| |
Dee Chambers folded her arms across her chest and gazed at the playful antics of Harley as he squirted icy water in Abbey’s direction. Her heart glowed with warmth for her newest employee. Abbey had only been with The Funny Bone four months, but she couldn’t have fitted in better if she were Dee’s own flesh and blood.
“Harley...put that hose down this instant, you annoying pain in my behind... Stop...stop it right now.” Abbey squealed at the top of her lungs as she sprinted in circles around the portable dog wash. Her arms thrashing above her head to block the continuous stream of water from destroying her straightened hair. She giggled. “You will pay, and this time, your fiancée is not here to protect you.”
A familiar empty hollow shot through Dee’s heart. She’d been over the moon when Harley had woken up to himself and confessed his love for her good friend Ananke. She couldn’t say the same for her own dismal love life. Dee rolled her shoulders back and stood tall. She was over chasing love. The last horrible time-wasting attempt had been the final straw. Her salon and her beloved Bishon dogs were her focus and it was paying off. Business was booming. Love can take a long walk off a short pier as far as she cared.
Harley lowered the hose, pausing a moment as if giving Abbey’s words some thought.
“I’d believe her if I were you, Harley,” Dee said moving further out of the line of fire. “You know once she gets her mind set, there’s no changing it.” Dee followed Harley’s gaze as he scanned the growing crowd, obviously gathering to see what the commotion was all about. She saw a mischievous glint in the corner of his eye and shook her head.
Will this boy never learn?
This year’s annual fire brigade fundraiser had drawn a bigger crowd than she’d expected. This past summer had been heart breaking. It ravaged so much of Australia. Every cent they made today would go a little way to saying thank you. What started out as a small gathering of folk from nearby towns four years ago had turned into a main event on the Stonecrest Bay calendar. Since the first year, Dee had always given her time and portable dog wash freely to raise much needed funds for the local bush fire brigade. Today the crowds were out in droves from nearby towns. It was a perfect day with not a cloud in sight in the cobalt blue sky. And it was better now with Abbey working with them.
It didn’t seem like two years since she and Brandon had been together. The fundraiser had been his idea. Her stomach dropped and nausea swamped her at the memory of their last conversation. The arrogance of the man, expecting her to give up her career to work in his kitchen and play happy housewife. His words screamed in her mind as clear today as if it had been yesterday.
‘My wife will not need to work, she’ll be keeping house...as a woman should.’
Just because she dumped his arrogant ass then and there didn’t mean she had to stop supporting such a brilliant cause.
A female voice called from behind Dee, snapping her back to the present. “You tell him, Abbey. You’ll be one sorry man when she gets through with you.” Katie stood hand in hand beside Joel, both barely able to control their chuckling laughter at the child-like antics before them.
“Katie...Joel. Nice to see you out and about. I hope you will dig deep today?” Dee said as she exchanged another dog wash token for twenty dollars with a waiting customer.
“Perfect day for it, isn’t it? I’m just glad your dad gave me the day off work. I couldn’t think of anything worse than being stuck inside the vet clinic while everyone else was out here enjoying themselves.”
“And I hope you have lathered up on sunscreen on that fair Scottish skin of yours? SPF50+?” Dee asked as she reached for the spare bottle of sunscreen under the counter. “Because we have plenty here if you need it.”
Joel shook his head. “No need. Katie made me coat myself before we left. She’s good like that. Always looking after me. I’m the luckiest man in the universe.”
Dee smiled tight lipped, hiding her own longing for the same affection deep inside her soul. She was done chasing love. Katie reached up on her tippy toes and gave Joel a peck on the cheek.
Young love, ain’t it sweet.
“I must say, your Australian sun really takes some getting used to,” Joel said as he adjusted his wide-brim hat.
Dee smiled and nodded. “That it does, but I wouldn’t live anywhere else.”
“Oh, I almost forgot.” Katie threaded her arm through Joel’s. “Mum said to let you know that Matilda’s Guest House is open for business as of last week. We will have the official opening, but we wanted to wait until after today’s fundraiser.”
“Oh, how wonderful.”
“Mum was hoping you would consider putting a flyer up in the salon and maybe some business cards.”
“Of course. Get her to drop in and see me after today and we can sort something out.” Small town hospitality was one of the things Dee loved most about Stonecrest Bay.
“Ahhhh.”
A deep guttural yell bellowed, and Dee spun to see a drenched Harley shaking water droplets from his ruffled hair. His face scrunched up and lips pinched together in a thin line. An evil glare directed at Abbey was enough to send the crowd into fits of laughter, including Dee.
“Told you so, Harley,” Katie called as she and Joel headed down the hill. The stalls and fire engine activity displays were set up on the seafront oval.
“I warned you,” Dee said, handing him a towel. “I think that’s about enough entertainment out of you two. How about you both get back to work and show these paying customers why they should visit The Funny Bone regularly.”
“Fine,” Harley said, a slight grin turning the corner of his lip up.
“Thanks for being a good sport,” Abbey said as she flung her arm around Harley’s shoulder. “Truce? My shout for lunch, okay?”
“You’re on.”
Abbey smiled and picked up Mrs. Mellor’s poodle. “Morning Coco. How is my number one customer? Ready to be spoilt?”
Mrs. Mellor glowed as she eyed her four-legged baby. “Of course, and as always, I know you’ll do an amazing job, young Abbey.” Dee believed the 180 in Mrs. Mellor’s attitude had happened since Abbey and Travis had become an item.
Dee watched with satisfaction as Harley and Abbey went to work playing up to Coco as if she were their own precious child. A growl echoed from her belly and she realized she’d been standing there in her own dream world for almost twenty minutes. The crowd had dispersed, and the line of dirty dogs has thinned. A growing niggling sensation wormed its way up her spine. As if she was being watched.
***
LUKE ASHWOOD FOLLOWED the street signs to Stonecrest Bay, barely registering the route he was taking, pre-occupied with thoughts of Travis and how he will explain his sudden appearance. His chest tightened and regret clawed at his gut.
“I’ve been a pretty crap cousin, hey Travis?” Luke muttered, shaking his head. “Ignoring your pain and putting my work above family.”
How did he expect a young boy of thirteen to deal with losing his father when he wasn’t man enough to face it himself? He should have been around more to help Travis and his mother deal with the devastating loss of a husband and father. But he wasn’t.
Luke wound down the window of his iconic olive-green HQ Holden and rested his elbow on the doorframe. The hairs on his forearm stood to attention as the warm wind brushed past his elbow. The salty sea air drifted through the open cabin, filling his lungs. The prospect of a new beginning planted a seed of hope in his heart.
I’ve lots to make up for. Here’s hoping Travis gives me a chance.
He’d found out from Travis’ mother that he had met a wonderful woman named Abbey and was now based in Stonecrest Bay when he wasn’t touring. Luke had always loved the Margaret River region, who wouldn’t with an indulgent selection of wineries, mouthwatering chocolates and great beaches. A twinge bit hard at him. He was a self-confessed work-a-holic who never had time for holidays or family. That was until twelve days ago. Walking in on his boss in the midst of a major heart attack was the slap in the face he needed. Now it was life before work.
He sucked in a deep breath of ocean air into his lungs and it was like breathing new life into his body.
“Now, that’s a beautiful scent.”
The scent of a new future.
He looked around at the hive of excitement coating the main street. “For a tourist town, Stonecrest Bay would have to be one of the busiest I’ve ever seen.”
He was lucky to get a parking spot in the local supermarket carpark. The stretch would do his aching body some good. He hadn’t walked far before a booming roar echoed from the direction of the ocean and he nearly jumped clean out of his skin.
“What the hell was that?” he muttered under his breath, not expecting an answer.
“I’d say it’s either the cheering from the wood chopping or the fireman’s hose throwing competition.” A male voice answered.
Luke turned to see an elderly man with silvering hair semi-smiling at him. His gaze fell to the dog cowering behind the man’s leg. If he didn’t know better, he’d say the dog was scared of him.
“Oh, don’t mind him. Paddy’s a special dog. He doesn’t much like loud noises, crowds or people he doesn’t know for that matter.”
“Oh.” Luke said.
“That’s why we’re up the slow end of town,” he said as he extended his hand. “The name’s Lex.”
“Luke,” he said, accepting the man’s firm handshake.
Slow end? Geez, I’d hate to see it on a busy day.
He must have had a look of bewilderment on his face because a burly laugh echoed from Lex’s direction and Paddy crawled out from behind his legs just enough to gaze up at his owner with the cutest sleepy puppy dog eyes. The undying trust in Paddy’s brown eyes melted Luke’s heart on the spot.
“Let me guess.” Lex rubbed his chin. “You’re new in town and had no idea you arrived smack bang in the middle of our annual fundraiser.”
“Fundraiser?” Luke asked, his curiosity peaked.
Lex pointed to a sign on the supermarket window.
Annual Bush Fire Brigade Fundraiser. Help raise much needed funds for our true-blue Aussie heroes.
“If you’re not in a rush, you should head down and check it out. Tourists and passer-by’s always welcome,” Lex said as he bent down to give the golden Labrador a loving scratch behind his floppy ear. “The more the merrier and most of the business are running stalls down there today and all funds raised go to the local bush fire brigade that service Stonecrest Bay and the surrounding towns.” A smile worked its way across Lex’s face. “You might even snag yourself a hand drawn portrait by Marina. She’s a talent for drawing dogs. Makes them real lifelike.”
Hospitable country folk were few in the corporate world. A renewed zing of energy soared through him. It was in this moment he knew he’d made the right decision to walk away from his hectic work life and start living life the way it should be lived, with passion, enjoyment and love.
“I might just do that. Thanks. We can never thank our fireys enough as far as I’m concerned. Especially after the devastation the bushfires caused this last summer.”
Lex dipped his head in agreement. “Here, here.”
“I don’t suppose you’d know where I would find a young lady by the name of Abbey, do you?” Luke asked.
“Mmm.” Lex paused, rubbing his chin once more. “The only Abbey I know is Marina’s granddaughter. She works at The Funny Bone. Is that who you mean?”
The Funny Bone?
He didn’t know if it was a Halloween themed nightclub, a doctor’s surgery or a funeral parlor. Either way, Stonecrest Bay sounded more intriguing by the second.
Lex continued. “The Funny Bone’s our local dog grooming salon. There’s an Abbey who works there and that’s the only Abbey I know of in Stonecrest Bay, unless she’s from one of the neighbouring towns here for the fundraiser.”
A vague conversation with Travis’ mother sprung back into his mind and he remembered dogs mentioned in there somewhere.
“I think that sounds about right. I’m looking for Travis Scott. I’m his cousin and I was hoping to catch up with him while I’m in town.”
“Then Abbey is the woman you’re after. Couple of lovebirds, that pair. Those two are inseparable. True love, hey.”
Another pang of regret jolted through Luke’s system. True love? He feared he’d missed the boat on that one. He had the chance...once. He chose work over love. Big mistake.
Lex chuckled and pointed down a side street toward the ocean. “If you head down that way, you’ll hit the fair and you’ll find Dee, Abbey and Harley at the mobile dog wash on the corner.”
“Thank you,” Luke said, tipping his head in a nod of thanks toward Lex.
As he drove closer, the excitement of a country-style fair spiked his interest. The breeze blew his hair in all crazy directions, but he kept his eye on the road ahead. Luckily, he did. Out of nowhere a pup darted in front of his car.
“What the...” he yelled as he hit the brake and the car screeched to a grinding halt by the curb. He was out of his car in seconds, his heart pounding inside his ribcage like an iron fist.
Please don’t be dead, please don’t be dead.
He ran toward the dog.
Air escaped his lungs and he was light-headed with relief. He stood, his gaze rooted to the shaking pup frozen in the middle of the road. He scooped the frightened bundle up and cuddled him close to his warm chest.
“Hey there little one, you’re all right,” he whispered, as he stroked her head soothing the frightened pup. “I’m thinking there’s someone running around frantic looking for you. Maybe Abbey can find your owner. Shall we find her?”
***
DEE SPUN AND FROZE, her eyes locking with the deepest sexiest Mediterranean blue eyes she’d ever seen. Her mouth dried and she ran her tongue over her lips. Swallowing hard, she reminded herself she had vocal cords in perfect working order, she dropped her gaze from his heart-stopping smile to the kelpie pup snuggled in his arms and frowned.
I know you.
It was several seconds before Dee’s insides calmed and she eased her words out.
“Where did you get that kelpie pup?” No sooner had she spoken the pup instantly recognized the familiar tone of her voice and scooted up the stranger’s upper torso and smacked several wet sloppy kisses on his pink cheek. A deep laugh hit Dee’s ears and her stomach double somersaulted.
“Easy there, girl. I love a good welcome kiss as good as the next man, but let’s not go overboard,” he said chuckling, pulling his face away from the pup’s zealous antics.
Welcome kiss? Dee’s gaze found his lips and her neck warmed as she imagined the kind of welcome kiss she’d like to give him once the pup was done. What on earth had gotten into her? Mortified with where her thoughts were headed, she cleared her throat and smiled.
“Please excuse my rudeness. My name is Dee Chambers and I’m sure I know who that pup belongs to.”
He chuckled, still fending off sloppy wet puppy advances. “Nice to meet you, Dee Chambers,” he said, holding his hand toward her. “Luke Ashwood.”
Dee eased her hand into his and a bolt of electricity shot up her arm. It’s not as if she hadn’t met a gorgeous man before. The memories of her past failed romances, and Brandon flashed across her mind. They were all gorgeous and look how they turned out. Disastrous. She had no time for romance in her busy schedule.
“Welcome to Stonecrest Bay. If I’m not mistaken that looks like one of Nick Morton’s kelpie pups.”
“Oh, thank goodness. This little one must be a real mischief maker. She ran straight out on the road and almost ended up a squished puppy under the wheel of my car.”
The thought of any animal hurt or in pain sickened Dee to her core. She ruffled the puff of hair on the top of its head and a murmur greeted her. She couldn’t help but gift Luke an enormous smile. Dogs were her life. She loved them almost as much as humans. Almost.
“Seems you’ve rocked into town on one of the busiest days of the year. I’m sure Nick and Beth have a stall set up down by the end of the oval. I’d be happy to take her off your hands and deliver her back to her owner. I’m heading that way, anyway. It’s about time I picked up Xena.”
Luke’s eyebrow raised. “Xena? Sounds like Stonecrest Bay is harboring a secret superhero clan.”
A zing of excitement shot through her. She liked him. Laughing she replied. “Hardly, she’s one of my Bishon dogs.”
“One?”
“Xena is my girl and my boy is Milo. He’s with Emma today. He loves to sit while she draws. I bet he thinks if he poses long enough, she’ll give in and put him in one of her paintings.” Dee fed her arms around the pup and eased her onto her chest. “Xena is with Mary Hopman, a resident of the local nursing home. We’ve been visiting her for a few months now and she took a real shine to Xena. They became best of friends. Now, whenever I can, I let Mary spend time with her. Some residents of the retirement village are here today to enjoy the fair. She comes alive when Xena is with her.”
Luke shoved his hands in his pockets. “Sounds like a great place to live.”
“It is. I’ve lived here all my life and wouldn’t dream of living anywhere else.” Dee’s breath caught in the back of her throat at his haunted gaze and her heart tore in two at the pain evident. Her curiosity got the better of her. “So, what brings you to Stonecrest Bay? Did you come for the fundraiser or are you a lucky tourist passing by?”
“Actually, I’m looking for Abbey. I was told she would be down here at the dog wash. Travis Scott is my cousin and I was hoping she could point me in the right direction of where I might find him.”
Travis’ cousin? Abbey never said anything about his family visiting the bay. I’m sure I would have remembered.
Dee struggled under the blaring heat to keep the pup from jumping from her arms. An uncomfortable trickle of sweat slid down her cleavage. “Gosh, you are a fidgety little thing, aren’t you?” She turned and called, “Abbey, have you got a moment?”
Wavy strawberry-blonde hair from a high ponytail tossed around Abbey’s shoulders as she bounded toward the pair. She puffed brushing dog hair from her pants with the back of her hand and looked up in Dee’s direction. “What are you doing with one of Nick’s pups?”
“That’s my fault, I’m afraid,” Luke said before Dee had a chance to answer. “On my way into town, this little lady ran out in front of my car. Luckily, I wasn’t going fast enough to do any damage. Dee offered to return her to Nick.”
“Oh, I see.” Abbey pursed her lips and raised her eyebrows, waiting for Dee to speak.
Dee caught Luke’s eyes and there was a moment between them that stirred her insides and had her words vanishing.
Get a grip, woman. Remember, you’re through with chasing love.
“Hi, Abbey, is it?” he asked, holding his hand out. “I’m Luke Ashwood, Travis’ cousin. Nice to meet you.”
Abbey’s eyes widened and her mouth opened and then closed. “His cousin? He said nothing about you visiting Stonecrest Bay.”
“It’s kind of a surprise.”
A frown creased Abbey’s brow. “Um, he’s away until mid-next week doing some additional training for an upcoming competition.”
“Oh,” Luke said, a disheartening expression crossing his face. “It was a long shot, anyway. I’d appreciate it if you would let him know I called by?”
“Of course.”
He’s leaving?
The sudden urge to keep him close by drove Dee’s words. “Since you’re here why don’t you stay and check out some stalls? I’m sure Nick will want to thank you personally for saving this little one here and if you’re interested, you might even want to try your luck on the chocolate wheel. It is a fundraiser, after all.”
Oh God, can I babble on anymore? How embarrassing.
She felt like a teenager talking to the new guy in school. She balked at the peculiar look on Abbey’s face.
“Sounds great. I’ve no immediate plans for the future,” Luke said, with a mouthwatering smile that turned Dee’s knees to jelly. The double entendre in his words threw her.
Does that mean he has no plans for the rest of the day, or the rest of his life?
Either way she didn’t have time for the distractions of a man regardless of how gorgeous he is.
***
LUKE’S BREATHING STEADIED and his chest relaxed as he watched Dee’s ruby lips move, barely taking a breath. Her looks had captivated him before she spoke, but now, his heartbeat pulsed a regular rhythm just listening to her sweet voice. “Since this is my first time in town, do you think you might give me the run down on the way to pick up Xena?”
“Xena?” Dee paused, as if she’d forgotten their previous conversation. “Oh, of course. Pick up Xena,” she said under a muffled laugh. “It would be my pleasure.”
They headed toward the main centre of the fair, settling into a relaxed chat as they went.
“Showing my dogs was rewarding and they’re both champions, but you can only take so much bitchiness and I don’t mean the other female dogs, if you get my drift. So, that’s why I started The Funny Bone. Mum and dad fix them up at their vet clinic and I make them smell and look beautiful. Way less stressful and much more profitable.”
Luke kicked a loose pebble as they crossed the road. “Must be nice to do something you love. Can’t say I’ve experienced that exhilarating feeling in a long time.” His chest tightened under the weight of years of trying to please the corporate world. As if he’d had lead weights strapped to his ankles.
“I don’t mean to pry, but I get a sense there is more to your visit than just catching up with Travis?” Dee said as she hiked the pup from one side to the other. “I’m a good listener if you need a friendly ear.”
Luke had no doubt she spoke words of truth. It’s not like he had many friends to talk to. All his boss was concerned with was where the next account was coming from and how many zeros were in his bank balance. Luke scrambled to keep his frustrations hidden from Dee. Tainting her with his guilt was not the best way to start a friendship.
“Luke, is everything okay?” she asked.
Luke pulled his gaze from the roadway and paused at the frown of concern destroying her perfect features. When he left Perth, his priorities changed. He promised himself he’d focus on the happier side of life. Before he had a chance to speak, they were descended upon from either side of the pavement.
“Oh my God, there you are, you naughty dog,” a lady called from his right, her voice thick with worry.
A man came up to the left of Dee and grabbed the dog’s two paws. “I should have named you Houdini instead of Rose, you little escape artist.”
Dee smiled as she handed Rose off to the man. “She’s one lucky pup. Nick...Beth this is Luke Ashwood, Travis Scott’s cousin.”
“Hi,” Nick said, dipping his head.
Beth gathered Rose in her arms and nestled into Nick’s embrace. “Oh, Nick, I don’t know what I’d do if I lost one of them, especially this little girl. The training’s been going so well we thought she’d stay put this time. I guess she worked her way up the side streets to the top of town. She’s always getting into some sort of mischief.”
The anguish in her voice tugged at him. Why? He didn’t know. More to the point, why should he care? But his eyes kept straying back to her. Nick eased his arms around Beth and brushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear. A pang of longing hit Luke square in the chest. He’d missed so much of his life selling his soul to his job these past twelve years.
“Don’t worry sweetie, I’ll think of something.” Nick turned to Dee. “How can we ever repay you?”
She shook her head and pointed toward Luke, gifting him a smile that would rival the morning sunrise. “Don’t thank me, thank Luke here. Apparently, she was trying to play catch me if you can with his car up toward the top end of town. He brought her in.”
Nick thrust his hand out again. “We owe you one. Our little family wouldn’t be complete if we lost this little lady.”
Beth giggled and ruffled the top of Rose’s head. “You can say that again. You must let us thank you properly. Why don’t you stop by our market stall down by the end of the oval and we’d love you to select one of our creations as a thank you.”
Luke tensed. The stream of praise sent chills up his spine. “That’s not necessary. I’m just glad that she’s all right.” His gaze fell on the chestnut beauty beside him. She had a strained expression on her face and was looking straight past Nick and Beth, but at what, he had no idea.
Nick and Beth moved to leave. Beth secure in Nick’s arm and Rose snuggled deep into Beth’s embrace. “Well, thanks again and if we can ever repay the favour, just give us a holler.”
Luke nodded as they walked away. He looked back at Dee but she continued to stare across the street, her golden-brown eyes glowing deeper by the second.
“Everything okay?”
She turned, grinned and clapped her hands together at her chest. “Better than okay. Perfect, in fact. Do you mind if we take a little detour?”
Luke shrugged. “Sure. Lead the way.”
***
I KNEW IT, I SO KNEW it.
Dee was squealing for joy on the inside like a hyperactive bunny rabbit. She walked a brisk pace toward her good friend, Kit, Luke falling in step beside her. That was no friendly hug between Jake and her best friend.
They can hide it all they like, but nothing gets by me.
Thank goodness Kit had been available today to cover Meg’s stall when she fell ill a few days ago. Meg would have been so disappointed if she couldn’t do her part to support the fundraiser.
Dee stopped in front of Kit’s stall and folded her arms across her chest and waited, Luke pausing beside her.
Kit emerged from the side of the gazebo. “Dee, where did you come from? How long have you been standing there?” she said, her cheeks flushed crimson.
“Long enough.” She picked up one of Meg’s designer dog collars and feigned interest. “So good to see Jake made it into town for the fundraiser, don’t you think?”
“I suppose so. I know he wanted to offer his support in some way.” Kit said, busying herself refolding dog blankets. She paused and her questioning gaze turned to the stranger standing beside Dee. “Can I help you with something?”
The corner of Luke’s lips curled into a smile and Dee just about melted on the spot, and not from the scorching Australian sun. A moment of silence passed between the three of them before Dee’s mind rebooted. “Oh my God, I’m so sorry. How rude of me. Kit this is Luke, Travis Scott’s cousin. Luke, this is my long-time school friend, Kit. She’s helping Meg out today manning the stall.”
Kit smiled and shook Luke’s outstretched hand. “Welcome to Stonecrest Bay. What a day to rock into town.”
“Thank you. Glad to be here.”
Dee watched with interest as Luke and Kit discussed the designer dog supplies with ease. Kit’s expression animated like a child unwrapping a new bike on Christmas morning. Luke’s interest was genuine, and Dee’s heart opened a little more toward this new man in town. She might not be looking for love, but what if it found her? She shook the hopeful thought from her mind.
The happy banter between them almost made her forget her reason for stopping by. Dee turned to Luke and smiled. “The Russo’s make great homemade lemonade. Would you mind popping over to their stall by the chocolate wheel and grabbing us a couple of glasses? They make it fresh and it’s the best for miles around. Just what we need on a day like today.” She pulled out a ten dollar note and held it toward him.
He shook his head and shoved his hands in his pockets. “My shout. Call it a thank you for showing me around.”
Dee swallowed the lump in her throat. She stood, frozen, unable to take her eyes off the sexy sway of his toned backside as he walked away. Oh, and how she loved the view.
“Earth to Dee,” Kit said with a cheeky grin.
Dee cleared her throat. She raised an eyebrow. “So, Kit, getting back to Jake... I was just wondering if there was anything you wanted to share with me? Hmmm.”
An expression flashed across Kit’s face. She looked at Dee as if she’d been caught red-handed with her hand in the cookie jar. Then Kit threw her arms up in the air and burst into a hearty laugh. The sparkle in her eyes confirmed Dee’s suspicions.
“I give up. I suppose this is where I confess that Jake and I are officially an item.”
“I’m so pleased.” Dee’s heart exploded with love for her best friend.
“But how did you know?” Kit asked. “We’ve been trying to keep it on the low, you know...take it slow and see how things go and all.”
“I saw that hug Jake gave you before he left. That was no ordinary hug. A little more than a friend, I’d say. I think it’s the best news ever and I promise my lips are sealed until you say so.” Dee made a zipper action along her lips, locked them and then threw the imaginary key over her right shoulder.
Squealing with joy once more, Dee threw her arms around her friend.
“Today is just full of wonderful surprises. I’m so happy for you.”
“Speaking of surprises,” Kit said, easing herself from Dee’s embrace. “Who is this Luke guy? I didn’t miss that sparkle in your eye while you were checking out his tight derriere. I may be with Jake now, but I’m not blind.”
Dee’s jaw dropped.
Oh my God, was I that obvious?
She brushed Kit’s comment aside with a swish of her hand. “Pfft, like I said, he’s Travis’ cousin. He’s called in to see him only Travis is out of town until mid-next week.”
“Pity.” Kit served a customer before returning to their conversation. “I’m sure you can keep him occupied for a few weeks.” Kit giggled and winked at Dee. “It was as if you were undressing him with your eyes.”
“Kit!” Heat blazed up her cheeks inch by inch. “I did no such thing. I can’t believe you just said that.”
Oh my God. Did I?
“Said what?” Luke asked as he stopped beside Dee and handed her a tall glass of chilled lemonade.
“Um...” Dee paused, her mouth went dry and her cheeks warmed. If only the ground would open up and swallow her whole.
“I was saying to Dee that you should stick around town for a few weeks. At least until Travis gets back,” Kit said. Dee knew she was planting the seed in Luke’s mind. “I don’t suppose you’re good with your hands?”
Luke’s eyebrow raised. “Excuse me?”
Kit, please stop talking. You are so going to pay for this.
Kit continued. “I was thinking, if you hang around for the week you could help Dee with some improvements she wants to make at The Funny Bone. Since the break-in she’s wanted to make alterations but just can’t seem to find the time or the help.”
Luke’s forehead creased. “The break in?”
“Long story and it’s not necessary,” Dee said, ending this torturous hell. “I’m sure Luke has other places to be and besides it will be tedious mundane work. It would be boring.”
“Nope,” he said and shrugged. “Nowhere else to be. Tedious and mundane work is right up my alley. In all honesty, I’m kind of winging it. I really would like to see Travis. I’ve a lot of lost time to make up for. I could think of nothing better than to spend a week or two in Stonecrest Bay.”
Lost time? What is your story Luke Ashwood?
“Of course, that’s if Dee doesn’t mind an old hack like me lending a hand. I used to be rather handy with the tools in my younger days.”
Old hack... Hardly. A shiver danced up her spine at the thought of spending more time with this gorgeous newcomer. “I wouldn’t want to impose.”
“No imposition at all,” Luke said as his ocean blue eyes drew her into his world.
“It’s settled then,” Kit said, clapping her hands together at her chest. “I guess I’ll be seeing you around town, Luke.”
“That you will,” he said as he gazed at Dee. His smoldering smile weakened her knees.
Focus woman.
She cleared her throat. She will scold Kit later. “We better continue if I’m going to pick up Xena before Mrs. Hopman smuggles her back to the nursing home in her handbag. Chat later, Kit.”
Luke shook Kit’s hand. “Nice to meet you.”
“Likewise.” Dee shook her head in resignation as Kit gave Dee a knowing glance.
You’ll keep.
***
LUKE WATCHED INTENTLY as Dee introduced him to several more town folk as they made their way down to the fire engine display. She pointed out important features of Stonecrest Bay and the golden flecks in her eyes sparkled every time she mentioned her beloved town. He guessed it was like the connection Travis had to the ocean. He always said he felt free from the worries and constraints of life when he was on his board surrounded by the soothing reassuring sounds of the waves.
“So, what do you think?” Dee asked.
Luke blanked. He’d been so lost in his own thoughts he’d missed every word she’d spoken. He nodded. “Um, sure sounds good.”
Dee stopped and placed her hand on his forearm, her expression a picture of concern. “Are you sure everything is okay, Luke?”
His skin ignited under her touch. He longed to feel a connection to another woman, to feel alive again. The spark growing in his gut from her simple touch excited him. “I’m sorry. My mind was a hundred miles away. What was it you said again?”
“I guessed as much. You know, I’m not one to pry, but as I said before not only am I an award-winning dog groomer, I’m also a great listener if you ever need one.” Their eyes locked for a moment in connection and she dropped her hand. She blushed and his chest tightened against the desire flaring deep inside his heart.
In that moment Luke vowed not to let another day pass without living every moment to the fullest. “Thank you, I’ll keep it in mind. Now, what were you saying before?”
She resumed the trek toward the fire engine, and he followed determined to pay attention this time.
“I was just talking about Matilda’s Guest House which has recently opened. I thought you might book a room there while you wait for Travis to return from training. I’m sure you’d get a great opening special and I know Matilda will be grateful.”
Matilda’s Guest House? “Sounds like just the kind of place to unwind.”
“Here we are,” Dee said, stopping on the footpath a few meters from the crowd. Her eyes glowed with pure exhilaration as she scanned the hordes of people mingling around the stalls. “I can’t believe the size of the crowd this year. It’s fabulous.”
Luke’s heart did a double flip. He’d never met anyone with Dee’s passion for life before. With each minute rolling by he knew he’d be in Stonecrest Bay a lot longer than a few weeks and it had everything to do with this chestnut beauty beside him.
Live every moment to the fullest. Starting right now.
“Hi Dee.” A woman called waving as she approached, a beaming smile branded across her face.
“Sarah, hi,” Dee said, engulfing the woman in a tight embrace. “Can you believe this turn out? I think this is our biggest year yet.”
“I know, it’s wonderful. Rick and I are on raffle duty,” she said, waving a raffle book in her hand. “We’ve so many prizes donated this year. Seems most of the town has pitched in.”
Dee clasped her hands together. “How wonderful.”
The urge to help rocketed through Luke’s gut. “I’d like to buy some. Got to be in it to win it they say.”
Dee’s gaze found his and her electric smile sent goosebumps dancing up his spine. “Thank you. Sarah, this is Luke Ashwood, Travis Scott’s cousin.”
Sarah smiled and nodded. “Welcome to Stonecrest Bay. Looks like you arrived on the best day.”
“I couldn’t agree with you more,” Luke said, sneaking a sideways glance at Dee. “I’ll have thirty dollar’s worth of tickets please.”
Both women spoke in unison. “Thirty dollars.”
He nodded, handing over his money. “It’s the least I can do. Happy to buy more if you don’t sell them.” Sarah’s eyes glowed and Luke’s chest burned with pride.
Sarah counted out his tickets and handed them to him. “Thank you. It’s drawn at three so make sure you’re down by the fire engine by then. You’ve got to be present to win.”
“Will do,” Luke said, pocketing his tickets.
Sarah threw her arms around Dee once more. “Okay, I’m off to find Rick. Thanks to Luke, I need more tickets. Bye.”
“Bye,” Dee said, waving goodbye.
His thoughts drifted back to his own words.
Live every moment to the fullest.
Dee’s smile spoke a thousand words to his heart. “Another reason why you love living in Stonecrest Bay.”
“Yep, the people are the best. There’s Nic and Beth’s stall down there,” Dee said, pointing to the far end of the park. “Just to the right of Mark, the policeman. See?”
Luke leaned in toward Dee and squinted in the direction of her outstretched arm. His senses jolting from the scent of her perfume. How soft would her lips taste? Don’t go there.
“Charlie... Look out.” A bellowing screech hollered behind Luke and his heart jumped into his throat. As he turned a sharp thump booted him in the lower back pitching his body forward straight into Dee. She tensed and gasped as their bodies collided, her chest hard up against his torso. Fear bolstered him into action and he threaded his arms around Dee’s waist, hoisting her up clear of the potential danger. Luke’s chest tightened as they spun. Struggling to regain his footing, he managed to steady himself. Dee’s arms flew around his neck holding on for dear life.
Luke’s pulse raced. Finally, they stood locked together, his arms secured around her dainty waist. Even though the crisis was over, he didn’t want to let go. She felt so right in his embrace. “Are you okay?”
Her hand flew to her forehead. “I...um...I think so,” she said between heavy breaths. He didn’t imagine the cute crimson blush flooding her cheeks and neck. She cleared her throat and pushed away from him, straightening her clothes. “Thank you. If it wasn’t for you, I might have come out a lot worse.”
A longing filled Luke’s heart. A longing to hold her again. He had time, in fact he had the rest of his life. Live every moment to the fullest. “You’re welcome. Glad I was here to help.”
“Oh my God, Dee, I am so sorry. I warned Charlie not to run, but you know kids.”
“It’s okay, Seth,” Dee said, ruffling the young boy’s hair. “Ignoring your dad’s instructions again, are we? What’s the hurry, young man?”
Charlie’s face lit up like a kid who’d just gotten what he wanted for his birthday, bells and all. “Vicky and I were having a race. I bet her I could make it to the fire engine before she did.” His face fell. “But I didn’t mean to knock you over, honest. I was just trying to win the race.”
Luke’s heartstrings pulled as the boy’s eyes glazed over with tears. Today was not the day for sadness. He opened his mouth to reassure him no harm was done, but Dee beat him to it.
She crouched down to Charlie’s level and brushed a stray strand of hair off his forehead. “It was as much my fault as yours, Charlie. If we hadn’t stopped right in the middle of the footpath, you wouldn’t have run into us. How about we forget it happened? Deal?”
Charlie giggled and threw his arms around Dee’s neck. “Deal. Thanks, Dee. You’re the best. No wonder Puddles loves coming to visit you.” He turned and beamed a gigantic smile up at his dad. He interlocked his small hand in his and pulled. “Can we go now, Dad? If we hurry, we can still beat Vicky. I don’t even think they have arrived yet.”
Seth laughed. “I guess that’s my exit cue. Catch you later.”
Dee waved. The corner of Luke’s lips turned up and he paused a moment to soak up the small-town vibe. “I can see why you love living here. Everyone is so friendly, and I guess you know most people around here.”
“Most, but there’s always room for one more.”
Luke grinned, the ease in which she spoke danced within his heart.
“Shall we head on down and pick up Xena?”
***
“XENA.” HER WRIST BUZZED and she glanced down at her watch. “Oh my goodness, I’ll be lucky if she’s not jumping out of her skin from sugar overload with all the treats Mrs. Hopman feeds her.”
“Best we make tracks then,” Luke said, pushing off once more. “I’m sure she’ll be fine and who knows maybe she’s worn it off with the excitement of all the extra people here today.”
Dee’s pulse sped up as they picked up the pace. “I hope you’re right otherwise we’ll be going for one extra-long beach walk this evening.”
“A beach walk? Sounds wonderful.”
With each step they took side by side her body buzzed with adrenaline. “The sunsets over the water are the most amazing picture of pure beauty. They speak to my heart every time. Xena and Milo love chasing the waves as they crash along the shoreline. They can’t get enough of the beach.”
Dee stopped and glanced around the section cornered off for the nursing home patients. Her gaze seeking her girl.
Where are you, Xena girl?
Frowning, she took a few steps closer. She bit her bottom lip, twisting her hands in front of her. Unless her eyes were deceiving her there was no white fluff ball to be seen. Her pulse racing, she scanned the area desperate to find them, but to no avail.
“Dee, what’s wrong?” Luke asked.
“She’s not here,” she blurted. A shiver bolted up her spine. “And neither is Mary Hopman.”
“Do you mean they’re in a different section?” Luke asked.
Dee shook her head while her pulse skyrocketed at the sight of Mary’s empty chair. The exact chair where she’d left Xena earlier today. Sweat beaded her forehead and ran down her temples in thin droplets. “No, I mean she’s gone. They’re both gone. I can’t see them anywhere.”
Luke’s calming voice broke through the wall of alarm forming in her mind. “Okay, before you jump to the worst-case scenario, and judging by your expression, you’re already half-way there, how about we do some asking around? Maybe they’ve just gone for a walk to check out the other stalls.”
Yes, a walk. That must be where they are.
“Maybe you’re right.” Dee’s pulse doubled as she scooted towards the nurses gathered by the water fountain. “Hi Ange...Grace.”
Ange turned to Dee’s direction, her bright purple specs teetering on the edge of her nose. She pushed them up with a finger and smiled. “Dee, so good to see you. Hope you’re looking after your hydration in this heat?”
“Of course.” Dee’s gut knotted. “I was hoping you could point me in the direction of Mrs. Hopman.”
Grace spun and her gaze sought the empty chair. She frowned. “Oh dear.”
Ange’s back stiffened. “That can’t be right. I only left to refill my water bottle. I can’t have been gone more than five or so minutes.”
Five minutes.
A child can drown in less than a minute, imagine what an elderly mobile woman can do unsupervised for five minutes? Dee’s heart thumped inside her ribcage.
Panic bled through her bones as she watched Grace do a head count of the remaining patients. Grace looked from Dee to Ange and back again. “All accounted for except Mrs. Hopman.”
“And Xena,” Luke chimed in.
“Yes. And Xena. This is most unlike Mary. I know she has been down the last couple of days, but she has never wondered off before.” Ange pulled out her phone and punched in a selection of numbers. “I’m sure she can’t have gone far. I’ll give the nursing home a call to see if she wondered back there before we go into panic mode.”
Dee’s stomach was about to erupt. The lemonade churning like a high-speed washing machine inside her belly. Her gaze found Luke standing inches from her side. His eyes radiated calmness and a for a second she stood in silence soaking up the tranquil stillness between them. Ange’s voice crashed her moment of serenity and reality hit.
“I’m afraid they haven’t returned to the nursing home, but I’ve filled them in so they’re aware of the situation,” Ange said as she pocketed her phone. “They’re sending over some additional nurses to assist. Until then Grace and I can’t leave the other patients. We’ll tackle things from this side and ask the patients and their visitors, but rather than wait why don’t you head over and see Mark. He will get a head start and organise a search party especially with all the extra hands on deck today. Fill Mark in on the situation and we’ll join you as soon as we can?”
Dee nodded. She was so on edge she thought she’d jump out of her skin. She was sick with worry and not just for Xena. Poor Mary was alone somewhere in the scorching sun. Who knows what’s happened to her? “Mark...right.”
Policeman know how to conduct searches, right? After all, that’s their job.
“Come on Luke.” Dee darted through the growing crowd and made a beeline for the policeman sheltered in the shade of the fire engine. Luke clung to her side every step of the way. Her words rushed out all shaky. “Mark...Mark, I need your help.”
Mark’s back stiffened as his gaze focussed on her. “Dee, what’s wrong?”
“Mary Hopman and Xena have disappeared,” she blurted unable to keep the fear from lacing her words. “Grace went to fill her water bottle and it appears they’ve gone walkabout while her back was turned. I’m worried Mark, and not just for Xena. Mrs. Hopman’s out alone in this heat. At her age anything could have happened.”
He pulled out his notepad and in the calmest tone, he asked, “Okay, take your time and run me through exactly what happened.”
Dee liked the new Mark. Since he and Emma became an item, his manner has improved. No more stick-up-the-butt Mark. Dee ran him through the events leading up to that very moment and watched his fingers move double time taking down notes. “We haven’t any time to waste.”
“I’m happy to help with the search,” Luke said, thrusting his hand toward Mark who shook it in haste. “Luke Ashwood. I’ve just arrived in town. Count me in.”
With her so focussed on Xena and Mary, Dee almost forgot Luke was standing beside her. “Thank you, Luke.” Her gut churned but she forced a smile then turned back to Mark. “I know you have protocol to follow, but I can’t stand around here and wait. If Luke and I head toward the south end of the beach and then work our way up the beach to the north that leaves plenty of other areas for you to cover.”
Mark shook his head. “I don’t need you two getting lost as well.”
“We’ll hardly get lost. I know the beach like the back of my hand. I grew up here, remember?” Dee said, his sudden irritating attitude annoyed the hell out of her. “I have your number in my phone and if we find them, I’ll call you straight away and I’d expect the same from you.”
Mark sighed. “Okay, but check in with me every fifteen minutes, that way we’ll stay on top of it. I’ll round up some volunteers to cover the other parts of the bay.”
Dee nodded, a glimmer of hope planting itself in her chest. “Of course,” she said as she grabbed Luke’s arm and headed for the beach track.
***
“DEE, WE’LL FIND THEM,” Luke said, puffing as he almost ran to keep step with her. His throat burned as he sucked in lungsful of hot salty sea air and his legs began to ache in places he hadn’t felt in eons. Judging by his unfit stamina, Luke expected they’d made it from the seaside oval through the sand dunes and onto the beach in record time.
Dee kept up her rapid pace, her gaze searching left and right as they headed up the beach to the north. “What if something terrible has happened? After all, she is an elderly woman. She could have tripped and hit her head or worse.”
Overactive imaginations would get them nowhere. Luke caught Dee’s outstretched hand in his. “Dee, please stop.” She paused and her ruby lips opened slightly, but she didn’t pull her hand from his. The distressed gaze in her eyes gripped his chest like a vice. “I know only too well what it’s like to lose a loved one. We will find them. I know we will,” he said in a more convincing tone.
“But—”
“But it will serve us no purpose if you have a melt down before we get the chance. Stonecrest Bay isn’t a big town, they can’t have gone that far. Mark looks like he knows how to do his job so I’m sure half the town are looking for them by now.” Her golden-brown eyes softened ever so slightly. The warmth in his chest grew and he knew in that moment he couldn’t stand to see the chestnut beauty in distress a moment longer.
“Thank you,” she whispered.
His brow creased. “For what?”
“For helping...for just being here...with me.” She squeezed his hand and a shiver ran up his arm.
“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” Nervous energy bolted through him as he lifted Dee’s hand to his lips and kissed the back of her palm. “Now, let’s find these walkabouts.”
She smiled and gripped his hand tighter as they returned to their search settling into a comfortable silence. He scanned up and down the beach and sand dunes careful not to miss any part. They hadn’t gone more than twenty metres when she stopped, almost yanking his arm out of the socket. “Did you hear that?”
“Hear what?” Luke asked. A sliver of hope ignited her eyes until they glowed against the sparkling ocean.
Dee’s eyes widened. “There it is again. A dog’s bark. It’s Xena. I’d know her bark anywhere. Which means we’re close.” Dee raced ahead toward the clump of large rocks submerged along the edge of the water.
“Dee wait,” Luke called, clenching his jaw. He caught up with her just as they rounded the corner of the semi-submerged rocks. He stopped dead in his tracks at the sight before him.
***
PLEASE BE OKAY, PLEASE be okay.
Dee bolted for the rocks. Xena’s bark was one of playfulness, not fear. She sensed Luke behind her, and a wash of support descended over her as she rounded the rocks. She stopped at the edge of the water, her jaw just about hitting the sand at the sight before her. Pure elation filled her from her big toe to the top of her head and a silent tear slid down her cheek.
“Mrs. Hopman?” she whispered around the knot in her throat. Relief bled from her core out and a bubble of laughter erupted from deep in her chest. And Xena. Both dancing along the water’s edge as if not a care in the world. It was like watching the enchanting free-flowing movements of Isadora Duncan as she danced as one with the nature.
Luke’s hand threaded around her waist and pulled her close. The warmth from his arm burned through her shirt. That combined with the relief of finding them both safe made her giddy. “They’re safe.”
A chuckle echoed in her ear. “And by the looks of it oblivious to the trouble they have caused.”
“Trouble?” Dee’s stomach sank. “Oh my God, Mark. I have to ring and tell him we found them.” She fumbled for her phone, her fingers still shaking with relief.
Luke’s smooth touch stirred her insides as he eased his hand over hers. “Why don’t you let me call Mark and you pop down and see Mrs. Hopman? I’m sure she’d love to see a friendly face.”
Dee gazed into his sexy blue eyes and her heart exploded. In was time to stop chasing love, it had found her. Dee threw her arms around his neck and held on tight. She soaked up his masculine scent allowing it to seep into every pore of her being. “Thank you for everything.”
“You’re welcome.” Luke pulled back and eased her phone from her hand. “Now off you go and see to your girl.”
Is Luke too good to be true?
A sliver niggled at the base of her neck. She’d given her heart away before only to have it trampled on. What’s stopping Luke from doing the same? Dee bit her bottom lip and glanced over her shoulder as she approached the water’s edge. He was still there...chatting away to Mark. A gentle voice rocked her from her thoughts.
“I’d know that look anywhere,” Mary said, wringing the water from her dress as Xena jumped around her ankles, cool water droplets splashing up her legs. “You’re wondering if you can trust him with your heart?”
Dee’s jaw dropped in bewilderment.
How the hell did she know that?
Mary continued. “If I’ve learnt anything in my life, it’s that life’s too short to let chances pass you by.”
Dee shook her head and refocussed. “Mrs. Hopman do you have any idea how worried we’ve all been? I came to pick up Xena and you both vanished without a trace.”
“Pfft, hosh-posh,” Mary said, rolling her eyes to the heavens. “Jean knew exactly where I was.”
Dee’s brow creased. “Jean?”
“Yes. Jean...Sarah’s mother. You know she has that gorgeous little dog, Daisy.”
“I know who Jean is, but why would you tell her and not Ange or Grace that you wanted to go to the beach? I’ve been worried sick about you and Xena,” Dee said, running her hand across her brow.
Mary’s face fell and the sudden despair clouding her eyes guttered Dee. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realise it would cause such panic. Jean was there and I knew the answer would be no if I asked Ange or Grace. I only wanted to feel the salty ocean spray on my face, the smooth golden sand between my toes again and dance around in the water before it was too late.”
Xena paddled at the base of Dee’s feet, her movements clearly laden with exhaustion. She bent and scooped her up into her arms. “Too late?”
Mary nodded. “Yes, too late. The doctors tell me I have Multiple Sclerosis. So you see, it won’t be long before I won’t be able to experience the basic pleasures of life like walking on the beach and playing in the water with this beautiful girl.” Mary ruffled the fur on top of Xena’s head as she burrowed deeper into Dee’s neck.
“Oh Mary, I had no idea.” Tears clouded Dee’s vision.
Mary thrust her hands on her hips. “Now don’t you go shedding tears for me. Enough of this sad talk. I’ve had a good life, no, a great life here in Stonecrest Bay with a man who stole my heart in grade school. No regrets. And while my beloved is watching over me from above, I’ve still got some time left on this earth, I’m not dead yet. But I promise next time I want to visit the beach I’ll make sure I take a nurse with me. Okay?”
Dee smiled and wiped moisture from her eyes. “Sounds good to me.”
A cheeky grin spread across Mary’s rosy expression. “Now, did my eyes deceive me or did I see a spark between you and that fine-looking gentleman waiting patiently for you up by the rocks?”
“Luke?” Dee’s pulse sped up as she followed Mary’s gaze. Sure enough, Luke stood waiting, projecting a picture of handsome ruggedness good enough to eat. She already knew she was falling. Hard. Her heart was telling her to jump in feet first, but her cautious over-active mind had thrown up another road block. “I...um...yes...no...maybe.”
Mary’s hearty laugh eased the growing knot in Dee’s stomach. “It’s either yes or no, Dee love. For what it’s worth, just the mention of him had you glowing brighter than all the stars in the Milky Way joined together. That tells me there’s more there than just friendship. What have you got to lose?”
“My heart,” Dee blurted.
“Ah, but what if it is true love? What if he’s your soul mate and you don’t take the chance? I had fifty years with the love of my life because I took a chance. He’s here in Stonecrest Bay because of you...for you. I’m sure of it as sure as I’m standing here today. Are you going to give in to fear when your happiness is staring you right in the face?”
No!
Her body buzzed with adrenaline remembering the first moment she set eyes on Luke. She fell hard, mesmerised by his deep Mediterranean blue eyes. Every ounce of her body was alive with a new lease on life. She gave Xena a kiss and shoved her toward Mary.
“Do you mind looking after Xena a little while longer? I have a man to catch before he gets away.”
“Certainly,” Mary said as she snuggled Xena into her bosom.
Dee’s heart pulverized the inside of her ribcage as she marched toward Luke. Mary’s words hummed in her head.
‘What if it is true love? What if he’s your soul mate and you don’t take the chance?’
She watched a myriad of emotions pass his expression as she got closer, each one an image of acceptance and understanding. She ached to be in his arms again, if he’d have her. Not taking a chance on true love would be nothing compared to the emptiness she’d feel in her heart if she let him walk away.
“Is everything okay?” he asked, encasing her trembling hand in his.
“More than okay.” Dee swallowed hard, her heart jumping into her throat. “Luke, I’m not usually this forward and I’m hoping I’m not stepping out of line, but I wanted you to know that being with you today has made me feel alive. And I know we’ve only just met and this must sound crazy, but would you consider staying—”
Dee gasped as Luke silenced her with a delicate touch of his finger to her lips. He brushed a stray wisp of hair behind her ear, his hand coming to rest on her exposed neck. Her heart raced its own sprint inside her chest. He gazed down at her and she was lost again in the dreamy depths of his captivating eyes.
“I’d more than consider it. In fact, I’d already made up my mind to stay in Stonecrest Bay. Not just to make things right with Travis, but for you. You speak to my heart, my soul. You stir feelings deep inside me. Feelings I haven’t experienced in a long time, but want very much to explore...with you.”
“Really?”
“Yes, really.” She blinked, but held his gaze, warmth invading her veins as he stared intently at her. His head lowered and she could feel every puff of air escaping with his breath. His lips found hers in the most toe-curling kiss she’d ever experienced. She gasped and melted into his body, sliding her arms around his neck. His heartbeat pounded against her chest and she held tight while he explored every inch of her lips. She savoured the taste of him, her head giddy from lack of oxygen.
He finally broke, resting his forehead against hers. “So, do you think you might hook me up with some accommodation? I hear there’s a new guest house that’s just opened in town.”
Dee’s heart exploded with warmth. Smiling, she pushed up on her tippy toes and kissed his soft lips once more. “I think we can do better than that.”
The next fifty years is definitely looking brighter.