“He’s a designer,” Gabrielle said. “If you love these bright-colored things,” she said, pointing to her choice in bedding, “I think you’d love the line he does for Target.”
“Now I know why the name rings a bell,” Derek said. “The guy began designing for Target around 2003. Their stock skyrocketed when he launched his line of affordable clothes with designer flair.” Derek folded his arms across his chest, looking like a man pleased to be finally participating in the conversation.
Holly rolled her eyes. “Dad,” she said with a groan.
Gabrielle chuckled at both father and daughter, but somehow kept her focus on Holly. “Maybe your father would let me take you to Target one afternoon and show you.” As soon as she spoke, Gabrielle couldn’t believe the words that had escaped her mouth.
She and Derek hadn’t said more than hello. She had barely gotten over meeting his daughter, yet she’d already invited her shopping.
“Oh, wow, Dad. She’s amazing!”
“Yes, yes, she is,” Derek said, his gaze never leaving Gabrielle’s.
Her body warmed beneath his stare. The sexual undercurrent between them was as strong as ever, but thankfully his daughter didn’t seem to notice.
“Can I, Dad? Please?” Holly tugged on his sleeve, bouncing with the enthusiasm of a soon-to-be teenager.
He smiled at her, the love and indulgence in his eyes doing crazy things to Gabrielle’s heart. He’d once looked at her with that inte
nsity and devotion.
“We’ll see,” Derek said, wanting to spare his daughter any hurt. For all he knew, Gabrielle was just being nice to Holly for the moment, having been caught off guard by their sudden meeting.
He was still trying to get over the shock. She’d changed. And she hadn’t. Her chestnut-colored hair no longer hung long and straight down her back but instead brushed her shoulders in a sexy sweep. Long side-swept bangs dangled enticingly over one eye, and he’d noticed she often tucked her hair behind her ear as she spoke. Though her features were more defined, her makeup more seductive and professional, her beauty was still evident, inside and out.
“When did you get back to town?” Derek asked. He’d seen the flier, but there hadn’t been any whispers of her return, at least none that he’d heard.
She inclined her head, and the ends of her hair brushed at her shoulders, reminding him of the times he’d kissed her bare skin. Their encounters had usually been rushed, due to their inexperience and the fear of getting caught. If Derek had his way with her now, two adults with plenty of time on their hands, he’d take things slowly, savoring every sensual touch and taste….
“Derek? Did you hear me?” Gabrielle’s voice along with her hand on his shoulder brought him out of his daydream.
He shook his head. “Sorry,” he muttered, embarrassed.
“That’s okay. As I was saying, I drove in today to visit with Sharon. I’m giving a lecture at the local library tonight as a favor.”
“I heard about your talk.”
“Really? People are discussing it?” she asked hopefully.
“You could say that,” Derek said.
“My grandpa pulled out his old shotgun!” Holly joined in on the conversation again with exactly the point Derek had been hoping to avoid.
Gabrielle’s cheeks flushed red. “He what?”
“He wouldn’t really use it,” Holly said. “At least, I don’t think he would.” She wrinkled her nose in thought. “Dad?”
Derek groaned. “Why don’t you start moving all this stuff up to the register,” he said, pointing to the far wall where there was a small line.
It would take Holly a couple of trips, giving him a few minutes to talk to Gabrielle alone.
“Okay. I can take a hint. Just don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” She winked at him.
It was his turn to flush. “Hey! Just how old are you, anyway?”
“I’ve been around Mom and John long enough to learn a few things”
He waved his hand toward the register. “Go! If you behave, I’ll take you for lunch afterward.”