Pregnant by the Texan(63)

                “I’d love to,” Stella replied, meaning it, realizing she was losing the butterflies in her stomach. Along with the change in her appearance and the money that she had already raised, she was gaining more confidence in her ability to talk to people about Royal. And tonight, the three television executives were so friendly, enthusiastic and receptive that she felt even better.

                “We’re going to try to tie it into the Texas Cattleman’s Club Christmas festival in Royal this year,” she added.

                “That’ll be good to have on a show. I know Lars West with the Dallas TCC. We could get him to come on, too, with Stella. Are the TCC here doing anything?”

                “They will,” Aaron replied. “I’ve just started talking to them.”

                “I’m sure the sooner you can do this, the better. I’ll send a text now,” Molly said, “and see if we can get you on the Friday show.”

                “That would be grand,” Stella answered. “Everyone in Royal will appreciate what you’re doing to help.” She was aware Aaron had been quieter all evening than he had been in Lubbock, letting her do most of the talking. When she glanced at him, he looked pleased.

                Excitement hummed in her because she was going to get so much support for Royal. As the evening wore on, she was even more pleased with her makeover, relieved that she could begin to relax talking to people and enjoy meeting them.

                They didn’t break up until after ten o’clock. She and Aaron told them goodbye outside as valets brought the cars to the door.

                Finally she was alone in Aaron’s car with him. He drove out of the lot, but on the drive back, he pulled off the road slightly, put the car in Park and turned to kiss and hug her. Then he leaned away. “You were fantastic tonight. No butterflies either—right?”

                “I think they’re gone,” she said.

                “They’ll never come back, either. Awesome evening. You did a whiz-bang job. Watch. The television show will be wonderful for Royal.”

                “I think so, too,” she said, feeling bubbly and excited. “Thanks, Aaron, for all you’ve done for me. And thank you again for this fabulous necklace that I was aware of all evening.”

                “You’re welcome. Stella, you’ll be able to do more and more for Royal.”

                “I hope so.” As he drove home they discussed the evening and what they would do Friday.

                The minute they were in the kitchen of his house, Aaron turned her. “You take my breath away,” he said.

                Her heart skipped a beat as she gazed at him. “Thank you again for the diamonds. They’re beautiful.”

                “That’s why I didn’t want you to take your gold necklace for tonight. I had something else in mind.” He slipped his arms around her and kissed her, his tongue thrusting deeply as he held her. After a while he raised his head. “Go with me to the TCC Christmas festival. Will you?”

                “I’d be delighted, thank you,” she replied.

                He kissed her again, picking her up to carry her to the guest bedroom where she was staying. Still kissing her, he stood her on her feet by the bed. “I can’t stop looking at you,” he whispered. He drew her to him to kiss her. When he released her, he slid the zipper down the back of her dress and pushed it off her shoulders. As it fell around her feet, he leaned back to look at her. “You changed everything,” he said.