Landon and Kyla arrived at the hospital in just enough time to find out from the nurses at the nurses’ station that her aunt was being prepped for a C-section. Kyla’s heart nearly sank at the news. She had talked to her aunt throughout her entire pregnancy and knew she would only agree to such a procedure if it were absolutely necessary. Landon saw the worry in Kyla’s face and put his arm around her giving her a reassuring squeeze.
“Why don’t you go on back and see them before they take them back to surgery. The nurse said there was still plenty of time,” he told her. “I will wait for you in the waiting room.” Kyla was thoughtful for a moment, the worry still evident on her face before she nodded and headed towards Iris’ room. She looked back to see Landon was still there watching her and he gave her an encouraging smile.
When she reached the room, she heard her aunt and uncle talking and knocked gently before opening the door all the way. “Aunt Iris? Uncle Cal?” She timidly entered the room and saw her aunt lying down on her side and her uncle seated next to her holding her hand. Kyla released the breath she’d been holding and moved closer to greet them.
“Kyla,” Iris smiled and beckoned her to come inside. “Sweetie, it’s so good to see you.” Calvin rose and moved to the side allowing her access to his wife. Kyla reached out for Iris’ hand and kissed her on the cheek. Even in the middle of labor, she still looked beautiful. Iris’ dark curls were pulled into a loose ponytail and her cocoa brown skin radiated from her motherly glow.
“How are you doing,” she squeezed her aunt’s hand between her own as she sat down.
“Baby, I’m going to be fine and so is our little one. He or she is just being a little stubborn,” Iris smiled at her reassuringly. “I don’t want you to worry about anything, okay?”
Kyla gave her a hug and promised her she wouldn’t worry all the while with Calvin studying the exchange between the two of them. He noticed how much different Iris seemed to be now that she’d seen her niece. It was evident their bond was just as strong as his was with Kyla. In that moment, he realized how vital his niece was to their family unit. Calvin had always put so much effort into making sure Kyla felt part of them, but he really hadn’t needed to.
“You know I missed you too,” Calvin interjected. Kyla smiled and turned her attention to her uncle giving a big hug. They embraced for a moment and emotion filled the room. Iris felt herself get teary at their reunion. With the exception of height, the two were almost identical. Kyla had inherited so many of Calvin’s features from his hair color and skin tone to his temperament. They were two peas in a pod and it was only right they be back together once again. It had been difficult for Calvin to miss her graduation because of his work obligations, and Iris knew how eager he was to have her home again.
“It’s really good to see you guys,” she pulled away slightly and tried to contain her tears of joy. “I just didn’t want to wait a whole day. I hope you don’t mind.”
“Don’t be silly,” Iris told her. “We are so glad you came by.” Kyla was about to speak when the nurse came in to tell them it was time to go. She gave her aunt one last hug and moved with her uncle towards the door.
“Is Landon waiting for you,” Calvin asked as they stepped into the hallway.
“Yes,” she answered. “I guess he could see how concerned I was.”
“Landon is a very smart man,” he stated more to himself than her. “Please tell him I said thank you and I will give him a call tomorrow. Get home safe and call me if you need anything.” Calvin looked her directly in the eye.
“I promise I will,” she assured him. “Will you call me when-”
“You will be the first person I dial.” He said interrupting her. Kyla gave him one last hug before heading back to the waiting room.
Landon saw Kyla enter the doorway noticing the lines of concerned had disappeared from her face. She searched out the crowded room and finally their eyes met. They moved closer towards each other and met near the middle of the room.
“How’d it go,” he stuffed his hands in his jeans pockets.
“I can’t thank you enough for bringing me here,” she beamed. “She’s going to be fine. The nurse just wheeled them back to the operating room, and Uncle Cal told me he would call me as soon as he or she gets here.”
“No thanks necessary,” Landon waved off her words. “Did you want to stay and wait or do you want to go home? I am happy to do either.”
“I really am pretty tired,” she told him. “Between the traveling today and worrying myself crazy, I really would like to relax at home.”
“Then home it is,” he placed his hand on the small of her back and led her outside towards the hospital exit. The sun had set completely and the soft breeze of the night air felt good blowing through her hair. There was a comfortable silence between them as Landon drove her back home. And it was not long before he looked over and saw that sleep had taken over.
He pulled into the driveway, turned off the engine and looked at her for a moment. So beautiful, he thought to himself. Gently, he reached across and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear which stirred her awake. “Hey,” he spoke softly to her.
“Hi,” she stretched and looked around realizing they were back at the house. “Sorry I dozed off on you.”
“Don’t apologize. After the day you’ve had, I think you’re entitled to be a little sleepy.” His smile with that dimple made her stomach flutter.
“Today was definitely emotionally eventful,” she agreed. “I can rest though now at least until Uncle Cal calls.”
“Will you do me a favor and let me know how everything turns out,” he asked.
“Definitely. Oh I almost forgot Uncle Cal asked me to tell you that he said thank you and he was going to call you tomorrow.” He nodded his understanding. Kyla retrieved her house keys from her purse and continued. “I’m going to let you get your rest as well and I will call you a little later.”
“Wait, I’ll walk you to the door.” He got out and came around to her passenger side just as she opened the door and offered his hand to help her down. It wasn’t until they reached the door that he let her hand go. She opened the door and was grateful to find the soft light of the lamp on the foyer table illuminating the hall.
“I guess this is goodnight,” she felt a slight twinge at having to leave Landon’s company. Landon nodded and pulled her into a hug. Kyla reveled in the feeling of his strong arms around her and the smell of his cologne intoxicated her. She pulled back from him enough to look up and into his eyes. She couldn’t understand why it was so comfortable to be so close to him. Kyla had never before experienced such ease with any other man, but Landon melted away all of her inhibitions. It just felt good and right to be with him.
The look in her eyes gave him the approval he needed and he leaned down to claim her lips again. This time, his touch was not as hesitant and soft as it had been earlier that evening nor was her response as timid. Kyla was ready to feel him again and accepted his tongue’s probe of her mouth. She explored him as well and he moaned at her touch. She ran her fingers through his hair pulling him closer to her. Landon gently nibbled her lower lip and then sucked it into his mouth. Kyla felt her nipples harden and a pool had formed in her panties. Her brain was no longer functioning and it was Landon who ultimately pulled back to end the kiss.
His desire for Kyla was beyond anything he’d ever experienced with any other woman. However, he was not interested in some romp in the sack, and she deserved better than that from him. Taking things slow was what he had said before and he would stick to his word. “I better get going and let you get your rest,” he told her huskily. She nodded her understanding but he could read the disappointment on her face even though she smiled. “Trust me, I don’t want to go.”
“I know,” she said softly. Landon ran his index finger along her jaw. She closed her eyes at the feel of his touch.
“Call me when you hear something.” He released his hold on her and walked back towards his truck.
Kyla leaned against the door frame and watched as he drove away. A smile spread across her face as she reflected on the events of her day. She went about the task of locking up the house and then headed to her bedroom to get ready for bed. She turned the ringer on high and placed the phone on her nightstand. It was sure to wake her when her uncle called. She stripped out of her clothes and changed into a tank top and a pair of matching pajama shorts. In a matter of minutes after climbing into bed, she was fast asleep.
*****
All the lights were off at Landon’s house when he pulled into his garage. He entered the kitchen and flipped on the light finding only silence to greet him. Grabbing a bottled water from the fridge, he moved into the great room and turned on the TV. Resting his head against the back of the couch, he let his thoughts drift back to Kyla and the events of his afternoon. He couldn’t remember the last time he had enjoyed being around someone as much as he had enjoyed her. He hadn’t been sure what to expect when meeting her, but she was definitely intriguing.
His thoughts were interrupted by the buzz of his cell phone in his pocket. He frowned when he realized it was a text from Tara Mills. She worked as one of the recruiters with Human Resources and they’d met while working at a job fair. What had started as a friendly lunch meeting from time to time had turned into a late night working dinner with too much wine and poor judgment. The sex was incredible, but he was certain that was all there could ever be between them.
The morning after, they both seemed to realize their mistake and had mutually agreed it was best to keep things platonic. Luckily, an assignment had required a six week commitment in the field and that had helped a great deal in keeping things from getting awkward between them. After his return, however, he’d noticed she was texting asking if they could meet for drinks or randomly calling. Someone had obviously tipped her off to his return. They didn’t even work in the same building, so there would have been no way for her to know his whereabouts otherwise. At any rate, he just wasn’t interested. Not bothering to even read the message, he deleted it and put his phone back in his pocket.
His career had been extremely demanding in the past, and it had been next to impossible to have anything lasting with anyone. Perhaps with Kyla having the same work demands, they would have a better chance of at least getting past two dates. Admittedly, Landon had used his job to keep many prospects at bay, but that made for a very lonely existence. All he’d had up to that point were a series of flings and a few one night stands. He reasoned with himself that was all he could offer to anyone. The truth was that was all he had ever been willing to offer. He’d never tried anything else and maybe it was time he did.
*****
Landon hadn’t realized he’d been asleep for as long as he had until the shrill sound of his cell phone woke him up. He surveyed his surroundings and realized he was still on the couch. The show that had been on before was now replaced with some infomercial about an exercise program. He looked at the caller id and recognized Kyla’s number. “Hey you,” he answered sleepily.
“Hi Landon, sorry if I woke you,” her voice was like music to his ears.
“It’s okay. I am guessing you heard from Calvin.” He got up from his place on the couch and headed upstairs for his bedroom.
“Yes, I did,” she beamed. “It’s a boy 8lbs, 6oz. Kendall James Redford. Both mommy and baby are doing fine.”
“That’s great news, Sweetheart,” Landon told her. “What do you say we celebrate with breakfast in the morning?”
Kyla smiled through the phone at his offer. “I have an even better idea. Why don’t you come over and I will make you breakfast in the morning? Uncle Cal came home, grabbed a change of clothes and pretty much told me I’m on my own until Sunday. I could use the company, and I promise I’m a great cook.”
“You don’t have to ask me twice,” Landon replied. They arranged to meet in the morning and said their goodbyes both eagerly anticipating what was to come.
*****
The next day, Kyla got up, showered and unpacked the rest of her bags in record time. Years of practice at moving around had made her a pro. By the time she finished, there was a little under two hours left before Landon arrived for their breakfast date. It was plenty of time to prepare and bake her aunt’s breakfast casserole and French toast bake. The only thing she was missing was orange juice. Quickly she prepared the casserole and the pastry knowing it would take about an hour to bake them both. She put them in the double oven and then went to find the keys to her car in the garage for a quick store run.
She located the keys on the small hook just as her uncle had advised and she studied the symbol for Mercedes on the smartkey and sighed. Guilt was eating away at her. She didn’t want to be ungrateful. ‘Maybe this is the only way he knows how to love me,’ she thought to herself holding back the tears forming in her eyes. She blinked them away refusing to feel sorry for herself. Opening the leading out to the garage, Kyla found a new silver C300 Mercedes in the last stall of her uncle’s 3 car garage. The new smell permeated throughout the space and she gave a half smile as she walked over to it and climbed inside.
Her uncle had told her he’d programmed her garage door opener and she tested the small button overhead. Sure enough, the overhead door in front of her opened. Her jaunt to the store and back was done within ten minutes, which wasn’t so bad considering she was still trying to learn her way around all of the buttons inside the car. After setting the table and starting a fresh pot of coffee, she decided to change outfits. Something about being around Landon made her want to feel feminine, so she opted for a tea length pink cotton sundress with spaghetti straps, a pair of matching flip flops and silver hoops and bangle bracelets. She pulled her hair into a messy bun leaving some of the soft tendrils to fall into her face giving her a romantic, natural look.
After she completed her once over in the bathroom mirror, she returned to the kitchen and carefully removed both the casserole and the pastry from the oven to allow them to cool. As a finishing touch, she made a fruit medley of strawberries, melon chunks, pineapple and grapes that she placed on the table as well. With everything in place, now she could relax a bit before her guest arrived. The doorbell rang a few minutes later and Kyla felt that familiar flutter in her stomach.
As soon as she opened the door, she felt the moisture pooling at the juncture of her thighs. Landon was wearing a yellow polo and cargo shorts showing his well toned and muscular legs. He looked amazing. He gave her a wide grin that showed off his dimple and she couldn’t help but return it.
“Good morning, beautiful,” he smiled and bent down to greet her with a peck on the cheek. He smelled of sandalwood and Kyla felt as though she could get lost in his scent.
“Good morning,” she replied. “I hope you’re hungry.” She led him towards the kitchen and offered him a seat at the table. “Would you like some coffee?”
“Yeah, that would be great. Thank you,” he told her as he got situated at the table. She poured them both a cup of coffee and directed him to the cream and sugar bowl in front of him. She went to the stove and returned with the casserole first and then the baked pastry. All of the smells made Landon’s stomach grumble. He watched her skillfully cut a square of the casserole and then the French toast bake for each of them.
“I hope you like it,” she smiled across the table.
He took a bite of the casserole and savored its flavors and textures. There was egg, cheese and sausage along with onion and mushrooms from what he could tell. “Wow, this really is good. Where did you learn to cook like this?”
Kyla beamed. “Aunt Iris taught me everything I know. But, I do like to experiment in the kitchen. Cooking and baking relaxes me,” she said.
“Well, you’re very good at it,” he told her. “On weekends, when I’m home, I like to dabble a little in the kitchen too. You really learn to appreciate home cooked meals when you’re on the road all the time. I can make most of my mom’s recipes but it’s nothing like the real thing.” Kyla was thoughtful about his words. It reminded her of her own sentiments about her own mother. She wasn’t sure if her mother even knew where the kitchen was in her house. As much as she told herself it didn’t matter, the truth was that there was a longing for a home with her own mother and father. She didn’t want to take away from what she felt for Calvin and Iris, but she wanted to belong and matter to the people that brought her into the world.
Kyla pushed her thoughts away. It wasn’t often that she got to spend time with someone she really enjoyed being with, and there was no use wasting time thinking about things out of her control. “So Landon,” she decided to change the subject. “Uncle Cal was telling me I should ask you about some of your experiences as a first year adjuster. He said you had quite a few stories to tell,” she took another bite and gave him an amused look.
“Well judging from that smile on your face, it seems like he may have already told you some of my war stories,” Landon laughed. “They are pretty funny now, but not so much then, believe me.”
“I can only imagine,” she said pouring herself another cup of coffee and gesturing to him as well. “Would you like some?” Landon nodded as he took another bit of the pastry. Everything tasted wonderful and it was much lighter of a breakfast than it appeared to be.
“You will get to hear quite a few of them over the next couple of weeks in training,” he told her. “I teach three of the training courses you will have in the first two weeks.”
“Cool, then I will get to see you” she said happily. “I didn’t know you were an instructor for the program too. How do you like doing that?”
“I like it a lot actually,” Landon admitted. “I never really saw myself as a teacher per se, but amazingly I feel more comfortable in front of the classroom than I do in the field. And I have every intention of seeing you as often as possible, if you are ok with that.”
“Yes, I would like that very much,” she said softly. She was sure her fair complexion was once again betraying her judging from the warmth she felt on her cheeks. After they finished breakfast, Landon helped Kyla clear the table and straighten up the kitchen before leaving for the hospital.
“You can drive,” she said handing him the keys to her car as they exited the front door. He accepted the keys and opened her door for her. “Thank you.” She smiled as she got in.
“Calvin called me this morning and asked me if I would go by his office and pick up a few files for him and bring them by when I came to the hospital,” Landon told her as he climbed in next to her. “Would you like a quick tour office?”
“Yeah, sure,” she replied.
While they drove to the office, Landon pointed out a few more sites along the way. Kyla noticed there were some condos about halfway between her uncle’s house and the office. She made a mental note of the name on the sign and decided to stop by there in the upcoming week. She hadn’t discussed her plans to move out with her aunt and uncle yet, but she was certain they would understand her need for her own space. Kyla wanted something that belonged to her and that she could always return to no matter what when she had to go away. Besides, her aunt and uncle would have their hands full with the new baby and they needed their privacy as much as she needed hers.
“Penny for your thoughts,” Landon looked over at her and noticed she was pensive.
“I was just thinking about my search for my own place,” she told him. “By the way, do you know anything about the condos we passed by a few minute ago?”
“Yes,” he answered. “I know a couple of people from our office who live over there. They were completed last year from what I understand. Actually, there is a lot of good real estate and rental property not too far from the office. The Human Resources liaison for our unit will see you guys on Monday and I know they give out some materials on that.”
“Great,” Kyla replied.
“You’re not planning on staying with Calvin and Iris for awhile,” he inquired.
“I really would like to have my own place,” she began. “I have always had to pack up and move around and squeeze my life into bags and boxes. It would be nice to have a home where everything has its own permanent place and it’s always there waiting for me when I get back.” There was a sadness in Kyla’s words that wasn’t lost on Landon. He didn’t want to even think about what it must have been like for her growing up and having to split time between parents.
When they arrived at the office, he gave her a quick tour and then made his way to Calvin’s office to get his laptop and files he’d requested. New baby or not, Calvin loved what he did and he couldn’t stay too far away from work. Kyla looked around her uncle’s office while Landon finished packing his laptop case and noticed all of the photos on his desk and credenza of Iris, Kenya and her. Next she surveyed his office walls and saw various certificates and awards displayed. It made her proud to see how accomplished he had become.
“I think I got everything he asked for,” Landon announced.
“And where can I find your desk,” she asked.
“Come on, I’ll show you.” He took her hand and led her down a long row of cubicles that all had posted name tags on the outside. They reached another wall of offices and went about halfway until they stopped at Landon’s office. Like her uncle, he also had a wall filled with plaques and certificates. There were not as many photos, but one in particular caught Kyla’s attention. It was of Landon and a woman with dark brown hair and the same sparkling green eyes. They were both in cap and gown.
“Is this your sister,” Kyla asked pointing to the photo on his desk.
“Yes, that is my twin sister, Lindsey,” Landon moved to stand next to her. “She lives in Chicago with her husband and my niece.”
“What does she do?”
“She’s in medical school right now,” he explained. “We don’t get to see each other except for holidays but we talk quite a bit. You ready to head out?”
“Oh yes, of course,” Kyla moved to the door and waited for him to close and secure the door. “It must be pretty neat having a twin.”
“Yeah it is,” he told her as they headed towards the exit of the building. “Lindsey and I are the youngest in the family and there is a ten year age difference between us and our older brother. So we stuck close to each other when we were kids and it’s always been that way for us.”
“That’s really cool,” Kyla said.
“I guess there are a lot of advantages to being an only child though too, right,” Landon asked.
“Yeah, definitely,” she admitted. “I got a lot of attention, but then I also didn’t have anyone else to deflect to when I got in trouble, so that was a bummer. Of course, that was never an issue because I was always a perfect angel.” They both laughed.
“I bet,” he put his arm around her as they walked to the car.
*****
Iris’ parents had just left when Kyla and Landon arrived at the hospital taking Kenya with them. Calvin had assured her she would get to see her cousin late afternoon on Sunday for sure. Iris had been very happy to see Landon and they all sat and talked for awhile before he and Calvin left the room to go over some things for work. Iris had been moved to a private room that was more like a bedroom rather than a hospital room and the baby was able to stay in the room with her. Kyla couldn’t get over how small her new little cousin was. He looked just like the pictures she’d seen of Kenya when she was born.
“It looks like you and Landon really hit it off yesterday,” Iris smiled as Kyla came back to sit down in the chair closest to her.
“Yes, I think so,” Kyla couldn’t help but smile. “He’s very nice.”
“So do you think you would like to go out with him,” Iris asked.
“Well, he did ask me out,” she replied. “And I did say yes.”
“And you are just now telling me,” Iris said excitedly. “That’s great. I just knew you guys would like each other.”
“You were a little occupied,” Kyla pointed out. “And what do you mean you just knew we would like each other?” She raised an eyebrow at her aunt.
“Okay, I admit that I took advantage of the situation yesterday and had Calvin ask Landon to pick you up,” she explained. “He’s single, you’re single and I just felt you guys might make a good match.”
“Ah I see.”
“So when are you two going out,” her aunt asked.
“Well, we hadn’t set up a time, but he came over to the house this morning for breakfast and is planning to keep me company today.”
“That’s a very promising start,” Iris told her. “Kyla, it’s good to have someone you like to spend time with. You’re a pretty girl and you deserve a little happiness. I’m not telling you to move into anything you’re not ready for, Sweetheart. I just want you to be open to making friends and enjoying the moment. Landon and I talk a lot, and he’s a good guy. I know how timid you are about letting people get too close, but you are in a good place to make friends.”
Kyla let her aunts words sink in. She had to admit that everything she was saying was right. She didn’t like the loneliness that came from keeping people at arm’s length and she didn’t want to do that with Landon. She could sense that he liked spending time with her too, and Iris was right about there not being anything wrong with that.
“Thank you, Aunt Iris,” Kyla squeezed her hand. She had really missed being able to talk to her aunt like this. They spent the next hour getting caught up on everything going on in their respective lives as well as all the things Iris would need to have done when she got home. Having the C-section meant her recovery time would be a bit longer and Kyla could tell her aunt was grateful for having her around to help.
By the time Calvin and Landon came back to the room, Iris looked as if she needed to get her rest. They all said their goodbyes and Calvin told Kyla he would call her later that evening. When they came outside the hospital, it was starting to drizzle and by the time they reached the car it was a full downpour. Landon’s house was only a few blocks down the street from the hospital, so they decided to go to his place and see if they could wait out the storm.
He wasn’t able to pull inside the garage since they were using her car, so when he pulled into the driveway, he got out and instructed her to stay in the car. Kyla was in awe of his home from the outside. It was an all brick colonial with a very neatly manicured yard and landscaping. She watched him enter the front door and a few moments later the garage door opened and he came out to get her with an umbrella.
“Here we are,” he said opening her car door and using the umbrella to shield her from the rain. They hurried inside the house through the garage and entered the mud room and then the kitchen. He took her inside the great room and turned to her, “feel free to take a look around get comfortable. I will be right back.”
He hurried down the hall and Kyla ventured into the great room and put her purse down on the couch. His home was very tastefully decorated with warm earth tones and straight lines that gave it a masculine feel. There were hardwood floors throughout the entire main floor and a stone wood burning fireplace in the great room. He had a lot of family photos scattered around the room and a wall of book cases filled with a variety of books ranging from science fiction novels to textbooks on architecture. She moved over to the French doors leading to the outside deck and had a great view of a small pond behind his property along with a wooded area. The rain was steady but in the quiet room it offered a soothing rhythm that relaxed her.
Landon returned to find her facing the window and he took a moment for himself before making his presence known. The dress she wore was not revealing by any means, but the way it flowed over her curves definitely turned him on. He could see she had goose pimples from the combination of the cool air and moisture outside. Kyla turned around to see Landon standing in the doorway and smiled as she walked over to him. He had changed out of his wet shirt and shorts into a pair of jeans and black t-shirt with a design across the chest that showed off his broad chest and shoulders. He was barefoot which made him somehow even sexier. His dark curls fell loosely in his face and he gave her a crooked grin.
“I was just admiring the view,” she told him thumbing behind her.
“So was I,” he smiled. Kyla felt her face get flush again. He moved to wrap his arms around her pulling her closer to his warm body. “Would you like a sweater or a blanket?”
“No, I’m feeling warmer already,” she said placing her head against his chest.
“The Weather Channel says this rain is not going to let up anytime soon, so we may have to postpone our sightseeing plans.”
“That’s ok,” she wrinkled her nose and looked up at him. “We can always do it another weekend, right?”
“Of course,” he said placing a kiss on her forehead. “Have anything in particular you want to do?”
Kyla shook her head and replied, “I’m happy where I am. You have a great house, by the way.”
“Thanks. Would you like a tour?” He took her hand in his and led her out of the great room and into the kitchen. “Kitchen and breakfast nook,” he pointed to the table and chairs sitting in a small inlet that faced a window to the backyard.
“Are there any homes on the other side of those woods,” she asked as they left the kitchen and went into the dining room.
“No, my property line is at the edge of a nature preserve. It’s pretty quiet out here which is why I like it,” he explained. “Here we have the formal dining room and across the hall is the formal living room.”
“I know that piece,” Kyla pointed to a black and white framed picture on the wall in his living room. “I can’t remember the name, but it’s by Gordon Parks.”
“Yeah, that’s right,” he smiled at her. “I have quite a few of his pieces, actually.”
“Really?”
“Yeah. Why? Does that surprise you?”
“Everything about you surprises me, Landon,” she replied, “quite pleasantly.”
“I think I can handle that,” he smiled. “C’mon, let me show you the upstairs.” He led her up the staircase and was able to look over the edge of the banister into the great room. There were four bedroom suites all with their own private baths and an office at the end of the hall. Kyla was able to decipher which room was Landon’s right away and surprisingly he did not use the master suite but rather the room that was closest to his office. Several black and white sketches of buildings downtown donned the walls in his bedroom and the office.
“This is a great likeness of the old firehouse,” she noted while looking at one of the sketches on the office wall. “The detail on it is remarkable. Who’s the artist?”
“Yours truly,” he leaned against the door frame with his arms crossed and smiled.
“No kidding?”
“No kidding. Iris helped me decorate this place when I moved in a couple of years ago,” he led her back downstairs. “She found my sketches I had packed away and had them up before I could argue with her. And you know you can’t argue with her.”
“Oh yeah, I know all too well,” Kyla agreed. “You know she asked Calvin to have you specifically come and pick me up yesterday.” They sat down on the couch and Landon turned to face her.
“Remind me to put her on the top of my Christmas list this year,” he smiled.
“I’m glad you feel that way,” she said.
“How could I possibly feel any differently,” he moved closer to her. “Kyla, every moment I have had with you over this last 24 hour period has been nothing but pleasant. You make me nervous, excited, happy all at the same time.” He laughed.
“I make you nervous,” she asked with a surprised look.
“Yes, you do,” he looked into her eyes. “I don’t want to say or do the wrong thing and move too quickly, but I am very attracted to you. Surely, you know that.”
“I do now,” she replied softly. “I like you too, Landon, and I don’t think you are moving too quickly at all. In fact, you make me feel very comfortable. I just don’t have very much experience being in this kind of situation.” She looked away from his gaze.
Landon turned her to face him. “What do you mean by ‘situation’?”
“I haven’t dated much,” she paused trying to find her words. “And I never really let anyone get close to me. I don’t really know why, but it’s just the way things worked out I guess.”
“Are you trying to tell me you’re a virgin,” he searched her eyes for his answer.
“Yes,” she nodded and then got up from the couch. She moved over to the window and looked outside. It was still pouring rain. Landon got up and stood behind her.
“Kyla,” he turned her to face him. “I want to be very honest with you about something.” Kyla felt her heart drop. She knew it was just a matter of moments before he rejected her. “I’m not very experienced when it comes to relationships. Work has always come first and I have never been willing to compromise on that.” She closed her eyes and tried to control her frustration. She didn’t need to hear all of this for him to tell her that he was no longer interested.
“Landon, it’s really okay. I understand,” she placed her hand on his shoulder. “You don’t have to explain.”
“But I do. Please,” he looked down at her with soft eyes. She set aside how she was feeling and gave him a nod to continue. “I can’t promise I won’t make mistakes, but I can promise I will never intentionally hurt you.”
“What are you saying?” Kyla looked at him with a look of uncertainty.
“I don’t know how all of this works,” he laughed nervously. “But I think if we talk it out as we go along it could work out well for us to develop into something more than friends.”
“So the fact that I am a virgin doesn’t bother you?”
“No, not a bit,” he said pulling her closer to him. “I want more than sex from you, Kyla. Do you think maybe you could see us…together?”
Kyla answered by reaching up and pulling him closer into a slow, passionate kiss. She surprised herself with the brazen move, but she’d never been so happy to hear the words he’d just spoken. Their need for each other was evident as they gave in to what they desired most.
Landon caressed her back and moved his hands over her ass and lifted her off the floor. Kyla wrapped her legs around his waist and he carried her to the couch never breaking contact. He placed her gently on the couch and nestled himself between her legs. Planting kisses along her cheek and down her neck, she felt as if her whole body were on fire under his touch. She held onto him enjoying the feeling of having him so close.
The scent of his cologne and warmth of his body was like nothing she’d ever experienced. Landon pulled the straps of her dress over her shoulders gently nibbling at the tender flesh between her neck and shoulder. Kyla arched her back giving him more access to continue his assault on her sensitive skin. Her breasts ached for his touch and he obliged her satisfying his own urge to touch her.
He raised himself over her and the wanton look in her eyes made him remember his words. As much as he wanted her, it would be unfair to do it this way. Landon wanted to prove himself worthy before taking her most special gift. Doing anything right now may make her regret what happened between him and that was not a risk he was willing to take.
Reluctantly, he pulled himself up and placed his hand gently against her cheek. “Baby, look at me.” Kyla opened her eyes and met his gaze. “You are so beautiful.” He kissed her gently.
“Is something wrong,” Kyla asked softly.
“No, but I know if I don’t stop now, I won’t be able to,” he admitted.
“And then your balls would turn blue, right?”
“What?” Landon looked up at her and could see her face was serious.
“I read about it once,” she told him. Landon couldn’t help but burst out laughing. “What’s so funny?”
“I’m sorry, Sweetheart. I promise I am not laughing at you, but I have never heard it put quite that way before,” he snuggled against her. “It’s an expression, but they don’t actually change colors or anything.”
“Oh,” Kyla replied biting her lower lip. “Guess that shows how much I know.”
“It’s not a turn off, trust me,” he gave her a quick peck and raised himself off of her. “Come here.” He got off the couch and pulled her with him. He wrapped her in a tight hug. “When I come back, we can decide what to do for dinner and then I want to spend the rest of the night with you in my arms. Is that ok with you?”
“Yes,” she smiled and watched Landon head upstairs. She went into the guest bathroom she’d seen down the hall and checked herself in the mirror. After fixing her hair and reapplying her lip gloss, she looked and felt much better.
When Landon came back, they decided to get Chinese take-out and stay in with a movie on the couch. He needed to get his truck, so before they stopped at the restaurant, they made a stop at Calvin’s. The rain had caused the temperature to drop considerably and Kyla decided to change into a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt before she drove back over to Landon’s. They spent the rest of the evening snuggled on his couch laughing and talking in between movies just as he promised. Everything was easy between them and they both felt good about the direction things were headed.
*****
Monday morning came faster than Kyla had expected. Though she hadn’t seen Landon on Sunday, they had texted back and forth throughout the day. Iris and the baby had come home around 2 on Sunday and Kenya had arrived shortly thereafter. With the house completely active, it was definitely a different atmosphere. Kenya had stuck close to Kyla all afternoon until it was bedtime.
She could see why Iris was so grateful for the help. Kenya’s energy level, a new baby and recovery from a C-section was a little much for any couple. Kenya went to daycare three times a week normally, but Calvin and Iris had arranged for her to go every day until Iris was feeling a bit better. Calvin was taking paternity leave after the first week of training was underway, and so far it seemed as though they had things under control.
“Babygirl,” Calvin knocked on Kyla’s door. “Can I come in?”
“Sure Uncle Cal, come on in.” Kyla finished putting on her earrings. She was wearing a khaki skirt and an olive green v-neck cotton top and sandals. Knowing that she was going to be in the classroom for the first couple of weeks of training, she decided she would dress how she felt most comfortable.
“You look very nice,” he smiled. “Are you all set for your first day?”
“I think so,” she turned to face him. “Everything ok?”
“Everything is fine. I wanted to see if you wanted a ride.”
“No, I’m fine. Landon showed me where the facility was, so I feel ok getting there,” she turned back to face her reflection and started brushing her curls into a ponytail.
“I’m glad you and Landon are getting close. It’s good to see good things happen to good people,” he touched her shoulder. “That being said, I offer one piece of advice, Kyla. Please be aware of who is friend and foe.” She turned to face her uncle and saw his expression was concerned. She knew exactly what he meant, and she nodded her understanding. He had spoken those words to her many times in her life and it had always served her well. He didn’t say anything more but simply gave her a hug and left the room.
Kyla finished getting dressed and packed her messenger bag with a few snack bars, cell phone, small purse, a notebook and a few pens and pencils. Iris was in the kitchen having a cup of coffee when she stopped to get a bottled water from the fridge.
“All set,” she asked her niece giving her a big smile.
“Yep, I think I’m good,” Kyla filled her travel mug with coffee.
“Do you and Landon have plans,” Iris asked.
“We didn’t discuss anything for tonight, but I will probably give him a call after class,” she told her.
“Ok, well let me know if you want me to keep a plate warm for you,” Iris gave her a kiss on the cheek and headed back upstairs to lie down. “Have a good first day.” Kyla was hoping to see Landon tonight, but she understood his work schedule could be hectic.
She arrived at the facility about fifteen minutes early and entered through security as she had been instructed to do on her training materials. The security guard handed her a temporary ID and gave her directions to the training classroom she’d been assigned. When she walked in, she noticed there were nametags on the desks. She found her workstation easily and discovered she was the first one at her cluster of workstations.
She pulled out her pen and notebook and got situated at her desk. Two men came into the room and took their seats at the cluster next to hers. They both politely said hello and continued their conversation. A few minutes later, other students began to trickle in as well.
“Hi,” Kyla looked up to see a tall black guy had taken the seat across from her. “I’m Tim Woods.”
“Kyla Redford,” she smiled and shook his hand.
“Well it’s nice to meet you, Kyla,” he told her. “I see you’re from Catastrophe Services. I’m from the Southern division. There are about six of us here completing our training right now, but there are only two of us assigned to this classroom.” Kyla had heard from her uncle that claims adjusters from all over the U.S. were sent to the training facility for formal training within their first six months of service. Catastrophe Services was the only division that required all of their adjusters have their first day start with the formal training.
“Oh I see. How long have you been with the company,” Kyla asked.
“I’ve been with the company six years, but just started as an adjuster about two months ago,” Tim explained. They chatted for a bit and then his other colleague came in and sat next to Kyla. His name was Martin and he seemed pleasant enough but stayed very quiet. The room was a buzz of conversation and it was just a little before 9 when the instructor came in.
“Good morning everyone and welcome to Claims Training,” he greeted them. “My name is Randall Girard, and for the next 10 weeks I will be your training facilitator. You will have a series of sessions that will be taught by different instructors, but I will be proctoring all of your exams.” Kyla listened to him continue and jotted down notes where appropriate. She glanced around the room and noticed only two other women in the class. Kyla was used to being in predominately male environments, but the atmosphere seemed so much more competitive.
“As you will see, some of your classmates are missing,” Randall continued. “Storms in the Northeast and Central divisions required those adjusters to delay their travel plans, but they will be arriving by Wednesday. This is important to you because part of your success in this course rests on how well you all do as a team. It will be your responsibility to make sure that your teammates understand what will be taught today and tomorrow as well as what is taught over the next ten weeks. So I suggest you take good notes and be prepared to make friends. You will need each other to pass.” Tim, Martin and Kyla all exchanged glances. Each cluster had a total of eight workstations and they were the only cluster missing more than three people.
“Nothing like starting off with a challenge,” Martin whispered to the two of them.
The first hour of their training started with some basic historical references about the company and an overview of what the schedule was going to be like for the next ten weeks. It was quite a bit to digest in an hour and it seemed as if everyone was ready for the first break. Kyla didn’t really need anything more but to stretch, so she took a short walk down the hall and came back.
Martin and Tim were back at their desks when she came back in. “Hey guys, I think I may have an idea.” They turned to face her.
“Idea for what,” Tim asked.
“Well, I was thinking that perhaps we could email our other group members,” she began. “We should have access to them on the company email system and their names are right here on the desks. Maybe we can explain the situation and keep them in the loop until they get here.”
“That’s not bad,” Martin agreed. “Storm duty could go much longer than a couple of days. Hell, they may not make it until this weekend.” Kyla and Tim both nodded.
“It’s got my vote, but who wants to send the email?” Tim asked.
“I don’t mind writing it out, but I’m not on the system yet,” Kyla offered.
“It can come from my email,” Martin replied. “Just write out what you what you want me to send and use your private account for right now.” They finished their discussion of what the first email should include while Tim found their addresses on the system and sent the names to Martin.
They had it all arranged by the time the break was over, and all of them felt a bit better about the situation. The rest of the morning passed in a blur. Calvin came by the facility and had lunch with Kyla in the cafeteria before she went to her HR session for the afternoon. Claims Training was only scheduled a half day on Monday and Tuesday because of the new employees needing to take care of any pending issues with HR. It was here that she met the rest of her Catastrophe team and she was surprised to find the other two women from training were there as well.
Kyla was about to take her a seat at the end of the row when they waved for her to come closer. “Hi, I’m Crystal and this is Sarah,” the blonde sitting closest to Kyla introduced them.
“I’m Kyla,” she said taking her seat next to them. “So how did you guys like the first day?”
“Brutal,” Sarah spoke out. “But we should be asking you that question. You guys are down five members in your cluster.”
“Yeah, but I think it will all work out,” Kyla smiled. “I’m trying to stay positive for right now. And if we only have to worry for just one more day then it may not be too bad.” Kyla kept the fact that her team was email corresponding with her team to herself. She had learned from past experience that it was wise more often than not to keep things close to the vest.
The three of them talked quietly until their session began and they made plans to meet for lunch the next day. She learned that Crystal had served in the Army before getting hired with Catastrophe Services and that rough outer shell was really just a front.
Sarah, on the other hand, was much more timid in nature but extremely smart from what Kyla could tell. She didn’t have any prior experience with insurance or construction background, but had already picked up quite a bit just from going over some of the training materials provided that morning. Kyla was quite impressed with both of them and Crystal had a great sense of humor.
The session with HR was pretty basic and ended with all of them taking their photo IDs for their permanent badges that would be ready for them to pick up when they came in the next morning. Kyla had purposely left her cell phone in the car and was eager to check and see if Landon had sent her a message. She had been the last person in her group to get her photo taken and the parking lot was dead except for a familiar truck sitting next to hers. When she got closer, she noticed Landon was leaning against her car patiently waiting for her. He had on a light blue button up and a pair of tan slacks with loafers. As far as she was concerned, he could have been wearing a burlap bag and he still would have made it look heavenly.
Kyla turned her casual walk into a combination walk skip towards him. He got up and moved towards her sweeping her up in his arms into a big hug. “Hey Baby,” he greeted her. “How was your first day?” His cologne was by far her favorite scent.
“It was fine,” she smiled back at him. “What are you doing here?”
“I got finished early,” he explained as they walked back to her car hand in hand, “and I couldn’t wait to see you so I decided to surprise you.”
“I’m so glad you did,” she hugged him again.
“So does this mean you will have dinner with me tonight,” he asked. “I figured since you made me breakfast, I could return the favor and make you dinner. What do you say?”
“I say yes,” she smiled biting her lower lip. “Let me just go home and freshen up and I will come over to your place.”
“Sounds like a plan,” he said helping her into her car. “I’ll see you in a bit.” He gave her a brief kiss before closing her car door.
Landon watched her drive out of the parking lot and then headed towards his truck when a voice behind him stopped him, “Well hello, Landon. How have you been?”
He turned around and saw Tara standing with her arms folded in front of her. Her black skirt was short and tight showing off her long legs and her blouse was cut low enough to leave very little to the imagination. Landon hadn’t really noticed before now, but her style of dress did seem to border on trashy.
“Hi Tara,” he did his best to sound pleasant. “I’m doing fine and you?”
“Well I’m doing just fine, but you would know that if you returned my calls or texts,” she replied.
“I’ve been rather busy, Tara,” he got inside his truck, “and I am running a bit late. So if you will excuse me.”
“Wait a minute, Landon,” she lightly touched his arm. “I have been thinking a lot about what happened, and I think it would be nice for us to try and go out again. Don’t you?”
Landon breathed a heavy sigh, “Look Tara, I thought we agreed to keep things just as friends.”
“Oh I see,” she said changing her tone. “You got what you wanted so now you’re ready to move on. And the best piece of ass you could find looks like she’s barely out of high school. Surely you’re not trying to bang the boss’s niece just to get ahead. Kyla, right? Oh yeah, I know who she is.” Landon’s eyes narrowed at her.
“She has nothing to do with what happened and isn’t going to happen between you and me,” Landon’s tone was dark. “I’m going to end this conversation, Tara. I won’t stoop to your level and say what’s really on my mind, but it would serve you best to keep away from her and lose my number.” He didn’t wait for her to respond and drove off leaving her standing there looking after him in the parking lot.
This was far from over as far as Tara was concerned. Granted, she had let her temper get the best of her, but she couldn’t help it. Seeing him entangled with that Miss Goody Two Shoes had sent her over the edge. Landon and Tara had talked about their career aspirations many times and she was sure they would make a great power couple. So what if there wasn’t a love connection. They could get by on great sex. He just needed to refocus. With the right approach, Tara knew she could make Landon see things her way. But the first thing she had to do was get Kyla out of the picture. If there was one thing she knew how to do, it was manipulate things to work in her favor.
