Page 15 of Force of Nature

Chapter Five

The house is quieterthan I ever remember it being growing up. I’ve tried reading, watching television, flipping through some of my mom’s old magazines, but nothing has held my attention.

Deciding to take a walk to check on some of the animals, I slide a sweater on before making my way outside. The sun set less than thirty minutes ago and it already feels like the temperature has dropped twenty degrees.

I take off toward the barn, wishing I had thought to bring a flashlight. The grounds aren’t completely dark but given that there’s only one dimly lit flood light above the barn door I wouldn’t say they’re well lit either. I pick up the pace, having never loved being outside after dark by myself.

I’m feet away from the barn when the door swings open. In my surprise, I jump back and scream at the same time.

“What the hell?” Thad steps back, clearly startled by me as well.

“You scared the crap out of me.” My heart thuds loudly in my chest. “I thought you went out with Chris and Ben?”

“I was going to but decided I’d rather hang back here. Thought I’d check on the horses before I called it a night.” His eyes trail over my face in a way that makes every nerve ending in my body stand at attention. “What about you? What are you doing out here?”

“I was bored.”

“And you thought wandering around at night would offer a little excitement?” he teases.

“Sure got my blood pumping.” I laugh, flattening my palm against my chest.

“Well, you have fun with that.” He turns but before he can take a step my voice halts his movement.

“Do you wanna come up to the house? Maybe have a drink with me?” I ask without really thinking it through.

“I appreciate the offer but I think I’ll pass.”

“You have something against hanging out with me?” I quip, trying to brush off the rejection with playful banter.

“More like I have something against drinking.” He shifts to face me again, his hands going deep into the front pockets of his worn jeans.

“Oh.” I hesitate, not sure how to respond. “Well we don’t have to drink. Are you hungry?” I ask, a little caught off guard.

“That depends, what’s on the table?”

“Um... I make a mean sugar cookie.” I laugh when his lip twitches. “Or I can make something a little heartier. Sandwiches are usually a fan favorite. I think we have turkey.”

“How about both?” He tilts his head slightly and my heart instantly kicks into overdrive.

“Only if you help.”

“Sandwiches sound perfect.”

“Yeah, thought so.” I laugh, shaking my head at him.

“I need to take a quick shower first.” He gestures to his dirt and sweat covered t-shirt. “I’m gonna go grab a quick change of clothes and I’ll meet you up there.” He gestures toward the house.

“Yeah, that sounds good,” I agree, suddenly feeling like I might bubble out of my own skin.

“Okay.” His smile widens.

“Okay.” Mine does too.

It’s Thad who finally breaks the weird teenage-like interaction happening between us. Nodding once, he turns and takes off toward the camper, leaving me feeling a whole hell of a lot of things I should not be feeling after such an innocent conversation.

—-

I’ve just set our sandwichesand chips on the table when Thad appears from the hallway, freshly showered, his brown hair combed back from his face.

---