“Clearwater Pass? The new lodge? I’ve read about it. The restaurant is supposed to be wonderful.”
“Well, we’re going to find out.”
“Oh, that’s lovely! Really lovely.” Her smile tilted. “Except—”
“Except what?”
“I know that you—that you’ve been keeping a low profile.”
“You mean, I’ve been hiding.”
“It’s just that people are sure to recognize you at a place like Clearwater Pass. And if you’re doing this for me…” Lissa looked into her lover’s eyes. “We don’t have to go anywhere. I’m happy right here.”
Nick drew her to him.
“Are you?”
“Yes,” she said simply, “I am.”
He bent his head and kissed her.
“Me, too. But we’re going out tonight, sweetheart. It’s time you had a break.”
“Esther’s been doing the meals on weekends.”
“Do not argue with me, woman,” he growled, and softened the teasing words with a smile. “Besides, I want to show you off.”
“But—”
“No buts,” he said firmly. “It’s time I left the cocoon. And you need a change of scene and somebody to serve you once in a whi
le.” He sighed and rested his forehead against hers. “We’re going to have to do something about the setup here, Duchess. We need more privacy. More help for you.”
“Not for me, but the privacy idea sounds wonderful idea. How are you going to do it?”
“I have some thoughts.”
“That sounds mysterious.”
“A little mystery can be a good thing.” He smiled. “Besides, it’s getting late. We have to get moving.”
“Especially since I have to change for dinner.”
“Change? You look just right to me.”
“Men,” Lissa said, leaning up to kiss him again. “What do men know about women and clothing?”
“We know how to separate them from it,” Nick said gruffly.
She leaned back in his arms.
“You just said it was getting late.”
“Trust me.” He caught her hand, brought it between them, and she caught her breath. “As long as you’re willin’, ma’am, this ain’t gonna take very long.”
“Why, cowboy,” she said, batting her lashes, “I thought you’d never ask.”
* * *