Page 42 of Bridge to Safety

“Are you okay?” Shiloh glanced up at him as he held out her chair for her.

“Yeah. Sorry about being so jumpy.” He sat in a chair facing the door. “I…” He slumped, his gaze on hers. “What if I can’t keep you safe? I failed my wife. What makes me think I can save you?”

“This is different, Rowan.” She reached over and put a hand on his. “She died of cancer. This isn’t an unseen disease. This is a flesh-and-blood man. I have complete confidence in you.”

If only he had the same confidence. He’d never faltered before on the job, but his growing feelings for Shiloh left him fearful of failure. How had a simple case of keeping an eye on someone threatened by another become something so much more?

A server in black pants and a white blouse handed them menus, pulling him from his thoughts. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” She smiled and left them.

Shiloh laughed. “No ordering the special tonight.”

“No.” He smiled. “I’ll have to venture out and try something new.”

By the time their server returned, he’d decided on a steak while Shiloh ordered salmon. He handed their menus back and reached for his water glass as he let his gaze roam over those in the restaurant.

No one seemed to be paying them any undue attention. Shiloh seemed relaxed. It would be a good evening. “How would you feel about a walk this evening?”

She took a drink of her water. “Here in Langley?”

“No. Back home. We could stroll down Main Street or head to the lake. There won’t be many mild nights left before it’s too cold.”

“I’d prefer the lake, please. Fewer disapproving stares.”

He rested his hand of hers. “I wish I could take all that away from you.”

A shadow crossed over her features. “I’m used to it.”

“No one should be used to poor treatment.” He took her hand in his, entwining their fingers. “You’re a good woman, Shiloh. People will realize that in time. Especially after teaching their children for a year.”

“I hope so.”

The rest of supper was spent with humorous stories of the children in her class and the recent antics of Rachel who had not been happy to be left behind for her father’s date.. His daughter seemed to think she should go with them every time.

At the lake, Shiloh’s steps faltered as they headed down the walking path. “This is where I saw the rose petals.”

“Do you still believe they were left there as a romantic gesture for someone else?” He hadn’t heard of any recent engagements in town, but that wasn’t to say there hadn’t been one. He entwined their fingers, enjoying the feel of her smaller hand in his.

A slight breeze blew a few stray strands of hair around her face, and she shivered. The moon cast diamonds on the water’s surface. “I left my sweater in your car,” she said.

He glanced back, relieved he could see his vehicle. “Wait here.” Rowan jogged to the car and retrieved her sweater, returning as fast as possible. He definitely didn’t want to leave her alone in the dark any longer than necessary.

“Thank you.” She slipped her arms through the sleeves. “It’s a beautiful night.”

He gazed into eyes shining by moonlight. “Yes.” He cupped her face. “I’m going to kiss you now, Shiloh.”

Her lips parted slightly. He lowered his head and claimed her lips. A soft sigh brushed across his as she returned the kiss. Soft, sweet, and perfect for such a romantic evening.

A splash jerked them apart.

Rowan studied the bank for signs of movement.

“What is it?” Shiloh whispered, staying close to his side.

“An animal most likely.” But, said animal had yet to show itself. He wanted to go check, but he didn’t want to put Shiloh into possible danger or leave her behind.

“I’d like to go back now, please.”

“Okay.” He gripped her hand and headed quickly back to the car. The hair on the back of his neck stood at attention. His gut instinct told him they weren’t alone out there.

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