Now she was glad he hadn’t brought along a date and that she hadn’t invited Jarred. She liked having Weston’s undivided attention. Of course, he hadn’t paid her an ounce of attention since his plate had first arrived, other than to ask her for a bite of her fish. It looked as if she had a meaty rival.
Jessica chuckled inwardly at her last thought.
Swallowing the lump in her throat came hard for Jessica after Weston had asked her to dance. Jennifer and Samuel were already on the floor gyrating to the funky beats. The four parents hadn’t stopped talking since sitting down in the lounge.
What was a girl to do? Accept his invitation. She tried to hush the little voice inside her head. Still finding it difficult to speak, Jessica simply got out of her seat. That move should be evidence enough that she wanted to dance with him. She had wondered if he would ever ask her. Now that he had, she was ecstatic about it.
Four songs later Jessica and Weston were still on the dance floor. A couple of times they had changed partners with Jennifer and Samuel, but only for short periods. When a step-dance tune came on, Weston didn’t miss a beat. He began stepping, glad that Jessica also knew how to. Their laughter rang out as they put on a show.
Many of the patrons gawked at Weston and Jessica’s spirited moves.
As Weston’s hands spanned Jessica’s waist through several of the steps, she continued to keep pace with the music, though his deliciously warm hands had set her body ablaze. He didn’t seem to miss the nervous look on her face when the music suddenly turned slow and romantic; before her fears could take her over completely, he tenderly brought her into his arms, pulling her closer in to his body. Perhaps he found it comforting that she was as nervous about him as he was about her.
The urge to lay her head against Weston’s chest was overwhelming to Jessica, yet she kept her head raised, her eyes straight ahead. She’d have to look up to peer into his sexy eyes, something she would love to do. Jessica knew she could lose herself there.
The slower set had consisted of three songs. Jessica and Weston stayed on the floor for each one. Each dance had drawn them closer and closer together.
As the smiling couple were about to return to their seats, Roman came up and took a hand of each of his daughters. Jessica and Jennifer often danced with their dad. It was always a highlight of any event for them. One song later Sahara eagerly joined her husband and their two girls for a family dance.
Weston kept his eyes trained on Jessica as she laughed and got down with a line dance she had a ball doing with her family. The girl was as sexy as women came, having gotten him all hot and bothered when he’d held her in his arms. She had a cute little way of twisting her hips and making her upper body wiggle in rhythm to the music. He’d been surprised to learn that she could step, had been pretty darn good at it. He had to admit to the numerous surprises, expecting even more. This was going to be one interesting holiday trip.
Chapter 2
Weston and his parents waited in the parking lot for the Harrington car to make it back. The families had decided to have a nightcap and watch a movie or do something else fun in the Harrington town house. The Harrington family had been right behind the Chamberlains, but when Weston had last looked, they weren’t anywhere in sight. That caused worry in the Chamberlain clan. The roads could be treacherous.
Weston sighed with relief when he spotted the van pulling in, glad everyone was safe. He hurried over to the van to open the door for the passengers seated in the rear. Of course, he knew where Jessica was seated, because he had opened the vehicle door for her to get in.
Once Jessica was out of the car, Weston took her by the hand. “How about taking a short walk? It’s a beautiful night.”
Jessica rolled her hazel eyes, wondering if Weston was kidding. It was freezing outside. “Kind of cold out here, don’t you think?”
Weston halfway closed his eyes, slightly tilting his head to the right. “I think I can keep you warm. In fact, I know I can deliver the heat.”
Jessica had seen Weston’s eye and head gestures as so adorable, his remarks confident. There was no doubt in her mind he could deliver on his word. He had a way of making her hot all over just with a visual connection. “Let’s do this, already. Standing in one spot is freezing my feet to the ground.”
Weston grinned. “Okay. First things first, though.” He lifted the hood of her heavy jacket and pulled it over her head. As he tied the strings snugly under her chin, he wanted to kiss her ripe lips so badly it hurt. Even outdoors where the icy wind blew hard, he smelled her sensuous perfume. He’d asked the name of the scent earlier.
The trek around the resort started out with Weston’s arm tightly around Jessica’s waist. She silently promised not to fight any of her romantic urges. If she felt like laying her head against his arm, she would. Her mind wasn’t so sure about any lip action. Her heart certainly wasn’t opposed to it. She couldn’t help recalling all the times she had dreamed about kissing him in the past.
Minutes later the numbing cold no longer seemed to matter to Jessica. The couple were now scooping up handfuls of snow and tossing it at each other, seemingly oblivious to the freezing temperatures. When she lost her balance, nearly toppling over, Weston was right there to keep her upright. She rewarded his rescue mission with a warm hug, sending his body temperature right up to the sky. He found her protesting when he had thought they should get indoors funny. Seconds afterward, large snowflakes began to fall.
Back in the town house, Jessica and Weston totally ignored the curious looks from their parents. All they were interested in was something hot to drink. Jessica loved hot cocoa and hot chocolate, and Sahara had packed up both drinks, along with delicious flavored teas and coffees. She was the type of mother who easily anticipated the needs of her family. No matter how old Jessica and Jennifer got, they would always be little girls to Sahara and Roman.
Jessica didn’t know what the others were watching on television, but she wasn’t interested in viewing anything. She had a television in her bedroom and liked to fall asleep with it on. She planned to do that a little later, but now it was only 10:00 p.m.
Jessica instead pulled out the travel Scrabble board and challenged Weston to a game. He told her he was a terrible speller, but he’d indulge her in one game. He immediately commenced beating her pants off. His ability to spell and come up with words she hadn’t even heard of was top-notch.
“Was that a white lie you told about your spelling skills or a bald-faced one?”
Weston had the good grace to look ashamed. “I guess both. If I’d told you I was an excellent speller, you might have backed out. Most men are terrible spellers so I figured I’d just play the part.”
“You lied, is what you did! That’s okay. Look for a rematch tomorrow.”
“You’re on! We can play chess, too. Want a refill on the hot chocolate?”
“Please.” She wouldn’t warn him on how good she was at chess.
Amazed at how well things were going, Weston got up from the kitchen table and refilled both mugs. He had actually expected the fur to fly the entire vacation, just as it had done years ago. This was a pleasant diversion from how they had once acted. As he thought more about it, Weston had to admit that he had treated her badly. There was a time when he’d been stupid enough to believe she had a thing for him. No real proof of that had ever come forth.
Weston carried the mugs of hot chocolate back over to the table. He placed Jessica’s down in front of her. “Here you go, sweetie.”
Sweetie! Hmm. Jessica liked that term of endearment, especially coming from Weston’s pouting lips. Those babies looked so kissable. She closed her eyes just to conjure up an image of him seducing her mouth in the hottest way possible. When his fingers began to slowly trace the under-wire of her bra, she quickly popped her eyes open. She couldn’t let her mind go there, not in his presence. She wasn’t ready for him to leave, even though she was eager to conjure up more erotic images of him in bed later.
“What’re you thinking about? You should’ve seen that sensual look. I hope I was somehow involved in your thoughts.”
Jessica had to clear her throat. “Dream on, fellow. Dream on.”
“Like that, huh?”
Jessica failed to stifle a giggle. “Uh-huh. Just like that.”
Weston got to his feet. “I know when I’ve worn out my welcome. I’m out of here. Are we on for some serious skiing tomorrow morning?”
Jessica shook her head. “Not sure about that yet.”
“Still scared of heights, huh? How’d you manage to get up to this elevation without losing it?”
“Is there nothing sacred with my parents? How much do they tell you about me?”
Laughing, Weston shrugged. “I actually got that one from Mom, who got it from yours. But I remember your reaction to getting up on the monkey bars when we were kids. You weren’t having any part of it.”
“God forbid that you should remember all the bad stuff.”
“I do remember the past. But this is now. I’m for making new memories, good ones. What about you?”
“Didn’t you say you were leaving?”
“What I said was I know when I’ve worn my welcome out.” He stretched out his hand to her. “Come on and walk me next door. If we’re to have a good day tomorrow, we’d better get plenty of rest.”
“I agree. Sledding is more appealing to me than skiing. I hope you’ll join me. Don’t give me an answer right now. Sleep on it.”
Weston gave Jessica his brightest, sexiest smile. “You have no idea what I plan to sleep on tonight while sleeping in nothing. Care to star in my wildest fantasies?”
Jessica jumped to her feet. “Let me see you out. You’ve gotten punchy.”
“It happens. I’m overly tired.”
“Tell me about it!”
“I’ll tell you anything you want to know. All you have to do is ask.”
Jessica smiled smugly. “Gee, thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.”
Jessica lay comfortably in bed. As she thought about all the things that had transpired between her and Weston, she wondered if maybe they’d gotten too friendly too quickly. Many of his remarks to her after the walk and the game of Scrabble had become extremely flirtatious. Maybe so, but she had liked the attention.
Care to star in my wildest fantasies? had flattered the heck right out of her, not to mention that sexy little smile of his. Had there been real sexual connotations in his comments? She sure hoped so.
Deep down inside her heart Jessica hoped that Weston found her as sexy as she did him. She was trying hard not to come up with any reasons she couldn’t or shouldn’t get romantically involved with him. Surprisingly, she wasn’t terrified of her feelings for him. Being attracted to him before, with no favorable outcome, didn’t make a good case for compromising her feelings again.
Of course, Jessica had been barely a teenager then. She hadn’t known the first thing about true love, yet she had been impressionable. His cruel treatment had hurt her pretty badly. Still, she wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt. He hadn’t known any more about love than she had. They had been kids, for goodness’ sake.
Weston hadn’t shown an ounce of cruelty toward her this evening; quite the contrary. If she had gotten the signals right, he definitely had a romantic interest in her. The feelings were mutual. It hadn’t gotten past Jessica when both had said they wouldn’t want to live anyplace other than where they now resided. She couldn’t imagine how they’d ever have a long-distance relationship. It wasn’t like they’d be living a couple of hours apart; they lived on totally opposite coasts.
This was merely a vacation. Jessica felt foolish entertaining the idea of anything happening beyond the holiday. Enjoy this time and move on, she quietly told herself. Make the best of the next ten days. Then give Weston a warm farewell hug. With her mind made up not to take anything too serious, she closed her eyes, hoping to fall right off to sleep. Tomorrow had already been ushered in. It was well after midnight.
Weston had been tossing and turning for over two hours. Thoughts of Jessica had nearly consumed him. It wasn’t a problem to admit being quite intrigued with her. What to do about it was his biggest dilemma. It was hard not to look ahead to when they’d part company. She’d go back to Los Angeles and he back to New York City. Not seeing her again after Aspen troubled him, despite the nine days of vacation they had left.
For a few moments Weston wondered if he could possibly live in Los Angeles after his parents moved there. It didn’t take him long to realize he was acting downright ridiculous. It was silly to give the idea any more thought. Nothing assured him that he and Jessica would hit it off so much that either would consider moving to be near the other. He was way ahead of himself and he vowed to stop the mad thinking run before it drove him insane.
Weston quickly decided that he and Jessica would enjoy each other while in Aspen. That would be the end of it. They might even find other people they were attracted to while on vacation. No one really knew what would happen. They would be meeting a lot of different people at the numerous social functions planned by their parents. After Weston plumped his pillow for the umpteenth time, he settled down in bed, falling asleep minutes after he completely turned off his thoughts.
The sun was high, seeming to shine brighter than Jessica had ever seen before. The resort was covered in a glistening white blanket from the previous night’s snowfall. It was like stepping into a fairy-tale village nestled snugly between tall mountain ranges.
The waiter at Café Aspen had already given Jessica and Weston breakfast menus. The café was only a couple of miles down the road from the resort. Weston had taken a quick jaunt to the men’s room, leaving Jessica at the table.
The two families had gotten up bright and early to hit the slopes. Sahara had prepared breakfast for the ski group before they’d taken off, excited to get the adventurous day under way.
Jessica reflected on how quiet Weston had been on the drive to the café, wondering what that meant. He hadn’t made one flirtatious comment, yet he’d held her hand on the way to the car. The kind gesture might have been to keep her upright. She had been slipping and sliding all over the place. If his attitude changed toward her, she hoped she’d know how to get him back into the fun, flirtatious mode she enjoyed tremendously.
Jessica and Weston planned to go sledding later since she had chickened out on skiing. She had to take things slow. She had already conquered her fears enough to get up the mountain. Jumping on a ski lift? She wasn’t there, though proud of what she had already accomplished.
Both sets of parents had requested Jessica and Weston’s presence when they went into town to pick out the Christmas tree. It was a family tradition in both households to pick out the tree together—and later to trim it.
The warmth on the back of Jessica’s neck caused her to look up. Her heart leaped at the beautiful smile on Weston’s face.
“I heated my hands by the fire. Did they warm you?”
Jessica smiled and nodded. “Sure did. Where is the fireplace?”
“A cozy room in back of the place.” Weston took a seat. “Lots of tables for dining, but the room is empty. Want me to ask if we can eat back there?”
“I’d like that. The employees likely fill up the outer rooms first.”
“You’re probably right, but it won’t hurt to ask. I can be pretty persuasive.”
Jessica didn’t doubt that. “Go for it.”
Jessica looked after Weston as he walked away. She could hear his fine body screaming out her name. She loved the beautiful black-and-white Italian knit sweater he wore with a pair of dark wool pants, casual in style. He had earlier complimented Jessica on her navy-blue wool sweater and slacks, and a crisp white shirt. Her thick-soled winter boots were burgundy in color.
Weston had yet another huge smile on his face as he winked at Jessica. “I’m good, girl. You have no idea.”
Jessica laughed. “Oh, I think I do. Incredible charm runs in your family.”
“Come with me. The hostess said to take any table we want. She also said we might be the only ones dining there. As you can see, they’re not busy this morning. Are you okay with that?”
Shrugging, her mouth turned down at the corners, Jessica said, “Fine by me.”
Weston picked up the menus off the table and carried them into what appeared to Jessica as a cozy alcove. The space was very intimate and she liked the feel of it.
The waiter showed up within a few minutes of the couple taking seats, bringing along with him a carafe of hot coffee. Jessica wasn’t big on coffee, but she did drink it occasionally. She let the waiter know she preferred a small pot of chamomile tea when he took their breakfast orders.
Weston’s order indicated to Jessica that he was a hungry man again this morning. She wasn’t that surprised by the amount of food he ordered, considering the size of the meal he had practically inhaled last evening.
Jessica’s order consisted of two boiled eggs, a turkey sausage patty and a small order of home-fried potatoes. Instead of toast, she ordered a freshly baked blueberry muffin, and then orange juice as an afterthought.
“How did you sleep last night, Jess?”
“Once I managed to get there, I knocked out completely.”
“Did you have as hard a time getting to sleep as I did?”
“I wasn’t able to fall right off. Had quite a few things on my mind.” Mainly you.
“Sure you don’t want a cup of coffee? It’s pretty good stuff.”
“No, thanks. I’ll wait for the tea.” She looked out the window. “It’s such a beautiful morning. I can’t get over the magnificent view from our town house. I’ve heard so much about Aspen. I’m glad to actually experience it. It’s like another world.”
“You haven’t seen the half of it. This place is amazing. I read somewhere that Mariah Carey’s been living here for a couple of years.”
“I read that, too. Quite a few celebrities live here in Aspen, either full-time or part-time.”
“A wonderful place to visit, but I don’t want to live here.”
“Yeah, I know. Nowhere for Wes but NYC.”
Weston leveled curious eyes on Jessica. Something about the way she had snapped out her last remark had him wondering. She had sounded a bit annoyed. He quickly dismissed the thought since it made no sense at all.
The waiter came and dropped off Jessica’s tea and immediately took off again.
The couple got into a conversation about how the real-estate market had boomed in California. It was unbelievable the way it had suddenly shot through the roof.
Jessica mentioned that the folks who had taken out interest-only or arm home loans were in for a rude awakening. Weston figured they could beat the odds if they could refinance at a fixed rate before the bad stuff happened. A lot of people had also opted for balloon payments, all just to own a piece of hot California property. Shanties and fixer-uppers were even selling for indecent amounts. Things were now starting to cool off a bit. Both Jessica and Weston expected a lot of home foreclosures to occur in the very near future.
“New York real estate has been high for a long time. I’m sure you do well.”
“Extremely. That’s why I don’t understand why my parents want to up and move to L.A.”
“Maybe because your father was born and raised there.”
“I guess. They’re financially set, so they don’t have to worry about money. Dad does complain about the harsh winters in New York.”
Jessica faked a believable shiver. “If it’s anywhere near as cold in New York as it is here, I can’t blame them for wanting to move to California. Don’t think I could brave winter weather like this year after year. The roads are frightening. Seeing the snowstorms on television is enough for me.”
“If you grew up in winters like this, it’d be just a way of life. People manage it all the time.”
The return of the waiter kept Jessica from responding to Weston’s comments. Not wanting to get into the subject of living so far apart, she saw the interruption in conversation as a good thing. The very idea of it bothered her to no end, no matter how much she didn’t want to make it an issue. Sticking to the plan she had laid out for herself last night was hard to execute. Denying her wild attraction for Weston wasn’t happening. Jessica wanted him in the worst way.
There were far too many beautiful Christmas trees to make it easy for the visiting families to choose quickly. They had been on the tree lot for nearly an hour when Jessica had spotted the perfect tree, its branches full, long and sweeping. After a couple of minutes of deliberation, everyone had agreed it was indeed the one. The men had taken care of the hard work to load the tree onto the top of one of the vans.
Once the ideal tree had been deposited back at the Harrington’s town house, Jessica and Weston had promised to return home in time to help with the trimmings. The group had decided to order food to be brought in for the evening meal before the younger generation had left to go snowmobiling. Weston thought Jessica might enjoy riding a snowmobile more than sledding. Samuel also preferred snowmobiling.
Jessica constantly laughed and screamed as Weston expertly maneuvered the snowmobile around the area he and Samuel had chosen to take the two sisters. She hadn’t had this much fun since she didn’t know when. It was cold outdoors, but she was able to endure it. The extra layer of clothing was helping tremendously. She didn’t feel chilled to the bone as she had without the double layer of warmth. The leather gloves had lamb’s wool on the inside and really kept her hands warm. The hood on her jacket was pulled up with the strings tied under her chin.
Weston didn’t necessarily drive the snowmobile recklessly, but he made enough dramatic twists and turns over the snowswept terrain to make it fun and exhilarating. Jessica screamed out of fear a few times. Samuel also had Jennifer howling. She had done this with her husband before so she was no stranger to the fun sport.
Samuel and Jennifer always had loads of fun together. They had learned about a salsa class to be held at the resort and had just about convinced Jessica and Weston to join them.
The snowmobile-rental time had flown by. Weston and Samuel had gone to turn in the vehicles and settle the accounts. This was Jessica and Jennifer’s first time alone since the families had arrived in Aspen and they were seated in the lodge’s lounge sipping on hot drinks.
“You really like him, don’t you, Jess?”
Knowing her secret was no longer just hers, Jessica lowered her lashes. “I’ve always liked Weston. The truth of the matter hit me square in the heart yesterday. Guess I’ve known it all along but have refused to admit it. Even to myself. I felt so hurt only because he rejected me. Been kidding myself for years by saying I couldn’t stand him. I just wanted him to notice me, acknowledge me in some way—and he didn’t.”
“He notices you now, big-time. The look on his face when he saw you yesterday was so revealing. Had his parents not hugged you and called you by name, I’m not sure he would’ve guessed that you and the girl he used to torment were one and the same.”
“Maybe so. I’d think he would have seen all the updated pictures of us that Mom and Dad always send to his parents.” Jessica looked at her sister with open curiosity. “Did you ever have a crush on Wes, Jen?”
“Heck no!”
“Not even a teeny-weeny one?”
“Hardly. I loved Sam even before we started dating in junior high. That is, for as much as I did or didn’t know about love back then. But you already know our history. Took Sam a long time to notice me, too. At any rate, Wes is just not my type.”
“I don’t know if it’s even about them noticing us. Most boys just don’t start liking girls until they reach a certain age. Up until then, they believe their one purpose on this planet is to torture girls. Adolescent boys are cruel.”
“Don’t leave out the girls. There were some mean, overbearing chicks out there when I was in junior high. Talk about cruelty. They seemed to have had a monopoly on it. Don’t you recall all the trouble I had with the so-called upper-class brat pack? I also agree with everything you’ve said. But look at what happened when Sam did notice me. We’ve been inseparable ever since.” Jennifer was a nurse and Samuel a paramedic.
Jessica smiled broadly. “You guys got it going on. I want so badly what you two have. Not ready for marriage, though. Yet I desperately desire the romance. Eating dinner every single night by candlelight has to be the bomb.”
“That and more.” Jennifer blushed at a couple of other things Samuel and she indulged in by candlelight. “We do more than eat by the light of burning candles. The more sensual stuff keeps us hot for each other.”
Jessica put up her right hand in a halting gesture. “No details, please! It’ll only let me know how lonely and pitiful I am. Passion is lacking in my life.”
“Don’t say that.”
Jennifer went on to remind Jessica that she had a great job and a wonderful group of girlfriends who loved doing adventurous things and taking exotic vacations. “You guys always do something fun and unique. And you also have a great male friend in Jarred. I’d say you have it all. All but the husband you admitted to not wanting now.”
“Put like that, I don’t have a choice but to agree. Thanks for always showing me the glass is half-full as opposed to half-empty.” Jessica gently nudged Jennifer’s arm. “Here come the guys. We should cool it.”
“Yeah, wouldn’t want Wes to know you’re out of your mind over him.”
Jessica frowned. “It’s not that bad. But the potential for such is great.”
Both women laughed at that.
All Jessica could do was sit and stare in utter amazement when Samuel sat down next to Jennifer. Taking her in his arms, he kissed her as if he’d been apart from her for weeks instead of twenty minutes or so. Their passion couldn’t be charted since it was off the scale. Those two couldn’t keep their hands and mouths off each other.
Weston sat down next to Jessica. “Wow! Your sister and her husband are sure deep into each other. Their love is so strong,” he whispered.
“Been that way forever,” Jessica whispered back to him. “Some people call it sickening. I call it incredible. If Jen weren’t my sister, I might envy her.”
Weston raised an eyebrow at that statement. Jessica’s remarks made him think she wanted exactly what her sister had. Well, he thought, didn’t everyone want to be involved in a true-blue, passionate love affair? His eyes softened even more as he looked closer at Jessica. He had to wonder if they could ever have what their parents and Jennifer and Samuel had an overabundance of, together or separate. He had to admit he preferred together to separate.
Chapter 3
Entering the town house, Jessica was immediately drawn to the kitchen, overwhelmed by the delicious aromas. So much for ordering food in for the evening meal.
Sahara had cooked and Jessica was sure her father had helped out her mother. Both were excellent chefs and they often worked side by side in preparing meals. Her parents loved to whip up delicious foods and Jessica hated everything to do with cooking, period. She liked cleaning up the kitchen even less than the meal preparations. No man in his right mind wanted a woman who couldn’t or wouldn’t cater to the needs of his stomach.
Sahara walked up and lightly popped Jessica on the hand. “Stay out of my pots and pans, girl. All the food is for our little get-together this evening. Want me to fix you a sandwich?”
Jessica looked at Sahara as if she had to be kidding. “You fixed all this delicious food—and you want to feed me a measly sandwich? That’s scandalous, Mom.”
“Okay, you win, number-two daughter.” Sahara referred to her daughters’ order of birth, not to how they ranked in her sight. She loved her girls equally. “Get a plate from the cabinet and take some of whatever you want. You know I can’t stand here and deny my youngest child a meal.”
“Thanks, Mom.” Jessica kissed Sahara on the cheek. “Where’s Dad?”
“Off somewhere with Jacque. He left here right after he finished helping me out. They’re probably sitting somewhere talking shop. Those two eat and sleep real estate.”
“And they both have their kids doing the same thing.” Jessica put small samples from each pot on her plate and then took a seat at the table.
Sahara retrieved a cold drink from the refrigerator before joining Jessica at the table. “Speaking of our kids, how was the snowmobiling outing for you and Jen?”
“Lots of fun. The guys were acting a little crazy while driving the snowmobiles, making sharp twists and turns all over the place, but they pretty much stuck to most of the safety rules. I liked it enough to want to do it again. I think I’d like to drive one the next time. It might take a minute or two to get the hang of it. Jen and I were whooping and hollering it up out there. The guys had a tremendous time, too.”
Sahara pressed her lips together, choosing her next words carefully. “Having a good time with Wes?”
Jessica looked down the length of her nose at her mother. “Why don’t you go right ahead and ask me what you really want to know? Your curiosity about us is written all over your face and you’re dying to get up in our business.”
“Just asked a simple question. Why are you trying to make a federal case out of it? My goodness, you’re really sensitive on the subject.”
“The only thing I’m sensitive about is you and Daddy trying to choose a husband for me. It’s not like that with Wes and me. But to answer your question, I’m having a grand time. On January third the vacation will be over with and so will Wes and I. All we’re doing is having some fun and trying to make the best of this situation our parents have thrown us into. Mom, it’s not going to happen for us. Please share that with Dad and the Chamberlains so you all don’t continue speculating.”
“I think you are making way too much out of us wanting to share our holiday time with the Chamberlains. However, I’m glad you’re having a good time.”
“Whatever, Mom. Okay for me to eat before the food gets cold?”
Sahara knew that Jessica meant she wanted to be left in peace. “If you need anything, I’ll be in the bedroom.” Sahara got up from the chair, her head hung low.
Jessica could tell by the look on her mother’s face that she had hurt her feelings. That hadn’t been her intent, but she needed everyone just to get off her and Weston’s backs. No one could choose a mate for another person, even though she knew there were many cultures in the world that still arranged marriages.
“Sorry, Mom,” Jessica yelled out before Sahara could disappear. “I’ll try to be a little less sensitive, but please just let Wes and me be ourselves.”
Jessica knew Sahara was a bit upset with her when she didn’t accept her apology or even bother to respond to her plea. Sahara wasn’t the type who stayed upset long, nor did she hold grudges, so Jessica wasn’t worried that their little tiff would ruin the rest of their stay in Aspen. Both she and her mother would soon forget this had ever happened.
Keeping a covert eye on Weston was difficult to do, especially when Jessica kept catching herself staring at him outright. He looked so darn sexy, though he was only dressed in a neatly pressed burgundy shirt and heather-gray wool slacks, all of which appeared to be of excellent quality. It was how his athletic physique filled out the attire that turned Jessica on; it looked as if it all fit him to a T. His broad shoulders were more accentuated when they weren’t buried beneath a bulky sweater.
Like the rest of the men, Weston was intent on seeing that the full Douglas fir Christmas tree was put up correctly. No one wanted to see it topple over at some point during the planned festivities. Jacque had suggested that the group purchase an artificial tree just before they had gone out to shop for a fresh one. His not-so-brilliant idea had met with clucking disapproval from the four women.
Looking down at her own attire, comparing it to what the other females wore, Jessica was still pleased with the outfit she had chosen for herself. Tucked neatly into the waistband of slim, black wool crepe pants was a long-sleeved black-and-white striped Ralph Lauren shirt. Over the designer shirt she wore a stylish black quilted vest.
Jessica’s long, light-brown layered hair had been blow-dried straight but curled slightly at the ends of each layer to allow her shiny tresses to flow softly about her shoulders. Just the right amount of makeup to her pretty face and hazel eyes gave a gently dramatic flair to her normally wholesome appearance.
Weston thought Jessica looked cover-model perfect, though she hardly measured up in height. Her five-foot-even frame fell way short when compared to many statuesque, leggy models. But he liked how she carried herself. She was every bit as graceful and stylish as any top model in the country today. Jessica was a far cry from the preteen he’d once known, and he was still amazed by her unbelievable transformation. He loved how she was gently curvaceous in all the right spots, the ones his hands craved to tenderly caress. Though she had a small bustline, the twin mounds appeared to stand proud. The vest she wore over her shirt didn’t allow him nearly the exciting view of cleavage he had seen the first day.
Christmas music, the popping and crackling of the fire burning brightly in the fireplace and the sounds of joyous laughter created a wonderful holiday setting. A wondrous winter scene of mountains, snow and large evergreen trees through the large picture window delighted the senses. The draperies had been pulled completely back, making it look as if the scene had been painted onto the glass pane.
Gaily colored rolls of foil wrapping paper, with every kind of decoration on them, from reindeer to Santa Clauses, were laid out on the table, along with bunches of ribbons in bright colors of green, red, gold, silver and white. There were also bows made up of more than one hue. White gift boxes waiting to be filled with presents and then wrapped in the paper were stacked high in one corner of the dining room.
Weston quickly snapped out of his reverie when he heard the others howling. He couldn’t help but join in the laughter even though a sudden rush of empathy for Jessica had just hit him. It looked to him as if she had gotten herself all tangled up in the tinsel she was working with. The bewildered look on her face was comical but so endearing.
Jessica didn’t like the glittery stuff, anyway, so it didn’t bother her that it might be ruined. The tinsel had been Sandra’s bright idea. The Harringtons had never used it on one of their family Christmas trees, although its use was traditional in many a household. Now that the tinsel could no longer be used, Jessica grabbed up the tray of delicate gold-and silver-edged angel and snowflake ornaments to hang on the tree’s sweeping branches.
The delicious aromas of food, hot apple cider and freshly popped popcorn filled the air, mixing with the heady pine scent of the Douglas fir. Jennifer and Samuel had just finished popping the corn and warming the cider and putting out all the reheated foods Sahara and Roman had prepared earlier. The smell of the baked hot wings and grilled chicken tenders eventually ruled over the other scents. Swedish meatballs and beef cocktail wieners simmered in a light but very flavorful teriyaki sauce. Three kinds of pasta had also been made: spaghetti, penne and an angel-hair/vegetable salad.
The group hadn’t finished trimming the tree, but they decided to stop long enough to enjoy the evening meal together. The ladies quickly began to hustle around the room to tackle several chores. Jessica laid out the plates while Sandra took care of the silverware. Sahara busied herself filling the drinking glasses with snowball-shaped ice cubes. She had seen the cute trays on one of the aisles inside a convenience store in town and she hadn’t been able to resist purchasing a few of the cleverly designed items.
Roman requested that Weston ask for the blessing on the food and all the hands that had prepared it. Jacque and Sandra had prepared the sinful desserts. Apple cobbler was their son’s favorite and the triple-layer devil’s food cake was the one dessert Jacque loved most. Sandra and Jacque had also baked sweet-potato pies, an absolute favorite of all the Harringtons, including Jennifer and Samuel. Once the simultaneous “amens” rang out, the group wasted no time at all digging right in.
The tree duties had resumed right after the two families had polished off their dessert. The group worked well together and had worked rather quickly to complete the fun tasks. Everyone had been designated a job and each person had taken it seriously. The families finally stood back to view the end results of their handiwork.
It was now time for the colorful and brilliant show of light. Roman was to do the honors. Jacque scurried around the place, turning off all other lights.
“Lights, action,” Roman breathed excitedly. One flick of his finger on the switch caused the tree to come to life with hundreds of dazzling miniature white lights.
The magical moment had taken everyone’s breath away. All hands were linked together as the oohs and aahs continued to ebb and flow. There was not one pair of eyes without tears of holiday sentiment. Then the laughter broke out, loudly and freely.
“Oh, we forgot one thing,” Weston said. He ran over to the kitchen counter and picked up the mistletoe, holding it up for everyone to see. “Who wants the honors?” Weston looked directly at Jessica, hoping she might step forward. He would like nothing better than to kiss her breathless beneath the fresh sprig of mistletoe.
“I’ll hang it,” Jennifer sang out, moving toward Weston. As soon as she reached for the mistletoe, she saw the disappointment in Weston’s eyes. She didn’t have to be a genius to figure out what was wrong with him.
After Jennifer took possession of the mistletoe, she walked over to Jessica and handed it to her. “You should be the one to do the honors. Does everyone agree?”
Enthusiastic hand-clapping thundered in the room.
Jessica knew what everyone hoped for; she would hang the mistletoe and Weston would kiss her while she stood under it. She had no desire to disappoint anyone, especially herself. Jessica took the offered mistletoe from Jennifer and quickly stepped up to the plate, her heart beating rapidly. The thought of Weston kissing her had her heart rate going berserk. She couldn’t wait to feel his mouth on hers.
“Get the camera,” Sahara told Roman. “This is a special holiday moment.” Although the video camera had been running throughout their time in Aspen, its adapter plugged into the electrical wall outlet, Sahara also wanted still photographs.
Jessica ended up having to get a stool to stand on because the space at the top of the kitchen entry was too high for her to reach without one. Weston rushed over to help her up on the stool, holding it firmly in place as she tacked up the small green and white sprig. Once the mistletoe was set in place, Weston reached up and brought Jessica down and into his arms. Without allowing her feet ever to touch the ground, he tenderly kissed her mouth, doing his best to stave off his desire to use his tongue to deepen the kiss.
In the next second Weston lost himself in the sweetness of Jessica’s lips. She had also slipped away into paradise. The arms that held her so securely made her feel safe and protected. So this was what it felt like to be in Weston’s arms. She had waited a long time to find out, believing she would never experience such an enchanting moment.
Jessica could only imagine the expression on her face once Weston set her down on her feet and released his hold on her. If hers was anything like the bewildered look on his face, he more than likely had also experienced what she had. A brief kiss could be every bit as sensual as a long, passionate one. His kiss had just proven that. It had also left her trembling inside and desperately wanting more of the same from him.
Jessica was relieved that no one had resorted to catcalling, whistling or clapping. Hiding her embarrassment was hard enough without all that. However, Weston didn’t look the least bit embarrassed. After all, he had initiated the kiss between them.
The other three couples went back to chatting with each other, taking their focus off Jessica and Weston purposefullly. Jessica was happy about that. She had never liked to be the center of attention.
Jessica wanted to gently touch her lips with her fingers, hoping she might still feel Weston’s kiss there. Her mind was somewhat befuddled, making her feel as if she were in a daze. She wanted him to kiss her again and again, but she wasn’t so sure it would ever recur. At any rate, Jessica knew she shouldn’t be having these types of thoughts.
Although Weston’s kiss had been soft as a whisper, the impact on Jessica’s senses was profound. Weston had her rocking and reeling and wishing they were off somewhere alone. As far as she was concerned, his kiss had impacted her way more than her first kiss had. Logan Langston had been the first male to deliver the first kiss to her “sweet sixteen” lips. She had been kissed many times since, but she hadn’t ever felt anything akin to what she now felt. The floating sensation she experienced was rather surreal.
Weston was very pleased with the ardent response his mouth had received from Jessica’s. His body was still tingling all over from their brief but very impressionable encounter. He had already begun to crave the sweet taste of her full lips. Weston knew he was addicted and he couldn’t help wondering when his next fix might come, hoping he never had to go into withdrawal. No doubt that would be painful. He thought perhaps he should say something to Jessica, but he just didn’t know what to talk about when his mind was only on one thing. Making love to her until she begged him never to stop.
Weston was positive that he and Jessica had more than just a little bit of chemistry going on between them. He hoped she had experienced the same wonderful sensations as he had. Was this the beginning of something beautiful for them or had their intimate kiss marked the end? Intimacy between a man and woman more often than not resulted in the couple taking things to the next level or it could have just the opposite effect.
Did either of them even want things to go to a higher level?
Although Weston couldn’t speak for Jessica, he was sure he wanted to take their relationship as far as it could go, wanting that more than he’d ever wanted anything. He had never desired any woman this way. Jessica had him seriously interested in making her an integral part of his life.
After deciding to put a hold on his thoughts, Weston went into the kitchen and poured two cups of hot cider. One cup was for Jessica even though she hadn’t asked for anything to drink. His desire was to reconnect with her as soon as possible so she wouldn’t find a reason to disconnect from him, period.
Weston made it back to where Jessica was and then handed over the hot drink to her. “Here you go. Be careful. It’s still hot.”
Jessica smiled at Weston as she accepted the cup from him. Although she wanted to speak to him, she was afraid of how her voice might sound. If it came out as high-strung as she felt, that would prove embarrassing. Jessica swallowed hard.
“The tree is beautiful, isn’t it? We all did a great job,” Weston said.
Jessica looked over at the Christmas tree. It was magnificent. Positioned in front of the picture window, it appeared as part of the outdoor scenery. “It’s stunning! This group has skills.”
Weston had to agree with Jessica. They had really delivered on a beautiful tree. “Think you might want to take another walk later on? It’s another great evening.”
“I’d love that.”
Jessica hadn’t hesitated in the least to reply to Weston’s query because she was very eager to spend as much time with him as he desired to spend with her. She no longer had to wonder where he was coming from. His intent toward her had been right there in his kiss. She had no desire to thwart a single intimate advance from him. Jessica recalled earlier wishing for them to be off somewhere alone—and that lofty wish was about to come true.
Weston had Jessica in his arms no sooner than they had stepped outside. His hands brought her in to him until there was nothing between them but their bulky clothing. His mouth hungrily sought hers and she responded with no less fervor. More kisses from Weston, all in the same day, had her beyond excited. Despite the heavy clothing he wore, Jessica could still feel his heat, not to mention her own. Her body felt on fire, in spite of how cold it was.
Although Jessica wished she could stay in Weston’s arms forever and a day, she slowly pulled away, hoping his feelings wouldn’t get hurt. She certainly wasn’t trying to reject him, but making a spectacle of herself in public wasn’t her cup of tea. Since they were both staying in the town houses with their parents, there was nowhere else for them to go to ensure privacy.
Weston pulled Jessica back to him. “I just leased a cabin this morning. Come back there with me? It’s close by, near the middle of the forest.”
Jessica looked surprised by Weston’s revelation. Why had he suddenly decided to get his own place? If he had leased the cabin with the intent of seducing her, shouldn’t that make her feel a bit weird? It didn’t. Did he think she was easy? Perhaps she should be concerned with what he thought about her, but she really wasn’t offended by him wanting to be alone with her. She wanted the same thing. They were adults, not teenagers.
Weston lifted Jessica’s chin with his two fingers. “What’s wrong? Did I do or say something you didn’t like?”
“What would make you think that?”
Weston stroked with his gloved hand the length of Jessica’s hair, the section that wasn’t covered by the brand-new cute winter hat she wore. “You look surprised. That’s why I asked.”
“The cabin. Why are you no longer staying with your parents in the town house they leased?” She began walking. It was really cold enough to freeze her solid.
“Oh, that.” Weston stifled his urge to laugh. He bent down and grazed her lips with his own. “Do you know how long I’ve been living on my own? I’ll tell you. Nearly ten years if you count college-dorm time. A time came when I realized my mother and father made love—terribly shocking. It’s one thing to know what your parents do in their bedroom…and another one to hear evidence of it. Let’s just say my mother was a little overzealous last night in vocalizing her physical state of euphoria.”
Jessica knew exactly where Weston was coming from, which caused her to blush heavily. Her parents had also gotten a bit rowdy a time or two in their bedroom, but those incidents had occurred way back when she and Jennifer were teenagers.
“Think they forgot I was in the house?”
“That’s pretty obvious. No parent, especially a mother, wants their child or adult son to hear them making love. I’d be mortified if it happened to me. What went down when you two saw each other this morning?”
Weston shrugged. “Mom tried not to let on. I know she knew I knew. The expression on her face changed the minute I walked into the kitchen—like she had suddenly remembered the wild escapades from the previous night. Like you did a few minutes ago, Mom blushed hard. On top of that, she looked thoroughly embarrassed. For the next half hour or so she and Dad kept exchanging questioning glances.”
“Does he know or doesn’t he? That’s what they were probably thinking.”
“Oh, no doubt. They’d like to know the truth but won’t ever ask. This is one of those uncomfortable situations they’ll always wonder about. I know that because they didn’t even ask me why I’d leased the cabin.”
“I wouldn’t have asked, either. Speaking of the cabin, we can go there now. I was just curious about you getting your own space.”
“Like my parents, I won’t ask what you thought before I told you the story. I don’t want to know, especially if it’s not favorable to me.”
“Nothing unfavorable. Not at all.”
Weston looked relieved.
The two-bedroom cabin was smaller than the town houses the Harringtons and Chamberlains had leased. Though very rustic, it was every bit as comfortable. On the way there Weston had told Jessica how lucky he had been to rent it. The guest who had held the reservation on the cabin had called to cancel only minutes before he had walked into the leasing office. The entire lodge had been booked solid up to that point; not unusual for such a major holiday.
Weston had gone to the local store to purchase some of the items he needed. He had had Jessica in mind when purchasing the Earl Grey tea, her favorite. Figuring how cold she had to be after their walk, though much shorter than their previous stroll, he went into the kitchen and turned on the teakettle.
Jessica was busy looking the rest of the place over, so Weston began lighting the candles. He burned candles at his home all the time, even in broad daylight, something his parents had done all his life. He always enjoyed the relaxing ambience they created. Lighting the fireplace came next.
Jessica stepped into the room at the same time Weston finished with the fireplace. He preferred to burn real wood, but a lot of the resorts had begun using gas-burning equipment. The firelight was just as beautiful, but he regretted the absence of the woody scents he loved. The town houses had wood-burning fireplaces.
The warm sensations Jessica experienced over the tea Weston had prepared made her smile. He had been a busy man in her absence, since he had also taken care of the fireplace. He seemed to like to take care of her and his attentiveness made her feel special.
Chapter 4
Curled up on the large rug in front of the fireplace was right where Jessica longed to stay. Positioned right behind her, his hand lying flat on her abdomen, Weston pressed his body against hers. She hoped she wouldn’t need to disrupt their serenity for a bathroom break, feeling as though she had drunk enough tea to float a small ship. She also felt very drowsy. A short nap could only do her body good. Sleep should be the last thing on her mind when she had such a sexy live wire lying next to her.
Weston nibbled at Jessica’s ear, slowly outlining it with his tongue. He felt her tense up and then relax in the next instant. “Warm enough?”
If Jessica’s anatomy got any hotter, she’d find herself begging Weston to help cool her down by any means necessary. Being in such close proximity to him made her feel as if she was amidst a firestorm. The inability to get his earlier kisses out of her mind had only added more heat to the mix. The man definitely knew how to dole out the passionate kisses. His full, pouting lips moving over hers was one of the most sensual experiences she had ever encountered.
It was very easy for Jessica to imagine Weston making wild, hot and heavy love to her. All she had to do was close her eyes to envision them entwined in a compromising position. She had only conjured up that very erotic image of them hundreds of times over the past years. He was an expert in keeping her mind and body turned on, even when he wasn’t in her presence. A cold shower would work wonders for her right about now.
Jessica had decided not to answer Weston’s question about being warm enough, since she couldn’t answer it candidly. The truth could set them both on fire. If he knew how often she thought of them making love, he would want to make certain all of her dreams and fantasies about it came true.
Weston buried his nose in Jessica’s hair, inhaling deeply of its fresh scent. As he tenderly kissed her neck and ears, periodically allowing his tongue in on the action, he had a hard time suppressing his arousal. Over the past twenty-four hours he had had his own erotic thoughts about the two of them. He couldn’t help wondering what kind of intimate apparel she wore. Silk, lace or cotton? A thong, bikinis or briefs?
It wasn’t hard for Weston to conjure up an image of Jessica wearing a hot lace or silk teddy. Her long hair swinging loose and free over her perfectly rounded breasts caused him to have a painful stiffening. The image of her in nothing at all was the one he loved most. He wanted her in the worst way, desired to lose himself deep inside her. He couldn’t wait until Jessica was ready for that.
Weston wasn’t the kind of guy who indulged in any sort of casual sex and he was pretty sure Jessica wasn’t into that lifestyle, either. There just wasn’t enough time for them to develop a deep, meaningful relationship before they had to go their separate ways.
Weston knew he had to remedy that. Seeing her beyond Aspen was the key. Jessica agreeing to his proposition was anyone’s guess, but he would suggest visiting her in California soon. It wasn’t about sex, either. He wanted her, period.
The intense heat burning between Jessica’s thighs had her turning over and pressing her body fully against Weston’s. Foreplay had its benefits even though it could get a body into lots of trouble, literally. Turning off the turn-on wasn’t always easy to accomplish. Despite her warning thoughts Jessica engaged Weston in a hot, wet kiss.
Weston responded to Jessica’s kiss with the same degree of passion, loving the way her mouth fitted perfectly against his. He couldn’t get enough of the sweet taste of her soft, crushable lips. He hated that he had missed out on all this sweetness and heady passion over the past years. Wishing he had gone along to California with his parents on their visits was no good. Those particular opportunities were lost, never to be recovered. Get over it.
Jessica pulled her head slightly back, eyeing Weston intently. “You seem to be quite a guy, directly the opposite of what I’d thought. I’m astonished by how well you turned out. I love who you’ve become. I love how you make me feel.”
“How do I make you feel?”
“Special. Whether we’re alone or with the group, I know you’re with me in mind, body and spirit. You are attentive to me. Your entire being is expressive. You don’t make a woman guess what’s going on with you. That’s a unique quality to possess. Not a lot of people can lay claim to that.”
Weston’s eyes had an undeniable way of telling Jessica he thought she was special. His hands and body language easily conveyed the messages he intended to get across. He wanted her—and his body language was easy to read. “I don’t know how I should feel about all that. You make me sound like an open book, one that’s pretty easy to read. Do I really put it out there like that?”
“Right out there in plain sight. I’m not usually bold in speech or in deed, but you are one hot man. If I were the kind of person who indulged in meaningless sex, we’d be getting it on right now. The chemistry between us is scorching hot yet so magical.”
If Jessica didn’t look so serious, Weston would have laughed. As he went over in his mind her galvanizing remarks, he sobered. She wasn’t opposed to making love under a different set of circumstances. She had voiced aloud her desire.
How was that for bringing it on home?
Weston couldn’t help wondering if Jessica already regretted her boldness. He hoped not. He also hoped she wouldn’t withdraw from the sexually charged arena. Things were just beginning to heat up…and the temp was at the top of the thermometer. Weston was a man who liked the chemistry to be hot, hot, hot.
As if Jessica had read Weston’s mind, she indulged him in another lingering kiss. Just as before, the kisses grew in intensity, making both parties wish they had been together over the past years.
Weston deeply regretted he hadn’t been able to see Jessica for who she was inside. He had focused too much on her outer appearance, but he hadn’t been anything to write home about, either. Maybe that was the reason he had mistreated her. Had she rejected him during his awkward teen years he couldn’t have handled it. Life for him as a teenager had been very difficult. Surprisingly, he could now admit to himself that he had had a serious crush on Jessica. Perhaps he hadn’t known how to show it.
Jessica pulled away from Weston and smoothed her clothing. She quickly got to her feet, leaving her companion looking bewildered. After crossing the room with deliberate strides, she stood in front of the large picture window. Why had she come to the cabin with Weston? Deeply conflicting thoughts and emotions had her at war with herself. One part of her wanted to throw caution to the wind and make steamy love to the man of her dreams. The sensible part of her makeup was telling her to run for her life, get out while she still had the strength to do so.
Weston came up behind Jessica and circled her waist. “You’re trembling. I’ve frightened you, haven’t I?”
Jessica leaned her head back against his chest. “I’ve scared myself. What we’re doing scares me even more. We’re strangers, Wes. We haven’t seen each other in ages yet we’re all over each other like two silly teenagers. Is that stranger than fiction, or what?”
Weston kissed the top of her head. “It’s called attraction, sweetie. I don’t know about you, but it’s more than just a physical magnetism on my part. If you think all I want to do is get you into bed, you’re wrong. I really want to get to know you.”
Jessica turned completely around and looked up into his eyes. “Are you serious?”
As Weston’s lips connected with Jessica’s, he closed his eyes for a moment. “I’ve never been more serious. This is not a holiday fling for me. What’s happening to me has nothing to do with a festive atmosphere. My heart is compromised. I hope that’s not too much information.”
Jessica stood on tiptoes and kissed him deeply. “Just enough information to keep me from questioning my sanity. So, do we just wait and see what develops between us?”
“I think to do otherwise would be insane. I’m in. Are you?”
Jessica smiled sweetly. “In.”
The couple fell into an easy, warm embrace, hugging each other to show they were on the same wavelength.
“I have an idea, Jessica. What about ice-skating away the rest of the evening?”
“I’m all for your idea, though I’m afraid I might kill myself on the skates. I’m terrible at skating. Will you help me up when I fall?”
“You bet I will.”
“Should we see if the others want to go?”
“This is a family holiday. Let’s stop by and see what they’re up to.” Weston looked down at his wristwatch. “We’d better get a move on since the ice rink closes at eleven and it’s almost eight-thirty now.”
As the two families filed out of the vehicles, Jessica could see that the arena was filled with patrons. All the colorful winter clothing worn by the skaters, not to mention the dazzling lights strategically posted around the place, brought the outdoor arena to life. Once both vehicles were unloaded, everyone made their way inside the ice rink, where the skate-rental booth and refreshment bar were located. The place was also equipped with a wood-burning fireplace.
“What size skate do you need?” Weston asked Jessica.
It was time for Jessica to get her payback against Weston. She laughed with enthusiasm. After reaching down into the small duffel-style bag, she pulled out a shiny pair of white ice skates. “Ta-da,” she exclaimed, holding up the skates for him to see.
“Oh, no! You set me up, girl. I’ve been had. You lied about not knowing how to skate, didn’t you? How you going to play me like that?” Because she came from Southern California, he’d been sure she wouldn’t know a thing about ice-skating.
Jessica howled. “Just as you lied about your spelling skills. Now we’re even.” She had the most devilish expression on her face. “Two liars, and we’re not ashamed,” she sang out, using the tune to Mary Wells’s song “Two Lovers,” a great Motown sound.
Weston laughed heartily. “You have the gear. Now let’s see what the little girl from Southern Cal can do. I’m putting twenty bucks on myself. Before you take the bet, keep in mind that you’re competing with a guy who skates in New York’s famous Central Park. Among some of the best ice-skaters around, I might add.”
Jessica smirked. “Cut the boasting. Let your feet do the bragging. Twenty bucks is all you’re in jeopardy of losing. You probably drink up at least that much at Starbucks in a week’s time. You won’t miss the money.”
“That’s not too far-fetched. I do need my caffeine fix, but you’ll be the one paying my coffee bill the first week I’m home.”
“We’ll see. If I were you, I wouldn’t count my chickens before they hatch.”
After Weston was in possession of his size-eleven rentals, he and Jessica found an empty bench, where they sat down and laced up their skates. She couldn’t wait to hit the ice to show off her talent. Weston wasn’t as eager about revealing his skills after seeing Jessica’s skates. They looked somewhat used so he knew they hadn’t been purchased for show. He hadn’t given any thought to indoor ice rinks, but he had known they existed. Los Angeles wouldn’t have come to mind.
Whether Jessica was talented enough to compete against him remained to be seen. However, the only competition he was interested in was the one that’d win him her heart. She had already won his.
The songs being played were up-to-date rhythm and blues hits. A song by Usher and one by Lionel Ritchie had played while everyone had laced up their skates. The tune currently playing was Beyoncé Knowles’s “Crazy In Love.” Jessica couldn’t remember if it was off the first or second album, but it was one of her favorites, a really upbeat song to skate to.
As if Jessica was playing a game of tag, she hit Weston playfully and then took off for the ice, hoping he’d chase after her. He did. Seeing that he was up to the challenge, giving her the opportunity to skate circles around him, Jessica started whirling around the ice as though she owned it. She was good on the ice.
Weston nearly fell when he had a hard time taking his eyes off Jessica’s fascinating technique. That made him more determined to win. He was darn good at ice-skating, too, much better than she gave him credit for. He had learned to ice-skate as a young boy, taught by his parents. It was often considered a sissy sport in many circles, but not among his New York City friends. Men were always seen skating in Central Park’s ice arena during the winter; it was a favorite pastime for a lot of couples Weston knew personally.
When Jessica saw Jennifer hit her behind on the ice pretty hard, she started toward her, hoping she wasn’t hurt. Before she could reach her sister, Samuel was already assisting his wife. Once Jessica saw that Jennifer was okay, both husband and wife laughing about the mishap, she took off again.
After Jessica had covered the entire arena, skating a fun routine with lots of enthusiasm, the music slowed down. Weston quickly skated over to her and engaged in a couple’s skate. The competition was over. His skills were no match for Jessica’s. He planned to dig into his pocket and hand over the twenty-dollar bill. She had won it fair and square. The lady from sunny California was a dynamo on the ice.
Jessica liked the protective feel of Weston’s arm wrapped snugly around her waist. As they glided atop the ice, she laughed inwardly, thinking of the romantic ice shows on television. Pairs skating was her favorite. She imagined the two of them executing a great lift. Slithering seductively down his body would make a great ending. He would then look at her as though she was the only woman in the world for him.
Weston was McDreamy, McSteamy, McSweetie and McSensitive all rolled into one sensuous human being. Life is good. Sooo good.
“Hey, Miss Olympic champion,” Jennifer yelled from the side rail, “you’re looking pretty hot out there. Work those ice skates, girlfriend.”
Jessica flashed her sister a bright smile and the thumbs-up sign. The others waved as she and Weston appeared to fly by on wings.
Weston gently tightened his grip on Jessica’s waist. “You are good, you know.”
“Yeah, I do. Wish I could reach my back with ease. I’d give it a good pat.”
Weston couldn’t help laughing. What kind of man laughed along with a woman who had just kicked his butt on a twenty-dollar bet? A man who had begun to fall in love with the same woman who’d dished out one can of whoop-butt.
“Instead of paying up twenty dollars, you can buy me dinner tomorrow night. How’s that for a compromise?”
“You deserve both. I’d do anything to hang out with you. Dinner alone, just the two of us?”
“Just the two of us. Sounds nice and cozy. I don’t think our families will protest, seeing how badly they want us to become an item. Ugh, we’re starting to fall right into their perfectly set trap.”
“Hmm. Maybe, maybe not.”
As Jessica and Weston joined their families, he looked at her and sighed heavily. “I don’t know why I ever thought we’d get along with each other. You’re still insufferable. The older you get the more unbearable you are. You need to grow up, Jessica. Life is passing you by while you’re still stuck in your adolescence.” He looked at his mother. “And to think I let you guilt-talk me into this trip. I must’ve been insane.”
Jessica’s brow furrowed. “What?” She looked totally puzzled. Where had Weston’s sudden flash of anger come from? His odd behavior was so off the wall.
His unexpected outburst made no sense at all to Jessica; they’d just been laughing and joking up a storm. The concerned looks made her wish she could sprout wings and fly away. How dare Weston embarrass her like that…and in front of both their families? It looked as if perhaps he hadn’t changed at all.
Had McBratty risen from the ashes?
The others looked like they felt sorry for Jessica. She felt kind of sorry for herself. Weston’s tongue had been rather sharp. Then she saw his barely noticeable wink. She had to work hard to hide her astonishment. The “maybe, maybe not” response made sense now. He’d been trying to make the others think they weren’t getting along. The funny thing was it looked as if everyone had bought into his melodrama. Weston had even sold her on it.
Jessica smiled inwardly as she returned to the ice.
As Weston joined Jessica, he got out in front of her and began skating backward.
Smiling with admiration, Jessica gave him an approving nod. “You were very convincing. But there’s one problem.”
“What’s that?”
“How do we continue hanging out and enjoy each other’s company when we’re supposed to be at odds?”
Weston scratched his head. “Hadn’t thought about it like that. Anyway, let’s let them think we’re making up. You know what they say about making up.”
Weston winked at Jessica again. She stopped and he skated up to her. Taking her into his arms, he gave her a warm hug. “We don’t want to pour it on too thick. Everyone will be watching our every move from here on in. When we’re in private, we’ll do the make-up bit right.”
“As if they haven’t already been watching us,” Jessica said. “I bet our relationship is their first topic of discussion and the last one.”
“You’re probably right. Can I interest you in a cup of hot chocolate?”
“Sounds divine. I’m also intrigued by the promised make-up session.”
The Commodores’ “Brick House” came pounding out from the speakers before Jessica and Weston could clear the ice. Loving the oldie song, one of her parents’ favorites, Jessica whirled away from him and began ice-dancing. As if she were the only person out there, she lost herself in the hip-stirring rhythm. Jessica ice-danced every bit as well as she danced.
Watching Jessica’s seductive moves had Weston hurrying across the ice to join her. As his hips gyrated wildly to the funky beat, she moved to the center of the rink, summoning him to follow her. It didn’t take long before many of the other skaters decided to join their routine. A line dance ensued as the next song came on.
Back inside Weston’s rented condo, seated at the breakfast bar, he dropped several tiny marshmallows into Jessica’s cup of hot chocolate. “Want more?”
“That’s plenty. Thank you.” Jessica scooped up a handful of marshmallows and dropped them one by one into his mug. “I’m worn out. What about you?”
“Same here. We’ve had a very long day, an even longer evening. I’ve enjoyed every second of it. Not only that, the time is moving too quickly for me. Our winter wonderland vacation will be over before we know it.”
Jessica was saddened by his remark. It would be over soon, much too soon, as far as she was concerned. She’d had no idea that Weston could be this much fun, not to mention how romantic and sensual he was. She’d miss him. “It is going by pretty quickly. Getting back to work will be tough after I’m finished playing so hard.”
Wearing a serious expression on his face, Weston made direct eye contact with Jessica. “Now that we’re on this subject, I want to ask you something. What’s the chance of us getting together after we leave Aspen?”
Jessica shrugged. “We live on separate coasts. I don’t know how we’d manage it. California to New York is at least a five-hour flight, one way.”
“What if I agree to do the traveling? Can I visit you in L.A.?”
Jessica looked surprised by the questions. “You’d be willing to do that?”
“In a New York minute.” He grinned. “No pun intended. What about it?”
“I’m okay with it if you are. I have a guest bedroom. Just let me know when.”
“We’re on!” Weston was obviously pleased by the outcome of his probe.
Jessica fished out a melted marshmallow from her cup. She then held the tiny morsel up to Weston’s lips. After taking the tidbit from her hand, he licked her finger in a provocative way. “Sweet, so sweet. Think I can get another one?”
Jessica repeated the act. This time he drew her finger into his mouth and sucked on it gently. His eyes connected soulfully with hers, causing her to blush. “I think it’s time for us to make up. What do you think?”
Jessica responded to Weston’s question by offering up her lips to taste. He quickly accepted the sweet offer in the spirit it had been presented. Kissing her had already become his most favorite thing to do.
Jessica’s cell phone abruptly interrupted the intimate moment. After identifying the caller, she thought about not answering. She then thought better of it. It could be something important. She really cared about her friends. And Jarred might be having a hard time over the bad breakup with Melanie. She wanted to be there for him.
“Where are you?” Jarred asked Jessica, sounding rather anxious.
“You already know where I am. What’s up?”
“You’re not with your family, because I just called there.”
“And? What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Nothing, really. I just wanted to make sure you’re okay. It bothers me that you’re in Aspen with some guy who doesn’t value you as a person. Please tell me you are not off somewhere alone with him.”
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Linda Hudson-Smith
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: They are all wrong for each other…Jessica Harrington knows what she doesn′t want for Christmas–to be roped in to her parents′ matchmaking scheme. Ever since she and Weston Chamberlain were children, their fathers hoped they would marry and merge their families′ fortunes. One problem–Jessica and Wes can′t tolerate one another! But love can make everything right…Wes, who arrives in Aspen for the families′ shared ski vacation, has grown up…in delicious ways. And beautiful Jessica is nothing like the awkward teen Wes remembers. The breathtaking setting fuels a sizzling attraction that surprises them both. But living on opposite coasts is only one of many obstacles ahead. Can romance last once they′ve left their winter wonderland behind?