Saving Grace

Chapter 5: Grace

Surprisingly, the spa package Mark purchased for me was perfect. He booked me a hot stone massage, which was amazing and really worked out the tension I had not realized was there. He also got me a mini facial. By the time we met up for dinner, I was completely relaxed. He even stayed true to his word and did not work once that night.

We tried an upscale restaurant the lodge had, and it was truly amazing. Mark teased that the only way to please me was a five star kitchen. It wasn't true of course; I just had a love for food. We had finished dinner and were relaxing in the hot tub where I finally had his attention. The moon's glow illuminated the water, and the blue pool lights underneath gave the night an ethereal feel. There were only a few people enjoying the pool, so it was quite intimate.

"It is so beautiful tonight. I love how we can see all the stars out here."

You could never see stars in the city like you could in the open country. The stars out here made you feel like the night sky was filled with magical things like fireflies and diamonds. At least, that's what I used to think as a kid--that fireflies danced in the sky to light up your way, shining alongside diamonds that sparkled with such intensity, you could never get lost.

Too bad I still did.

"It is a bit too quiet for my liking. But I'm definitely loving my view." His eyes trailed over my chest. He reached out to trace my bikini top, his hand grazing the top of my cleavage.

"Do you really not like the country that much?"

"I can appreciate your love for it. But, no, I'm not a big fan. I prefer city lights over night skies and hearing cars and music in the background over crickets any day. It's what I'm used to. All of this," he waved his hands around, "does nothing to interest me. Now the city, especially the city with you in it, is my kind of lifestyle."

I smiled, appreciating his honesty and sentiment. "Thank you for today. I've enjoyed having your attention tonight. I finally feel like we are celebrating us."

"I'm glad. Five years together is something worth celebrating. I can't believe it's been over six years since I have worked at your dad's company."

"It's not exactly Frank's company." I emphasized Frank's name, hating when people addressed him as my dad.

"Yeah, but might as well be. He's been loyal to the company and has worked his way to the top. I'm ready to step in beside him."

"I am sure you will. You have come a long way already." I scooted closer, and he placed his arm around my shoulders.

"You are right, and you have been at my side witnessing it all. Frank knew what he was doing when he introduced us."

"Is that so?" I arched my eyebrow and placed my hand on his thigh underneath the water.

"Damn straight. You have been exactly what I needed." He copied my movements and ran his hand up my bare leg. "This hot tub is fun and all, but I can think of a better way to celebrate."

"Oh yeah, and what way is that?"

He grinned before placing a kiss on my lips.

"I'm glad you asked." Standing up, he pulled me out of the water with him, and guided me back to our room.

***
I awoke the next morning completely excited. I had booked Mark and I a couple's horseback ride, and I could not wait. Getting back on a horse was the main reason I wanted to come all the way to Wyoming, and it was what I was most looking forward to. In fact, I had not been able to shut up about it.

I jumped in the shower, letting Mark get some more rest. The ride wasn't until later that day, so we had time. I decided that after my shower, I would order us room service for breakfast. I was craving a stack of pancakes and bacon, and afterward, I figured I would lounge around and read. A relaxing morning sounded nice until it was time to go. I just hoped I had the patience to wait without annoying Mark from my overexcitement.