Chapter Fifty One
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"So, have you gotten anything in the way of a job yet?" Dale casually asked Dakota at breakfast the next morning. He was trying to think of a way to bring up the idea of her moving to North Carolina with him and working at DEI.
Dakota sighed as she looked down at her plate, suddenly not feeling very hungry any longer. "No. I've sent out dozens of resumes, but nothing yet," She paused for a moment, thinking about things. "I have to wonder how much Jean-Claude has to do with that. You know because potential employers always contact your former employer." Dakota voiced for the first time her suspicions about Jean-Claude.
"Wouldn't doubt it." Dale commented, although he'd never met Jean-Claude. But judging by what Dakota and IreLyn had told him about Jean-Claude's behavior as of late, Dale could easily see that being the reason why Dakota had been unable to find a new job.
"I don't know what I'm going to do." Dakota said, nearly in tears. "I have some money saved up, but it's not going to last forever. IreLyn has been great about paying for a lot of the bills herself in the last few weeks, but I can't keep on letting her do that."
Dale smiled softly at Dakota as he stroked a finger across her cheek, gently brushing away her tears. "I think I may have a solution to your problem." Dale told her.
"What's that?" Dakota asked, willing to hear any kind of suggestion at this point.
"Well," Dale paused, trying to figure out to word his proposal. "How would you fell about moving to North Carolina with me and working at DEI? A position similar to what you had at D&D Advertising became available just before I left. I'm giving you first dibs. What do you say?" Dale asked, waiting anxiously for her answer.
Dakota just stared at Dale for several minutes, honestly not knowing what to say to him. One part of her was overjoyed at his offer and wanted to tell him immediatly that she accepted. The other part of her was a little more hesitant. After all, she'd lived in Estes Park all her life. Her parents were there. And IreLyn was there. She wasn't sure that she could leave either of them behind for good.
Dale could easily see the conflicting emotions going on in her eyes. He knew that this wasn't a decision that she could make lightly and honestly he didn't want her to make a decision right away. They still had four days before he and Brett had to leave, and even then if she still needed more time to think about it, that was fine with him.
"I know that this is something that you need to seriously think about." Dale told her as he covered her hand with his, his thumb tenderly caressing the soft skin on the back of her hand. "Take all the time that you need to think about it."
Dakota closed her eyes as she felt tears stinging there. No one, apart from her parents and IreLyn had ever been so kind to her before. Opening her eyes again, she met Dale's and smiled. "Thank you." She said softly.
Still holding onto her hand, Dale stood up and pulled Dakota to his feet as well. They were all heading out that day to do some sight seeing. "Let's go see if Brett and IreLyn are ready."
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Chapter Fifty Two
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“You’ve been awfully quiet today.” IreLyn commented as she sat down next to Dakota in the back yard, who was watching Brett and Dale play basketball with Bud and BS running around them.
Dakota sent her friend an apologetic smile. “Have I? I’m sorry. I guess you could say I’ve got a lot on my mind right now.” She answered.
IreLyn gave her a sympathetic look. “You aren’t still worried about a job are you? I keep telling you that something will come along when you least expect it and to stop dwelling on it.”
“You were more correct on that than you would think.” Dakota sighed, looking down at her hands. She lifted her head and saw the confusion on her friend’s face.
“I guess you could say I got a job offer.” She clarified.
“What?” IreLyn exclaimed, her face breaking out into a radiant smile. “Kody, that’s wonderful!”
“It’s in North Carolina.” Dakota said softly, waiting for IreLyn’s reaction.
“See, I told you something would come—“ IreLyn cut herself off, her eyes going wide when Dakota’s words sank in. “W-what?” she whispered.
“How in the hell could you get a job offer in North Carolina? You don’t even know anyone in from North Carolina, except for Dale and his friends.” Again she trailed off when it dawned on her. “Oh, never mind.”
“Dale wants me to come work for DEI…doing pretty much the same thing I did at D&D.” Dakota confirmed.
“Are you going to accept?” IreLyn asked, looking across the yard. She swallowed hard. She knew this was the opportunity of a lifetime for her friend, and she would be a fool to turn it down. But for selfish reasons, she almost hoped Dakota didn’t take it.
They had grown up together…been more like sisters than friends, and never had they been apart. They had even gone to college and roomed together. All their lives they had been inseparable. Everything would change if Dakota moved to North Carolina.
“I don’t know.” Dakota answered honestly. “Dale just asked me earlier this morning, so I have a few days to think it over.”
IreLyn took a deep breath. “I think you should do it.” She said, knowing she had to be unselfish about this. Yet she also knew Dakota wouldn’t go if she though IreLyn wasn’t behind her.
“You do?” Dakota questioned, turning to look at her friend. IreLyn smiled and nodded.
“Kody, you have finally found everything you have ever hoped for in Dale. This is your opportunity to really be with him. If you don’t take it, you’ll regret it the rest of your life.”
Dakota bit her lip as she pondered IreLyn’s words. “I know.” She sighed. “But I don’t know if I can leave all this. I love Colorado…I’d miss my parents, and most of all you.” She said turning her head to look IreLyn in the eyes.
“Colorado will always be here, along with your parents and me. Besides, it’s not as if we’re never going to see each other. I’ll be visiting all the time!” IreLyn reassured her. If she could, she would up and move with Dakota, but right now that just wasn’t possible.
“I know.” Dakota looked away, deep in thought. “You don’t think it’s too soon?”
“What’s too soon?”
“Me moving to North Carolina. I mean, I can kid myself all I want, but you and I both know the real reason why I’d be moving.” She turned her head, her eyes resting on Dale, completely unaware of the way her eyes softened or the smile that tugged at her lips. But IreLyn noticed.
“I don’t think it’s too soon, Kody.” IreLyn smiled. “And obviously Dale doesn’t either since he asked you. Would you move in with him?”
“Uh, well, I doubt it.” Dakota answered, her expression confused.
“Did he ask you?” IreLyn asked. She knew she was going to miss her friend more than words could say, but she also knew that if Brett had asked her to move in with him, she would in a heart beat. Her gaze moved to Brett, who was trying to get around Dale to the basket. She smiled and wondered when this opportunity would happen for her. She snapped out of her daze when she heard Dakota speaking.
“I don’t know.”
IreLyn burst out laughing. “You don’t know? How can you not know?”
Dakota shrugged and grinned sheepishly. “Well, he asked me if I would move to North Carolina with him and work at DEI. I don’t know if that means into his house with him, or just there with him.”
“Well, if he meant that he wanted you to move in with him, would you?” IreLyn asked, although she already knew the answer. Dakota blushed a little and grinned as she nodded her head, not even having to hesitate. Suddenly it didn’t matter how long they had been together.
“Then don’t you think you ought to find out what he meant, exactly?” IreLyn giggled.
“Yeah, I guess I should, huh?” Dakota laughed back.
Both girls fell silent as they continued to watch the game, laughing at the guys and their antics.
Dakota’s mind went back to the only thing she had been able to think about all day. There was such a big part inside telling her to go with Dale and accept the job. She was pretty sure that was her heart telling her that.
But could she really leave her home, best friend and family? Yet on the other hand, could she really pass up this opportunity to be with Dale? Her heart began to pound furiously as she realized she had pretty much made her decision. Maybe it was time to start listening to her heart.
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Chapter Fifty Three
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"Hey, I'm going to run to the store and pick up a few things that I'll need for dinner tonight." IreLyn told Dakota as she stood up from the chair that she'd been seated in. She smiled as she looked at Dale and Dakota, who were snuggled up on the couch, Dale sleeping with his head on her lap, and Brett, who was sprawled out on the floor snoozing.
"Go right ahead." Dakota tried to stifle a yawn behind her hand. She was more than willing to let IreLyn take care of the cooking and dinner arrangements if that meant that she could cuddle with Dale a little longer.
IreLyn tossed a pillow in Dakota's direction as she grabbed her purse and keys and headed for the door. She stopped when BS saw that she was going out and ran up to her. "Hey, you wanna go along?" IreLyn asked the dog. BS tilted his head as if he completely understood every word that she was saying. His tail began to wag happily as IreLyn picked up his leash from where it lay by the door and hooked it to his collar. "Well, that won't be a problem."
The small neighborhood grocery store that she was going to was only about eight blocks away. It would be good to walk. She could hook BS up outside the store while she ran in for the things that she needed. IreLyn knew that the dog wouldn't bother anyone and she wouldn't be in there that long.
"Be right back" IreLyn called softly as she glanced back over her shoulder. Dakota said nothing, only half-assed waved at her friend. She'd already curled up beside Dale. Her eyes closed, Dakota was already half-asleep herself.
***
IreLyn hummed to herself as she picked up her bags and headed out the door of the store. Again, like she had been doing a lot lately, she reflected on her life and how happy she was as of late. And she knew she had one person to thank for that.
"Hey there handsome." She greeted BS, who was lying down but immediately rose to his feet when he saw her come through the door, his tail wagging happily. "Did ya miss me?"
She set the bags down, bent over and untied his leash, then straightened back up, adjusting the bags in her arms so she wouldn't have any problems walking home.
"Ready to go, big guy?" she asked, laughing when BS immediately started walking back in the direction of the house. "I'll take that as a yes."
Keeping her eyes on the dog, she was startled when she nearly ran into someone who was walking into the store.
"Oooh, sorry." She quickly apologized, scrambling to keep a hold of the bags and not let their contents fall out all over the sidewalk. She lifted her head and her breath caught in her throat when she saw who it was she had nearly plowed into.
Both their eyes narrowed as they stared at the other, the tension between them building. The stare down was broken by an angry growl that sent chills down IreLyn's spine. She turned and looked down at BS who's ears were laid flat against his head, his teeth bared as he growled deep in this throat, his eyes trained on the man standing before IreLyn.
IreLyn moved closer to BS, trying to calm him down juts a little. The last thing she needed was for the dog to attack, although at this point she was about ready to let go of the leash and let him do as he pleased.
She hadn't seen him since he'd left Dale's party abruptly, and although she was more than happy with Brett, she had felt bad about what she had done to him. But after what he had done to Dakota, IreLyn wished she had never set eyes on Logan again.
She looked back up at him, finding his eyes still on her. "What?" she snapped at him, her eyes flashing. She was not in the mood for this.
"Nothing." Logan muttered, his own anger simmering beneath the surface. Although she had hurt him and a part of him hated her, she still made his pulse race, and seeing her now made all those feelings come back.
"Well, I would say it was nice to see you, but I'd be lying." IreLyn gave him a cold glare. "So, good bye." She turned on her heel and began walking away, pulling on the leash, finally getting BS to break his death stare and follow her. Suddenly she stopped and turned around.
"Oh, Logan." She called. "What you did to Dakota was heinous!" she spat at him, finally allowing all her anger to show through.
"And what you did to me in North Carolina wasn't?" Logan snapped back, taking a step towards her.
"I never meant for you to get hurt like that, but I can't say that I'm sorry." IreLyn retorted. "I love Brett, and he and I were meant to be together. Yes, it was wrong of me to get involved with you, and I am sorry for that. But you should never have let what happened between you and me affect Dakota the way you did."
Logan shrugged nonchalantly, causing IreLyn to want to smack him. "Not my problem anymore. I have no control over Jean-Claude's decisions."
"Jean-Claude is a bastard just like you." IreLyn yelled at him. Her eyes widened when Logan took a step towards her, his face filled with rage.
Immediately BS sprang into action. He jumped forward suddenly, catching IreLyn off guard and causing her to drop the leash. He rushed at Logan, who didn't have time to react, and found himself flat on his back with the large dog on top of him, snarling down at him.
IreLyn dropped her bags and rushed forward, grabbing BS's collar and pulling him back before he could do any real damage. She wrapped her arm around the dog, who calmed down instantly at her presence. She pet him soothingly, talking softly too him.
Logan rose to his feet, wiping himself off as he glared down at the two. "You'll pay for that." He threatened.
"I don't think so."
IreLyn, BS and Logan all turned at the new voice. BS barked happily and trotted to meet his master. IreLyn stood up, biting her lip as she looked at Brett. Never before had she ever seen him look so...pissed.
Her eyes then flew to Logan who was glaring back at Brett. She had a sense of deja vu and had a feeling if she didn't get Brett out of there soon, things could end up very much like they had at Dale's house.
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Chapter Fifty Four
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Before any tempers erupted, IreLyn was able to convince Brett to back down. Logan had left, but not before giving each of them a threatening glare and throwing a few choice words in Brett's direction. After picking up the bags of groceries and getting BS more calm, Brett and IreLyn began walking back toward the house.
They'd walked a couple of blocks before Brett stopped suddenly and turned to IreLyn. "Hey, are you okay?" He asked after noticing that she hadn't said anything since they'd begun walking and that she was trembling slightly.
"Yes." IreLyn replied with a sigh. "I'm sorry about all of that. I should have just walked away." She looked into Brett's eyes and saw the anger still blazing there. But mostly, at the moment he was more concerned about IreLyn than anything.
"Well, what happened?" Brett questioned as they began walking again.
IreLyn sighed again. " I lost my temper and confronted Logan about what he did to Dakota...him pulling his account because of what happened in North Carolina. Again, I should have just walked away." IreLyn paused, not wanting to discuss it any further. She felt horrible that Brett could have gotten into another altercation with Logan because of her. And she still blamed herself completely for Dakota losing her job as well. IreLyn looked up at Brett and forced a smile.
"Hey, where'd you come from anyway? You suddenly appeared like some kind of superhero or a knight in shining armor." IreLyn said with a giggle, her heavy spirits lifting some.
"Well, I awoke from my little siesta and immediately missed you. So I bugged Dakota to find out where you'd gone. She said that you'd be right back, but like I said, I missed you way too much. Dakota gave me directions to the store so I thought that I'd catch up with you." Brett told her, a crooked grin on his face. "Thank goodness I got there when I did." Brett didn't even want to think about what might have taken place if he hadn't gotten there when he had.
"I think that Brown Sugar had the situation pretty well under control." IreLyn smiled down at the dog walking beside her as she reached out and gently patted his back.
They walked the rest of the way back to the house in silence, each reflecting back on what had just taken place with Logan.
As Brett and IreLyn walked up the front steps leading to the house, IreLyn put her hand on his arm to stop his movements. She looked up into his eyes, her expression serious.
"Brett, I'd appreciate it if you didn't mention this to Dakota. We need to go in there and pretend that we didn't even see Logan today." IreLyn implored him, her eyes continuing to hold his. "You might already know, but Dale has asked Kody to move to North Carolina with him. She's hesitant enough already. I don't want anything to hinder her from making the right choice. And the right choice for her is to make the move. I've already cost her enough by making her lose her other job. I don't want her to miss this opportunity as well."
IreLyn paused for a split second and then spoke again before Brett had a chance to get a word out. "Besides, I'm sure that this was just an isolated incident. Still, I don't want Kody to know. She worries way too much. Promise me that you won't tell her." IreLyn still kept her eyes on his. "Please?"
Brett sighed, not really liking what IreLyn was asking. He didn't like keeping things from other people. But since it was IreLyn, he would. He would do anything for her. Besides, he reasoned with himself, if Dakota didn't ask, then he really wouldn't be keeping anything from her.
"Okay." Brett replied before he leaned forward and caught her lips in a tender kiss.
*****
"You were pretty quiet during dinner." Dakota commented as she and IreLyn cleaned up the dishes afterwards. "Actually both you and Brett have been acting kind of strange since you got back from the store. Everything all right?"
IreLyn knew that that question would be coming eventually. And honestly what had happened with Logan really wasn't bothering her as much as it had initially. She knew that Brett was still furious, but he was doing a good job of covering it up.
"Everything is fine, Kody. Better than I could have ever imagined." IreLyn told Dakota and really, it was the truth...She just sort of forgot to mention what had happened at the store with Logan.
IreLyn changed the subject before Dakota could ask anymore questions. "But more importantly, tell me about you and Dale. Have you decided if you're moving? If you are, are you moving in with him? Have you talked to him about it yet? What did he say?"
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Chapter Fifty Five
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Dakota laughed at her friend’s energy, holding up her hand to stop the onslaught of questions. She paused a minutes, thinking of what she had just been asked, while IreLyn shifted from one foot to the other waiting anxiously for her answers.
“Yes, no not really, yes and a lot.” Dakota answered, grinning at IreLyn.
IreLyn sighed and rolled her eyes. “That didn’t tell me much. Okay, let me figure this out.” She rubbed her temples as she thought about it. “Yes you’ve decided, um…no you’re not moving in with him, yes you talked, and he had a lot to say.”
Dakota laughed, nodding her head. “You got it!” It had been a game they played together since they were old enough to talk. IreLyn was famous for throwing out question after question, and Dakota would answer in order. Anyone listening to their conversations at times would get very confused, but the girls always knew what the other was saying. Their parents tease them still about having their own little language.
“Okay, now give me all the details.” IreLyn commanded as she and Dakota started drying the dishes. “First, what did you decide, even though I’m pretty sure I don’t have to ask.”
“I’m moving to North Carolina.” Dakota said, and even though IreLyn was expecting it, she couldn’t prevent the stab of pain she felt at her friend’s words. Yet at the same time, she felt joy for her. She knew it was the same way for Dakota. It was bittersweet.
IreLyn set down the plate and turned to her friend, pulling her into a tight hug. “Good, I’m happy for you. You deserve this.”
Dakota pulled back, blinking back the tears that were suddenly threatening. “Thank you. I’m scared as hell to be making this move, but you were right, I can’t let this pass me by.”
“So, what’s with the living arrangements?” IreLyn asked, her eyes shinning.
“Well, we talked about that, and we’ve decided that I’ll stay in the apartment above his garage for now. That way, when he’s on the road for races, there will be someone there to look after the house, and Bud.”
IreLyn nodded, seeing the reasoning behind it. “So why don’t you just move in with him?” she asked.
Dakota bit her lip as she turned and picked up a glass and began drying it. “It never really came up. When I told him I would take the job he immediately offered me the apartment.” She had to admit to herself that she was a little disappointed that he didn’t want her living with him, but at the same time she could understand completely. This really was the best solution. And although it did feel like she had known him forever, they really hadn’t been together for that long and moving in together was a huge step.
“So, when are you moving?” IreLyn asked, holding her breath, half-afraid to hear the answer.
Dakota took a deep breath and let it out slowly. This was going to be the hardest part. “I’m leaving with Dale on Sunday.” She said softly.
IreLyn took a shocked step back, her eyes wide. “Oh.” Was all she was able to manage, her voice not working with her. Her hands began to tremble and again she had to put the plate down.
She knew Dakota would be leaving soon, but this she hadn’t expected. She jumped when Dakota put a hand on her shoulder.
“Dale called his step-mother as soon as I told him I’d take the job, and she wants me there Monday morning for the interview.” She explained.
“Interview. But I thought you had the job.” IreLyn said confused.
“Well, no not really.” Dakota grinned sheepishly. “I’m getting the interview because of Dale, but it’s Teresa’s final decision.” She explained, referring to the woman who was now in charge of DEI.
“Does she know about you and Dale?” IreLyn grinned. She hadn’t met Dale’s stepmother, but just from hearing Dale talk, she was more like his mother. He was very close to her, and she did have a protective side when it came to Dale.
“I assume she does, since she had the interview set up when Dale called.” Dakota laughed. “She wasn’t expecting me to turn down Dale’s offer, obviously.”
IreLyn nodded, her mind going back to her friend’s departure. “God, I can’t believe your leaving in a few days. We’ve got so much to do! We have to get boxes, get you packed, get everything in order.”
“Hold on! Not so fast. I’m only leaving for a few days; I’ll be back. Well, if I don’t get the job, I’ll be back for good. But even if I do get it, I’ll still be back to get everything settled then.” She promised.
IreLyn sighed with relief. “Oh good. I mean, we’re good and all, but I wasn’t sure we could get you packed and squared away in two days!”
“Aren’t you two done with the dishes yet? We’re ready to go!” Brett whined from the doorway, grinning at the girls when they turned to face him.
“Well maybe if you men had helped we’d be done a lot quicker and ready to go.” Dakota threw back jokingly, amused by the guys impatience to see how the nightlife in Colorado compared to other places they’d been.
“But we had to get ready.” Brett responded.
“True, but now you’ll have to wait even longer cuz Kody and I have to get ready.” IreLyn laughed at the look on Brett’s face. Dakota threw her dishtowel at him as she walked out the door, headed to her room where she could get dressed.
Brett turned back to IreLyn and saw the expression on her face. “You okay?” he asked as he moved forward and pulled her into his arms, holing her against him.
IreLyn nodded. “Yeah, I’m fine.”
“Dakota’s leaving has to upset you.” Brett said softly, gently running his finger down her flawless cheek.
“How did you—“ she cut herself off before she could finish. “Dale told you.”
“He’s ecstatic.” Brett grinned, happy for both Dale and Dakota. Although he hadn’t known Dale for a long time, he’d never seen him happier than when he was with Dakota. Of course the same could be said for him since he’d found IreLyn.
“I’m sure he is.” IreLyn smiled, even though there was a hint of sadness behind it. “Come on, I want to get ready, go out and have a great time. No more sad, upsetting or depressing thoughts for the night.”
She took his hand and pulled him behind her towards her room. They both stopped when they heard Dale call to them from the living room.
“Oh no you don’t!” Dale came forward, his eyes gleaming mischievously, matching the grin on his lips. “Brett, you need to stay out here with me.” He pointed towards the other room.
“Why?”
“Cuz knowing you two, we’ll never get out of here if you both go in there.” He tilted his head towards the bedroom.
IreLyn laughed as she let go of Brett’s hand. “He’s probably right.” She went up on tip toes and kissed him lightly then turned and went into her room, giggling when she heard Brett cussing and Dale laughing behind her.
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Chapter Fifty Six
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"Wow." Brett breathed softly when IreLyn came back out into the living room almost an hour later. He knew that she was beautiful. That there was no denying. But on this occasion she looked more stunning than he ever dreamed possible.
"You're breathtaking." Brett whispered gruffly as IreLyn walked over to him and stepped into his arms. Brett dropped his head, placing a lingering kiss on her neck.
"Thanks." IreLyn said, her cheeks flaming at his words as he pulled back. "Is everyone ready to go?" She asked as she looked around but didn't see Dale or Dakota.
Brett laughed. Junior and Dakota are rounding up disguises for Junior and I. Junior is afraid that we're going to get mobbed the second we step foot in the club."
IreLyn was thoughtful about it for a moment. "You know, Dale is probably right. Are you sure you want to go out tonight. I don't mind staying in." IreLyn told him, not caring what they did as long as she was with Brett.
"Yes, I'm sure." Brett answered immediately. "If it does happen that people recognize us and it gets too bad, we can always bail." This was the one thing that Brett hated about his line of work...Not having the freedom to come and go as he pleased with out being mobbed by rabid fans.
"Okay, but what type of disguise are Dale and Dakota getting for you two?" IreLyn asked and then paused for a moments as she began laughing at the mental picture in her mind. "Halloween masks, I bet! You're both going as some big ugly monsters and no one will recognize you." IreLyn laughed as Brett pulled her tight against him.
"No," He replied as he gazed down into her beautiful green eyes. "I think they had more like baseball caps and sunglasses in mind."
Before IreLyn was able to say anything, Dale and Dakota walked into the room. Dale grinned at Brett as he tossed him a camouflaged baseball cap and a pair of sunglasses. "There, that ought to hide ya."
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Chapter Fifty Seven
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Brett looked from the cap in his hand to the baseball sitting on his friend’s head. “Uh, camouflage really isn’t my thing.” He deadpanned.
Dale grinned knowingly at him. “Yeah, that’s why I picked for ya.”
“Question.” They both turned to look at IreLyn who was eyeing them curiously.
“Wouldn’t it be a little less conspicuous to not wear the sunglasses, since it is dark outside?” she asked, motioning towards the glasses they each held in their hands.
“Uh yeah, and Dale, the red Budweiser had you have on backwards just screams ‘Dale Earnhardt Jr.’” Dakota struggled to keep in the laughter, but gave in when she heard IreLyn giggling next to her.
Dale sighed and turned his hat around so it was facing the front. “Fine, is that better?”
“Yeah, but it’s still a Budweiser hat.” Dakota pointed out.
“Sorry buddy,” Brett grinned, then with cat like reflexes, swiped the hat off Junior’s head and put the camouflage hat in his hands. “Looks like I get the Bud hat.”
“Oh hell no.” Dale protested, making a grab for the hat but Brett moved too quickly. “No one but me wears my hat.” He grumbled.
“Well, tonight I do, since we don’t want to be mobbed.” Brett teased, placing the hat on his head, the looked at the girls. “How do I look?”
“Like a fucking moron, now give me my hat.” Dale snapped. By this point Dakota and IreLyn were in hysterics.
After about five minutes of going back and forth, Dale eventually came out victorious only after turning up the Earnhardt glare he had on Brett.
“Fine, you big baby, take the damn hat.” Brett muttered, throwing the hat at Dale.
“That’s what I though.” Dale said happily, proudly putting the hat back on his head, although this time it was not around backwards. “So, are we ready to go now?” he asked, turning to the girls.
IreLyn nodded, wiping the tears of laughter from her eyes. “I can see it now…tonight is definitely going to be interesting.”
“Hey, are we going with the sunglasses or not?” Dale asked, looking over at Brett.
“Wait, I got it! Be right back.” Brett said before turning and heading down the hallway. IreLyn, Dakota and Dale looked at each other confused after Brett disappeared in IreLyn’s room.
A few minutes later he came out with something in hand. “This ought to work.” He announced as he handed Dale a pair of regular glasses, while putting on an almost identical pair himself.
“I didn’t know you wear glasses.” IreLyn turned to Brett. Her breath caught in her throat when she looked at him. She swallowed hard. Damn but he looked sexy in glasses. Hell, he was sexy period!
“They are just for reading, but I’m forever loosing them, so I got two pairs.” Brett explained.
“Damn, I’m gonna have to get me some of these.” Dale exclaimed as he put the glasses on and checked his reflection in the hall mirror. He grinned at them then turned his hat back the way he liked it. “I look good!”
“Oh good lord, you’ve created a monster!” Dakota laughed, although she had to agree with him.
“Come on, let’s get out of here.” IreLyn moved towards the door.
***
A couple hours later they were sitting at the club, enjoying the music, drinks and each other’s company. A few fans seeking autographs had approached both Dale and Brett, but for the most part, other than getting stares, people were pretty much leaving them alone to enjoy their evening.
Dale and Brett both groaned and rolled their eyes when *NSYNC blared through the speaker.
“Kill me now.” Brett muttered, glaring at the DJ.
“He’d been doing pretty good all night, but completely ruined it with this shit.” Dale grumbled, waving a hand towards the DJ.
“Junior, go tell him to change this crap.” Brett told him.
“Why me?”
“Cuz he’ll do it. All ya gotta do is give him that classic glare of yours.” Brett grinned.
“What glare?” Dale asked innocently, taking a huge swig of his beer.
“That glare you inherited from your father.”
“So I take it you two don’t want to dance.” Dakota spoke up, grinning.
“Hell no!” They both said at the same time, each wearing an identical horrified expression.
“Uh oh.” IreLyn muttered softly.
“What?” Dakota asked looking over at IreLyn, seeing her gaze fixed on something…or someone.
“Um, nothing.” IreLyn said quickly, averting her eyes. Dakota turned in her seat, scanning the crowd, trying to spot what had caught IreLyn’s attention.
Her eyes went wide when she saw who it was. Jean-Claude, and he was headed in their direction.
“Oh hell.” Dakota swore under her breath. She hadn’t seen or heard from Jean-Claude since she told him she quit. She had a deep sinking feeling this was not going to be good.
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Chapter Fifty Eight
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Jean-Claude swallowed hard when he saw the four people, at the table that he was walking toward, glaring at his. He knew that this wouldn't be easy, but he had to do what he had to do.
"Dakota," Jean-Claude began as he stepped up to the table. He nodded briefly at Dale, IreLyn, and Brett before turning his full attention back to Dakota. He sucked in a sharp breath when he really looked at her and saw how completely stunning she looked. She wore her hair up, which was something that she rarely did. Dakota had a long, beautiful neck that was even more visible with her hair up. It quite simply drove Jean-Claude wild.
"What do you want, Jean-Claude?" Dakota demanded, her cold voice snapping him out of his thoughts.
"Uh...I'd like to speak to you." Jean-Claude finally said after the few silent moments that it took for him to get his voice to work. He fidgeted slightly when Dakota motioned for him to continue with a roll of her eyes and an absent wave of her hand.
"In private, if you don't mind."
"As a matter of Dakota does mind. So why don't you just get lost!" Dale butted in before Dakota could say anything.
IreLyn had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing out loud as she glanced over at Dale. He was positively furious. His face was beet red and his hands were clenched into tight fists atop the table. She looked over at Dakota, who was on the verge of bursting out laughing herself just by the expression on Dale's face.
"That's all right Dale," Dakota said as she gently put her hand on his in an effort to calm him down some before an all out fight broke out. She had to admit that she wanted to get Jean-Claude alone so she could tell him exactly what she thought of him. "I think I'll see what Jean-Claude has to say." She told Dale, as well as IreLyn and Brett. "I won't be gone long." Dakota said mostly to Dale, who looked like he was about to jump from his chair and sit her back down.
IreLyn, Dale, and Brett all watched in silence as Dakota followed Jean-Claude out of the club. After a few minutes, IreLyn abruptly stood up, catching both Dale and Brett by surprise.
"Where are you going?" Brett asked, wondering at the wicked gleam lighting her green eyes.
IreLyn grinned at Brett and Dale. "Do you honestly think that I'm going to miss this?" She asked the guys. "Kody's gonna chew his ass and I'm not going to miss it! This is going to be a classic!"
Both Dale and Brett stood to go with IreLyn. "No, you guys stay here. I don't want to lose our table. Besides you two don't gather as much attention when you're sitting here being good little boys." Then before Brett or Dale could say anything to protest, IreLyn turned and walked away toward the exit that Dakota and Jean-Clause had gone through moments before.
But before IreLyn could make it through the doors, she ran right smack into Logan for the second time that day.
*****
"Alright Jean-Claude, what the hell do you want?" Dakota demanded once they had gotten outside and walked away from the building a bit. She stared up at him, her anger barely contained.
Jean-Claude took in a deep breath and slowly let it out. "I want you to come back. Please will you come back to D&D?" Jean-Claude paused, waiting for Dakota's reaction. When she didn't say anything, just stared up at him in incredulity at hearing his words, Jean-Claude spoke again.
"I know that I made a huge mistake when I threatened to fire you. It took me this long to realize that, but I do realize it. I'm so sorry. I acted rashly and foolishly. Please Kody, come back to work." Jean-Claude pleaded desperately, doing all but getting down on his knees and begging.
Dakota stared up at Jean-Claude for a moment, then before she was able to stop herself, she burst out laughing at him and his desperate plea to get her to come back to work for him. Dakota laughed even harder and she realized how much she was going to enjoy telling him that it'd be a cold day in hell before she'd ever come back to work for him.
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Chapter Fifty Nine
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“Perfect.” IreLyn muttered to herself when she saw whom she had, yet again, run into.
“Are you purposely trying to ruin my good mood?” she snapped at him, her hands on her hips.
“Hey, you ran into me, for the second time.” Logan sneered back at her. “Where’s your bodyguard?”
IreLyn’s eyes narrowed as she glared up at him, her temper immediately flaring. She bit her lip, trying like hell to calm herself, but found that it wasn’t working.
“Good-bye.” IreLyn said and quickly turned back towards the door, knowing if she didn’t just walk away, then things wouldn’t turn out any better than they had earlier that morning.
She let out a little yelp of surprise when he suddenly grabbed her arm, catching her off guard and off balance, causing her to stumble back into him. She spun around and tried to yank her arm from his grasp. Her eyes widened when he tightened his grip.
“Get the fuck off me.” She hissed at him.
Before either of them could say or do anything, Logan was jerked away from her. She looked up and swallowed hard when she saw the look on Brett’s face as he stared at the other man.
She quickly glanced at Dale who was standing next to Brett with his arms crossed over his chest as he too glared at the bigger man. IreLyn took a step forward, ready to intervene but stopped when she heard Brett speak.
“I’m only going to tell you this once.” Brett growled. “Stay the hell away from IreLyn.” The gleam in his eyes told the other man that he was far from joking.
Logan glanced around and noticed the crowd that was forming around them. He also noticed the way Dale was standing close by, ready to back up his friend. Logan sighed, realizing this wasn’t the time or the place. He would have his time though. Things weren’t finished…not by a long shot.
Throwing a smirk in their direction, Logan turned and walked away without saying a word.
IreLyn slowly let out the breath she had been unaware she was holding. She looked at Brett and immediately found herself in his arms, pressed tightly against him.
“Are you okay?” he asked gruffly, pulling back to look down at her. She nodded and tried smiling, knowing he saw the way her lips were quivering.
“Yeah, I’m fine.” She breathed. “Although I’m thinking we may need to get you a super hero name or something, since you seem to be making a habit out of this.” She teased lightly, hoping to lighten the mood.
“What an ass.” Dale grumbled as he stepped up to the couple, looking over his shoulder, making sure Logan was indeed gone. “Damn girl, you really know how to pick ‘em.” His grin widening when he saw their confused looks.
“Well just think about it. First Brett, then Logan, then Brett again. Talk about bad taste.” Dale shook his head. “Ow!” he exclaimed when Brett whacked him upside the head, nearly making him loose his hat. He straightened it and glared at Brett.
“Watch the hat.” He warned.
IreLyn laughed, grateful he’d been there, able to lift the dark cloud that had been hanging over them.
“I happen to think she has very good taste in men. She just had one little lapse in judgment.” Brett countered.
“Yeah sure.” Dale rolled his eyes. “But you know she wouldn’t have had the ‘little lapse’, if you hadn’t had your head up your ass.” Dale retorted.
Brett sulked as he crossed his arms over his chest. “Oh yeah? Well, let’s just talk about Dakota’s taste in men.” He whined, almost sounding like a five-year-old. IreLyn had to cover her mouth with her hand to keep from laughing harder.
“Dakota has wonderful taste in men.” IreLyn put in, immediately jumping to her friend's defense. It wasn’t until Brett turned and looked down at her shocked and Dale was grinning triumphantly when she realized how it sounded.
“Gee, thanks a lot. Whose side are you on, anyway?” Brett grumbled good-naturedly as he looked over at Dale and shot him a look after seeing the gleeful expression on his face. Brett bit back the smile that was threatening. He was glad Dale was there. He didn't want IreLyn being down the rest of the night because of her run in with that bastard. He looked over at Dale and shot him a look after seeing the gleeful expression on his face.
“I didn’t mean that like it sounded.” IreLyn laughed. “I just mean…oh, never mind.” She waved her hand, her face turning red.
“That’s okay, Lyn.” Dale announced as he put his arm around her shoulders. “I know what you meant.” He grinned, wiggling his eyebrows at her.
IreLyn giggled as she elbowed him in the stomach. “It came out wrong.” She wished Dakota were there to witness this. Suddenly it hit her.
“Oh shit! I bet I’m missing it!” IreLyn exclaimed as she remember Dakota was outside with Jean-Claude and rushed towards the door, not noticing the look Brett and Dale shared before they turned and followed her.
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Chapter Fifty Sixty
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Jean-Claude stared at Dakota, his face turning red with anger as she laughed at him. "What the hell is so funny?" He demanded as he stood in front of her, his body rigid.
Dakota dropped her head and took in a deep breath as she tried to get herself under control again. It was just absolutely hilarious though, that after all, Jean-Claude was now begging her back to work.
"You want me to come back to D&D? After everything?" Dakota asked somewhat incredulously. "I find that a little hard to believe Jean-Claude."
Jean-Claude looked away as he raked his fingers through his hair. He took in a deep breath and slowly let it out, knowing that if he didn't keep his temper in check, he could blow this whole thing. Not only was he desperate for her by his side at work, but he was also determined to have Dakota by his side in his life outside of work. Before he'd been satisfied to have Dakota only as a friend, but after having been away from her the last few weeks, he began to realize how he truly felt. He was completely in love with Dakota.
"Dakota," Jean-Claude began after a few moments of silence. "Yes, I do want you to come back to work at D&D. Like I said before, I was foolish to treat you the way I did. Please will you accept my apology and come back to work?"
Dakota tilted her head as she looked up at him, an eyebrow raised as she pretended to ponder his question. “No.” she said simply.
Jean-Claude stared down at her in shock. Obviously he hadn’t expected her to turn him down. “W-What?” he stuttered.
Dakota sighed and barely restrained the urge to roll her eyes. “You asked me if I would accept your apology and come back to work. I said no.”
“No?” he repeated in disbelief.
“Christ, did you go deaf in the last couple weeks?” she fairly yelled at him. “I honestly can’t believe you had the gull to even ask me.”
“Kody—“ He started, but she cut him off.
“Don’t ‘Kody’ me.” She fumed. “You treated me like shit! I’ve worked my ass off for you and your damn company for years! I’ve always gone above and beyond the call of duty for you and you know it. But the first time something major comes up, you choose a client over me. And you know what , it wasn’t just that. We were friends, Jean-Claude. Friends. But not any more.”
Jean-Claude took a step back, taking a deep breath. Never had she looked more beautiful to him than she did at this moment. Her eyes were flashing with a fire that should have warned him not to push things, her cheeks slightly flushed as she yelled up at him.
“And another thing.” Dakota continued. “You can take your job offer and shove it straight up you’re ass, you fucking bas—“
Jean-Claude cut her off when suddenly grabbed both her arms and pulled her towards him, her eyes widening in surprise and shock. He dipped his head and covered her mouth with his. He felt her tense up against him, but at the moment he didn’t care. This was the moment he’d been waiting for…the moment he dreamed of. He would show her how he felt about her, and show her they belonged together.
His hand came up and held her head, while he wrapped his other arm around her waist, anchoring her to him when she started to struggle. He started growing frustrated at her lack of response to the kiss, other than trying like hell to get away from him.
He pushed her back against the building, trapping her with his body, allowing his hands to be free to come up and frame her face, holding her head still, as she was trying to turn away from him.
Using every bit of her strength, Dakota got her hands in between their bodies, and shoved him with all her might. It was enough to distract him and she ripped herself from his grasp. Without hesitating, she swung her arm, her hand connecting with his cheek with a resounding smack.
His head jerked to the side from the force of the blow, then slowly he turned his head, their eyes connecting. He could easily read the disbelief, shock, rage and disgust in her expressive eyes.
Dakota wiped her mouth, barely noticing the way her hand was shaking with anger. “Have you lost your fucking mind?” she asked, her voice eerily calm.
“I love you.” Jean-Claude blurted out.
Dakota’s mouth fell open. “W-what?” she choked out.
“I love you, Kody. I know I’ve been an ass, but it took me all this to realize just what you mean to me. You have to see that we belong together.” He said, taking a step towards her, but immediately halting when she took a couple steps back.
Dakota shook her head wildly. “This can’t be happening.” She said, almost to herself. “I told you a long time ago that there would never be anything between us but friendship. I made that perfectly clear. Hell, you were okay with it.”
“Well I’m not now!” He yelled at her, advancing on her, stopping her before she could move away. He leaned down until their faces were inches apart. “We belong together, Dakota.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Sixty One
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Dakota's mind raced. She didn't like the...wild expression in Jean-Claude's eyes. It was almost as if he'd gone straight out of his mind. But before she could even form a thought to say something, jean-Claude spoke again.
"We do belong together, Kody." Jean-Claude stated again, putting a strong emphasis on each of his words. He leaned in closer; their faces nearly touching. "And it will only be a matter of time before we are together." Jean-Claude promised. His voice will with determination. Then after looking Dakota square in the eye once more, he turned and walked away.
Dakota sighed and ran a shaky hand through her hair as she watched Jean-Claude walk away. She couldn't believe what she had just heard Jean-Clause say to her. He was in love with her? Dakota wondered if he knew about Dale? Did he even care?
"Great." Dakota mumbled to herself. She did not need this. Then again, she was leaving with Dale for North Carolina in two days and she would not have to worry about Jean-Claude. Taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out, Dakota felt like she was calmed down enough to go back inside.
"Hey! Kody!" Before she could turn around and begin walking, Dakota heard someone yell her name. She let out a relieved sigh when she saw IreLyn rushing towards her with Dale and Brett tagging along behind.
"Where is Jean-Claude?" IreLyn questioned breathlessly, pissed that she had missed the confrontation thanks to Logan. Before Dakota could answer though, IreLyn caught sight of the expression in Dakota's eyes. Wait! What happened? What did that bastard do to you?" IreLyn demanded.
Dakota smiled weakly at her friend as she looked over her shoulder and saw that Dale and Brett had caught up. "It's nothing really. We'll talk later." Dakota assured IreLyn before she put a bright smile on her face and turned her attention to Dale.
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Chapter Sixty Two
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“Damn, I can’t believe I missed that!” Dakota exclaimed as they all walked through the door of the house later that night. “I would have loved to see you three against Logan.” She giggled.
“You were a little busy yourself.” Brett laughed. “What happened between you and Jean-Claude, anyway?” Either he, Dale, or IreLyn missed the way her smile faltered slightly or the way her eyes lost some of their luster.
“Nothing.” She answered, moving past them to the kitchen, taking a deep calming breath, knowing she had to get herself under control, especially when she heard three sets of feet following behind her.
As a matter of fact what had gone on between her and Jean-Claude unnerved her more than she cared to admit. It wasn’t what he said, so much, but the look in his eyes. Quite frankly, it freaked her out.
Dale stopped her when he took a hold of her arm. She turned to look at him, and could see the anger just simmering beneath the surface, in his eyes. She could also feel the tension radiating off his tense body. She sighed inwardly, knowing there was no way she could tell him what really happened between her and Jean-Claude…at least not until they were in North Carolina.
“Something happened.” Dale said in low voice. It wasn’t a question, it was a statement.
“Dale, it’s nothing, really.” Dakota smiled, trying to reassure him without looking completely guilty at the same time. Damn but she felt bad for lying. But she really didn’t see any other option. She couldn’t very well have Dale completely pissed off and want to go after Jean-Claude, which she knew would happen, and Brett would be right there with him.
“He apologized for what happened, and asked me to come back to work. I turned him down, we had a couple words, and that was it.” She stated, shrugging, trying to make it look as if it really wasn’t anything to worry about. She let out the breath she was unaware she had been holding when Dale relaxed and smiled, pulling her to him for a tight hug.
She met IreLyn’s eyes over Dale’s shoulder and knew immediately that although she may have fooled Dale, she hadn’t come close to tricking IreLyn. The look she was getting let her know that she and IreLyn would be discussing this further at a later date.
***
“Dakota’s lying.”
Brett paused in lifting his shirt over his head and looked at IreLyn, who was sitting on the bed as she chewed on her bottom lip.
“What?” he asked.
“Something happened with her and Jean-Claude, and for whatever reason, she doesn’t want us to know what it is.” IreLyn said, lifting her gaze from the floor to meet Brett’s eyes.
Brett sighed as he finished taking his shirt off and threw it on the chair. He sat down next to IreLyn and wrapped his arm around her, pulling her closer to him.
“If she is hiding something, I’m sure she has her reasons.” Brett said softly as he tucked her hair behind her ear.
“But why?” IreLyn asked.
“I don’t know, honey, but I’m sure they are good reasons…just like you have your reasons to not tell her that tonight wasn’t your first run in with Logan.” Brett reminded her. IreLyn threw him a look as she stood up and began pacing.
“You would remember that.” She mumbled. “Okay, maybe your right. I’m sure when she’s ready, she’ll tell me, right?” she asked looking at him for confirmation.
Brett grinned as he leaned forward and caught her hand, pulling her towards him until she was standing between his legs. “Right.” He whispered huskily. She closed her eyes when she felt his hands come up and tangle in her hair, she lowered her head and met his lips with her own, unable to suppress the soft moan of desire that escaped her.
She let out a surprised squeal when he suddenly leaned back, taking her with him. She giggled when she landed on top of him, but her laughter was cut off when Brett raised his head enough to capture her lips with his, and she gave into the desire that was coursing through her body.
***
Dakota sighed as she looked at the clock for what seemed like the millionth time. She and Dale had been in bed for nearly two hours, and although he was sound asleep, she had yet to drift off. Every time she closed her eyes she would replay what happened earlier in her head.
She turned her head and couldn’t help but smile softly when her eyes rested on Dale. He was so peaceful when he slept, and she knew she had finally found what she had been looking for. She would be damned if she was going to let anyone ruin this for her.
She took a deep breath and snuggled deeper in Dale’s warm embrace, sighing contently when she felt his arms automatically tighten around her. She closed her eyes, praying that sleep found her soon.
***
---"We do belong together, Kody." Jean-Claude stated again, putting a strong emphasis on each of his words. He leaned in closer; their faces nearly touching. "And it will only be a matter of time before we are together." Jean-Claude promised. His voice will with determination. Then after looking Dakota square in the eye once more, he turned and walked away.---
Dakota jerked awake suddenly, her heart pounding. “Oh god.” She whispered, running a hand across her face, stopping in the movement when she saw the way her hand was shaking.
She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Dale was still asleep. He shifted slightly, mumbling incoherently in his sleep, then fell silent. She bit her lip as she gently moved his arm from around her, careful not to wake him up. She held her breath as she eased out of bed, not releasing it until her bedroom door clicked shut behind her.
She walked into the kitchen and went to the fridge, grabbing a bottle of water before sitting down at the table. She put her head in her hands at let out a shaky breath as she tried to sort through her jumbled thoughts.
Brett watched her from the doorway, instantly knowing IreLyn had been correct. Dakota was indeed hiding something. Something that had her visibly shaken. He’d been sound asleep, and at first hadn’t been sure what had woken him. He’d gone to investigate, after getting the feeling someone was moving around in the house.
“Wanna talk about it?” he asked softly, grimacing when he saw Dakota jump. He hadn’t meant to scare her.
Dakota whirled around in her seat, her eyes wide. “Shit, Brett, don’t do that!” she said, keeping her voice low, not wanting to wake anyone else.
“Sorry.” He apologized as he came fully in the kitchen and sat across from her.
“Did I wake you?” she asked. “I tried to be quiet.”
“Nah, I was awake.” He lied not wanting to make her feel bad, when she obviously had a lot on her mind. “So, why don’t you tell me what’s on your mind.”
Dakota looked at her water bottle she held in her hands. She really did need to talk about it, but she wasn’t sure Brett was the right person. She didn’t want to burden him with her problems. Before she could say anything, Brett’s hand covered her, and she looked up at him.
“It might make you feel better.” He whispered. “And I promise what ever you tell me, will stay between us.”
Dakota gave him a small smile. “Thank you.” She said quietly. It was still a few more minutes before she said anything, but he didn’t push her, allowing her the time she needed.
“Something did happen with Jean-Claude tonight.” She finally admitted, looking back down at her hands.
“He—he…” she trailed off, swallowing hard. “I’m sure I’m just overreacting.” She grinned sheepishly, trying to play it off.
“Why don’t you let me be the judge of that.” Brett offered. He had a feeling she wasn’t overreacting at all. He could feel the shaking in her hand where his covered hers.
“Well, like I said, he asked me to come back to work. I turned him down, and I went off on him.” She grinned a little, but then her smile fell. “Then…” again she trailed off.
“Then?” Brett prompted her.
She swallowed hard. “Then he grabbed me and kissed me.” She felt his hand tighten around hers. “I broke the kiss and slapped him, asking him if he’d lost his mind. Then he told me…told me he loved me.” She shuddered at the memory. She lifted her eyes to meet his once more.
“I mean, I always knew he was interested in more than just a friendship, but we discussed that a long time ago and I told him that although he was a good friend, our relationship would never be anything more than just that. He’s never tried anything like this before. He said that we belong together and that it would only be a matter of time before we were together, whatever that means.”
“But it wasn’t what he said that bothered me…although it is disturbing. What really bothered me was the look in his eyes.” She tried to explain.
“What look?” Brett asked, it coming out more like a growl. He hadn’t like Jean-Claude from the second he’d laid eyes on the man, and now he had good reason not to like him.
“I don’t know how to describe it. He looked wild, or possessed. I can’t get that look out of my head.” She confessed, shaking her head. “I mean, this is crazy. I’ve known Jean-Claude for a long time now and I know he would never do anything.” She said, unsure if she was trying to reassure him or herself.
“You never thought he would do what he did tonight, either.” Brett pointed out.
“True.” She sighed. “But it’s not like I’m going to be around here much longer anyway, so I’m sure I’m worrying over nothing.”
“Listen to me, Kody.” Brett said sternly. “This is not ‘nothing’. As upset as he has you, which you have every right to be, you can’t just write it off.”
Dakota bit her lip. “Do you think I should tell Dale?” she asked tentatively.
“Uh…” Brett thought about it for a moment. On one hand he felt Dale should know about this…now. Yet on the other, he knew how Dale was. “Maybe once you get to North Carolina.” He said with a grin, only imagining what his friend’s reaction would be.
“That’s what I thought too.” She said with a slight smile.
“But I will say this. If anything more happens before you leave, you do need to tell Dale. Or I will.” Brett said, the expression on his face letting her know he wasn’t kidding. He hated keeping things from people…especially something like this. But he didn’t want Dale flying off the handle, which he knew was exactly what his friend would do.
“I will, I promise. And I also promise to tell him as soon as we’re away from here.” She said. “Thank you Brett. I really appreciate this.” She smiled at him. “IreLyn is very lucky to have found you.”
“Yeah, she is, isn’t she?” He grinned, causing Dakota to laugh and roll her eyes.
“So what are you going to do about Logan?” she asked, instantly regretting bringing it up when she saw the fire in his eyes.
“Nothing as long as the bastard stays the hell away from Lyn.” Brett growled. Dakota giggled and Brett looked at her confused. “What’s so funny?”
“You!” She snickered. “You’ve been hanging around Dale too long. You’ve almost got that ‘Earnhardt’ glare down pat!”
Brett grinned at her. “You’re only saying that because you’ve never been on the receiving end of that full fledge glare of his. It’s scary as shit! It’s one of the things he inherited from his father. Racing ability, temper, and that classic glare.”
“I’m sure I’ll get it soon enough.” Dakota laughed as she stood up and stretched, smiling when he did the same, punctuating it with a loud yawn. “Well, I’ve kept you up long enough and I feel much better. I think I’ll be able to some sleep now. Thank you again, Brett.”
“Anytime Dakota, anytime.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Sixty Three
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"Have a good flight." IreLyn said to Dakota, her eyes filling with tears as it fully hit her that her best friend was moving away.
Dakota frowned as she saw the tears in IreLyn's eyes. She was trying desperately to get through this good-bye without the tears. "Lyn, I might not even get the job. Then I'll be back and you'll have to put up with me again. Besides, even if I do get the job, it's not like we aren't ever going to see each other again." Dakota told her as she fought back her own tears.
IreLyn gave Dakota a shaky smile. "I know. It's just going to strange not having you around all the time." IreLyn paused for a moment and then gave Dakota a genuine smile. "But, even as much as I'm going to miss you, you are doing the right thing." She assured Dakota as well as herself.
Dakota opened her mouth to say something, but closed it again when the boarding call was made for her and Dale's flight. "Well, I guess this is good-bye." She said when the announcement was finished.
IreLyn hugged Dakota tight, her eyes flooding with tears again. "No, not good-bye. Just see ya later." She corrected.
Dakota smiled as she pulled back, her eyes damp also. "Alright then. See ya later."
"Call me in a few days when you get settled." IreLyn said as Dale and Brett talked quietly.
"No, I'm not calling you in a few days." Dakota told her.
"What? Why not?" IreLyn demanded, not realizing that Dakota was joking with her.
"Silly, I'll call you tonight." Dakota said as she walked over to where Dale was standing with Brett. She told Brett good-bye as IreLyn did the same with Dale. Then, after giving IreLyn one more hug, Dale and Dakota boarded their flight for North Carolina.
*****
"You okay?" Brett asked once he and IreLyn had gotten back to the house and had gone inside. The drive from the airport had been made in silence. Brett didn't disturb her, knowing that she was deep in thought about Dakota's moving and other things.
As she walked up to him, Brett pulled IreLyn close, wrapping his arms tight around her body. She looked up at him, her eyes locking with his. IreLyn let out a soft sigh. Not only had Dakota left that day, but also Brett had to leave the following day.
"Yeah, I'm fine. It's just going to be weird the first few days not having Kody around all the time. I'll get used to it, I suppose and I'll have work to keep me busy. And I'll have phone calls from you to look forward to." IreLyn told Brett and she dropped her head and laid her head against his chest. She listened to the steady thud of his heart as she breathed in deeply, loving everything about him.
Hooking a finger around her chin, Brett tipped her head up until he was gazing down into her eyes. He lowered his head and tenderly claimed her lips, slowly deepening the kiss in the process. IreLyn was helpless to suppress the soft moan of desire that escaped her as Brett's mouth left hers and moved down the curve of her throat. She wrapped her arms tighter around his body, pulling him tighter against her. Another wave of longing washed over her as she felt the evidence of his need for her brush against her body.
IreLyn Arched her body against Brett's, needing to get closer...needing more. She slid her hands down his back and tugged at his shirt until it came loose from his jeans. She pulled it off over his head and threw it down to the floor before she ran her hand back up his back and tangled her fingers through his hair. An instant later, Brett pulled back slightly and rid her of her shirt, and then her bra.
Brett returned his lips to IreLyn's in a hungry kiss before her dipped his head again and captured her hardened nipple within his mouth. IreLyn arched her back to give him better access. She moaned low in her throat, her head falling back as Brett teased her unmercifully with teeth and his tongue until she could take no more.
Catching Brett completely off guard, IreLyn pushed down on his shoulders, causing him to tumble down to the floor. With his arms still around her, IreLyn fell down to the floor with him. She looked down at Brett, a wicked smile curving her lips. "Well, I guess there is one advantage to Dakota being gone. Anywhere in the house we want-" Her words were abruptly cut off as Brett tangled his fingers in her hair and drew her lips down to his in a demanding kiss.