Compromising Kessen (Vandenbrook #1)(36)

“My parents?”

He nodded.

“They were more than happy. They were something you would read about in romance novels. We did hospice during the last year so they could spend time together. He was such a good caretaker. I always told myself I would never marry, unless I could find a relationship like that.”

He winced. “And now you have to marry. I’m sorry.”

She brightened a bit. “No, it’s okay. I know you want to kill me most the time for speaking. But other than that, at least we have the whole physical attraction thing going for us.”

“You have no idea,” he moaned, putting his head in his hands.

She laughed. “Oh, I think I have some idea.”

He scooted away. “To prove my point, I’m going to put at least a good two feet of space between us, so your body heat doesn’t radiate anywhere near my vicinity.”

“If it’s too hot, stay out of the kitchen,” she snapped.

He rolled his eyes. “Oh, Kessen, the kitchen is exactly where I want to be.”

“I think that’s my cue to go to bed.”

“I think you’re right.” He held out his hand, and she took it. “Your bedroom is the first hall on the right. Breakfast is served at eight. Oh, and Kessen?”

She turned to look at him. “I have a surprise for you tomorrow morning.”

Kessen laughed. “Interesting.”

“I sure hope so.”

She winked and went up the stairs, leaving Christian feeling very alone. Her presence filled the room with so much warmth, it was hard for him to imagine going back to being without her. He was nearing dangerous territory with her. It was frightening how much he was beginning to like her for her personality. His life was hard enough being merely attracted to her; what was he going to do when he couldn’t have a normal day without her constant chatter?





Chapter Sixteen


Kessen didn’t even remember falling asleep. She grumbled when she looked down at her wrinkly clothes; apparently she was making a habit of falling asleep before she had time to change into more appropriate attire.

Her gaze darted around her large room in search of her suitcase. Her vision was fuzzy and sleepy, but she finally saw a flash of brown designer luggage by the door.

She tumbled out of bed and got ready.

By the time she reached the bottom of the stairs, she was struck with the realization that she would be getting married in six days now. It had a sobering effect on her, but looking around made her almost giddy for her marriage; it would mean she would inherit this wonderful house as well, after all, they would be married. Everything they owned would be shared unless there was some sort of evil Regency-style marriage contract she didn’t know about.

It was kind of Christian to bring her here, not that she was starting to like him or anything. No, that could not happen. But then again he had been so sweet the night before, listening like he actually cared, and he didn’t even take advantage of her sleepiness; instead he sent her to bed. Without him. That was the big shock, not that she thought he was that type of man.

Honestly, it was more than shocking! He didn’t even try anything! What was this feeling she was having? Was it—oh no, she moaned out loud, throwing her face into her hands. “I cannot be in love with this man.” Her voice rang through the room.

She took a few deep breaths before bounding down the stairs.

“Well, well, well. Look who we have here.”

It was a familiar male voice, but no, that was impossible. It couldn’t be.

“Nick?” Kessen asked curiously.

“Live and in person. Wow, I thought you’d be more shocked,” he said, walking around the corner. He was in his usual style of designer jeans and Henley shirt.

Kessen ran to him and threw her arms around his neck. “I can’t believe it! How? Why? Oh my! I missed you so much! Is Sammy here?”

“Easy!” Nick hugged her back. “I came for the wedding, naturally, because I’m your best friend, and also because page six didn’t do you any justice. Have you been getting any sun at all over here? And no, Sammy is not here. She had to work, but we have a internet chat date tonight.”

Kessen sighed. “I love you. Thanks so much for being here.”

“If I wasn’t so confident in my ability to seduce young Kessen, I would almost be jealous,” Christian said, coming into the room. “Although I suppose it helps that your best friend is married to your other best friend.”

Kessen laughed. “Don’t worry. Nick and I have never had that type of relationship.”

Nick snorted. “Yeah, on account that she would kill me. I did tell you about the machete threat, Christian. And that was probably the tamest threat she’s ever given me.”

“Scary.” Christian shook his head.

“Man, you have no idea.” Nick laughed, shoving his hands into his pockets. “So, what’s this I hear about you not drinking tea, Kessen?”

Kessen’s eyes flashed with anger as she pointed an accusing finger at Christian. “You ratted me out!”

He backed up with hands in the air. “I did nothing of the sort. I merely explained to Nick how we met … It’s all he needs to know in order to understand the type of relationship we have.”

“Coffee and tea don’t go well together,” Nick said to himself. “Although I see your point, Christian. She is really high strung. I wonder why? It’s not typical.”