The Barrington Brothers

Tessa nodded and pulled from his grasp. Putting the car back in gear, she drove back out onto the highway.

Grant realized his words may have hurt her, but he wasn’t quite ready to admit he was falling for her a little more each day. So there was no way he could tell her that he’d be watching this stranger like a hawk to make sure he wasn’t out to take advantage of Tessa or any of the other Barringtons.

He may have told her it was all about the movie, but that was a lie. A good portion of it was because he refused to see Tessa hurt.

Damn. There went that heart of his, trying to get involved. But a little voice whispered that his heart was already involved.

Eight

Don’t wear anything too fancy.

Tessa nearly laughed. Oh, she had fancy clothes for uppity events she was forced to attend, but those gowns and dresses lived in the back of her closet, more than likely collecting dust on the shoulder seams that were molded around the hangers.

After working in the stables, helping Cassie clean stalls, Tessa did shower and throw on fresh jeans and a white shirt, rolling up the sleeves. She shoved on her nicer black boots and grabbed a simple green jacket to top off her “not a date” outfit.

The air outside had been a bit chilly, and she knew she’d be cold when she came home later.

She groaned as she grabbed her keys from the peg by the back door. How the hell had she let him talk her into this? Intriguing as he was, she simply couldn’t allow herself to sink deeper into his world...a world of class and glamour. A world she’d narrowly escaped a few months ago, along with a man who’d claimed to care for her.

But something about Grant seemed to pull her. He had no qualms about the fact that he found her attractive, but he also seemed genuine, and at the cemetery he’d been supportive and caring.

He also guarded his family...that had been evident when she’d brought up the topic of his twin. And while his instant raised shield intrigued her, leaving her wanting to know more, Tessa could appreciate the value of privacy. Ironic, considering she loathed the idea of this movie, of virtual strangers invading her space, her life.

But Grant seemed to be truly concerned about her feelings. He’d gone out of his way to assure her he’d portray her family in the best light.

He understood family. And, she had to admit, was starting to understand her. He was a Hollywood hotshot, used to elegance and beauty surrounding him. Yet he was blending just fine here in her world.

She didn’t want him to have so many layers, because each one threw her off and made her wonder about the possibilities beyond those kisses.

No. Tessa shook off her thoughts as they started down a path she wasn’t ready to visit.

If Grant knew she was a virgin, he’d probably give up his quest...or he’d see her as a challenge he needed to meet.

Dinner. He’d only said dinner. Added to that, he’d promised to keep those talented lips to himself. A part of her was disappointed that she wouldn’t feel them, but the logical side of her knew this was for the best.

Each kiss made her yearn for...well, everything he was willing to offer, which scared the hell out of her. She’d never desired so much from one man, never considered giving in before.

But somewhere along the way, she felt as if they’d crossed some sort of friendship line. She found him easy to talk to, and as much as she hated to admit it, she wanted to spend more time with him. She really didn’t have friends outside her racing world, and Grant was refreshing...kisses and all.

That friendship line they’d crossed held a lot of sexual tension, and Tessa worried one day all that built-up pressure would explode.

Which was why she had to stop this roller coaster of hormones before it got too far out of control. The two different worlds they lived in would never mesh, so why even add something else to her list of worries?

Besides the upcoming season, as if that weren’t enough stress, she really wasn’t comfortable with the new groom. When she’d mentioned this to her father, he’d waved a hand and told her she was imagining things and was probably just still skeptical because of Cassie’s ex.

Yet the stranger had made a point not to get too far away from her and Cassie as they were cleaning stalls earlier. He’d been working hard, but still, Tessa had a gut feeling he’d been trying to listen to their conversation.

But that was a worry for another day. Right now, she had to be on her guard for her dinner “not date.”

Tessa hopped in her Jeep and made the short trip back to Stony Ridge Acres, her heart beating a bit faster. Why was she getting so worked up? This was dinner. They had to eat, and were just doing it together.

When she pulled up in front of his cottage, he’d turned on the porch lights. The sun was at the horizon, but in no time it would be dark.

Before she could knock on the door, Grant swung it open and...

Tessa laughed. “What are you wearing?”

Grant wiped his hand on a dishrag and glanced down. “An apron. Don’t you wear one when you cook?”

“I thought we were going out,” she said, trying her hardest not to stare at him in that ridiculous apron, which looked like a woman wearing a grass skirt and coconut bra.

“I never said that,” he countered, taking her hand and pulling her inside. “I said we were going to have dinner together. And I’m cooking. Besides, how can you relax if we’re in public?”

Would’ve been a hell of a lot easier than in the lion’s den.

Something tangy permeated the air, and Tessa’s gaze drifted toward the open kitchen. “If you’re cooking anything associated with that smell, I’m impressed.”

Grant headed back to the kitchen, leaving her standing at the door. “It’s just barbecue chicken, but it’s my mother’s sauce recipe. I also have some baked potatoes and salad. Hope all of that is okay.”

“My mouth is watering already.”

He threw her a glance, his dark eyes traveling down her body. “Mine, too.”

Tingles slid all over her, through her, and Tessa had no clue how to reply to that, so she took off her jacket and hung it on the hook beside the door. After dropping her keys in the jacket pocket, she headed to the kitchen.

“Want me to set the table or anything?”

“It’s done and so is the food,” he said, removing the ridiculous apron.

Apparently, he’d taken full advantage of the very well-stocked cottage.

In no time he’d set the food on the small round table, covered with a simple red cloth. Thankfully, he hadn’t gone to the trouble of romantic flowers or a candle. This she could handle. The sultry looks and kisses...well, she could handle them, but they left her confused and, okay, aroused.

Tessa concentrated on her food and prayed he had no clue where her mind had wandered, though she feared her face had turned a lovely shade of red.

Small talk during dinner eased her a bit more, and she nearly laughed at herself. Had she expected him to pounce on her when she arrived?

Tessa picked up her empty plate and stood.

“Leave the dishes,” he told her, reaching across to place his hand on her wrist. “I’ll get them later.”

“I can help with them now. You cooked, so at least I can help clean up.”

“You’re my guest. I’ll get them.”

Because she never backed down from a fight, she carried her plate to the sink. “Technically, you’re our guest, since you’re on Barrington grounds.”

She’d just turned on the water and was rinsing the dish when Grant’s hands encircled her waist. His lips caressed her ear.

“You’re not relaxing,” he whispered, his breath warm on her cheek, her neck, sending shivers down the entire length of her body.

The dish slipped from her wet hands and into the sink. “I’m relaxed.” Any more and she’d be a puddle at his feet. “I just wanted to help.”

Strong fingers slid beneath the hem of her shirt, gliding over goose bumps.

“And I promised you a night of relaxation.”

Did he have to whisper everything in her ear? Could the man back up a tad and let her breathe? Because if he didn’t, she feared she’d turn in his arms and take that mouth she’d promised herself never to have again.

“Grant...”

“Tessa,” he murmured, his lips barely brushing against her neck.

“You promised not to kiss me.”

Soft laughter vibrated against her back from his strong chest. “I’m not kissing you. I’m enjoying how you feel. There’s a big difference.”

“I can’t... We can’t...” She couldn’t even think with the way his fingertips kept inching around her abdomen. “Wh-what are you doing?”

The bottom button of her shirt came undone, and then the next. Grant splayed his hand across her taut stomach and eased her back against him. “Relaxing with you.”

Unable to resist, Tessa allowed her head to fall back against his shoulder, her eyelids closed. Reaching behind her, she raked a hand over his stubbled jaw. The roughness beneath her palm aroused her even more. Grant was all male, all powerful, and yet so tender.

When had a man held her in such a caring, yet passionate way? When had she allowed herself to enjoy the simple pleasures of being wanted?

Tessa wasn’t naive. Well, physically she was, but mentally she knew Grant wanted her body. He’d told her as much, and she knew he wasn’t asking for her hand in marriage or even a committed relationship. But right now, she could be open to this moment and relish it. They were both still fully clothed, both just enjoying the other.

As his hand inched higher, her shirt traveled up, as well. The edge of his thumb caressed the underside of her silk bra and her nipples quickly responded to the thrilling touch.

Tessa’s breath quickened as she turned her mouth to his.

When he didn’t respond to her kiss, she pulled back.

“I promised,” he murmured.

“I’m letting you out of that verbal contract.”

Grant’s mouth slammed down onto hers, and Tessa lost track of everything else around her. His touch consumed her, making her ache in a way she’d never thought possible.

Grant’s hand slid from beneath her shirt and she turned around, pressing her chest against his as one hand held on to the nape of her neck and the other gripped her bottom through her jeans.

Being wedged between the hard planes of Grant’s body and the edge of the counter was a very wonderful place to be.

Tessa wrapped her arms around his neck and opened her mouth wider, silently inviting him to take more.

What was she doing? This wasn’t why she’d come here. But now that she was in the moment, she didn’t want to stop to rationalize all the reasons this was wrong. Because her tingling lips, aching body and curling toes told her this kiss was very, very right.

Grant’s mouth traveled from her lips to her chin and across her jawline. Everywhere he touched, everything he did to her had her wanting more. The man certainly knew exactly how to kiss and where to touch. Everything to pleasure a woman.

And that revelation was the equivalent of throwing cold water on her.

Tessa wriggled her hands between them and eased him back. Those heavy-lidded eyes landed on hers while his lips, moist and swollen from kissing, begged for more. But she had to stop. This kissing and groping was as far as she’d ever gone...so anything beyond this point would be a disappointment to him.

Tessa met his gaze, refusing to be embarrassed for who she was, the values and promise to her mother she desperately tried to cling to.

When she’d been with Aaron, she’d been tempted, but she’d assumed they would marry, and she’d wanted to wait.

But the level to which Aaron had tempted her didn’t come close to the fire of arousal she felt right now with Grant.

Her eyes held his, and as she opened her mouth, he held up a hand.

“Don’t say you’re sorry,” he told her.

Tessa shook her head. “No. I’m not sorry, but we can’t do this.”

“We can and we were,” he countered. “What happened? Something scared you.”

Yeah, the big city playboy and the country virgin. Could they be any more clichéd? Why couldn’t she be this attracted to someone in her league, or at least in her town?

Moving around him, because she needed distance from his touch, his gaze and his masculine aroma, Tessa walked over to the sliding glass doors and looked out into the darkness. Mostly all she could see was her own reflection, and that was worse than looking at Grant. What she saw was a coward.

“Talk to me,” he urged as he stepped closer, but didn’t touch. “I’m not going to push you into anything, Tessa. But I want to know what happened.”

He stood behind her, their eyes locked in the reflective glass. Tessa sighed and turned, crossing her arms over her chest.

“When I told you I wouldn’t be the one to help you pass the time on set, I meant it.” He opened his mouth, but she held up a hand. “And I didn’t say that initially, or now, to offend you. I said it because you need to know where I stand, where we stand. The differences between us, Grant...they’re huge.”

“Is this the age thing again?” he asked, stepping forward to brace his hands on her shoulders.

“That’s one reason,” she confirmed, hating how vulnerable and defensive she felt. “I’ve never been with a man before, Grant. Ever.”

She waited for the words to sink in, waited for him to drop his hands and take a giant step back, as if she’d just drawn a line in the sand and on her side was the plague.

“Tessa, you’re not a virgin.”

“Yes, I am.” She tilted her chin, refusing to be ashamed of what she was just because society felt she should be another way. “I promised my mother I’d wait for love. My body is something I value, Grant. I want my first time to be with someone I truly care about, who I know cares for me.

“I won’t lie,” she went on, when he remained silent. “I’ve never before been kissed in a way that made me forget everything and want to give in to all my desires.” She took a deep, steadying breath, bringing her hands up to grasp his wrists. “But with you, I want more.”

“I value your morals,” he answered. “I probably respect you more for them. But you know there’s something here. This is more than just lust, more than just sex. You need to let yourself live.”

Shifting his hands, causing hers to fall away, he slid the pads of his thumbs over her bottom lip. “A woman with as much passion as you have, as much desire lurking in those eyes, has never fully committed to another man?”

Tessa shook her head, not knowing what to say next. This was the part when a man turned totally weird or ran out the door...not that there had been many men to begin with. Her ex had certainly thought he could persuade her. Now she was even more thankful Aaron hadn’t convinced her.

Since Tessa was at Grant’s house, she figured this was her cue to go. Shoulders back and pride intact, she stepped around him and went toward the door. She’d barely pulled her jacket from the hook before a hand closed over hers, another at her waist.

“Don’t leave.”

With his strong body surrounding her, and those two simple words that held so much meaning, Grant engulfed her.

“I can’t stay, Grant. I’m not ready to give myself, and even if I did, you’d be disappointed.”

“Look at me.”

Forgoing the jacket, she dropped her arm and turned. But instead of seeing confusion or disappointment in his eyes, she saw tenderness, plus a heavy dose of desire. And determination.

“First of all, no matter what you did to or with me would ever be disappointing,” he told her, framing her face between his hands so she had no choice but to face him head-on. “Second, the fact that you’re a virgin doesn’t scare me away, if that’s what you were waiting on. And if it scared other guys before, then they’re jerks and don’t deserve you. Whether we sleep together or not is completely your call, Tessa. I enjoy you, I enjoy talking with you, learning from you and, yes, kissing you. But the ball is in your court. If you don’t want to take the next step with me, I totally respect your decision. But don’t expect me to stop kissing you at every chance I get.”

At his warm smile, Tessa found herself grinning. “I wouldn’t mind you kissing me whenever you want. I can’t promise I’ll ever be ready for more with you. Not that I don’t want it, I just can’t give myself, knowing it would only be a fling.”

Grant’s lips touched hers briefly before he pulled back and looked into her eyes. “You’re the strongest woman I know.”

“I’m not feeling strong,” she retorted with a laugh. “I’m feeling like I want to forget the fact you’re not staying, and throw aside all rationale.”

“Country, you know where to find me.” He stroked her lips once more. “But I’m not giving up. You’re so passionate and I want to be the one to uncover that hunger you’ve kept hidden.”

Well, that declaration certainly wasn’t helping matters. Besides the fact she’d be seeing him every single day, he’d been so understanding, so comfortable with the news that she was a virgin. Which would make him even harder to resist.

But on the flip side, he would try harder, be even more charming and irresistible. Her mother had always told her the right one would accept and understand her values, and try not to push her.

And without hesitation, Grant had accepted her. Which made him all the more tempting, and quite possibly...the one she’d been waiting for?

Nine

How the hell did he cope with this bombshell? He’d never been in this situation before and honestly had no idea how to react, let alone what to say.

Had he said the right thing?

Running a hand down his face, Grant stared out his patio door toward the pasture, where a few horses grazed off in the distance.

For the sake of his career, here he was, in a world he’d sworn off, finding himself drowning in a woman he wanted just sex from, only to find out she was a virgin.

Grant laughed at the irony that was now his life. The damn film hadn’t even started yet, and he was sinking deeper and deeper into worlds that threatened to leave him weak and vulnerable. Way to stay in control of the game.

He glanced at his watch, noted it was time to head to the stables, and sighed. No matter his personal feelings—and he couldn’t deny there were very personal feelings involved now—he had to remain on task and get the job done. This was still his livelihood, still his reputation on the line if he wanted to move on up in the movie industry.

As he headed out the door, his cell phone rang. After shutting the door behind him, Grant stepped off the narrow porch.

“Hey, Bronson,” he said.

“I hope you’re sitting down, man. I’ve got news for you.”

Freezing in his tracks, Grant gripped the phone. “Good news or bad news?”

“Beyond good. Marty Russo has been in contact with me and Anthony. He’s willing to back your production company if this film takes off like we think it will.”

“Are you kidding me?” Grant asked, suddenly seeing his dream spiraling closer toward reality.

On the other end of the connection, Bronson Dane laughed. “Not at all. If this movie is a hit like we all believe it will be, Russo Entertainment wants you to come on board and branch out with your own company.”

Grant could hardly believe this. He’d been a director for years, had worked his ass off to get to the point of producing, and now, before his production debut, he might already have a chance at starting his own company?

He’d been fortunate in the past several years to have some major deals, which set his name on the film map. But his own company would take his career to a whole new level.

“Man, that’s great,” Grant said. “I don’t even know what to say.”

“You deserve it,” Bronson replied. “Marty was going to call, but I wanted to be the one to tell you. I’m sure he’ll be calling you later today.”

Grant had worked with the man several times. Being the CEO of Russo Entertainment, Marty often had a direct hand in the company’s films, and was a very hands-on guy. Grant respected the hell out of him and had every intention of not letting him down.

“Anthony and I are wrapping up at Churchill Downs today. Between there, New York and Maryland, we’ve covered the main tracks and have some amazing areas for scenes. We should be arriving at the end of next week.”

Grant continued walking his path again as he and Bronson discussed the church, cemetery and other local places that had meaningful ties to Damon Barrington’s past.

By the time he disconnected the call, he was beaming. The sun had risen, the spring day was beautiful and promised to be warm, and he had the chance of a lifetime right within his reach.

But his smile faded and fear set in when he saw Cassie running alongside the fence and Tessa on a horse, barreling faster than he’d ever seen seen her go.

Fear flooded him, and he had to force himself not to overreact. Another time, another woman flashed in his mind and nausea threatened to overtake him.

Especially when Tessa kept pulling back on the reins and yelling, alarm lacing her voice.

Grant ran to the fence, having no clue how he could help or even what the hell had happened.

The horse seemed to reduce his speed, barely, but then reared up, after which everything seemed to happen in slow motion. Tessa screamed, slicing a new layer of dread straight through Grant. When she fell off the back of the horse, he leaped over the fence, not giving a damn about anything but getting to her.

He crouched down beside her as she was rolling onto her back, gasping—whether in pain or because the wind had been knocked out of her, he didn’t know.

“Tessa, honey.” He ran his hands gently over her, praying for no broken bones, no broken skin. “Talk to me. Are you hurt?”

She groaned and tried to sit up, but he placed a hand on her shoulder. “Just lie here for a minute,” he told her.

“Macduff...where...” Tessa continued to try to catch her breath as she searched the track. “Is he okay?”

Fury bubbled within Grant. Was she seriously more worried about this horse than her own welfare?

Because she wasn’t going to relax until she knew about the animal, Grant glanced back and saw Cassie managing just fine, along with the new groom. They’d taken control of the horse and were leading him into the stables.

“He’s fine,” Grant told her. “Cassie has him.”

Tessa’s shoulders relaxed into the dirt and her eyes closed as she exhaled a shallow breath. The color had left her face and her arm was draped across her ribs.

“I need to know what hurts, so I can tell the squad.” He pulled out his phone and barely hit the 9 before she put her hand over his.

“No, I’m fine.” Her eyes locked on to his. “Don’t fuss with calling anyone.”

“Like hell I’m not, Tessa.”

Bad memories played through his mind like a horror movie...only it had been real life. Internal injuries were by far even more terrifying. He’d done a somewhat good job of keeping these two worlds—caring for Tessa, and her lifestyle—apart. But the two had just collided and blown up in his face.

“You’re white as a ghost, Grant. Are you okay?”

He ran a hand down his face and nodded. “I’m fine. But you’re going to get checked out. Internal injuries may not make their appearance known until it’s too late.”

“Grant—”

“You can either ride in an ambulance or I’m taking you, but this is not up for debate.”

Tessa flinched at his raised voice.

“Is she okay?” Cassie asked, squatting down next to them.

“She’s stubborn,” Grant hissed, coming to his feet. “Talk some sense into her while I call for the medics.”

While he did so, he at least heard Cassie taking his side. No way in hell would he allow Tessa to ignore what had just happened. And knowing her, she’d probably get right back on the damn horse and go another round.

After his call was placed, he returned to Tessa, who was now sitting up with Cassie’s arm supporting her.

“They’re on their way,” he told them.

“I hate to leave her, but I need to tell Nash she’s going to the hospital, and I need to go find Dad.”

“Who’s Nash?” Grant asked.

“The new groom,” Tessa told him. “Go, Cass, I’m fine.”

Cassie shot Grant a look, but he nodded, giving her the silent go-ahead. There was no way he would be leaving Tessa’s side.

“I’m sure Dad will be at the hospital as soon as I let him know,” Cassie said.

“That’s fine. I’ve got my cell, so he can call me, too.”

As soon as the squad arrived and loaded Tessa—carefully, as per Grant’s demands—he went to get his rental car to follow. As much as he wanted to ride with her, he needed his vehicle, because when they left, he sure as hell would be the one bringing her back.

* * *

“This is all really silly,” Tessa complained as Grant eased his car into the drive, passing beneath the arched sign for the estate. “I can stay at my house just fine, Slick.”

“We already went over this. You can stay at your house with me or at my house with me. Since you only huffed when I gave you your options, I decided we’d stay here so your dad and sister are closer.”

Tessa rolled her eyes as he parked in front of the cottage. “I only live one property over.”

He turned, offered her that killer smile complete with dimples and said, “Yes, but there are several acres separating the two. Your father and I agreed this was best.”

“My father probably has no clue you have the hots for his daughter, either,” she mumbled.

Grant barked a laugh and came around to help her out. She wasn’t some invalid. She’d fallen off Macduff because she’d not been paying attention, and the once-abused horse was still skittish.

Cassie had bought the horse from an auction, and they all knew he’d been mistreated. But Cassie was a softy for any animal, especially ones not properly cared for. Tessa was confident she could keep him under control...and she had, until she’d seen Grant walking toward the stables, phone to his ear and wearing the most brilliant smile. He’d stolen her breath, and she’d lost her concentration. Macduff was nervous, anyway, but the accident was totally her fault.

Grant slid his arm around her as she started to climb from the car. “Really, I can walk,” she protested. “I won’t fall over.”

“The doctor said you had a concussion, and you admitted you were dizzy.” He tightened his grip. “You’re not going down on my watch.”

Okay, so a bit of her was thrilled at the fact he wanted to care for her, but she seriously could’ve taken care of herself. Did he think she was sharing his bed tonight? Surely that wasn’t a reason behind his insistence to keep her at his place.

Once inside the cottage, Grant gave her no option but to sit on the sofa with her feet propped up. Her protests were completely ignored as he removed her boots.

“Now, what can I get you to eat? You haven’t had dinner.”

Tessa hadn’t given food a thought. “What do you have? Just something light. I’m still queasy.”

“I’m pretty sure there are some cans of soup in the cabinet.”

Laying her head against the back of the sofa, she nodded. “That will be fine. Any flavor, I’m not too picky.”

Even as tired as she was, she couldn’t close her eyes. Watching Grant bustle around the kitchen, getting her dinner ready, really hit her hard. Aaron had never taken this much care of her. He’d never tried to put her needs first. Of course, hindsight was a real eye-opener, because the man had been only out for himself to begin with.

But there was something special about Grant. He obviously loved his family, which was a huge indicator that he was a nurturer. The fact he was so easy to talk to also proved to her that he wasn’t the self-centered city slicker she’d first thought him to be.

When he brought her dinner on a tray, Tessa smiled. “You’re so good to me, Slick. I could get used to this.”

He took a seat on the coffee table across from her and smiled. “I could get used to you lying on my couch watching me.”

After taking a few mouthfuls of chicken soup, she glanced back over at him and sighed. His eyelids were heavy, his hair all messed from running his fingers through it. Normally he looked so polished, the picture of perfection. Now he looked...exhausted.

“I’m sorry, Grant.”

“What for?”

“This. Being a burden, scaring you.”

He blinked and eased forward, cupping her face with one strong, warm hand. “You could never be a burden to me, Tessa. If I didn’t want you here I could’ve taken you to the main house, to Cassie’s or back to your own home. I want you here so I can watch over you, and I want you here because something is building between us and I refuse to ignore it.”

Inching forward, Grant placed his lips softly on hers. “As for scaring me, if you ever do that again I’m going to hack into your computer and delete all your saved spreadsheets.”

Tessa laughed, reaching over to smack his shoulder. “You wouldn’t dare.”

He eased back with a half grin. “Maybe not, but when you fell...there are no words, but I’ll never forget that feeling.”

He glanced aside, almost as if he was trying to compose himself. Had he truly been that scared, that worried for her? This wasn’t the first time she’d seen the stark fear in his eyes when it came to horses. That first day they’d met he’d acted concerned for her safety.

“Hey,” she said, waiting for him to turn back to her. “I’ve been riding since I got out of diapers, Slick. That wasn’t my first fall and it won’t be my last. Yes, it sucks, but sometimes it just happens.”

Raking a hand down his face, Grant sighed and came to his feet. “Why don’t you finish your dinner, and I’ll go find you some more comfortable clothes to sleep in.”

“What about you?” she asked. “You haven’t had dinner.”

“Honestly, my nerves are shot. I couldn’t eat if I wanted to.”