Mountains of Dawn

"Busy girl," he said. "Amazing. You drew the boy from five different perspectives since yesterday?"

"Well, actually, more like six. I threw one away." She felt flustered, not at all ready to see him. She needed a shower and a good yarn to spin concerning her stay at the mansion, along with a plausible reason to keep him coming back. "It's been a productive day, that's certain. Now I can paint the boy on canvas, and with the deadline three weeks away, it's about time. Fortunately, the background is already finished."

"How about a break? Want to take a walk?"

"I'd love to, but let me tidy up a bit first. I feel as if I'm covered in paint." She grinned. "Give me about fifteen minutes." And she hurried off to get a shower before Kevin could reply.

"Much better," she said a short while later. She wore snug jeans and a bright red tank top, her damp hair twisted into a tail at the back of her neck.

Kevin looked at her with appreciation. "Yes," he replied with a smile. "Much better." He reached up and brushed a lock of damp hair from her cheek. "Charcoal eyes and dark, curly hair. You fit in well in this countryside."

Tanya shivered, his touch sending currents of sensation down her body.

"I know of the perfect place," he said, starting to walk ahead of her. "It's a little far, but very poetic. I think you'll like it."

She followed meekly, pleased to obey his suggestions. As they walked, she watched him. The sun caressed him as if it were his lover, stroking his cheeks, his hair. Her attraction to him grew with each step.

But the attraction wasn't only physical. She felt a sense of comfort in his presence. His eyes sparkled with life, his body sent out a current of vitality into his surroundings, and into her. Close to him, she felt protected. He turned to check on her and smiled, his smile open and giving. She trusted him.

"Doing all right?" he asked. "Want to take a break yet?"

"No, no…I'm fine." He could never fall for her. Whatever had she been thinking? This fine handsome man, the boyfriend and husband of glamorous women…how could she ever think he would want her? He was simply lonely, passing the time with the next-door neighbor. He couldn't have any romantic interest in her. She sighed.