A Stallion's Touch Read Online Free PDF

the red in her own cheeks mirroring the crimson tint across his chiseled cheekbones. “Thank you,” she murmured, suddenly feeling out of sorts. She couldn’t help but wonder where her caustic attitude and the one-line zingers she was infamous for had disappeared to. For whatever reason, she couldn’t think of anything witty to say.
    She was no stranger to men commenting on her looks. Rarely did a man take a moment to know her long enough to comment on her intelligence before he was jumping at the opportunity to tell her how attractive she was. It usually struck a nerve, but there was nothing condescending, or lecherous, in Nicholas’s delivery. Surprisingly flattered, she had no words.
    He shifted awkwardly, still unable to make himself comfortable against the narrow rail. Amusement danced in her eyes as she watched him, and he suddenly felt as if an explanation was necessary. “Years of getting hit on the football field keep me in pain. My back and legs just aren’t working with me today. I think I need a little more than some backside cushion. I’m thinking a recliner would be ideal right about now.”
    â€œFootball is a rough sport, but I understand how you feel. I’m on my feet all day, every day, so even when I get a chance to rest them, they still ache.”
    He smiled warmly. “All the doctors I know have massive hands that look like they should be pulling tobacco in some field somewhere. You have the most delicate hands,” he said.
    She laughed, wiggling her fingers out in front of her. “I have a surgeon’s hands. They may be small but they’re steady.”
    â€œSo, you really like cutting into people’s flesh?”
    â€œI love saving people’s lives, curing their illnesses and helping them achieve a better quality of life.”
    He nodded his head. The look he gave her was endearing. “You’re something special, Tarah Boudreaux!”
    â€œAnd don’t you ever forget it, Nicholas Stallion!”
    He laughed, continuing to ask her questions about school and the hospital and other things that meant the world to her. The rest of their conversation was warm and comfortable, an easy exchange as they became better acquainted. He explained the nuances of football, described his predilection for extremely spicy foods and shared that he secretly enjoyed watching reality television.
    Nicholas suddenly jumped down from his perch, his hands brushing away the dust against the back of his khaki pants. “It really has been a pleasure talking to you, Tarah. But I think it’s time I sneak back down to the house.” He pointed across the yard.
    Turning to where he stared, Tarah saw Irene and Gabi searching him out, the two little girls making a mad dash across the fields.
    Nicholas gave her a wink, and then he tore off in the opposite direction. By the time the two youngsters reached where Tarah was sitting, he had disappeared into the rose gardens. All Tarah could do was laugh.
    * * *
    Saying goodbye was bittersweet. Tarah wished she had another two weeks to spend with her family, but she had to report back to work the next morning. Having time off for Christmas meant she was definitely on call for New Year’s. Despite the good time she’d had, she was just as excited about getting back to the hospital.
    She sighed as she dragged her suitcase to the front foyer. She turned toward the family room just as Nicholas bounded down the double staircase. His eyes widened at the sight of her.
    â€œOh, Tarah, hey! Are you leaving?”
    Tarah nodded, a slight smile pulling at her mouth. “I am. Vacation is officially over.”
    He came to a stop in front of her. “I really had a good time getting to know you. I hope you’ll stay in touch.”
    Tarah laughed. “I guess that means you want me to call you.”
    A smirk crossed Nicholas’s face. “Or I could call you?”
    â€œYou could.” She