Snowed in for a second c.., p.10
Snowed in for a Second Chance, page 10
Finally, the door opened and they headed upstairs to Sarah’s apartment. Thankfully, Sarah opened her apartment door much more quickly. Griffin’s nerves were frayed with the promise of Sarah.
Flicking on lights as they entered, Sarah shed her coat, hanging it up on a hook and taking Griffin’s to hang next to it.
She gestured for him to enter her cozy living room. Griffin looked around, taking in the space. The walls were painted a dark grey, which highlighted the bright white of the decorative molding. The living room furniture was elegant, but looked comfortable as well. A rainbow of pillows in rich jewel tones accented the sofa and the armchair. Her coffee table was a rich wood with elegant lines.
“I like your style,” Griffin said, indicating the room.
Sarah followed his gaze. “Thanks. I got lucky at consignment stores. It’s amazing what you can find second hand.”
Griffin smiled. “Yes, I’m definitely in favor of second chances. For furniture and people.”
Sarah returned his smile and for a moment he was seventeen again, watching as she smiled at a joke he made. He always could make her smile. It had been one of his favorite pastimes. Watching her laugh at a joke or smile at a fond memory.
Tension wound around them. What would happen now?
“Coffee’s in the kitchen. Why don’t you make yourself comfortable while I make some?”
Griffin closed the distance between them slowly, deliberately. Giving her time to put the brakes on if she chose. “Do you really want coffee?”
She shivered as he touched the side of her neck lightly, winding a tendril of hair around his finger. “No.”
“Good. Neither do I.” He combed his fingers through her long blond hair. “What do you want, Sarah?” She needed to say it. He couldn’t explain why, but it was very important to him she speak the words out loud.
“I want…” The words hung in the air. Griffin held his breath, waiting for her response. “I want you.” Her voice was stronger this time, and Griffin breathed a sigh of relief. She wanted him.
He closed the final distance between them to capture her mouth in a kiss. Her mouth was soft, yielding, and so sweet. This was so much like their first time, yet nothing at all like that. Back then, they had stolen moments in her trailer, always on edge in case Tyler came home unexpectedly.
Now they could relax. Luxuriate in this moment. Enjoy every sensation with no interruption. Griffin planned to take full advantage of that fact. His hand tangled in her silky hair and she reached out to wind her hands around his neck, pulling him closer. He could taste the rich wine she drank for dinner on her lips.
Sarah sighed softly, relaxing further into him. He released her mouth to trail kisses down her neck, and she tilted her head to allow him better access. Her arms gripped his biceps now as his mouth found his way to her ear, where he gently nibbled the lobe.
Sarah moved her hands down from his biceps to his forearms, to grasp his hands in hers.
“This is really happening,” she breathed. “We’re getting our second chance.”
“Yes, we are. I let you go the first time. I don’t plan on making the same mistake twice.”
Sarah smiled. “You better not. I’m counting on you sticking around for a long time.”
“I’m planning to stick around for as long as you’ll have me.”
“Good.” Sarah leaned in again and Griffin captured her lips in a searing kiss. This felt so right. Sarah in his arms, where she was meant to be.
“Let’s go to bed.” She tugged him gently toward her bedroom. Impatient, Griffin picked her up in his arms. Yelping with surprise, she swatted at his arm. He crossed the distance of the living room to her bedroom door, using his foot to push open the door before stepping in.
He didn’t stop until he reached the bed, gently tossing her down. He stood watching her, hazel eyes blazing with emotion. Slowly, he unbuttoned his shirt, revealing tanned skin, little by little.
He took pleasure in watching Sarah squirm with anticipation. Part of him wanted to draw this moment out until she was begging, but he didn’t have the self control. Following her down on the bed, he caged her face between his strong hands.
“Sarah girl, it’s always been you. It will always be you.”
Sarah’s eyes shone with emotion. “Yes, Griffin, it will always be you.”
He captured her lips in a kiss, able to communicate so much more with his lips than his words.
“I can’t believe this is happening.”
Griffin growled. “Believe it. I’m never letting you go. Not again.”
Chapter 23
The second time in less than a week that Sarah was waking up with Griffin. She snuggled into the warmth of his body next to hers, in no hurry to wake up. Griffin slung an arm around her, pulling her closer. The early morning light filtered in between the slats of the wooden blinds.
Thankfully, she had the foresight to arrange for coverage to open her store this morning. She could enjoy the rare luxury of sleeping in, while the town bustled down below.
Griffin turned to her, his voice panic-stricken. “Shouldn’t you be downstairs?”
Laughing, Sarah assured him all was well. “I arranged for someone to cover my shift this morning.”
His eyes burned hot at that information. “So, we have time? That’s good because I’m not ready to let you go just yet.”
He trailed his tongue lazily along her shoulder.
“Wait, a minute. If you arranged coverage, does that mean…” He looked up questioningly.
Ducking her head sheepishly, she admitted the truth. “I had a pretty good idea we’d be up late. I didn’t want to have to go to bed late and wake up early.”
“Knew we’d be up late, did you? You little minx. I’m glad you have coverage because I’m going to take full advantage of the extra time.”
Walking into her shop mid-morning, right as the church crowd was coming in, was probably not the best idea. She may as well have put a neon sign on her forehead that announced I slept with Griffin. All her regulars knew her schedule. They knew she opened herself bright and early on Sunday morning and was usually making a fresh pot of coffee right about now. Not strolling in the front door, clearly having just showered.
She hurried behind the counter, hoping few noticed her conspicuous absence until a few moments ago.
“Sarah!” Her most loyal customer, Betty, called to her as she stirred creamer into her coffee. “There you are! I was hoping you weren’t sick. It’s not like you to miss Sunday mornings.”
“I’m fine, Betty. I just needed to do something this morning. How’s your grandson?” The turn of conversation did just what Sarah hoped and distracted Betty with her favorite topic. As she expounded on the new words her grandson had learned that week, Sarah’s barista, Ginger, leaned close.
“Was the ‘something’ you did this morning by any chance Griffin Walker?”
“Ginger!” she hissed under her breath. “Someone might hear.”
“So, it was. Well, good on you. He’s a hottie for an older guy.” Sarah had to smile at Ginger’s description of Griffin. Ginger was all of 18 and to her both she and Griffin were probably ancient.
Ginger’s eyes held a new respect she hadn’t noticed before. She had to admit it felt pretty damn great the morning after. She and Griffin had breakfast and coffee together before he made his way home, and she got ready for work.
She flushed thinking of the night they spent together and she glanced around at the church ladies sipping their coffee, feeling self-conscious. It’s silly to think they all knew what she was up to and even if they did, she was a grown woman after all. Everyone was busily chatting at their tables, sipping coffee and eating their danish. If they were talking about her, they were doing a good job of hiding it.
Relieved, she took a moment to step into her office. She had some bookkeeping that needed review and she planned to take advantage of the extra help this morning.
A review of the spreadsheet offered no more encouragement than last week. The numbers were still in the negative. There had been an excellent review by their first cabin guest that had garnered a few reservations. The deposit was a small boost, but until the new guests paid in full, she was still in the negative. A few more reservations paid and this prospect would break even. This partnership between Jitters and Walker Adventure Tours might just work after all. Would the partnership between her and Griffin work as well?
Picking up the phone, she dialed Owen to share the promising news. “Owen, it’s Sarah. I’m looking at the spreadsheets and they are looking a little better, but we’ll need more reservations to pay our loan. Have you gotten any more interest?”
Owen had received a good response to recent social media postings. Reservations were trickling in. They discussed a few ideas to market the cabin before hanging up, agreeing to talk again next week.
Her phone buzzed with a text. Griffin. He hadn’t even left her an hour ago, and he was already texting.
I had a great time last night. When can I see you again?
Griffin already wanted to see her again? Her heart leapt at the possibility.
Hmm, what are you doing Saturday? It’s the annual winter gift fair out at the Cooper ranch. I’m planning to go-it would be fun if you joined me.
As soon as she sent the text, Sarah regretted it. The winter gift fair was a popular event and most of the town attended. It was a very public outing. Where they would be seen together on what clearly would look like a date. It would raise questions. And eyebrows.
No return text came in, confirming Sarah’s fears. As much as Griffin said he wanted to have a relationship with her and try again, was he ready to take it public? To commit openly to Sarah. Her stomach sank with the realization that he may not feel the same way she did.
A buzz startled her, and relief flooded through her at Griffin’s message.
Sure, sounds fun. I’ll text you later and we can decide what time I’ll pick you up.
A mix of relief and apprehension flooded Sarah. Excited to see Griffin again, yet worried for her heart, which had already been stomped on once. Was she setting herself up for another heartbreak?
Just enjoy the time you have, she reminded herself sternly. Life is short. When it brings joy into your life, take it all in and store it up for the bleak times. No regrets.
Chapter 24
“I heard you had a hot date last night, big brother.” Owen was sitting with his feet propped on his desk, his expression smug. No matter what age, little brothers could be annoying.
“Sarah and I went out for dinner.”
“And made moony eyes at each other the whole evening, from what I heard.”
“Since when is my social life town gossip?”
“Since you and Sarah got back together. You know this town has been shipping you all these years.”
“Shipping? Seriously, Owen, you’re talking like a teenager.”
“Sorry old man, I’ll use words you know. Shipping just means the town wants you both to get back together.”
“I know what shipping means. I just think it sounds ridiculous coming from a grown man.”
Owen shrugged, unperturbed as usual by Griffin’s seriousness. He swung his legs down and stood to stretch. “Well, it’s the truth. The entire town has talked about nothing but you two since you came home. They’re in for a disappointment when you leave again without closing the deal with Sarah.”
Griffin passed Owen on the way to the mini fridge where they kept water and soda stocked for customers. He smacked Owen lightly on the head before snagging water for himself.
“Who says I haven’t closed the deal?”
Owen pivoted to stare in disbelief. “You’re marrying her?”
Griffin spit his water out at that preposterous suggestion. “Who said anything about marriage? I meant we’re dating. See where things go.”
“See where things will go? Griffin, I knew you were an idiot, but I didn’t take you for stupid. There’s only one place things could go, and that’s marriage. Either you’re headed to the altar or you’re breaking up. There is no middle ground with Sarah.”
“You’re wrong, Owen. This was her idea. Her exact words. Let’s see where things go. No pressure.”
“Women always say that. In my experience, they never mean it.”
“Well, Sarah means it.”
Owen’s expression turned serious, which was rare for his fun-loving younger brother. “Dude, just be careful. Sarah is practically family. If things blow up with you both again, I’m not sure they’ll ever be the same between any of us. We’ve already lost Mom and Dad. I really don’t want to lose one of my best friends. Because you know that Tyler will also be pissed if you mess this up.”
Griffin stopped, water bottle mid-air, as that reality sunk in fully. He was an idiot. There was no way he could keep things casual with Sarah and rekindle their romance without the situation getting serious, quickly. He didn’t want to get married. He envisioned an uncomplicated relationship where they got together whenever he was in town, but he was still free to travel when needed. Maybe not as much as he used to, but some. He wasn’t ready to settle in Wildwood Falls and get married.
“I will not mess things up. I’ll talk to Sarah, make sure we’re on the same page. The town will have to deal.”
Owen looked doubtful. “I hope you know what you’re doing. Just do me a favor and give me a heads up when this goes south so I know to lie low.”
“I have no plans for it to go south, as you so eloquently put it. I’m seeing Sarah Saturday and I’ll talk to her then.”
“Saturday? This weekend is the big arts and crafts festival out at the Cooper ranch. I thought you were planning to go.”
“I am. Sarah and I are going together.”
Owen shook his head. “I was wrong. Not only are you an idiot, you’re also stupid. The entire town will be there. Everyone is going to think you’re going out.”
“We are going out. I don’t mind people knowing that. After last night, I’d think it was pretty obvious.”
“What is obvious?” His little sister, Payton, bounced in the office, leaving the door wide open and an icy breeze swept through their small space.
“The door, Payton! You’re not a teenager anymore, so can you please stop acting like it.”
Payton rolled her eyes at Griffin’s attempt at parental privilege. She backtracked to bump the door shut with her hip as her hands were full. She carried coffee in her right hand and brochures for their business in her left.
“The fact that Griffin and Sarah are dating again.” Owen, ever helpful, brought the conversation back to Griffin.
“What?! That’s amazing! I’m so happy for you guys! I always wanted a sister.”
“We’re dating, Payton, we’re not getting married.”
“Not right away, of course, you’re only just starting dating again.”
“Never, Payton. Get that idea out of your mind right now. It’s not that kind of serious.”
Payton pouted, looking every inch the teenager she was not that long ago.
“Well, that’s no fun. And also totally not realistic. You two are meant to be together. You’re soul mates. I’ve known that since I was a kid.”
“Soul mates don’t exist.”
Payton frowned. “Of course they do. How can you not believe in soul mates?”
Griffin shook his head. “Sorry, Payton, no matchmaking. Sarah and I are just fine without meddling.”
“I’m not meddling. I’m helping you get your head out of your…”
“Payton!” Griffin lost patience with his irrepressible younger sister. “Language!”
That admonishment earned him another eye roll. “I’m a grown adult, Griffin. It’s time you realized that.”
“I may realize it, but I don’t have to accept it.”
“Stubborn ass.” With that pronouncement, Payton settled at her desk, opened her laptop, and ignored him.
Younger sisters were just as annoying as younger brothers, it seemed.
“What I actually came by to tell you both that I’ll be staying longer than I expected. Being home, I realize I want to stick around more. Not miss out on as much.”
Payton’s head lifted with interest. “You’re staying? For good?” The wide smile she offered confirmed he was doing the right thing.
“I’ll use Wildwood Falls as my home base. I still need to travel some, but I called a friend of mine who got a gig producing a new series where every season focused on a distinct part of the country. There’s some interest in filming a season in Montana and Wyoming. If it works out, I could host that season and be home much more. I’d only travel when we film and it would be relatively local.”
“That would be awesome!” Payton got up from her desk and threw herself at him for a hug. I haven’t had you home since I was a kid.”
Owen reached out to shake his hand. “Good on you, Griffin. It will be nice to have you around to grab a beer with and stuff.”
Griffin wasn’t sure what reaction he expected when he shared the news, but didn’t expect such resounding support. He kind of figured by now his siblings would be used to life without him and might resent him being around more. It turned out they welcomed the change.
He wondered what Sarah would think of the news. He’d said he wanted to spend more time with her, but he suspected she thought he was dreaming. He hoped she’d be excited that he’d made actual real-world plans. That was the problem last time. They had all these vague dreams that sounded great, but were not practical. He was all about the practical these days. While he didn’t want marriage and kids, he wanted Sarah. He couldn’t wait until Saturday night to tell her the good news.
Chapter 25
“Cheers!” Sarah clinked glasses with Rylee and Joy. They were meeting in Sarah’s apartment for appetizers and drinks.
