Page 74 of Stockman's Sandstorm

Harper understood it was for their safety, too, because this hidden wonderland was in a massive rock arena that had the potential to suffer with a flash flood either cutting off the cattle for good or …

Even with the dangers it was beautiful out here. Charlie called it utopia, and even Bree and the brothers seemed at home in this place, wallowing in the creek to wash off their sweat and dirt at the end of the day.

Then as the sun sank low, they gathered beneath the silent shadow of the Dinner Camp Tree, where Bree created an open-air feast of flavours around the campfire. From seared steaks, and crusty damper doused in a decadent dance of herbs, perfect for soaking up the rich sauces, to vibrant vegetables full of flavour, all cooked over an open flame. It was like she’d found the true taste of the Northern Territory outback within each glorious meal.

The campfire cast a red and golden glow where tiny sparks popped and crackled from the flames to float and disappear among the starry heavens. It became their place to talk, without anyone staring at a phone screen, where Charlie shared stories of his time at Elsie Creek Station.

After dinner, Harper finally got her hot shower, courtesy of Ash, where he’d hooked up a waterbag, hot from the sun. He’d even strung up a tarp for privacy. It was heavenly.

Harper returned to the campfire to find Mason asleep in Ash’s lap. In that position, you could clearly see the similarities between father and son. ‘Where did everyone go?’

‘They’re knackered, and we’ve got another big one tomorrow.’ Ash stood, holding the boy. ‘How was the shower?’

‘Brilliant. Best shower ever.’

‘You’re just saying that.’

‘I’ve never showered under the stars before. It was incredible. Is that why you guys use the outdoor shower all the time?’

‘We’re trained to not trek dirt through the house. If you liked that shower you should try sitting under waterfalls under a full moon. Or the hot springs in winter. Charlie said there are some hot springs on the other side. I’d like to check them out one day.’ Ash carried the boy to the tent, where Harper unzipped the screen door.

With hands clasped behind her back, she shyly dragged the toe of her shoe across the dirt. ‘Are you staying tonight?’

‘Do you want me to?’

She barely nodded, then climbed inside to take her spot on the far side of the tent, with Mason in the middle playing the part of their sleeping chaperone.

A few minutes later, Ash was lying on his swag, leaving only the crackle of their campfire.

‘I don’t hear any snoring,’ she whispered, her head on the pillow.

‘Give it time.’ He sighed heavily.

‘Are you okay?’

‘Yeah. Thanks for helping me today.’

‘Me? I did nothing. I just helped with Mason, playing the nanny.’

‘For giving me that nudge to tell my brothers about using the drone. They’re keen to see how we can use it in the future.’

‘That’s great.’ She could hear the pride in his voice, and she’d seen it in his stance that grew stronger as the day progressed. He was growing up right before her eyes. And it was hot.

‘You know …’

‘Yes.’ She was wary of his tone.

‘I’ve never slept with a woman like this.’

‘Didn’t you ever do co-ed sleepovers?’

‘No. Did you?’

‘No. I never had slumber parties. Not like this.’

‘Can you sleep?’

She was wide awake and fully aware of his aroma, the rise and fall of his chest, and how he was lying on his back. ‘No.’

---