She continued to rake her fingers through his hair. “I know you were upset. I really didn’t know the whole situation, I was just trying to defuse the tension that was escalating. I’m on your side. You can count on me.”
Axe reached up and caught her hand, bringing it to his lips and kissing it softly. He turned on the radio, and the two of them listened to classic rock while they made their way out of Pinewood Springs.
* * *
After a short forty-five-minute drive, they arrived in Aspen, a charming mountain town at the base of the majestic Maroon Bells peaks. Forests of evergreen carpeted the verdant valleys. The climate was cooler than Pinewood Springs since Aspen’s elevation was higher, and it was a welcome change for the couple.
Axe checked into a small hotel right in the heart of downtown, making restaurants and shops easily accessible. When they entered their suite, the large sliding glass door opened out to an awe-inspiring view of the mountain range.
“How beautiful,” Baylee gushed as she stepped out onto the balcony, the cool air lightly caressing her skin.
Axe joined her, looping his arm around her middle, drawing her to his chest. He rested his chin tenderly on the top of her head while he squeezed her to him.
“You’re beautiful,” he said.
She smiled. “I’ve never been here.”
“Really? I’m glad we came. I’m happy to share this with you.”
The sun began its evening descent, and the lights in the town twinkled like fireflies in the night. Baylee’s stomach growled loudly, and she giggled.
“Are you going to feed me?” she teased.
He spun her around and kissed her, a devilish look in his eyes. “I’ll feed you now, and you can feed me later.”
* * *
Sebastian’s Steakhouse was located in the heart of downtown Aspen. Warm, soft lights from individually crafted lanterns created the perfect atmosphere for romantic dinners, while the lit onyx bar added to the ambiance. A fire crackled in the large bluestone fireplace to ward off the summer night chill. Cedar beams and rustic wood tables completed the natural feel of the restaurant.
Axe scooted closer to Baylee before pouring the red wine in her glass. He loved being next to her, watching her full lips press against the wine glass as she sipped, breathing in her faint scent of white musk, and brushing against her soft skin. He couldn’t get enough of her, and the electrical jolts he experienced when they touched blew his mind. Baylee made him feel complete and settled—something he’d never had before.
“You zoning out on me?” Her lilting laugh wrapped around him.
Shoving against her playfully, he answered, “No. I’m just taking you all in.”
Leaning in to him, she brushed her lips on the side of his mouth. With his arm around her shoulders, he pulled her flush to him, crushing his mouth on hers until the waiter placed their steak dinners before them. They reluctantly pulled apart to eat their meals.
As Axe cut his New York strip, Baylee said, “I want to talk about Stephen Rodgers.”
Darting his eyes up, he bristled. She reached over and squeezed his arm. “It’s not about the wedding or the crap from the past.” She took a sip of wine. “It’s about the way I got the creeps when he looked at me, and it was more than him just checking me out.”
“I noticed you tensed up.”
“I did, and I’m not sure why. I got a strong, negative vibe when I saw him. I couldn’t look at him. Honestly, I don’t even remember what he looks like, I turned away so quickly.”
“Maybe it’s because you got the vibe he’s an asshole, and you’d be right. Let’s not ruin our night talking about that fucker. I’m already getting pissed.”
“You’re right. Let’s have some fun.”
After they finished their dinner and enjoyed a couple of drinks, the couple strolled down West Main Boulevard. Baylee shivered against Axe, and he guided her into one of the many boutiques lining the street.
“Pick out a sweater or something.”
Shaking her head, Baylee protested, “I’m okay. It’s just for tonight, and we’ll be back at the hotel soon.”
“Pick something out.” He walked over to a rack of cotton sweaters in bright colors and patterned designs. “Like any of these?” He waved his hand over the clothing rack.
“I don’t have my wallet. I left it back at the hotel.”
“You don’t need a wallet when you’re with me. Pick something out, or I will.”
It irked Axe that she was uncomfortable with him buying her something. That was bullshit. He didn’t know her history with men, but he’d never expect a woman to pay for something while he was around. It wasn’t his style. Since she was his woman, he’d provide for her; whatever she earned was for her alone.