My Cowboy Prince

Chapter 23

Back at the ranch, the world outside the Jeep is quiet. The stillness of the night settling around us is like a blanket. I've been dozing off for a while now, the rhythmic hum of the engine and the warmth of the car is lulling me into a comfortable sleep. Just then, I feel a gentle nudge on my arm. I blink my eyes open to find Luke's face inches from mine. His expression is soft and filled with tenderness as he watches me wake.

"Amelia," His voice is a soothing whisper in the dim light. "We're 'ere."

I nod slowly even though, the remnants of sleep is still clinging to me. He hesitates for a moment, his gaze searches my face as if he's wrestling with a thought. "Do you want to come to my place instead?"

I glance at the dashboard; it's almost 11 PM. A tired sigh escapes me, and I shake my head. "No... I'm really exhausted, Luke. And honestly, I don't think it's a good idea right now."

There's a flicker of disappointment in his eyes, but he doesn't press the matter. He nods though I can see the reluctance in his expression. As I start to gather myself, I catch a glimpse of my reflection in the rearview mirror. My hair, styled in a low, sleek back curly puff with tendrils framing my face, has held up remarkably well given the night's events. I reach up to adjust a few strands, making sure everything is perfectly in place.

"How is it?" I turn to Luke with a small, tired smile.

His eyes soften as they linger on my hair, his appreciation is evident. "Great. I love your hair, Amelia."

A chuckle escapes me, the warmth of his compliment is making me feel more awake. "No... I mean, does it say 'we've just fucked in the back of this Jeep'?"

His lips curl into a slow smile as he reaches over, brushing a long tendril behind my ear with such tenderness it makes my heart skip a beat. "Yes, right here," his fingers trace the spot before he leans in to place a gentle kiss on my lips.

The kiss starts slow, but it deepens naturally, the magnetic pull between us is impossible to resist. I feel his hands slide to my waist, his grip firm but tender as he pulls me closer. The way his lips move against mine and the low, hushed moan that escapes him, sends a jolt of desire through me. He's losing control, and so am I.

But I pull away, my breath is ragged when I break the connection. "We need to stop," I whisper. My voice trembles with the effort it takes to hold back. "I don't think I can handle another round tonight. You're too addicting, Luke."

He lets out a breath, his blue eyes are sparkling with both desire and contentment. "Anything ya want or wanna do sweetheart."

I smile at him. "Well I got to say, this is one hell of a honeymoon phase,"

The man laughs softly, shaking his head. "No, love. This is just how it'll always be... which reminds me," his tone shifts to something more serious as he adds. "I need to talk to you tomorrow."

With my curiosity now piqued, I tilt my head. "We can talk now Luke."

He shakes his head, smiling gently. "No, I want you to have a clear head when I ask."

I narrow my eyes playfully. "Can I at least get a hint?"

"No," Luke chuckles before he leans in to kiss my forehead with a tenderness that makes my heart flutter. "Go and get some sleep. Ya look really tired."

"Yep," I agree fighting back a yawn. As I start to search for my purse and phone, the weight of exhaustion seems to finally settle in.

Luke reaches into the glove compartment and pulls out a small, elegantly wrapped gift along with a small bouquet of roses. My eyes widen at the sight, and I can't help but smile at the thoughtful gesture.