Copyright 2004

Valentine's Day
Chapter Four

Mitch was there at 7:00 Thursday morning, out of the truck and holding Jenny’s door open for her. This time, he greeted her with an embrace and a warm kiss. Panyon waited patiently in the truck until Jenny got in.

 

“Hi, Panyon,” she greeted, “I’m glad to see you again too.”

 

“I think Panyon misses you almost as much as I do,” Mitch told her, as he got in.

 

“Do you miss me, Mitch?” Jenny ventured.

 

“The moment you’re gone,” he smiled.

 

She reached behind Panyon and put her hand up into the back of his hair. He straightened as if she had poured ice down his back. She giggled and he looked at her with a wry smile.

 

“What’s wrong, Mitch?” She teased.

 

“I’m trying to drive here, Jen,” he scolded, “You’re not making it very easy.”

 

“Sorry,” she took her hand back, “I’ll behave.”

 

“I think I’m in big trouble,” he reflected.

 

“Why do you say that?” She asked.

 

“Because I’m already at your mercy,” he confessed, “And I’m not sure I want you to be merciful.”

 

She giggled again, “Well, I will behave at the clinic. I’m not sure how Doc will feel about this, but I’m quite certain he’d want us to keep it private.”

 

“Yeah,” he got serious, “I’ve been thinking about that. He’s never said anything about policies on this kind of thing, but I’m sure he wouldn’t want us to appear unprofessional.”

 

“Maybe we shouldn’t say anything to anybody,” Jenny suggested, “I mean, at the clinic.”

 

“You OK with that?” He asked, “I mean, I don’t want you to feel like I’m ashamed of you or hiding this or something.”

 

“I’m OK with it,” she smiled, “What about your family?”

 

“That’s a totally different story,” he grinned, “In fact, I might talk to Mom and see what she thinks about Doc. She knows him pretty well, so she might be able to judge his reaction better than anyone.”

 

“That sounds like a good idea,” she agreed, “Mitch, if it comes down to me working for Doc, or us being able to see each other…”

 

“Jen,” he shook his head, “I won’t let him fire you…You haven’t done anything wrong.”

 

“Mitch,” she put her hand on his shoulder, “I can always get another job.”

 

“I don’t want it to come to that,” he told her, “Let’s just be careful for now, OK? I mean, we’re hardly ever at the clinic together, anyway.”

 

“Yeah,” she nodded, “Speaking of which, are you coming to pick me up this afternoon?”

“I’ll come eat lunch at Dad’s,” he answered, “And you can ride back to the clinic with me. Do you have plans tonight?”

 

“I don’t know,” she smiled, “Do I?”

 

He was pulling up to the stable, “I have to go on that secret mission for Dad. If your grandma can do without you, I’d like you to go with me.”

 

He got out and opened her door for her. She grabbed her bag. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her.

 

“Where are we going?” She asked.

 

“I can’t tell you now,” his eyes grew wide, “Or I might have to kill you!”

 

“You’re having way too much fun with this,” she giggled.

 

“I’ll take you out for dinner,” he promised, “then you’ll find out our undercover assignment.”

 

“OK,” she pulled him down to kiss him again, “Have a good morning, Dr. Martin. I’ll see you at lunch.”

 

“You have a good morning too,” he kissed her again, “I already miss you.”

 

She watched him drive away and then went into the stable. She tossed her bag in the office and headed to work, a big smile on her face.

 

“I take it he fixed things for you,” Rob remarked from behind her.

 

“Yeah,” she grinned, “He fixed everything. You were right. Thanks.”

 

“I’m glad,” he smiled in a way she’d never seen before. It was almost a sad smile, “He’ll take good care of you, Squirt. He’s a good man.”

 

“Are you OK?” She walked over to him, “Is something wrong?”

 

“I’m fine,” he sighed, “You OK on your own today? I’ve got some paperwork I need to get done.”

 

“Sure,” she nodded, “I can handle it. I brought clothes to change here again, so that gives me a little extra time.”

 

“OK,” he turned to walk away, “If you need me, I’ll be in the office.”

 

She watched him walk across the arena and go into the office. He sat at the desk and put his head in his hands. Something was definitely wrong. She almost went to him, but something inside stopped her. Whatever it was, he didn’t want to talk about it. Maybe the best thing she could do for him right now was to just take care of the horses. She’d check on him later.

 

The morning passed quickly and Jenny realized it was time for her to get cleaned up. She went to the office to grab her bag, thinking she’d check on Rob, but he was nowhere to be seen. She headed to the main house to take a shower.

 

“Hi, Jenny,” Jason looked up from his schoolwork.

 

“Hi, Jase,” she smiled, “Is your mom around?”

 

“Upstairs,” he indicated.

 

Jenny went upstairs and found Paula putting away laundry, “Hi, Paula. Is it OK if I use the shower again?”

“Sure, Hon,” Paula nodded, “In fact, why don’t you use the one in here. It’s better. Just be sure to lock the door, so Rob doesn’t come barging in on you. He’s not used to anyone using this bathroom but us.”

 

“Oh,” Jenny shook her head, “I can use the other one.”

 

“It’s fine,” Paula assured, “Do you know if Mitch is coming for lunch?”

 

“Yes,” Jenny headed into the bathroom, “He said he’d eat here since he has to pick me up.”

 

“OK,” Paula headed downstairs, “I’ll get lunch started.”

 

Jenny locked the door and looked around the bathroom. It was definitely nicer. She was tempted to look through the drawers and medicine cabinet, then scolded herself. She was a guest there to take a shower, not snoop. She got into the shower and noticed the fancy massaging showerhead. Yes, definitely nicer.

 

She finished and was drying off when she heard noises in the bedroom. She wondered if it were Paula or Rob. She quickly dressed and used the towel to dry her hair as much as possible. The knob started to turn. It wouldn’t turn all the way because it was locked. It tried to turn again. She reached over and unlocked it. The door opened and Rob was standing there, in only his jeans, which were unzipped, revealing his underwear. He wasn’t wearing a shirt, and she felt her pulse increase at the sight of that broad, well-muscled chest. Her eyes followed his long blond hair, which hung down over his shoulders, and led to the hair trailing down his chest, over his stomach and down into his underwear. She felt herself blush, as she caught her breath. She couldn’t help notice how well endowed he was.

 

“Squirt!” He exclaimed, “What are you doing in here?”

 

“Paula told me to use this shower,” she stammered, “Sorry, I guess you want a turn, huh?”

 

He started laughing, apparently surprised, but unembarrassed, “I guess it’s a good thing I hadn’t completely stripped, huh?”

 

“I’m done,” she grabbed her bag, “It’s all yours.”

 

“Are you sure?” He stepped aside so she could pass.

 

“I’m sure,” she hurried out, “Time for lunch.”

 

 

 

Mitch was already at the table when Jenny came downstairs. She was relieved to see him, and he got up and crossed the room to greet her. She realized they had a whole audience, as he hugged her and gave her a gentle, but lingering, kiss.

 

“How was your morning, Princess?” He asked, leading her to sit next to him.

 

“Good,” she smiled, “How was yours?”

 

“Average,” he shrugged, “We get to have fun this afternoon, though.”

 

“Fun fun?” She asked, “Or sarcastic fun?”

 

“Fun fun,” he smiled, “Doc’s got a mare about to foal out at his stable. We’re on baby watch.”

 

“Oh, cool,” she grinned, “Has she had any before?”

 

“This is her first,” he said, “That’s why he wants us there. Just in case.”

 

“Can I come?” Kevin asked.

 

Mitch looked at Jenny, then at Paula, “That’s up to Mom.”

 

“Did you get your math done this morning?” Paula asked.

 

“Yes,” he nodded.

 

“If your dad says it’s OK,” Paula answered, “then you can go.”

 

“What about Dad?” Rob came in, freshly showered. He smiled at Jenny and Mitch sitting close together.

 

“Can I go with Mitch and Jenny?” Kevin asked.

 

“We’re going to Doc’s stable,” Mitch explained, “He’s got a mare that’s about to foal.”

 

“Will he be in the way?” Rob asked.

 

“No,” Mitch shook his head, “Except Panyon will have to ride on his lap.”

 

“I don’t care,” Kevin declared.

 

“OK,” Rob gave in, “But you have to mind your brother, you hear? And Jenny too. If she tells you to do something, you do it, OK?”

 

“OK,” he agreed.

 

 

 

It was a fun afternoon. The sorrel mare had no problems and they all got to witness the birth of a healthy little bay filly. It was the first time Kevin had gotten to watch a foal enter the world, so Jenny and Mitch took extra pleasure in seeing it through his eyes.

 

They returned Kevin home right before dinner. He went in full of excitement, telling the whole story over to his brothers. Jenny realized she hadn’t ever called her grandmother, so she borrowed Mitch’s cell phone while he talked to Paula in the kitchen.

 

She was coming to return his phone when she heard them talking in low tones. She stopped where she could listen without being seen.

 

“You’re not staying for dinner?” Paula asked.

 

“No,” Mitch told her, “I’m taking Jenny out for dinner.”

 

“Things must be going well for you then,” she surmised.

 

“Yeah, Mom,” he answered, “Really well. I kind of need to talk to you about it when we get a chance.”

 

“Problems?” She worried.

 

“No,” he reported, “Just need some of your wisdom, that’s all. Can’t talk now, though.”

 

“OK, Honey,” Paula kissed him on the cheek, “Have a good time and be careful. If you want to come back by later to talk, that’s fine. I don’t mind waiting up for you.”

 

“If I’m not here by 10:00,” he advised, “Then I’m not coming.”

 

“OK,” she answered.

 

Jenny decided to interrupt, “Here’s your phone back, Mitch.”

 

“Grandma OK?” He asked, unsuspecting.

 

“She’s fine,” Jenny took his arm, “She said to have fun.”

 

“Great,” he smiled, “Let’s go then.”

 

“What about Panyon?” Jenny reminded.

 

“Oh…” Mitch had obviously forgotten.

 

“Leave her here,” Paula offered, “We’ll babysit her.”

 

“Boy, that’s pathetic, isn’t it?” Mitch rolled his eyes, “OK, I’ll leave her here. Panyon…you have to stay here, girl. I’ll be back later.”

 

She sat at his feet and her ears drooped.

 

“Don’t pout,” he scolded, “You’re fine.”

 

 

 

When they got in the truck, Jenny remarked, “So, now I know the truth. You’re just taking me to dinner as a cover for your mission.”

 

“What?” He looked at her in surprise.

 

“So Paula won’t be suspicious,” she said.

 

“Jen,” he assured, “That’s not it at all…”

 

“I’m teasing you, Mitch,” she giggled.

 

“Jeez, Jen,” he let out a deep breath, “I thought you were mad at me. Don’t do that to me.”

 

“Sorry,” she reached over and put her fingers up into his hair, “I couldn’t refuse. I think I owe you a few more of those still.”

 

“I don’t think so,” he grabbed her knee and squeezed, “I think you’re way ahead of me.”

 

“So where are we going?” She asked.

 

“Do you like Mexican?” He queried.

 

“Yeah,” she answered.

 

“Well,” he informed, “there’s a pretty good Mexican place close to our final destination.”

 

“And what is our final destination?” She quizzed.

 

“A jeweler,” he answered, “Dad ordered something for Mom and we’re picking it up for him.”

 

“Mitch,” Jenny asked, “Do you think everything is all right between them?”

 

“Mom and Dad?” He asked.

 

“Yeah,” she nodded.

 

“Why wouldn’t it be?” He wondered.

 

“I’m not sure,” she hedged, “but today he seemed like something was wrong. I asked him, but he denied it. Then I saw him in the office and he didn’t look good. I couldn’t tell if he was worried or upset or just didn’t feel well.”

 

“What do you mean, he didn’t look good?” He grew concerned.

 

“I mean he was sitting there like you men sit when the world is caving in on you,” she reported, “Holding his head in his hands.”

 

“Hmm,” he pondered, “He usually only does that when he’s really worried.”

 

“Maybe you should try to talk to him,” she suggested.

 

“OK,” he agreed, “Thanks for telling me, Jen.”

 

 

 

They went to dinner at the Mexican restaurant Mitch suggested and shared animal stories from their past. They both had long histories of working with animals, so they had ample material to draw from.

 

“I like seeing you laugh, Jen,” Mitch told her, after sharing a tale about working on a goose.

 

“It’s been a long time since anyone’s made me laugh as much as you do,” she reported, “It feels pretty good.”

 

“We’d better go,” he looked at his watch, “I’m not sure how late the shop stays open. Dad’ll have my hide if I don’t get there in time.”

 

“OK,” she got up, “I wouldn’t want you running around in this weather without your hide.”

 

He grabbed her hand, pulled her over and kissed her, and then led the way out. They headed for the jewelry store and got there with time to spare. Mitch went to the service desk to inquire about the package.

 

“Can I go look around?” Jenny asked.

 

“Sure,” he let go of her hand and watched her walking around looking into the cases.

 

“Here you go, sir,” the woman at the counter handed him a small sack containing a jewelry box.

 

Mitch walked over to see what Jenny was looking at, “Find anything?”

“Lots of things,” she grinned, “Aren’t those pretty?”

 

She pointed to a selection of heart-shaped pendants with diamonds and rubies set in them. There was a big sign reminding people that Valentine’s Day was coming soon. Mitch was standing behind her and there was a mirror in front of her. Jenny suddenly caught sight of them together.

 

They made a striking couple, with his dark good looks and her fair natural beauty. They both had on work coats, jeans and flannel shirts.  She realized how out of place they looked, surrounded by jewels and fine cases.

 

Mitch must have sensed her thoughts. He stepped closer and whispered in her ear, pointing at her reflection, “See that? Now that’s what I call pretty.”

 

She smiled, “Thank you.”

 

“Let’s go,” he took her hand, “We’ll peek in the box and see what Dad got for Mom.”

 

After they got in the truck, he flipped the dome light on and pulled the box out. When he opened it, they both gasped. It was a gold necklace with a pendant shaped like a snowflake. The snowflake had tiny little diamonds all through it, making it glisten. There was one large diamond at the very center.

 

“That must have cost a fortune!” Jenny’s eyes were wide.

 

“Maybe Dad won the lottery and didn’t tell anyone,” he chuckled, “I’m guessing Mom is going to like this.”

 

“I’ll say,” Jenny agreed, “If he is in trouble, that should get him out of it.”

 

“Jen,” Mitch put it carefully away, “Why do you keep thinking Dad’s in trouble?”

 

“I don’t know,” she shrugged, “I guess because usually the only time guys do this kind of stuff is when they’re trying to get something.”

 

He gave her a funny look, flipped the light off and started the truck.  He drove silently for a while and Jenny began to worry. She briefly considered telling him about Paula catching her in Rob’s arms, but decided against it. She wasn’t sure exactly how to explain it.

 

Finally, Mitch broke the silence, “So, Jen, when I do something nice for you, do you think I have an ulterior motive?”

 

She sighed, “I didn’t mean it that way, Mitch. I just…Well, I know that’s what Bob does with my mom. When he upsets her, he buys her something to make it up to her.”

 

“I thought you said Bob was a good guy,” Mitch remembered.

 

“He is,” Jenny nodded, “But he still makes her mad sometimes.”

 

“So he buys her off,” Mitch commented, “Well, Dad doesn’t have to buy Mom off, Jenny. He just loves her. That’s all there is to it. He loves her; plain and simple.”

 

She reached over and put her hand on his leg, “I’m sorry, Mitch…I didn’t mean for it to sound like I think you want something from me…You’re not like most men, Mitch. I know that.”

 

He glanced at her, then reached down and took her hand in his, “I just want you to be happy, Jen. That’s all I want, OK? I just want to make you happy.”

 

She squeezed his hand, “You do, Mitch. Happier than I’ve ever been before in my whole life.”

 

 

 

It was getting late when they pulled up to Jenny’s house. All the lights were off except the lamp in her room.

 

“Looks like Grandma decided not to wait up,” Mitch observed.

 

“I think she knows if I’m with you,” she smiled, “she doesn’t need to worry about me.”

 

“Jen,” he pulled her over close to him in the truck, “Do you think you can drive yourself in the morning? I have to go to Mom and Dad’s tomorrow night straight from work.”

 

“I’m sure I can,” she nodded, “But I’m going to miss my good morning kiss.”

 

“Me too,” he sighed, “This trip has turned into really bad timing. It’s going to be next week before you and I get any time alone together again.”

 

“Maybe we can sneak a few minutes this weekend while I’m supposed to be working,” she grinned.

 

He reached down and kissed her softly, “Jen, I want you to know I’m crazy about you.”

 

She put her hand on the side of his face, then ran it up through his hair, “I’m crazy about you too, Mitch. And I meant what I said. I know you’re different. I know you’re a treasure.”

 

He pulled her up and kissed her again, this time with urgency. She felt her desire for him rise as he dipped his tongue hungrily after hers. Both of her hands were in his hair and she felt his hands sliding beneath her coat. She suddenly wished she could feel his bare skin against her own.

 

He stopped kissing her and looked down into her eyes. She could hardly focus. His eyes were pools of emotion. She wasn’t sure she’d be able to walk to the house.

 

“I need to go, Jen,” he whispered, “I’ll see you tomorrow. Sweet dreams.”

 

“Goodnight, Mitch,” her voice was barely audible, “I’ll miss you.”

 

She scooted back to her side of the truck. She was gathering her wits when she realized he had gotten out and come around to open her door. He took her hand and helped her out. Her knees were still weak and her head was spinning. He put his arm around her waist and walked her up to the door.

 

“Goodnight, Princess,” he whispered in her ear and brushed his lips across her cheek.

 

“Goodnight,” she whispered and walked into the dark house.

 

The emptiness swallowed her. She went to her room, grabbed Mitch’s suede coat and held it to her face. Tonight she would sleep with his coat wrapped around her.

 

 

 

Rob was in the office the next morning when Jenny arrived. He seemed to be over whatever had been worrying him, so she decided not to pursue the matter.

 

“Morning, Squirt,” he smiled from the desk, “Heard you had a late night.”

 

“Checking up on me?” She laughed.

 

“Hey,” he shrugged, “I haven’t been a dad all these years for nothing, you know. I’ve learned a few things.”

 

“I have a feeling you’ve learned a lot of things,” she went over and sat on the edge of the desk next to him, “So, does Paula know yet?”

 

“Not so far,” he reported, “Did you and Mitch peek last night?”

 

She nodded, “It’s beautiful.”

 

“Think she’ll like it?” He wondered.

 

“She’ll love it,” Jenny assured.

 

“I thought they did a pretty good job of following my design,” he reflected.

 

“Your design?”

 

He nodded, “I drew it up months ago and took it to them. They’ll do custom work like that for people. It just worked out that it was ready now, so I wanted to give it to her this weekend.”

She chuckled, “Mitch was right, then.”

 

“Right about what?”

“Your motives,” she answered, “He said you were giving it to her just because you love her.”

 

“Why else would I give it to her?” He wondered.

 

“To kiss up,” she grinned.

 

He laughed and stood up, towering over her, “I don’t have to kiss up to Paula, Honey. Just as long as I kiss her, she’s happy.”

 

“Ooo,” she mocked, “Listen to you. Aren’t you the cock of the walk today.”

 

“Don’t you have work to do, young lady?” He put his hands on his hips.

 

“Yes, sir,” she hopped up, “Right away, sir.”

 

“Hey, Jenny,” he called as she started out, “I’m sorry I’m taking Mitch away from you this weekend…But you’re welcome to hang out here as much as you want…as long as you don’t do anything inappropriate.”

 

“Boy,” she remarked, “You’ve got that dad thing down pat, don’t you?”

 

He just grinned. She laughed and left him there.

 

 

 

Jenny went home to shower and have lunch, then went to the clinic. Mitch was there and they exchanged looks that said more than their polite hellos could convey. It soon turned into a painstaking afternoon for both of them. There were no large animal calls, so Jenny got assigned to check expiration dates in the pharmacy. Mitch got pulled into surgery with Doc and Sheila. Jenny felt like a diabetic in a sugar bowl.

 

It was nearly 5:00 when Mitch came out of surgery. He looked over his shoulder and slipped into the storage room where Jenny was now working. She heard the door and turned to see him shutting it.

 

“Hey, Jen,” he almost whispered, “I gotta run.”

 

She jumped up and went to him, “This has been torture, hasn’t it?”

 

“Yes,” he leaned down and kissed her gently, “I’m sorry, Honey.”

 

“It’s not your fault,” she spoke quietly, “Call me tonight?”

 

“OK,” he nodded, “I miss you, Jen.”

 

“We’ll see each other in the morning,” she reminded.

 

“I’m counting the minutes,” he smiled, “Talk to you later.”

 

 

 

Bessie went to bed at 8:30 and Jenny decided to call Mitch. She didn’t want the phone to wake her grandmother and she figured he’d lost track of time.

 

“Hello?” Jason answered.

 

“Hey,” she greeted, “This is Jenny, is your big brother around?”

“I’m here,” he picked up another extension, “Brat here just beat me to the phone.”

 

“Problems?” Jenny asked.

 

“Nothing I can’t handle,” he assured, “Hang up the phone, Jason.”

 

“I want to hear you talk to your girlfriend, Mitch,” Jason teased.

 

“Jason,” Jenny spoke in a scolding tone, “I don’t think your father would like that remark one bit, do you?”

“No,” Jason answered sheepishly.

 

“I think you should apologize and hang up,” Jenny suggested firmly.

 

“I’m sorry, Mitch,” Jason obeyed and hung up.

 

“Hey,” Mitch chuckled, “You’re good at that.”

 

“I used to babysit a lot,” she told him, “So are they being ruthless?”

“Pretty much,” he confessed, “I’m sorry I hadn’t called yet.”

 

“It’s OK,” she told him, “Grandma went to bed and I didn’t want the phone to wake her. That’s why I called.”

 

“I wish you were here,” he started talking quietly.

 

“I wish I was too,” she confided, “I miss you so much.”

 

“Jen,” he spoke even softer, “I’m just aching to hold you.”

 

“Oh, Mitch,” she almost cried, “I’ll be there in the morning. I’m staying all day, too. You’re dad told me I could hang out there with you as long as we behaved.”

 

He chuckled, “He’s pretty good at that guilt thing, isn’t he?”

“Did he tell you the same thing?” She wondered.

 

“Sort of,” he answered, “Oh, Jen…I hear a skirmish breaking out. I’m

going to have to go.”

 

“OK, Honey,” she cooed, “I’ll see you in the morning. Sweet dreams.”

 

“They’ll all be of you,” he told her, “Goodnight, Luv.”

 

~*~

 

“Hey Dutch,” Jenny greeted as she came into the stable, “You’re here early.”

 

“Or late,” he chuckled, “How are you this morning?”

 

“Or late?” She didn’t let that escape her attention, “I’m fine…and you must be too!”

 

He laughed, “Don’t go spreading rumors, OK?”

 

“My lips are sealed,” she pretended to lock them and throw away the key, “So you’d better tell me.”

 

“I’ll tell you something,” he visited as they worked, “Mitch’s birthday is coming up.”

 

“When?” She was surprised.

 

“Valentine’s Day,” he divulged, “Can you believe that?”

“Somehow,” she giggled, “I can. Gee, I don’t have much time. What should I get him?”

 

“Hmm,” he pondered, “Let me think on it. I’ll ask Chelsea if she has any ideas.”

 

“Hey, Princess!” Mitch called from behind her.

 

Jenny turned and saw him standing there, arms open wide. She flew into his arms and he kissed her warmly.

 

“Excuse us, Dutch,” Mitch led her away, “I’ll bring her back in a few minutes.”

 

“Take your time,” Dutch laughed and kept working.

 

Mitch took her into the office and closed the blinds, “There, now I can greet you properly.”

 

“You didn’t do too bad earlier,” she observed as he took her in his arms again and kissed her more passionately.

 

“There,” he announced, after several delving, devouring kisses, “Now I feel better, how about you?”

 

She smiled up at him, “Much better. I don’t want anymore days like yesterday.”

 

“Me neither, Jen,” he moaned, “That was horrible. Will you come up to the house for lunch?”

 

“Sure,” she nodded, “Where are the boys?”

 

“Chelsea’s with them,” he answered, “She fixed breakfast for everyone.”

 

“Including Dutch?” Jenny fished.

 

Mitch chuckled, “Let’s just mind our own business, OK?”

 

“He spent the night?!” Jenny asked, “Your dad would have a fit! Does your grandpa know?”

“No,” Mitch shook his head, “Grandpa doesn’t know. And Dad doesn’t need to know, so don’t tell him, Jen.”

 

“I’m not going to tell him,” she assured, “I’m shocked though. I’m surprised you’re not upset about it.”

 

“Well,” he confessed, “Chelsea told me nothing happened. She says he just slept there.”

 

“Do you believe her?”

 

“She has no reason to lie to me,” he reasoned.

 

“Hmm,” she raised her brows, “Well, I guess they are engaged.”

 

“Truth is,” he admitted, “I don’t want to know. Meanwhile, what I do want to know is if you’ll stay for dinner tonight?”

“Do you want me to?” She asked.

 

He kissed her hungrily, “What kind of question is that?”

 

“OK,” she grinned, “I’ll stay.”

 

“Good answer,” he kissed her again, “Come on, I’ll take you back to your work.”

 

Jenny was practically walking on air when she started working again. Dutch was grinning as Mitch left them cleaning together.

 

“Looks like things are going well for you two now,” he observed.

 

“Yeah,” she smiled, “I can’t believe I was ever afraid of him.”

 

“Afraid of him?” Dutch asked, “Was that the problem?”

 

“Long story,” she shrugged, “Anyway, I’m not now. He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Dutch grinned, “Do you two have plans for Valentine’s Day?”

 

“Hasn’t been mentioned,” she answered, “Why?”

“Well,” he explained, “Last year, I guess they all had a big party here for Mitch’s birthday. That’s when they got the call about Paula’s dad. He died right after that.”

 

“Oh,” Jenny frowned, “Not good.”

 

“Exactly,” he nodded, “Chelsea and I were thinking that Paula needs to get out of the house this year or it’s going to be really hard on her. We thought if you and Mitch went with us, maybe Rob could convince Paula to go too.”

 

“You mean all of us go out somewhere together?” She asked, “What about the boys?”

“Terry said he’d watch them,” Dutch answered, “You want me to talk to Mitch about it?”

“Yeah,” she nodded, “Sounds like a great idea.”

 

 

 

That evening after dinner, Dutch and Chelsea excused themselves, Bill and Hazel headed to their quarters and Mitch and Jenny were left with the boys. They had all been on their best behavior today, so Mitch told them they could watch a movie. Jenny fixed popcorn for everyone and the boys settled down on the floor in front of the television.

 

Mitch pulled Jenny onto the couch with him, “Let’s sit on the back row.”

 

She giggled and snuggled up in his arms, “You must have threatened them today.”

 

“Actually,” he divulged, “I threatened them last night. I told them if they didn’t straighten up I was going to make them clean the stalls all weekend and put Dutch in charge of watching them.”

 

“So,” she whispered, “When did Paula find out? What did she do?”

 

He chuckled and answered in a hushed tone, “I guess yesterday afternoon. She went into the bedroom and found Dad packing. After she figured out he was packing her stuff, along with his own, she was thrilled.”

 

“What do you mean after?” She asked.

 

“His stuff was on top,” he explained, “And he actually told her he had to go out of town for the weekend. I guess he fooled her so bad she started crying.”

 

“Oh, that’s mean,” Jenny frowned.

 

“That’s what I told him,” Mitch nodded, “As soon as she started crying, though, he lifted up his clothes and she saw hers there…and I guess the necklace was laying there on her clothes.”

 

“Ooo,” she purred, “I think your dad can be a real devil when he wants to.”

 

“I think he’s had a lot of practice,” Mitch kissed her, “Don’t worry. I won’t do anything like that to you.”

 

“Mmm,” she snuggled closer, “I wouldn’t complain if you whisked me away for a weekend and gave me diamonds.”

 

“I’ll remember that,” he nipped at her earlobe, “Maybe you want a bit of a devil, huh?”

“Don’t push it,” she elbowed him, “We have an under age audience.”

 

 

 

Jenny noticed that Dutch’s truck was still there when she left. She pointed it out to Mitch when he walked her out. He just sighed and shrugged.

 

“Aren’t you supposed to be in charge around here?” She teased.

 

“What do you want me to do?” He posed, “Call her father? Or throw Dutch out? I’m not sure I could whip Dutch. Have you seen his arms?”

“What would your dad do?” She wondered.

 

“That’s the irony of it,” he confessed, “He doesn’t have to do anything. Just being here is enough.”

 

“You mean because Dutch respects his rules,” she mused, “Do the boys know?”

 

“No,” he shook his head, “You notice where he parks? You have to be out here to see his truck. He’s at least trying to be discreet.”

 

“Do you really thing nothing happened?” She asked.

 

“I don’t know,” he admitted, “It’s their business. It’s not like spending the night is a requirement for things to happen, you know.”

 

“True,” she conceded, “but as Grandma would say ‘It don’t look good.’”

 

“Maybe you should tell him that, Jen,” Mitch suggested, “Coming from you, it might make a difference.”

 

~*~

 

Jenny found Dutch already working again Sunday morning. She grabbed a shovel and started in alongside him. He seemed cheerful all the time. She’d never seen him when he didn’t look happy.

 

“So,” she asked, “Did you come up with any gift ideas for me?”

 

“Actually,” he answered, “Chelsea said she knows the perfect gift. She wouldn’t tell me, though, so I’m betting she’s getting me the same thing!”

 

“I guess I need to quiz her then,” she laughed, “We’re supposed to go shopping together anyway.”

 

“I’ll talk to Mitch about…” he started.

 

“Talk to Mitch about what?” Mitch walked up and caught Jenny in his arms, “Morning, Luv.”

 

“Morning,” she kissed him.

 

“About Valentine’s Day,” Dutch told him, “Chelsea thinks Paula needs to get out of the house this year.”

 

“Oh,” Mitch moaned, “Yeah, I was talking to Dad about that. I never got to tell you about my talk with him, Jen. When I asked him what was worrying him, that’s what he told me. He’s been racking his brain, trying to come up with something to divert Mom’s attention on Valentine’s Day. He said he knew a party for me wouldn’t work, because it would just serve to remind her more.”

 

“Well,” Dutch suggested, “Chelsea thought if she and I, and you and Jenny went out together, maybe we could get Rob and Paula to come along. That maybe we can convince her to come, since it’s your birthday.”

 

“What about the boys?” Mitch wondered.

 

“Terry said he’ll watch them,” Jenny informed, “I told Dutch we’d go, if it would help. Is that OK with you?”

 

“Sure,” he answered, “Do you want me to talk to Dad?”

 

“If you don’t mind,” Dutch nodded, “You’ll probably get a chance sooner than I will. It’s right around the corner, you know.”

 

“OK,” Mitch agreed, “Hey, Sweetheart, are you coming up for lunch again?”

“I’ll be there,” she kissed him.

 

“See ya’ then,” he let her go and walked out.

 

“Dutch,” Jenny decided to try her luck, “Can I make an observation?”

 

“Sure,” he kept working.

 

“It’s my understanding that you don’t spend the night here when Rob’s home,” she ventured, “And I would assume that’s because you respect Rob.”

 

“Am I about to get scolded?” He laughed.

 

“Why don’t you respect Mitch?” Jenny surprised him.

 

Dutch looked at her, then looked down, “I hadn’t thought of it that way, Jenny. I suppose I owe Mitch an apology.”

 

“I know he’s younger than you,” she told him, “But if his dad leaves him in charge, then that means he has the same authority that Rob has.”

 

He walked over and put his hand on her shoulder, “Jenny, you are going to make one helluva mother.”

 

 

 

Dutch was gone for the day and Jenny was helping Mitch and Chelsea clean up in the kitchen after dinner when the Jeep pulled in. The boys ran out to greet their parents and were given big hugs. Jenny noticed that both Rob and Paula looked younger when they came in, surrounded by the pack of boys.

 

“So,” Chelsea asked, “Now do we get to know where you went?”

 

Paula looked up at Rob and he grinned, they both answered in unison, “To the moon and back.”

 

Chelsea, Mitch and Jenny all rolled their eyes and laughed.

 

“So did the pups behave?” Rob asked, “Or do I need to send them out to cut their own switches?”

 

The boys got quiet and looked at Mitch. Rob raised his brows at the silence, knowingly.

 

Mitch answered, “They were fine. Nothing I couldn’t handle.”

“Um-hmm,” Rob looked back at them, “Well, I think they can finish cleaning up here in the kitchen now. Then, they can unload the Jeep. Thanks for all your help, all of you. Where’s Dutch?”

“He went home,” Chelsea answered.

 

“Well,” Rob told her, “tell him thanks for me, will you, Sweetie?”

 

“Sure,” she went to hug both her aunt and uncle, “Now, I’m leaving. Hey, Jen, how about Tuesday night for that shopping spree?”

 

“Perfect,” Jenny answered, “I’ll talk to you about it tomorrow.”

 

“Everything go OK with the stable, Squirt?” Rob asked.

 

“Fine,” she answered, “I’m out of here now, too.”

 

“Wait a minute,” Mitch grabbed her hand, “Not so fast…come help me gather my stuff, so I can leave too.”

 

He led her to the guestroom and shut the door, “What did you say to Dutch?”

 

“Why?” She asked.

 

“Because he came and apologized to me before he left,” Mitch informed, “Said he didn’t mean to be disrespectful to me.”

 

“Good,” she smiled, “I bet he doesn’t stay here again, either.”

 

“He told me he slept on her couch,” Mitch reported, “And I think he meant it.”

 

“I hope so,” Jenny smiled, “Now, do you really want help or did you just drag me in here to interrogate me?”

 

“I drug you in here for this,” he grabbed her and pulled her into his arms for a kiss, “Because I need to talk to Dad after you leave. I don’t know how long I’ll be here.”

 

“So this is goodnight, huh?” She kissed his chest where the hair peeked out.

 

“Um-hmm,” he held her close, “And you’re not playing fair.”

 

“You never play fair,” she kissed his chest again, “Why should I?”

 

“Mmm,” he pulled her even closer and whispered in her ear, “Will you have dinner with us here tomorrow night?”

 

“I thought maybe you’d have dinner with me at Grandma’s,” she looked up.

 

“Please?” He got a sad puppy look on his face, “We can go to my house after dinner and be alone together.”

 

She smiled, “OK. If Chelsea and I go shopping Tuesday night, I won’t get to see you then.”

 

“My thoughts exactly,” he kissed her, “and I need some time alone with you, Princess.”

 

“Need?” She grinned, “I like the sound of that.”

 

“Need,” he whispered in between kisses, “Want…must have…”

 

She giggled, “All right, Sweetheart, I said yes. You don’t have to beg.”

 

“Oh,” he laughed, “This isn’t begging…you haven’t heard begging yet.”

 

“I better go,” she kissed him, “Or what we’re both going to hear will sound like a captain ordering a flogging.”

 

“Gee,” he stepped away, “Who could you possibly be referring to?”

 

“Walk me out?” She invited.

 

“OK,” he followed her.

 

~*~

 

Chelsea came looking for Jenny Monday morning, “There you are.”

 

“Here I am,” Jenny smiled, “So what’s this great idea you have for me to get Mitch?”

 

“There’s this place in the mall,” Chelsea described, “where they do your hair and makeup and give you jewelry and clothes and make you look all glamorous and then take your picture. I’ve already made us an appointment tomorrow night. That’s what I’m doing for Dutch and I think Mitch would love it.”

 

Jenny’s eyes got wide, “A picture of me? I mean, I can see how that would be perfect for you to give Dutch…he’s your fiancé. But Mitch and I…Chelsea, are you sure?”

“Jenny,” Chelsea smiled, “I know Mitch pretty well. Trust me. He’ll love it. We’ll get nice frames to put them in and everything.”

 

“Well,” Jenny sighed, “If you say so. You’ve known him longer than I have and I know you’re like his best friend.”

 

“Great!” Chelsea giggled, “Come by here tomorrow when you get off work?”

 

“I’ll be here,” Jenny assured.

 

 

 

After returning to the clinic from working cattle, Mitch and Jenny left separately but both headed to the Jackson house. They parked side by side and went in together.

 

“Hey, Squirt,” Rob greeted as they walked in, “Mitch said you were coming for dinner tonight.”

 

“Yep,” she smiled, “Here I am. Paula, can I do anything to help?”

“No, thanks,” Paula turned from the stove, “It’s almost ready and the boys already set the table. Rob, Honey, come watch this pan for me, will you? I haven’t shown Jenny and Mitch my necklace yet.”

Rob chuckled and Jenny and Mitch smiled.

 

“What?” Paula asked.

 

Rob walked up and wrapped his arms around her from behind, “They’ve seen it, Sweetheart. They went and picked it up for me.”

 

“You had everyone in on this conspiracy, didn’t you?” Paula scoffed.

 

“If I’m going to fool you, my dear,” Rob told her, “I have to recruit an entire army to assist me.”

 

“We thought it was beautiful, Mom,” Mitch complimented.

 

“I was pretty impressed that he designed it himself,” Jenny bragged.

 

“What?” Paula gave her a strange look.

 

“Didn’t he tell you?” Jenny grinned.

 

“No,” Paula turned around in his arms, “You designed that yourself? Why didn’t you tell me that part?”

“Well,” he shrugged, “You seemed happy with it. Yes, I drew it up especially for you. It’s a one of a kind necklace for my one of a kind wife.”

Paula looked near tears as she reached up to kiss Rob, “You’re the one of a kind, Dear. Thank you.”

 

“You’re welcome,” he reached across her and turned off the burner, “Your corn is about to boil over.”

 

“Among other things,” Mitch muttered, and Jenny elbowed him in the side.

 

“Boys,” Rob called, “Dinner’s ready.”

 

“Here, Mom,” Mitch offered, “I’ll help carry it out.”

 

 

 

Dinner was pleasant and Jenny offered to help clean up, but Paula told her not to worry about it. Mitch and Jenny excused themselves and headed to his house for some time alone.

 

After feeding Panyon and grabbing a soda for each of them, Mitch headed for the couch. As Jenny went to sit next to him, she suddenly felt nervous. It was the first time she hadn’t felt comfortable with him since they’d agreed to see each other. Mitch sensed her uneasiness.

 

“What’s wrong, Jen?” He asked softly, “Are you afraid to be here alone with me?”

 

“No,” she shook her head, “I just…”

 

“You just what?” He leaned back into the corner of the couch.

 

“I’m not sure what you want me here for right now,” she admitted.

 

He’d already taken his boots off, so he pulled one leg up on the couch and slid it behind her. She felt a chill go up her spine. He reached his hand out to take hers and when she gave it to him, he pulled her towards him.

 

“Come here,” he coaxed softly, as she lay across his chest and he wrapped himself around her, “Don’t be afraid, Sweetheart. I’m not going to do anything. I want you here because I care about you, Jen. I just want to be with you, that’s all.”

 

She could feel her heart racing so she took a deep breath and tried to relax. She closed her eyes and listened to his heart beating, slow and steady, no sign of nervousness in him.

 

“Hey,” he ran his fingers through her hair, “You don’t have to be here, you know. You can go home, if you don’t feel comfortable here with me.”

 

“I’m sorry, Mitch,” she whispered, “I know you’re not going to hurt me…I’m just…”

 

“Nervous?” He ventured, “Well, maybe if you spend some time here with me, and we just talk and sit here like this, you’ll stop being nervous.”

 

“OK,” she agreed, trying to relax.

 

“I talked to Mom,” he told her, “and she thinks Doc might have a problem with us seeing each other. She suggested we keep it to ourselves for now as far as people at the clinic are concerned.”

 

“I think she’s probably right,” Jenny remarked, realizing she liked the feeling of his chest moving as he talked to her.

 

“I also talked to Dad,” he reported, “and he said he’d try to convince Mom to go out with us for dinner on Valentine’s Day. He was touched that we all wanted to help.”

 

“Do you think she’ll go?” She was starting to feel more comfortable.

 

“If she thinks it’s what Dad wants,” he predicted, “She’ll do anything to make him happy.”

 

“What makes you happy, Mitch?” She asked softly, almost before she realized she’d said it.

 

“Seeing you smile,” he answered quietly, “And hearing you laugh.”

 

She lifted her head and looked up at him. His deep blue eyes were gazing down at her with great intensity. She raised herself so she could look straight into those eyes. He cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. It was a soft, gentle kiss. Like he didn’t want to break her. She felt herself melt and all the fear and nervousness was wiped away. She wanted him to kiss her like that again and again.

 

“I’ll do whatever it takes to make you happy, Jen,” he whispered, “I don’t ever want you to be afraid of me.”

 

She kissed him this time and he pulled her tightly against him. Her hair fell down over him and he put one hand into her hair and the other slid down to the small of her back. The gentleness disappeared and she could feel her own desire rising to meet his.

 

When she pulled away from him, there were tears in her eyes, “Please don’t break my heart, Mitch.”

 

“I won’t,” he assured, “I promise, Jen, I won’t hurt you.”

 

She laid her head back onto his chest and kissed the part of it that was exposed, “I won’t hurt you either…I promise, I won’t…I’ve been looking for you my whole life, Mitch. I didn’t think I was ever going to find you.”

 

He pulled her back up to kiss her, “I’m here now, Jen. You found me. I’m right here, and I’m not gonna let you go. I’m not gonna let anyone ever hurt you again.”

 

~*~

 

 

Rob was in the office the next morning when Jenny got to work. She waved to him and he motioned for her to come to the office. She stepped in and he sat on the edge of the desk.

 

“I thought I’d tell you that Paula agreed to go out on Valentine’s Day,” he greeted her, “I appreciate you kids all pitching in to help with that. It’s going to be a rough day for her, I’m sure. You’ll see Mitch before I do, so you can tell him we’re going.”

 

“Well,” she gave him a half smile, “You may get a chance before I do. We’re playing ‘business only’ at work because Paula told him she thought Doc wouldn’t like us being together.”

 

“Oh,” he raised his brows, “I didn’t get that memo. Well, if Paula says that, she’s probably right. She knows Doc pretty well. That kind of makes it rough, doesn’t it, Squirt?”

 

“Yeah,” she nodded, “I mean, as long as we’re out on calls, it’s no big deal, but when we get stuck at the clinic it’s torture.”

 

He chuckled, “Try 200 miles apart all week long, Honey. Now that’s torture.”

 

“Yeah,” she remembered, “I guess you wrote the book on that one, didn’t you? I don’t have anything to complain about, do I?”

 

“Chelsea says you two are going shopping tonight,” he reached for his wallet, “Here you go, Squirt. Buy something nice for yourself.”

She looked down to see two one hundred dollar bills in his hand, “What?”

 

“Take it, Sweetie,” he winked, “And if you need more, then put it on Chelsea’s credit card and I’ll take care of it, OK?”

 

She looked at him incredulously, “You can’t be serious. I mean, unless you’re giving me an advance on my wages…”