Page 3 of Between Two Shores

She angled toward him. Her pulse tripled in speed when his kind eyes connected with hers. “It’d be my pleasure to have you assist me, Counselor Peters—free of charge, mind you.” She offered a cheeky smile and a handshake.

“Lachlan will do.” He shook her hand in agreement. So warm and inviting. Tingles flew up her arm.

Bethany reclaimed her hand. Nice guy or not, he lived elsewhere. He didn’t belong in Australia, but she did. No point in getting all light and fuzzy from his charms. But she could enjoy his company and friendship for today—no harm in that.

Wally called to Lachlan, “I see the island.”

Bethany’s tummy turned again. How would she manage to join the crowded lines of people without feeling claustrophobic?

Lachlan rubbed her shoulder. “You look a little green. Are you going to be okay? Shall I find a sick bag?”

She must look like a weak female. But she’d rectify that impression once on land. Bethany Michaels was no damsel in distress—as the eldest of six siblings, a born leader, she showed initiative and managed her life as an independent, more than capable, woman.

“I’m fine.”

He raised a brow. “You sure about that?” Lachlan lowered his hand to the middle of her back, heat seeping through the cotton. “I can stay close, just in case you have a spell again.”

Bethany didn’t want to come under any spell, but with his closeness, she became weaker. The bumpy ride wasn’t the only thing making her feel dizzy.

“Thanks, Lachlan. I appreciate your concern.” She gazed into his eyes. He suited the role of counselor. His genuine kindness relaxed her shoulders, and the knots in her stomach dissipated. She could do this.

The ferry slowed as it approached the jetty. A steady hum from the motors underneath sent vibrations up her legs. But as the boat swung in a ninety-degree turn, she swayed into Lachlan. The engine growled as the boat paralleled to a stop, and her face plunged into his neck, intoxicating her with his woodsy scent.

He placed his arm firmly around her shoulder. “Steady breaths.” His voice became slow and comforting. “You’ll be okay.”

She put a hand to his chest and pushed herself upright. “Sorry.”

His muscles flexed under her palm, and she retracted her hand, heat scorching her earlobes.

“Don’t be sorry.” His gaze made her insides flutter. “Stay close and lean on me if you need to. I’ll help you to the rail. We’ll take our time.” He pointed. “And I’ll grab your backpack.”

Bethany turned, grateful that her camera bag had remained safe near the spot where Lachlan had first tried to help her. Little had he known, it would cost him to come to her rescue. He didn’t seem to regret it. Still here. Still holding her.

People rushed past them and lined up at the exit signs. The crew on deck looped thick ropes over the hook stumps in a criss-cross pattern. An announcement over the PA system thanked the passengers for choosing Rottnest Express and wished them a pleasant day on the island. A crew member in a red polo shirt slid a small metal bridge across the gap, connecting to the jetty. He stepped back and waved the passengers through, offering a nod and “thank you” to each person.

Wally passed them. “See you on the other side.” He winked at Bethany.

Lachlan squeezed her shoulder. “Ready?”

How silly did she look? A grown woman incapacitated by a brief ferry ride. The boat had stilled mostly, and she didn’t need a man to help her. Bethany gently shook off his hold and stood.

A swirl rushed inside her head, and she blinked, regretting standing so quickly. But she’d show Lachlan what she was made of—one hundred percent pure Australian stubbornness. One step in front of the other, she sensed his body heat behind her, following like a shadow. She reached below the rail to collect her camera bag, but Lachlan brushed his arm down hers and grabbed the handle first. Now, her hand on top of his, she let go like she’d touched a dangerous flame. This guy seemed too much of a gentleman.

“I’ve got it.” His breath tickled the top of her hair.

“Thanks.” She dared not turn into that captivating gaze again. Bethany marched stiffly to the metal bridge, then stepped into the glorious West Australian sunshine. She might’ve kissed the ground if tourists didn’t swarm about the jetty. The wind whipped her ash-blonde ponytail into her face. She gulped in the fresh, pure air. Ah, better already. Calmness washed over her.

“Aren’t you glad that’s over?”

She turned around.

The tall and handsome counselor half-grinned and held out her bag. “Let’s go on that Quokka investigation, Private Michaels.”

Chapter Two

Lachlan

Lachlan squinted against the bright sun reflecting off the scattered clouds above as he held out Beth’s backpack. The color had returned to her face. She must feel better already.

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