“What a day,” Gus said, leaning back against one of the smooth boulders that lined the perimeter of the clearing. “And what a cool spot.”
The children played on the grassy area, stopping by from time to time to grab food or drink from the towel Lynn had spread in front of them.
“There are lots of these cool spots in the Valley and, if you haven’t yet noticed, most days are spectacular here. Maybe a little rain, but most of the day is beautiful.”
“Yeah, that orographic effect is something, isn’t it? I’d never heard of it before I came here.” He referred to the unusual cloud formation and abundant moisture that had created the extraordinary green valley between two mountain ranges in the Arizona desert.
“Without it, there’d be no organic farm, or not one that produces like Morgan’s Run’s does.”
“We’re lucky,” he said, reaching forward to brush an errant strand of hair from her forehead. Startled by the intimate gesture, she sat up straight.
“Sorry. Did I overstep?” he said.
“No… It’s fine.”
She turned her attention to the children, not certain what to say. They were happily playing in the grass, weaving flowers, weeds, and sticks.
“Guess I don’t have to state the obvious. As you can see, I’m pretty rusty at this. I’ve never really dated. Lissie and I were together so long.”
Lynn smiled. “You’re not so bad.”
He grinned, a genuine smile that lit up his handsome features. “Good to know.”
“So is this a date?” she asked, eyes mischievous.
“Let’s call it a pre-date.”
“So?”
“So, in case it’s not apparent, I’d like to get to know you better, Lynn. I’m aware that I carry considerable baggage, so I will completely understand if you’re not interested. In fact, I’ve been interested…attracted to you…since I first brought the kids to the Cottage, but I decided you were way out of my league.”
“Oh?”
“Way smarter for one.”
She chuckled. “I very much doubt that.”
“I mean, I’m not a complete dunce. I did go to college. Degree’s in animal husbandry. Kind of fell into the horse training when I came back home.”
“From what I hear, you’re really good at it.”
“It suits me.” At that moment, he spied Cal climbing a boulder. “Dulcie, get him down, will you, sweetie!” he called as he jogged across the clearing. By the time he reached them, Dulcie had managed to wrestle her brother down and divert his attention to their pile of sticks and grass.
Gus turned around and came back, sitting down. “So…where were we?”
Lynn smiled. “Your profession and how it suits you.”
“Yeah, I really know how to woo a girl, don’t I? Anyway, before my son loses it and we have to head back, I was wondering if you might like to go on an actual date sometime? Dinner? Lunch? Whatever works for you?”
“I’d love to,” she said, placing her hand over his.
Gus curled his rough fingers round hers. “That’s great. I’ll work on a sitter.”
“Except for the big clambake tonight and the wedding next weekend, I’m pretty free,” she said.
“No other hot dates on the calendar?” he asked, adding, “Though of course, that’s none of my goddamn business.”
“Not at the moment. I believe Cal the chimpanzee is at it again.”
“Yup. We better get packed up. It’s almost nap time for him, and he’ll need it before tonight’s party.”
Lynn pulled her backpack out after her in the condo lot. “Thanks, guys,” she said, smiling at the kids, then Gus. “I’ll see you three at the farm for the big party, right?”
“Right!” Dulcie said as Cal’s head nodded to the side.
Gus cringed. “Uh-oh, we better get a move on so he doesn’t fall asleep in the car. Will be hell to pay later. See you soon.”
“You bet,” Lynn said, her heart lighter than it had been in many years. A kind, handsome, steady man has asked me out. Almost a miracle!