Читать книгу Best Man Under The Mistletoe - Jules Bennett - Страница 12

Four

Gabe shut down his laptop and came to his feet. It had been two days since his close encounter with Chelsea at the bridal shop and he was no closer to finding relief than he was then.

The damn woman had gotten to him. Perhaps it was her sassy mouth, or maybe it was the fact she hadn’t initially believed him when he’d said he was in no way involved in leaking those nude photos. Maybe it was the way she wore jeans and tanks like they were made for her. Hell, he didn’t know. All Gabe knew was that Chelsea Hunt was an enigma that he simply couldn’t solve.

He’d been a damn special agent and still he couldn’t figure out how someone as smart-mouthed and difficult as Chelsea had gotten under his skin. He could find any woman to scratch his itch, but he wasn’t that guy anymore. In his twenties, he’d been selfish, falling into the bed of any willing woman. He was more particular now, definitely busier with work. And no one had pulled at him like Chelsea Hunt. So, no. No other woman would do.

But right now he had a few other pressing matters. Several of his clients had questioned him about his connection to his uncle. He’d already spoken with quite a few of them and he wasn’t done yet. Gabe planned to spend the rest of his day running interference and hopefully smoothing ruffled feathers.

He grabbed his hat and headed out the door of his loft apartment. He loved the prime location in downtown Royal. There were shops, restaurants, and it wasn’t too far from the Texas Cattleman’s Club. He planned to head over later to get some riding in. Getting on the back of a horse and taking off into the fresh air always calmed him and helped to clear his mind.

The only drawback to living in a loft in town was that he couldn’t have his own horses. Growing up outside Dallas on a working farm had been every little boy’s dream, and riding had been a staple in his life. At least being a member of the Texas Cattleman’s Club offered him anything he could want, including access to the club’s stables. So he had the best of both worlds right now.

Gabe’s cell vibrated in his pocket as he headed to the garage beneath his loft apartment. Pulling it out, he glanced at the screen and swiped to answer.

“Shane. What’s up?”

“Just checking in on you, man. How are you holding up with all the fallout from your uncle?”

Gabe tightened his grip on the phone and resisted the urge to groan. “It’s been a bit of a nightmare, but nothing I can’t handle.”

“Brandee and I are here for you, whatever you need. We know you’d never have a hand in anything this scandalous and cruel.”

Gabe slid his sunglasses from the top of his head and settled them in place. “I’m doing damage control with the company. There’s not much else anyone can do. I appreciate the offer.”

“Of course. I hate how all this is happening on top of the wedding details,” Shane added.

“Not a big deal. Like I said, nothing I can’t handle.”

“Speaking of wedding details, my fiancée is not happy.”

Gabe laughed as he settled in behind the wheel of his truck. “Sounds like your problem, not mine.”

“Oh, it’s every bit your problem,” Shane corrected. “Were you in the dressing room at the bridal shop with Chelsea? Wait, I know the answer to that. What the hell were you thinking, man?”

Blowing out a sigh, Gabe started the engine. “Does it matter? Nothing happened. Her zipper was stuck, that’s all.”

Well, that was all he’d own up to. Whatever was brewing between Chelsea and him was their business. As much as he’d like to claim there was more, things hadn’t progressed near to where he wanted them. This was the slowest form of torture and foreplay he’d ever experienced in his life.

“Listen, whatever you do with anyone else is fine.”

“Glad I have permission, Dad.”

“But,” Shane went on, “Chelsea is different. After what she’s been through and with her being Brandee’s best friend, this is a little more delicate than you just messing around with any other woman.”

“I’m well aware of how vulnerable Chelsea is.” Anger simmered as Gabe clenched the steering wheel. “And we’re not messing around. How the hell did you find out anyway?”

Because he knew for a fact Chelsea wouldn’t have run to Brandee and spilled. Even though this was perfect girly gossip, Gabe liked to think he knew Chelsea pretty well and this wasn’t the type of chatter she’d take part in.

“You think a shop full of teens and their mothers didn’t know you or Chelsea?” Shane asked in disbelief. “This town isn’t that big, man. And if I know about it, you don’t think Daniel hasn’t heard by now?”

Daniel Hunt, Chelsea’s brother. Chelsea’s older, overprotective brother. He and Chelsea had been through so much with the loss of their parents. Everyone knew their mother had run out on them and their father had passed a year later, some said from a broken heart. Was it any wonder Chelsea was so closed off, so leery and untrusting? Add in the scandal over the photos and she’d had quite a bit thrown at her. More than most people should endure. And other than Daniel and Brandee, who did she have to lean on?

“I’m not worried about Daniel,” Gabe said as he put his truck in gear. “As much as I’d love to continue this cheery conversation, I have other things to get done. Even in death, my uncle is ruining my reputation.”

Shane blew out a sigh. “Sorry, man. I wasn’t thinking.”

“No reason to be sorry. You and Brandee were victims, as well.”

Hell, there was hardly a member of the TCC who hadn’t been affected somehow by his uncle. Gabe still had no clue as to his motives, but he knew Dusty Walsh had been denied membership to the exclusive club three times over the years. And when women had been admitted, it had only made Dusty’s grudge worsen.

Perhaps this was his uncle’s way of getting back at the club because of the board’s decision. Who knew? All Gabe did know was that it would continue to impact his reputation for some time and he’d have to stay on top of things to keep his security business running.

“Just try to calm down with the public displays,” Shane warned. “Chelsea is dealing with enough and I’d really like this wedding to go off without drama.”

Gabe knew exactly what Chelsea was dealing with and he cursed himself for putting her in such a position. But, damn it, when he was around her, all logical thinking just vanished.

“Your wedding will be drama-free,” Gabe assured his best friend. “Go kiss your fiancée and let her know Chels and I have everything under control.”

He disconnected the call before Shane could question him further. As much as Gabe wanted to concentrate on Chelsea, on the memory of her sweet body pressed against his and her zipper parting beneath his touch, he had a high-dollar client to see.

Business first. Business always came first. Then he’d check up on his girl.

* * *

“I’ll make sure they’re delivered here if you don’t mind being on hand to put everything away in the freezer. They’ll come packaged with instructions for how long they need to sit out to thaw and the exact way they should be marinated and cooked.”

Chelsea was going over the to-do list for the joint bachelor/bachelorette party with Rose, her contact in the TCC kitchen. Rose smiled and nodded as Chelsea ticked the items in her head off on her fingers.

“I’m sorry,” Chelsea said. “I’m sure you know how to cook a steak and this isn’t the first party you’ve done, but this is my company and my best friend we’re talking about.”

Chelsea may have been the CTO of Hunt & Co., dealing with the computers and the technical end of the business, but she knew how to handle steaks, as well. There were good steaks and then there were Hunt steaks. Chelsea wanted absolutely the best for her friends and that could only come from her family’s company.

Rose patted Chelsea’s arm. “It’s quite all right, dear. I understand.”

Chelsea smiled. “Thanks. I promise I’m only neurotic because I want this to be perfect for them.”

“And it will be,” Rose assured her. “I’ll take care of everything.”

Chelsea headed from the kitchen area. Since her workday was essentially done, she figured she’d take advantage of her club membership and go riding. She needed the break from reality and being on the back of a horse was always so freeing. It helped to clear her head.

She definitely needed her head cleared because for the past two days she hadn’t been able to focus on anything other than Gabe Walsh. The stubborn man wouldn’t leave her mind. He took up entirely too much real estate in her thoughts. She’d tried throwing herself further into the wedding planning. She’d tried reading books. She’d even resorted to her old hacking skills and messed with her brother’s social media accounts for fun. But nothing had taken away the memory of the dressing room.

The Dressing Room.

It was like the title of an epic romance she couldn’t put down. For one, she’d never had a public make-out session. Two, she hadn’t allowed any man to wrap her up so tight she feared she’d spring any minute. And for another, damn it...she just wanted to hate the man. Was that too much to ask? He was egotistical, arrogant...and too damn sexy for his own good.

But she couldn’t bring herself to hate the way he kissed, the way he’d touched her. How was it even possible that he had this hold on her? How could one man invoke so many emotions?

Chelsea headed toward the stables. The fresh winter air filled her lungs. She couldn’t wait to spend the next few hours just relaxing and enjoying her ride.

When her cell vibrated in her pocket, she ignored it. Nothing was going to get in the way of this much needed alone time. Whoever wanted her could leave a message. If it was Daniel again, she’d get back to him. Any Hunt business could wait since it was after hours. And there was nothing pressing for the wedding at the moment.

In no time, Chelsea had chosen a gorgeous chestnut mare and was on her way. Getting back in the saddle felt so good. It had been too long since she’d taken advantage of the amenities TCC had to offer. Maybe she should schedule a massage and some sauna time after the wedding and holidays were over. She could use a good day of pampering.

Chelsea was just thankful they’d started allowing women to join a few years ago. There was a time when only men were members, but everything had changed when they’d opened the doors and their minds to the ladies.

Chelsea had jumped at the chance to join such an elite club. Who wouldn’t want to be part of all of this? The clubhouse sat on gorgeous acreage, the amenities were absolutely perfect and everyone worth anything in this town was a member. Perhaps that’s why Dusty was never admitted. Chelsea didn’t know him personally, but his actions before his death had proved the guy to be a grade-A bastard.

Settling into an easy rhythm with her horse, Chelsea found a trail and rode off, thankful that with evening falling, there were no other riders. The stables closed at nine, so she had a couple hours to enjoy the open air, the peaceful evening, and to start figuring out her Christmas shopping list because she still had a few people she hadn’t bought for. Online shopping was going to be her best friend in these last days leading up to Christmas.

With all the wedding planning, she’d dropped the ball on—

“And here I thought I’d be all alone.”

Chelsea cringed at the familiar voice, her grip tightening on the reins. “Then take another path.”

Gabe’s laughter floated around her as he came up beside her horse. “Now, what fun would that be?”

His thigh brushed hers as he kept a steady gait. Chelsea didn’t want any part of his body touching hers. Okay, that was a lie, but if she kept repeating it over and over, maybe the words would penetrate her stubborn heart.

“I came out here to think and be alone,” she told him, refusing to look his way. She knew what he looked like—all brooding and sexy—without tormenting herself any further.

“Then by all means, think,” he stated. “You won’t even know I’m here.”

“Are you kidding me?”

She pulled her horse to a stop, not at all surprised when he did the same. Now, she did glance his way. Yup. Just as sexy as two days ago when he’d been wrapped all around her, driving her out of her mind. His black hat shielded his eyes, but not enough that she didn’t see that sexy gleam.

“You think I can have a peaceful moment when you’re right next to me?”

“Well, darlin’, I’ll take that as a compliment.”

Chelsea narrowed her eyes. “Why won’t you go away?”

He rested his forearm on the saddle horn and shrugged. “I haven’t seen you for two days. I went by Hope Springs and worked more on the arch, thinking you’d show up and lend a hand, but you never did. I’d say you’ve had plenty of space.”

“Not enough,” she muttered.

“You can’t hide from me forever, Chelsea. We’ve got work to do and this tension between us isn’t going anywhere.”

Why did he have to be so blunt and just lay their attraction right on the table like that? It wasn’t often she was speechless, but the man was bound and determined to throw her off her game, and damn it, it was working.

“You seem angry.” He offered her a killer smile. “I’d say this fresh air will do you some good. Come on. Ride with me and we’ll talk. Not about the dressing room or the fact you want me, and don’t deny it. We’ll do small talk. We can do that, right? The weather is always a good topic, but so predictable. Maybe we could discuss if you’ve put your Christmas tree up yet. I haven’t.”

Was he seriously turning into some chatterbox? She wasn’t going to ride along beside him and talk like he was some girlfriend she was comfortable with. Gabe Walsh made her anything but comfortable.

“I don’t want to engage in small talk with you.” Chelsea pulled the reins and turned her horse back toward the trail. “I can’t stop you from riding, but shut up.”

Again, his laughter swept over her as he came to an easy trot next to her. Chelsea concentrated on the rocking of the horse, the smell of the fresh air, and not the man a mere foot from her.

“There’s something I’ve been curious about.”

She never knew where his thoughts were headed, but it was obvious he was going to keep going no matter what she said, so she just remained quiet.

“Why computers?”

Chelsea turned toward him. “Excuse me?”

“Just wondering why you got into computers.”

She should’ve known he wouldn’t honor her wish for silence. But work she could discuss. That was one topic where he wouldn’t make her a stuttering, turned-on mess of emotions.

“I’ve always been interested in how things work,” she told him. “When I was little, I tried picking locks. I actually got quite good at it by the time I was seven, but then I grew bored. Dad was always talking business, so I knew we were being raised to take over. When I wasn’t learning fast enough, I tried getting into his computer when he was asleep one night. By the time I figured out his password, I’d gotten a little thrill and decided to see what else I could do.”

“How old were you then?”

“Ten.”

Gabe swore under his breath. “And here I’ve pissed you off. Are my bank accounts safe?”

Chelsea couldn’t stop the smile from spreading across her lips. “For now.”

“Did your father know you’d gotten into his system?”

“Of course. I was sloppy, as all beginner hackers are.” Chelsea brushed her hair back from her face, wishing she’d thought to put on a headband. “You know, I really don’t like that term. It makes me feel... I don’t know...illegal.”

Gabe tossed her a look with one arched brow. “It pretty much is illegal.”

With a shrug, Chelsea forced her attention to the smooth path in front of her. “Maybe, but I’ve never done anything terrible with my knowledge. I more do things to see how far I can get and to educate myself.”

“So you’ve never done anything risky or wrong?” he asked.

Chelsea pursed her lips. “I may have changed a couple grades when I was in high school.”

“And?” he prompted.

She swallowed. Was she really going to get into this with him?

“I might have hacked into one bank account to add some funds.”

“You think hacking into a bank isn’t illegal or bad?” he asked, obviously shocked at her admission.

“I admit it was wrong, but hindsight won’t change the past.”

Silence settled between them and Chelsea figured she shouldn’t have told him. It was years ago and nobody had ever figured out what she had done. It had been her first real victory and, illegal or not, she wasn’t sorry she’d done it. In fact, she was rather proud of herself.

“Are you going to finish the story or leave me hanging?”

Chelsea came to a stop and glanced toward a nearby cypress grove. Restless energy had her dismounting and tying the reins around a sturdy tree trunk. Gabe did the same and when he propped his hands on his hips and continued to stare at her, she figured she may as well tell him everything.