Sparks & Cabin Fever Read Free Page A

his driver's license, credit card, and the receipt. “Box number five-oh-three.”
    â€œThank you.” He returned her smile and held her gaze for a few seconds.
    Stefani felt her knees buckle. “You're welcome.”
    â€œI sure hope I see you again,” Harper gushed.
    Deacon grinned widely. “I'm sure we'll meet again,” he replied as he stuffed the key into his pocket and returned his license and credit card to his wallet. “Now could either of you tell me where I can find some decent food?”
    â€œThere's a diner just down the street on the right. Whitman's. You can't miss it,” Stefani replied. “The food's not bad and the prices are reasonable. The only other place is about three miles outside of town.”
    â€œWhitman's sounds perfect. Thank you.” He smiled again.
    Stefani felt her legs further weaken as he once again looked into her eyes. His penetrating gaze made her feel as though he were staring into her very soul. Her heart fluttered and she gripped the edge of the counter to steady herself.
    â€œYou're welcome.” She returned his smile and watched as he left her window and walked with long swaggering strides to the door. Her eyes stayed riveted to his butt until he opened the door and disappeared.
    â€œHe's gorgeous,” Harper whispered dreamily. “Nice ass, too. Where does he live? Give me all the details. Maybe I can think of an excuse to drop by his place. Maybe bring over a home cooked meal.”
    Stefani frowned. “You know I can't give you that information, Harper. Even if I could, I wouldn't. He has a right to his privacy. If he wanted you to know where he's staying I'm sure he would have mentioned it.” Her eyes narrowed. “I'm surprised you didn't come right out and ask him.”
    She pursed her lips tightly together. “I didn't want to seem obvious.”
    â€œYou obvious? Never!” Stefani feigned shock, and then laughed.
    Harper ignored Stefani's remark. Her brow puckered. “Please?”
    Stefani shook her head. “No. Ask him the next time you run into him. I'm sure you're headed to Whitman's the second you leave here.”
    â€œI wish, but I have to get back to the salon. I have an appointment in fifteen minutes.” Harper's eyes narrowed. “Well, I've got first dibs on him.”
    Stefani's jaw tightened. “Doesn't he have a say? Maybe he's married or isn't looking to get involved with anyone. At least let the guy get settled.”
    She bit her bottom lip. “I don't think he's married. I didn't see a ring on his finger.”
    â€œThat doesn't mean anything. A lot of guys take their rings off while they're working.”
    â€œNah. I think he's single. I have a feeling.” Harper tilted her head.
    Stefani sighed. Harper was irresistible to men. She'd been born with a natural beauty, the type of beauty all women wished they possessed. And Harper knew how to flatter a man to get exactly what she wanted. Stefani often wondered just what it was Harper was looking for in a man. Harper had dated several whom Stefani thought were perfect for her, but none of the men ever seemed to measure up to what Harper was seeking and the relationships never lasted for more than a couple of months.
    Stefani noticed the line of disgruntled customers. “I've got to get back to work, Harper. There's a line and it's getting longer. I'm going to get in trouble if I don't. I'll give you a call after work.”
    Harper's face brightened. “Let's go to The Dusty Road tonight. Deacon might stop in.”
    â€œOr he may not.”
    â€œWhere else would he go? I doubt he's the type to sit home on a Friday night twiddling his thumbs.”
    â€œHe could have a wife,” Stefani reminded her.
    â€œI told you I don't think he does.” She frowned. “With the looks of him, I doubt staying home is something he does either. Come on, Stef. It's Friday night and it's band night at The