Page 25 of Midnight Roots

Cece nods and writes down the order before she hangs it up and pours one glass of orange juice. "I'll do Heston's when he's here."

"Thanks." I put some bills on the counter. "Of course, you should keep the change."

"Aren't you a honey?" Cece says with a grin, going to the register. She comes back and leans on the counter. "So what's up?"

"You know Heston well, right?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

Cece looks surprised. "Well enough, I guess. We talk every day about my day and his ranch work. I don't know him on a personal level as you do, though."

"That's just the thing," I say. "I don't know him personally. I was hoping you could tell me a little more about him."

"I uh... I don't think this is a good idea," Cece says. "Heston wouldn't like us gossiping behind his back."

"Is he a secret murderer or something?" I joke with a grin.

Cece laughs. "No, it's just that he's very private, and he should be allowed to let you into his world as and when he likes. You'll ruin the magic of the relationship. The one thing I can tell you is I've never seen him like anyone or even take to anyone the way he's taken to you."

I blush and nod. Just then, the doors swing open, and Heston walks in. "Morning, ladies. You're not in uniform?" He looks at me curiously

"Actually, I have the day off. I've ordered breakfast for you."

Cece smiles. "I'll get your order for you. Sit, Heston."

Heston takes his ball cap off and sits down, putting the cap on his knee. "So, how did you sleep?"

"Well, and you?"

"Could have slept better," he says.

"You would have if you'd spent the night," I tease him.

He grins. "Maybe you should spend the night. At my ranchhouse."

I look at him, surprised. "Really? I get to see where you live?"

"Yeah, why not?" Heston smiled. "I'll pick you up around five this evening. I just need to get things in order for your arrival."

"Why is the place a pigsty?" I ask with a grin. "I could help you clean."

"No, you don't. I'll take care of everything." He turns to his food as Cece puts it down.

We eat peacefully, and I want to ask him questions, but I know I'll get a chance later, so I will hold it off until then. I'm sure we won't just have sex. I'm sure we'll talk. I mean, I'm spending the night.

We finish eating, and Heston takes out his wallet.

"It's on me today," I say. "I already paid."

"Thank you," he says with a grin. "Can I drop you off at home?"

"No, you go get ready, and I'll see you outside my apartments at five," I lean over and kiss him softly. "I'm looking forward to it."

Chapter Twenty

Heston

I can't believe it. I've done it. Cece looked surprised as hell when I told her what was happening.

I've invited Dillon to the ranch, and now I need to see it through no matter what happens with my demons. I leave the Catch + Candle, and I go to the supermarket to get some supplies for dinner. I buy burgers, hamburger buns, relish, sauces, and some onions. I also grab a twelve-pack of beers.