Page 10 of Headed for Home

A moan almost slips free at the thought of dipping under the cool surface for a reprieve. But that’s a slippery slope, especially when referring to Drake’s abs while wet. “Want to learn how to ride a horse? I can saddle up one of the green broke colts for you. Doesn’t matter which one. They all need to get their bucks out. Western okay?”

“Maybe someday. We don’t need to rush into anything.”

My grin spreads at the uncertainty in his voice. “Slow and steady it is then.”

Drake whips off his sunglasses to compel me with an unwavering stare. “Still can’t believe you were under my nose this entire time.”

“Just a few years,” I argue. “And not that close. I’m at least ten miles from Main Street. To be honest, I drive into Moose River more than Knox Creek.”

He stumbles backward, clutching his chest. “You’re cheating on me already?”

I roll my eyes, but a giggle squeaks out to betray me. “That’s where the feed store is. If Knox Creek gets a Spikes or Tractor Supply, be sure to tell me right away.”

“Yeah, I’ll keep you faithful.” His assessing gaze shifts to study the place I call home. “Speaking of dependable, the house looks the same.”

I follow his stare to the log cabin design that’s stood the test of time. The rustic style has always made me feel like I belong. And now that my mind is wandering, I absently wonder what Drake thinks of Greener Pastures.

One hundred acres sprawl in slopes and valleys around us. There’s a stream that cuts across the back forty where we swim with the horses. The grassy pastures are a sight to cherish. It’s been almost two decades since his last visit. To my knowledge at least. He was only here once or twice along with our other friends during summer break. I’m curious if he notices the differences, much like those between us.

“The barn is bigger,” he notes randomly as if answering my unspoken musings.

I swing my attention to the large building that stretches into an L-shape. “A storm wrecked the original. Mimi was able to build the stable of her dreams with the insurance money.”

“Do you love it?” His voice is soft.

“Of course. Horses are my passion. That’s why she left Greener Pastures to me. My parents and brother couldn’t care less. To have my own barn is a dream.” I gulp around the grief forming in my throat. “But I’d love it more if she was still here with us.”

“She’s always with you,” he says gently.

I nod but the motion is jerky. “Yeah, I know. It’s just… hard.”

There’s a sheen misting his blue eyes. “Let me know if there’s anything I can do to make it easier for you. I’ll share the load, beauty. You don’t have to struggle alone.”

“Thanks, but I have help.” My sniffle ends on a snort. “And trust me, you don’t want my baggage.”

“I think that’s for me to decide.” This man. He doesn’t have a clue what he’s offering.

“Well, you know where to find me.”

A rumble rolls from his broad chest. “Are you going to give me a tour?”

As if volunteering, the dogs return to his side. Yips and whines reveal their excitement. Their tails whip against the ground as they scoot forward, eager to be useful.

“You shouldn’t disappoint them,” I say.

“Hello again,” he coos and crouches to their level. “What’re their names?”

“Chester and Cheeto.”

Laughter shakes his entire upper body. “How clever.”

“Just wait until you meet Billy and Gruff.”

Drake rises to his feet. “Who are they?”

“Our goats.”

His straight teeth sparkle, framed by a wide smile. “Are you responsible for naming them?”

---