Chapter Five

After a long, dusty ride back to the house, Maverick maneuvered the ATV into the barn and helped Parker off it. He then pushed the vehicle into the back room before reemerging. He grinned when he saw Parker sitting on the floor of the barn, her fingers tangled in Blue's soft fur as she played with her.

"You're going to get filthy." Maverick chuckled as he extended a hand to help her up.

Parker grinned mischievously as she brushed dirt off the back of her shorts.

"I don't mind. I love this dog. How old is she?"

"Three. I've had her since she was seven weeks old."

"Where did you get her? I've always been a fan of Australian Shepherds. I'd love to have one. We didn't have dogs because Brad was allergic, but I always wanted one."

"Gabe Stone used to breed them and sell them. A lot of ranchers and farmers use Aussies for herding. He said that was the last litter."

"I've met Gabe before. He's quite handsome with that mustache, and Emma is such a sweet woman."

"I agree about Emma, not so much about Gabe." Maverick grinned.

Parker laughed. "You're not a fan of his mustache?"

"He's not my type." He shrugged. "Besides, he's married."

"Good thing. Otherwise, why am I here?" Parker teased .

Maverick chuckled. "I can grow a mustache if that's what you like."

Parker eyed him, tilting her head from side to side before shaking it with a smile.

"I have a feeling it would look more like a pornstache on you. I'd hear bow chicka wow wow anytime I looked at you."

Maverick laughed. "Yeah, that's probably not a good look for me." Maverick wrapped his arms around Parker's waist and gazed into her eyes.

"I'd rather have nothing covering this handsome face," she said as she cupped his lightly whiskered cheek in her hand.

"Whatever you want, sweetheart. Let's go inside then and escape this heat." Maverick took her hand and led her out of the barn.

"Where's your horse?" Parker asked curiously.

"At the main ranch. Why?"

"I just wanted to see what he looked like."

"I can take you there if you want."

"I'd love that," Parker replied eagerly.

"Anything for you, darlin'." Maverick grinned. "Let's go."

They got into his truck and Blue hopped into the back seat with a bark of excitement.

"She knows where we're going. She loves Cisco." Maverick drove them to the main part of the ranch and parked beside the horse barn. After getting out, he led Parker to his horse's stall, Blue trotting ahead of them. She stopped in front of the gate.

"She knew exactly where to go," Parker whispered in amazement.

"Yeah, she loves coming here. This is Cisco," Maverick said, gesturing toward the horse .

"Oh, my goodness! He's stunning. What breed is he?"

"He's an American Quarter horse, standing at seventeen hands. A big boy."

"May I pet him?"

"If you'd like."

Parker eagerly approached the gate, her feet dragging slightly in the dirt as she couldn't seem to take her eyes off Cisco. She rested her hands on the metal bars and gazed admiringly at the large horse before her.

"I'm afraid he'll bite me," she said nervously.

Maverick chuckled. "He won't bite. He's a gentle horse. Aren't you buddy?" He reached through the bars and rubbed the horse's nose, causing Cisco to nicker happily. "Give me your hand." Parker hesitantly extended her hand and placed it on the soft muzzle of the horse, her fingers gently rubbing back and forth. "Just softly rub his nose."

"It's so soft!" Parker exclaimed with a laugh, looking at Maverick.

"Maverick?" A familiar voice called out from behind them, causing both to turn around. It was Warren and Peyton, entering the barn with smiles on their faces.

"Hey, Warren. Peyton." Maverick greeted them.

"Oh, hey, Parker," Warren said with a grin.

"Hi, Warren. Hi, Peyton." Parker grinned back at them.

After talking for a while, Warren and Peyton saddled their horses and rode out of the barn together. As they disappeared into the distance, Parker turned to Maverick with a dreamy look in her eyes.

"He's so handsome," she sighed wistfully.

"Damn, woman," Maverick teased playfully.

"I'm teasing you," she shook her head playfully at him. "And you say I'm easy to tease."

He pulled her into his arms, his lips gently grazing against her neck as he spoke. "I'd love to tease you... in bed."

"Turnabout is fair play," Parker replied with a mischievous glint in her eye.

"Hell, me and my big mouth." Maverick laughed, pulling away from her. "Want to go for a ride?"

"Are you talking about horses? Because if you are, that's a big no," Parker teased him.

"Maybe I'm talking about another kind of ride." He winked at her suggestively.

"In your truck?" she raised her eyebrow playfully.

He grinned and took her hand, leading her out of the barn. "Let's head back to the house and be lazy the rest of the day."

She smiled and squeezed his hand, as they drove back to his house together.

****

As the sun rose, Parker unlocked the door to the shop and stepped inside. She placed her purse in the safe before beginning her daily routine of dusting the shelves and glassware. Midway through, a knock sounded on the back door.

She quickly made her way to the back and opened the door to see Barry, the delivery man, standing there with a smile. The warmth of the morning sun bathed his face as he greeted her. "Morning, Parker. I have a delivery for you. Could you sign here, please?" He gave her a handheld device commonly used by delivery services.

Parker eagerly signed for the five boxes that were being delivered, her mind already buzzing with excitement over what new pieces Lou had created this time. As Barry propped the door open and began unloading the boxes from his van, Parker returned to the front counter and continued dusting. The sound of boxes being set down and shuffled around in the back only added to her anticipation.

When Shay arrived later, they wasted no time in opening the boxes and admiring each piece that was revealed. As Parker lifted a glass Australian shepherd figurine from its protective packaging, she couldn't help but smile at how much it reminded her of Blue.

"I have to get this for Maverick," she announced to Shay with enthusiasm. "It's perfect."

Shay grinned knowingly. "You know you get a discount, right?"

Parker nodded, already envisioning where she would place it in Maverick's home.

As they continued unpacking and discussing their weekend plans, Shay grinned at her.

"So, have you gotten that sexy man in bed yet?"

Parker blushed and shook her head. "No..."

"What? Girl, he's not going to wait forever," Shay teased. "How many dates have you been on now? "

"Two... well, three if you count yesterday."

Shay raised an eyebrow. "Did he pick you up?"

Parker nodded.

"Did he take you home?"

Again, Parker nodded.

"That's a date. The third date. The important one." Shay waggled her eyebrows playfully, causing Parker to laugh and feel butterflies in her stomach at the same time.

"I'm just nervous," she admitted. "Especially after he told me he doesn't mince words, in or out of bed."

"Oh damn," Shay exclaimed with a mock shudder. "That's hot."

"May I confide in you?"

Shay nodded, a look of trust and confidentiality in her eyes. "Of course, your secrets are safe with me."

Parker took a deep breath before opening up. "You know that Brad was the only man I had ever been with. But what I didn't tell you is how bland our sex life was. He hardly ever wanted it, always on top and no oral sex. Ever. And after Ronnie was born, it only got worse."

Shay's eyebrows rose in sympathy. "That sounds incredibly dull."

"I don't like speaking ill of him. I did love him, and being a virgin, I thought that was just how sex was supposed to be. But when a man doesn't expect much from you, he also doesn't give much in return. I only ever told Maverick. I wanted him to understand why I was so nervous."

"What did he say?"

"That I shouldn't have lived like that. I tried, Shay, but there were no sparks or fireworks. Just flat and unfulfilling. I started to think maybe it was just me expecting too much, that real life wasn't like Hollywood movies or romance novels."

"Bullshit," Shay interjected fiercely. "Sex can be slow and sweet, or hot and sweaty, but it should always set off fireworks. Did you even have any orgasms?"

Parker shook her head sadly. "No... I hate talking about this with anyone. Especially since I did love him."

"Who are you trying to convince?"

"Maverick asked me the same thing when I finally mustered up the courage to tell him. He knows how nervous I am, but I know you're right; he won't stay with me if we don't have a sexual relationship."

"My question is, why would you want to?"

"I don't. Believe me, when I look at Maverick, I do want to be intimate with him, but the fear of disappointing him holds me back." She sighed.

"Parker, if he truly cares about you, he won't let you disappoint him. He'll communicate and make sure you are enjoying it too."

"But I can't even fathom discussing it with him."

"You're being irrational. Any man who claims to not mince words, both in and out of bed, is not just in it for himself. He will make sure you feel good too. You don't have to discuss it with him. Show him. I bet you'd be surprised at how much desire he stirs up in you," Shay continued. "I was the same with Wes. The first time we were together, we barely knew each other but I knew I had never felt such pleasure before. And I bet Maverick knows how to please a woman."

"That's what scares me. I don't know how to please a man."

"Use your instincts. Do what feels right for you. If he doesn't like it, I'm sure he'll let you know and guide you."

"I do want him," she whispered, her voice filled with desire. "He's just so impossibly sexy and hot. I bet he has an amazing body."

Shay's eyes sparkled mischievously as she grinned. "Oh, I've seen him without a shirt and let me tell you, it was like staring at a Greek god. His pecs were hard and solid, his six-pack stomach tight and defined. I'm sure I drooled a little, but then again, Wes is built the same way." She laughed playfully; her cheeks flushed with excitement.

Parker couldn't help but join in on the teasing. "Well, I have checked him out too, and from what I've seen, Maverick is definitely not lacking in any department."

"You deserve a good man, Parker."

"I told Brad I wanted a divorce. Then that weekend, he was killed, and I felt so guilty."

"You had no way of knowing that would happen. But if you wanted to divorce him, then you knew that something was missing in your marriage."

Parker nodded and knew Shay was right.

The women continued to unpack boxes as they got ready to open for the day. They were sure it would be another busy day. But no matter how busy they were, Parker couldn't stop thinking about Maverick. The thought of getting closer to him made her heart race and her palms sweat with nerves. Maybe by Saturday night she would finally gather enough courage to make a move. Only time would tell.

****

Maverick strode through the barn, his heart filled with anticipation for the weekend ahead. Tomorrow night he would finally get to see Parker again, and he couldn't help but hope she wouldn't leave him alone once more. He understood her reservations about having sex, but at thirty-eight years old, she acted like a shy and inexperienced teenager. It frustrated him to no end. How could her husband not have shown her how desirable and sensual she truly was? In Maverick's arms, she would never doubt it.

He wanted her desperately, and their relationship needed to progress or there was no point in continuing it. He refused to be with a woman if it didn't lead to something more intimate, especially if they both wanted the relationship to amount to something. Of course, relationships weren't entirely based on physical intimacy, but it certainly didn't hurt.

What was supposed to happen between them? Just date indefinitely? The thought made his gut clench. Her kisses were electric and aroused him in ways he had never experienced before, but he wanted more. He wanted to show her just how much he desired her.

Taking out his phone from his pocket, Maverick sent Parker a quick text message. She was always busy during the day, so this was the best way to reach her .

Hey, how's your day going?

So busy! Came her immediate reply .

I'm sorry to bother you, but how about dinner at my place tomorrow night? I have some steaks I can grill.

That sounds good. Do I need to drive there?

No need. I'll pick you up around six.

Okay, see you then. Do I need to bring anything?

Just yourself, darlin'.

Alright.

I'll see you then.

Okay, bye!

As much as Maverick wanted to ask her to stay the night, he couldn't bring himself to do it just yet. He feared rejection and wasn't sure how he would handle it if it didn't happen this weekend. He couldn't keep going on like this, but he also couldn't bear the thought of losing her.

Saturday evening, Maverick pulled into Katie's Florist and Greenhouse, his truck rumbling to a stop on the gravel lot. He stepped out of the vehicle and took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet scent of blooming flowers that surrounded the shop.

Stepping inside, he was greeted with a warm smile from Madilyn Morgan, who stood behind the counter. Her long red hair fell in loose waves around her shoulders, framing her face like a halo.

"Hi, Maverick," she said cheerfully.

"Hello, Madilyn. How are you?" he replied, returning her smile.

"Great. What can I get for you?" she asked.

"I want to pick up some flowers," he stated, his eyes scanning the colorful displays around the shop.

"Well, I kind of figured that since we're a florist," Madilyn teased, giving him a playful grin.

"Does Brody realize he married a smartass?" Maverick chuckled, enjoying their banter.

Madilyn laughed. "Of course he does, but he loves me, so he overlooks it."

"He does love you. There's no doubt there. Uh, how about a dozen yellow roses?" Maverick requested.

"Sure thing. I'll get those for you. Just give me a minute," Madilyn said as she removed a dozen yellow roses from the fridge behind the counter.

Maverick leaned against the counter and watched her expertly wrap the delicate flowers in paper before ringing them up at the register. He handed her his credit card and picked up the bouquet with care, admiring its vibrant color and fragrant aroma.

"Thank you, Madilyn," Maverick said.

"It's my pleasure. Have a lovely evening," she replied with a smile.

Maverick nodded at her before leaving the shop and heading back to his truck, hoping Parker would appreciate the roses. He drove through the diner's parking lot and parked in the back near the stairs. Grabbing the flowers, he got out of the truck and climbed the stairs, knocking on her door when he reached it. She opened the door with a smile, and he ran his eyes over her. She wore a blue T-shirt and jeans, but to him, she was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. He handed her the roses.

"Hi," he said .

"Hi. Thank you so much. Come inside."

He took off his hat, wiped his feet on the mat, and entered her apartment.

"You're welcome. Are you ready to go?"

"Just let me put these in the fridge." She turned away, but he gently grabbed her wrist to stop her. She looked at him with a frown.

"Do you think I could have a kiss?"

"Of course." She stepped closer and tilted her face up for him.

Maverick leaned down and kissed her lips softly. When she moaned, he pulled her closer and deepened the kiss. Slowly pulling away, he pressed a kiss to her forehead. Parker smiled at him.

"Now put those flowers away so we can get going."

"Yes, sir." She saluted playfully, making him chuckle.

"Let's go then."

"Oh wait, I have something for you."

"All I need is you, Parker."

"That's sweet, but when I saw this, I thought of you. I'll give it to you when we get to your place." She picked up a bag from the bar and turned to face him. "I'm ready whenever you are."

Parker grabbed her purse and took out her keys. Maverick took them from her, opened the door, gestured for her to go first, then locked it behind them. Handing her back her keys, he took her hand and led her down the stairs. Opening the truck door for her, he helped her in before walking around to climb into the driver's seat. Giving her one last look, he started the engine and drove to his house.

*** *

Parker's stomach churned with nerves as she prepared to spend the night with Maverick. She wanted him desperately, but feared she would disappoint him. They rode in silence, both lost in their own thoughts. Parker longed to say something, anything, but her mind was a jumbled mess.

Finally, she cleared her throat and attempted small talk. "How was your day?"

Maverick grunted. "Hot as hell. And yours?"

"Busy, as always. The shop does incredibly well. Shay wants to hire another person to help during the busy summer months."

"The tourists will be leaving soon, so things will slow down a bit," Maverick replied. "But the Clifton Bed and Breakfast stays open until October."

"What do people do once that happens?" Parker asked.

Maverick smirked. "Lots of indoor activities."

Parker laughed. "Like card games?"

Maverick nodded, a mischievous look in his eye. "Among other things."

As they pulled up to his house, Maverick turned to Parker with a grin. "I hope you're hungry."

"I'm starving. I skipped lunch again," Parker confessed.

"That's not good," Maverick scolded playfully. "You need to eat and keep up your strength."

"I know, but when the shop gets busy..." Parker trailed off .

"Well, let's get those steaks started then," Maverick said firmly.

Parker nodded and followed Maverick inside, where Blue eagerly greeted her at the door. Maverick took her hand before quickly kissing her lips.

"I'll start the steaks now," he murmured against her lips.

"Yes," Parker whispered, unable to tear her gaze away from his intense eyes.

Clearing his throat awkwardly, Maverick stepped back and walked to the fridge. "Why don't you have a seat? How do you like your steak?"

"Medium rare," Parker replied with a grin.

Maverick's smile widened. "A woman after my own heart."

Parker wandered over to the window above the sink and gazed out at the glittering pool. "Is there another way to access the pool besides through your bedroom?" she asked.

"Yeah, there's a door in the laundry room. That's where I'll go out to start the grill," Maverick replied.

"Do you mind if I go out there too?" Parker asked eagerly.

"Of course not. In fact, let's go now," Maverick said, leading her out to the backyard.

The sun shone brightly off the water, making Parker squint. She turned to face the house when Blue barked from inside.

"I thought she had a pet door?" Parker asked.

"She does, but it's on another door in the laundry room," Maverick explained. "I put up a fence around part of the yard for her safety. She loves to swim but can only do so when I'm home."

"That's a smart idea," Parker remarked.

"Yeah, I don't want her falling into the pool when I'm not here. She always swims back to the steps, but I still worry about her."

Parker nodded in understanding. "I wish I had brought my swimsuit."

"Who needs a swimsuit, darlin'?" Maverick said with a wink.

She laughed then she realized her forgetfulness. "Oh! I completely forgot your gift." Without hesitation, she rushed back inside, scooped up the bag from the counter, and hurried back outside. She paused in the doorway, watching him intently as he skillfully lit the charcoal for their steaks. He must have felt her gaze upon him because he turned and met her eyes with a smile, causing her heart to flutter wildly in her chest. A rush of emotion washed over her. Was she falling for this man? She hardly knew him, but he consumed her thoughts and held a special place in her heart.

Gathering her courage, she took a deep breath and approached him with a warm smile, holding out the bag in offering.

"I hope you like it. When I saw it, I immediately thought of you."

His grin widened at her words. "That sounds promising." He reached for the bag and pulled out the contents wrapped in delicate blue tissue paper. As his fingers carefully unwrapped it, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of nervousness; what if he didn't like it?

But all worries vanished when he finally revealed the gift and his face lit up with pure joy. Smiling brightly, she asked, "Do you like it?"

He looked at her and nodded. "I love it. It's perfect. Thank you."

She couldn't help but ask again, wanting to make sure. "Are you sure?"

"Yes, absolutely perfect."

"Then why do you look so serious?"

His expression softened as he gazed at her. "Oh darlin', nothing is wrong. In fact, out of all the gifts I've ever received, this is by far the most meaningful and cherished one." He glanced down at the glassware once more before meeting her gaze again. With a gentle kiss, he whispered against her lips, "Thank you."

She wrapped her arms around him, as he pressed his lips to hers. He pulled her tight against him and deepened the kiss. When Blue barked again, Maverick grinned against her lips.

"I suppose we should let her out."

"Yes. She's lonely."

"I can see she has you fooled." Maverick chuckled.

"Well, if you didn't spoil her, she wouldn't."

He frowned. "What?"

Parker laughed. "You know what I mean."

Shaking his head, he continued to frown. "I don't think I do."

"No?"

He laughed. "See? So easy to tease."

"Oooh!" She pushed at him.

"Have a seat, Parker and I'll start the steaks. I have baked potatoes too."

Her stomach growled. "Good. I am so hungry." She moved to a lounge chair and sat. "Hurry up. "

Maverick shook his head. "Already giving me orders," he muttered.

Parker laughed and he grinned at her.

After he put the steaks on the grill, he asked her what she wanted to drink, then he entered the house to get her a soda and a beer for himself.

A few minutes later, he put the steaks on plates, and set them on the table beside the pool.

Parker cut into her steak, speared a piece and put it in her mouth. She moaned at the flavor.

"Fantastic. It practically melts in your mouth." She grinned.

"I'll let Wes and Warren know."

"It's their beef?"

"Well, since I work there, it better be the only beef I eat." He grinned.

"But you had a steak at the restaurant," she said with a grin.

"Okay, but I know the beef is going to be great there. Grant only buys from local ranches."

"That's good that he does that."

"Same with fresh vegetables and fruit, too."

Once they finished eating, they cleaned up, and loaded the dishwasher. Then Maverick took her hand, led her to the living room, and they sat on the sofa together. Parker's nerves were going into overdrive, but she wanted this. God, she wanted it so much.