Читать книгу Every Move She Makes - Jannine Gallant - Страница 11

“Make sure you put on a warm jacket.” Rachel zipped her coat. “Don’t forget a flashlight. It’s going to be dark when we come back.”

Jade sorted through her suitcase. “I can’t find one. Where did you put them?”

“They’re in the bag with the extra towels. Lark, are you ready to go?”

Lark nodded, an actual smile curving her lips as she tugged a knit hat over her hair. “Can I bring my guitar? Lauren has a flute, and she wants us to play something together.”

“Of course you can, honey. Where the heck is Daisy’s leash? I thought I left it on the table when I tied her up before dinner.”

“Here it is.” Ivy came out from under the table. “The leash must have fallen off when I set the water bottles down earlier.”

“You do tend to meet yourself coming and going in this place.” Rachel looked around their cramped quarters. “It seemed bigger when we first got here.”

“That’s because Jade hadn’t spread her stuff all over the place yet.” Lark edged toward the door.

“Your sister has a point.” Rachel eyed Jade’s scattered clothes. “You’re going to have to keep your stuff cleaned up. There isn’t room to swing a cat in here.”

“I will when we get back. Let’s go.”

Pleased that her daughters—all her daughters—seemed eager to get down to the campfire, Rachel shut the door, clipped Daisy’s leash to her collar then followed them down the trail toward the southern end of the lake where a huge bonfire burned brightly against the darkening sky. The last few rays of light glimmered on the mountain peaks as the sun sank below the horizon. Other campers were leaving their cabins. A little boy broke loose from his father and ran full tilt into Lark, knocking them both to the ground. Rachel hurried forward as Lark scrambled to her feet.

“I’m so sorry.” The father lifted his son off the ground. “Rex, you need to apologize to this girl. You could have hurt her.”

“I’m fine.” Lark brushed off her jeans. She retrieved her guitar case and looked up at the man. Her eyes widened. “Mr. Olmstead, is that you?”

“My goodness, Lark, I didn’t recognize you in the dark. Fancy meeting you up here. Hello, Mrs. Carpenter. Hi, girls.”

“Please call me Rachel. Now I know why you looked so familiar when I saw you down by the lake earlier. I wasn’t expecting to see a face from home.”

“Is this your little boy?” Lark glanced down at the pint-sized dynamo covered in dirt.

“Yes, this is Rex, and I’m Dennis. No ‘Mr. Olmstead’ while we’re here. It makes me feel like I’m back in school.”

“Are you vacationing with your family?” Rachel tugged Daisy away from the boy.

“Just with Rex. I’m divorced. Oops, there he goes again. I’d better catch him before he gets into more trouble.” He smiled, making his ordinary features more attractive. “Maybe we can talk again later.” He sprinted after his son.

Lark rolled her eyes. “I think Mr. Olmstead likes you, Mom. Believe me, he was never that animated when I had him for seventh grade math.”

“He’s probably lonely. He sounded sad when he said he was divorced, and he obviously has his hands full with Rex.”

“I bet he bored his wife into a stupor. He used to go on and on about the dumbest stuff.”

“That’s not very nice, Lark. Just because math isn’t your favorite subject doesn’t mean it’s dumb.”

“I know, I know—if you can’t say something nice...” She turned away. “Hey, there’s Kevin and Lauren. Can I go sit with them?”

“I guess so, but find us when you’re ready to leave. I don’t want you walking back to the cabin alone in the dark.”

“Fine. Whatever. I’ll see you later.”

Rachel sat down on a log with Jade and Ivy. A minute later Kane appeared.

“I think Ozzie’s handing out marshmallows. You’d better go get some before his supply runs out.”

“Can we?” Ivy bounced up and down.

“Sure.”

Both girls shot off to join the group of kids surrounding the elderly man.

“We have quite a crowd tonight.” Rachel scooted over to make room for Kane on the log.

He sat next to her and stretched his legs toward the fire. “The big group over there is some sort of family reunion. The parents are George and Rita Dawson from Nebraska.” He pointed to a dark-haired, older woman and a heavyset man. “They have two married daughters who came with their husbands and children and one unmarried son who brought along his girlfriend. The son lives somewhere in the Bay Area, and I don’t think Mrs. Dawson is a big fan of the woman with him.”

“Why not?”

“The rest of the family looks like an advertisement for middle America, but check out Tiffany the Temptress.”

Kane put his hand on her chin and turned her head toward the right. For a moment the touch of his warm fingers against her face made her forget why he’d placed them there. When she finally focused on the woman in question, she gaped.

“Do you think they’re real?” His whisper tickled her ear.

“They can’t possibly be. Oh, my.”

“Fake or not, I’m looking forward to seeing her in a bathing suit tomorrow.” He wiggled his eyebrows.

Rachel punched his arm lightly. “So is every guy here. Wow, I can see why his mom is upset. Having a Playboy centerfold as a prospective daughter-in-law would be tough.”

“It should make for a few interesting conversations this week. All the cabins are full now, so you may as well get to know your fellow campers if you’re feeling sociable.”

“Let’s see if I can remember them all. There’s Greg and Mimi Andrews and their kids, Dennis Olmstead and Rex the human torpedo, Chip and Bob who might or might not be a couple, the Dawson group and us.”

“I don’t think Chip and Bob are gay. Chip’s eyes popped out of their sockets when Tiffany walked by in a tank top earlier.”

“Not surprising. Did I remember everyone?”

“You did. Then there’s me and Jed and Ozzie and Jason. Hillary was away today, picking up supplies. She’ll be back in the morning. You’ll like her. She’s a tiny little thing but full of energy.”

Jade and Ivy raced back, carrying sticks and marshmallows. Jade dropped to her knees and poked her treat toward the flames. The marshmallow crackled and burned. Ivy sat back and toasted hers to a golden brown.

When she finished cooking her third treat, she offered it to Kane. “Would you like one? I’m full.”

“Thanks, but maybe your mom wants first dibs.”

Rachel waved her hand. “It’s all yours.”

Kane dropped the oozing glob of sugar into his mouth then licked his lips. “That was delicious. Thanks, Ivy.”

Her daughter giggled.

“I’m going to go get another marshmallow.” Jade stood. “My last one fell into the fire, and Daisy ate the first one. She seems to like them burnt.” She rubbed the dog’s ears.

“You can have another one, but Daisy can’t.” Rachel grimaced. “The last thing I want is a sick dog.”

Kane nodded. “Especially since you really should keep her inside the cabin at night. We have bears around here, and she’d probably bark her head off if one wandered through the camp.”

Ivy’s eyes grew wide. “There’re bears?”

“Don’t worry. They won’t try to get into the cabins if you don’t keep any food in there. We lock all the supplies in bear-proof bins.”

“Do you think I’ll get to see one while we’re here?”

“You might. They’re pretty common in this area. Keep your eyes open while you’re hiking.”

Jade returned in time to hear the end of the conversation and sat on the other side of Kane, holding her marshmallow above the flames. “Cool. Maybe we can go looking for bears in the morning. I want to take a picture of one. Can we, Mom?”

“We’ll see. I have zero interest in meeting a bear up close and personal. Anyway, there might be other activities you’d prefer.”

“Yeah, like what?”

“I think Hillary is planning an art walk.” Kane stroked Daisy’s head when she rested her chin on his knee. “She mentioned taking anyone who’s interested up to a meadow full of wildflowers to paint. Jed is planning some kind of game day with races for the kids.”

Ivy dropped her marshmallow stick. “I want to go on the art walk. Please, Mom.”

Jade snorted. “The races will be way more exciting. I want to do that.”

“As far as I’m concerned, you can each choose the activity you prefer. We might have a problem, though, if I need to supervise you both.”

“Nope. The staff will handle it.” Kane turned, his knee bumping hers. “You and I can go for a hike while they’re busy.”

Rachel’s gaze met his. “That sounds like fun.”

“Then it’s a date.”

“What about Lark?” Ivy pointed at her sister sitting on the other side of the fire. “She’s not going to want to paint or be in a race.”

“She never wants to do anything fun.” Jade wiped her hands on her jeans.

“Lark can hike with us if she wants, or she can hang out with Lauren and Kevin. Looks like they’re ready to start the music. Your sister is warming up on her guitar.”

Jed clapped his hands for attention. “We thought we’d have a sing-along this evening. Feel free to join in. I’ll play the fiddle, and tonight we have a special treat. These two beautiful young ladies have agreed to accompany me. Lark is playing her guitar, and Lauren the flute. Give them a round of applause, folks.”

Everyone clapped, and Jed raised his bow. He played folk songs and camp songs, one after the other, and most of the guests sang along. Kane had a pure, deep voice that was a pleasure to listen to. Rachel wasn’t a terrific singer, but she didn’t let that stop her.

“Your daughter’s very talented.” Kane touched her arm when the musicians took a break. “Has she been playing the guitar long?”

“For a couple of years now. Lark has a terrific singing voice, too. She used to sing in the church choir, but now she wants to play in a band.”

“You don’t sound very enthusiastic about it.”

“She’s still so young. I don’t want her to quit the other things she’s good at.”

Ivy giggled. “Lark’s great at getting into trouble.”

Rachel frowned at her youngest. “Let’s just say she doesn’t always follow the rules. She’s a free spirit.”

“Is that why she has pink hair?”

Jade poked her sister. “And a tattoo. Don’t forget the tattoo.”

Rachel grimaced. “Enough. I think they’re ready to begin again. Are you two comfortable down there?”

“The ground is kind of sandy, and we can lean against the log.” Ivy looked up. “You should try it, Mom.”

“I’m all right where I am.”

“You can lean against me.” Kane scooted closer and put his arm around her. “How’s that?”

“Nice.” Rachel rested against his shoulder, letting his strength surround her. It had been a long time since she’d leaned on anyone, and it felt good. She tried not to think about the fact that any relationship she forged with Kane would only be temporary. Her sister’s words echoed in her head. Kane has problems. Don’t let yourself get hurt.

She let out a sigh. His problems, not to mention her own, were a non-issue. In a week, she’d go back to her normal life, and he’d go back to his. The burst of happiness fizzled.

Jed and the girls played for another half hour before quitting for the evening. Reluctantly, Rachel left Kane’s side to make her way around the circle of campers. Darkness encroached as the campfire settled into glowing embers. When she stumbled on a loose rock, a hand reached out to steady her.

“Careful, you could twist an ankle.”

Rachel smiled at Bob. “I guess I should have used a flashlight.”

“Would you like to borrow mine?” Chip held out a red plastic light. “We only need one to get back to our cabin.” He rose to his feet. The light from the fire gave his cheeks a warm glow above his beard. “Or, I could walk with you.”

“Thanks, but I’ll be fine.”

“Have a good night then.”

Rachel slipped past part of the Dawson group and reached Lark. “You were terrific, honey. So were you, Lauren.”

“Thanks, Mrs. Carpenter. It was fun.”

Jed turned away from a conversation with George Dawson. “Too bad I can’t hire you both for the summer. This was our best campfire night yet. Maybe you’d like to play for us again before you leave?”

The girls nodded and smiled.

Jed gave Rachel a curious look. “I get the feeling you and Kane knew each other before tonight.”

“My sister is dating one of his friends on the force. We met just before he came up here.”

“Ah, you’re the one.”

She shifted and frowned. “The one, what?”

“The one he mentioned. Excuse me. It looks like the Dawsons could use some help with those chairs they brought down.”

Jed hurried off, leaving Rachel to wonder what he’d meant.

“Can I go for a hike with Lauren tomorrow?”

“Please, Mrs. Carpenter. My mom said it’s okay.”

Rachel smiled at the girls. “It was kind of you to include Lark. Of course she can go.”

“That’s great. I’ll tell my mom. See you in the morning.” The girl hurried toward her waiting parents.

Lark picked up her guitar case and followed Rachel back around the fire. “Where’re Jade and Ivy?”

“They’re over there with Kane. I told them to wait.”

“So, who’s this Kane guy?”

“He knows your Aunt Grace, and he seems like a nice man. He swam out to the big rock with Ivy while you were canoeing.”

“You looked awfully cozy with him earlier.” Lark’s voice held an edge. “Do you like him or something?”

“Sure I like him.” Rachel spoke with deliberate cheer.

“You know what I mean.”

She turned to face her daughter. “I just met the man. Don’t make a big deal out of nothing.”

“If it really is nothing.”

“Can we please drop it?”

“Hey, Lark, you actually sounded pretty good.” Jade strolled up with Ivy and Kane following.

“I would hope so with all the time I spend practicing.”

Kane handed Rachel her flashlight and the end of Daisy’s leash.

“Thanks.” A familiar tingle sizzled along her nerve endings when their fingers brushed. “Kane, this is my daughter, Lark.”

“It’s nice to meet you.”

Lark mumbled an acknowledgement. “Can we go? I’m cold.”

“Sure. I guess I’ll see you tomorrow.”

He touched her shoulder. “Ask Ozzie for a sack lunch in the morning. We probably won’t be back until mid-afternoon.”

She nodded. “Good night.”

“Night, Rachel. Sleep well, girls.”

“What was that all about?” Lark kicked a rock in the path as they left the campfire area. “Where’s he taking you tomorrow?”

“For a hike.”

“I’m going on an art walk to paint flowers.” Ivy skipped ahead.

“So you’re just taking Jade with you?”

“Nope. I’m going to be in a race.”

Lark snorted. “That’s convenient.”

Rachel gritted her teeth. “All of you head down to the outhouse before getting ready for bed. You don’t want to have to get up in the middle of the night.”

“And run into a bear.” Ivy shivered.

Lark stopped as Rachel stepped off the path. “Where are you going?”

“Up the hill so Daisy can do her business. I don’t want to take her out again later.”

The stars shone brightly overhead as the dog stopped to sniff a bush. Behind her, a branch snapped. Rachel glanced over her shoulder.

“Come on, Daisy. Go pee and make it snappy. Ivy has me imagining bears behind every tree.”

Finally, Daisy squatted.

“Good girl.”

When the dog finished, Rachel took a quick trip to the outhouse then hurried back to the cabin. The girls were already in bed. Someone had lit the lantern, and a soft glow illuminated the room. She brushed her teeth at the basin, undressed and pulled on a pair of sweats then turned off the lantern before climbing into her bunk.

“G’night, Mom.”

At Ivy’s whisper, Rachel smiled. “Good night, girls. Sweet dreams.”

Jade turned in her bunk. “I’m glad we came.”

Ivy’s head poked over the edge. “Me, too.”

Across the cabin, Lark turned to face the wall, presenting her back.

Rachel sighed. “I’m glad we came, too. Now, go to sleep.”

* * * *

His heart pounded with a surge of adrenaline. He’d almost approached Jordan walking her dog, but the desire to talk to her—maybe touch her—battled with his cautious nature. In the end, he’d forced himself to wait. It was too soon. She needed time to get to know him before he made a move.

He lay still in his bunk, too excited to sleep. Today had been the best day of his life. He’d watched Jordan at the lake, wearing a bathing suit that revealed her beautiful body. The water had glistened on her flawless skin when she emerged from the lake, and her nipples were hard little points. Someday they would respond to his touch the way they had to the chilly water. Someday she would look at him with love in her eyes. Maybe not yet, but soon.

A frown drew his brows together, and his burgeoning erection wilted. The day would have been a perfect if Jordan hadn’t ruined it by sitting with Kane Lafferty at the bonfire. Jealousy roiled in his gut. She shouldn’t have sat so close to another man. She shouldn’t have let him put his filthy hands on her. She should save herself for the only one who truly loved her.

He was a patient man, a forgiving man, but there were limits to what he could endure. Watching Jordan with someone else wasn’t something he would tolerate.

He’d waited fourteen years for this moment, fourteen long years to make her his own. Failure wasn’t an option.