Page 12 of Between Two Shores

“I doubt all ten thousand.”

“Beth!” he whisper-shouted.

Before he could stop her, she swiped the large cotton tip inside the Quokka’s mouth while it nibbled on its food. Treats probably from Beth. She slipped the swab back into its plastic tube. “Done.” She slipped off the disposable gloves, packed her things, and stood.

He joined her, releasing his breath. “Bethany Michaels.” He shook his head. He could scold her, but no point in trying to tame the Australian female specimen. They were in a class of their own. Feisty when they wanted to be.

Beth looked up at him with sadness in her expression. “I’ve got no more leads. I don’t have enough details for a solid story. I want to help the Quokkas, I really do. I also need this break to make something of myself in the industry.” She dropped her gaze to the ground and scuffed her shoe into the dirt. “I don’t have the time to keep coming back here. Today is my only chance. Someone else will probably work it out. Get the news-breaking story.”

He lifted her chin and looked into eyes that glazed with unshed tears. He cupped her cheek, her skin soft and supple. How long had it been since he’d held a woman? He blinked the distraction away and dropped his hand to his side.

“I’m concerned about your safety. If the developers are corrupt, it’s better to report your suspicions, and let a team of investigators take over from here. You can ask for exclusive rights to the story, once it’s safe to expose them.”

She gazed at him like a sad sea lion. His heart ached for her.

“The way you want to help these animals and serve your community and family shows your heart of gold. I have been to many places these last three years, and you, Bethany, are a rare treasure. Don’t sell yourself short.”

He didn’t know why, but the words kept spilling from his mouth. “You’re unique. Precious.”

He angled his neck and rested his forehead against hers, drilling the message home. “Do you know this?”

Her breath caressed his lips, and her gaze changed. Did she want him to kiss her? He inched his face slightly back. He would like to, but not when she was upset. Not a time to take advantage of her emotions. Plus, he wasn’t sticking around. The cave was a weak moment. He had his wits about him now, and he wouldn’t just kiss a woman and lead her on. A kiss should lead to a trusting relationship. One that could last. His career didn’t allow for that.

Beth whispered, “Have you been eating chocolate?”

“I have. Do you want me to share it with you?”

She nodded slowly, and her eyes drifted closed.

He pulled out a Snickers bar from his back pocket and stood back. “Have half.”

Her eyes flashed open, and pink flushed her cheeks. “Thanks.” But she didn’t take it, instead dived into his arms for a bear hug. “Thank you for your kind words, Lachlan. I needed that.” Her words muffled against his chest. “You’re a true friend.”

“Guys! What’s going on here?” Wally’s words echoed over the sandy pavement.

Beth jumped, and her head knocked into Lachlan.

He rubbed his chin. “Ouch. You’ve got a hard skull, missy.”

She turned and pointed at Wally, “You again.”

Wally held up his palms in surrender, grinning. “Hey, I’m not the guilty one this time.”

“Lachlan is built with strong arms, perfect for comforting a lady in distress. I feel safe with him. He can be trusted, unlike some sailors I know.”

“Whatever.” Wally scoffed. “Sorry to interrupt, but the ferry is boarding. We need to go.”

Chapter Five

BETHANY

Bethany stood next to Lachlan and his four Navy buddies behind a trestle table filled with breakfast foods. Her father had convinced them to serve the homeless for an enlightening experience. Thing was, two volunteers hadn’t showed. Dad had a way of roping people into free labor. Dad stood tall behind the end server, glancing above his spectacles to the sleepy crowd of homeless people.

Beth peered from the corner of her eye at Lachlan’s strong forearms. His erect spine might be from habit, or perhaps the wary expressions Dad sent their way made him tense. Lachlan’s thigh kept brushing against hers which broke Dad’s six-inch rule. Lachlan just had bulky legs, likely from all the Navy exercise regimes he took part in. Dad would always be overprotective.

When mum had passed, she’d obliged her dad by returning to live with him in the family home. Beth had moved out two years ago and could finally breathe again. Although, living with Melissa and her toddler wasn’t precisely freedom. Occasional tantrums echoed from Melissa’s side of the house. Something Beth found all too familiar, having grown up in a large family.

What did Lachlan think of her father? Did he have a close relationship with his parents? He seemed like a caring person. She smiled to herself and let out a small sigh of admiration.

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