Page 50 of Craig
She patted her flat stomach. "I'm too full."
"Good. I have just the solution."
"Let me help-" she began. He shook his head and started to clear the table.
"You did the cooking. At least let me do the dishes. It's only fair."
"The dishes will wait." Snagging her hand, he pulled her up.
"What're you doing?" she demanded, trying to tug her hand free.
"We're going for a walk. It's a beautiful day, and we're going to take advantage of it."
"I don't-"
Hissing out a breath, she lapsed into silence as he marched her to the closet at the front and took out jackets.
"Craig-"
"We're here. The least we can do is enjoy it."
He bundled her in before shrugging into his. Taking her arm, he led the way out and started talking before she could start arguing.
"Look at that sunrise." He led the way down the steps and turned right.
"I bet you haven't seen anything like it. Not in the city."
"You sound like a tour guide," she grumbled, allowing herself to be manipulated.
He flashed her a grin, not in the least bit offended, and could feel her relaxing. "There's the stream."
He pointed towards it. In the quietness of the morning, every sound was magnified.
They heard birds calling, the water rushing over stones. It added to the magic.
"You have boats."
"Yes. We can go for a boat ride."
He glanced at her critically. "Unless you're afraid of the water and cannot swim."
"Buddy, I'm a fish."
"Good." His smile widened.
He had an idea for this morning and would have to ease her into it. If not this morning, then tomorrow.
Sliding his hand down, he took her hand and linked their fingers, holding his breath as he waited for her to pull away. When she didn't, he released the breath slowly and carefully.
He loved feeling her hand in his. It felt right.
"What are those?" In spite of herself, Regina was becoming enchanted.
It really was a beautiful place. She preferred the noise and rush of movement, but the solitude was growing on her.
"What?"
"These flowers growing in a circle around the dogwood tree."
