by Alanna Lucas
“I hope you don’t mind picnicking here? I didn’t want you to be late.”
“No, it’s perfect.” Tessa sat down on one side of the picnic basket. “I love all the roses, especially the white ones with red tips.”
“My grandfather planted those for Grams on their fiftieth wedding anniversary.” Rex sat down on the other side and raised the lid. “I have a confession.” He looked like a little boy, full of mischief. “I only made the sandwiches, Phoebe made the rest.”
Tessa’s laughter echoed through the quaint garden. “Don’t worry, I won’t judge. I try to stay out of the kitchen as much as possible.”
“There must be something you’re good at making?”
“Beef stew.” She paused for a moment. “But then again, it’s just adding a bunch of ingredients into the pot and setting the timer. Really, the crock-pot does all the work.”
Rex joined in Tessa’s laughter. It had been years since she felt this at ease next to a man. If she were being honest with herself, not even with her own husband at times. A deep sadness washed over her. She feigned interest in a leaf that had fallen from one of trees and landed on the blanket.
Out of the corner of her eye, Tessa could see Rex watching her, uncertainty clouding his features, dampening the ease she’d felt just a moment ago. She did her best to stamp down memories from the past and enjoy the present, but doubt had a way of rearing its ugly head.
Rex didn’t know what had happened. One minute Tessa seemed at ease and was laughing, and the next she retreated into some dark memory, the space between her brows crinkled. He wanted to help her get past the pain but didn’t know how to reach her. One step at a time.
“I hope you’re hungry,” he said as he pulled things from the basket, while trying to make small talk. “I didn’t know what kind of sandwiches you preferred, so you have your choice of turkey and Swiss, roast beef with mustard and provolone, or cucumber with lemon dill cream cheese.”
“Lemon dill cream cheese? Sounds like a sandwich Bernie would serve.” She raised a delicate brow. Her eyes were still full of sadness, but there was a slight teasing tone to her voice. “I sense another confession coming.”
“When I was growing up, Grams would make lemon dill cream cheese sandwiches in the summer. I used to sneak some out of the kitchen, climb up that elm tree, and not share any with my sister.”
Tessa rolled with laughter. “Didn’t your sister go after you?”
“No, Mary was too much of a girlie girl to go climbing up trees and risk getting dirty.”
Her lips parted as she went to take a bite of the cucumber sandwich, sending desire straight to his core. He wanted to be on the receiving end of that nibble.
“This is delicious.” She swallowed before continuing. “If I was her, I certainly would have chased you, tackled you to the ground, and made you share.”
Rex knew she was teasing, but the thought of being tackled by Tessa sent another surge of desire careening through his body with no chance of being sated. He tried to suppress all urges to take her in his arms and kiss her senseless.
If Tessa sensed where his thoughts had gone, luckily, she kept it to herself and did not react. He didn’t want to scare her away. He wanted them to be friends.
They ate in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. There were a thousand questions Rex wanted to ask, but he refrained.
“Bernie said you used to live here?” The question came out of the blue, but Rex was happy that she was curious about him, his life.
“My sister and I moved in with Grams and Grandpa after my father died.”
“How old were you?”
“Twelve.” It wasn’t something he normally talked about with anyone, not even Grams, but it was different with Tessa. Whenever she scurried past him, or ran away, he knew she wasn’t running from him, but from her past. He’d been in that dark place before and hoped that by sharing more of himself, Tessa would begin to relax and stay.
Her eyes were gentle, understanding. “Oh, you were so young. What happened?”
“After my mother left, it was just the three of us. My dad was a great guy, but didn’t take very good care of himself, and was always working too much.” He could sense himself slipping into the painful memories that were still burned into his mind from that distant day. “I was working on my science project when he surprised me and came home early from work to help. One minute we were laughing about gluing our fingers to the board and the next, he grabbed at his chest and collapsed on the floor. He died instantly. There was nothing I could do.”
Rex had kept the horrors of that day locked away in a dark corner of his mind. Guilt weighed heavy. Every muscle in his body tensed. For years he’d blamed his mother. She’d broken Father’s heart.
“Is that why you wanted to become a doctor?” Tessa’s simple question brought him back to the present.
He couldn’t look at her. Ignoring the question until he regained control, he started packing up some of the food. Her eyes continued to bore into him. Rex cleared his throat, hoping his voice did not betray the sorrow eating away at him. “Yes. I wanted to help people, save them. It became an obsession.” It had cost him his marriage.
Tessa reached out and put a gentle hand on his shoulder, her warmth seeping into his soul. “You helped me,” she whispered the words in a soft, almost unsure tone.
Rex glanced at her delicate hand on his shoulder. His gaze travelled up her arm, up her creamy neck, settling on her compassionate green eyes.
He started to reach for her. “Tessa,” he breathed.
She blinked rapidly, breaking the spell they were under, and stood abruptly. She took several steps back. “Th…thank you for lunch. I…I need to get back to the bookstore. The new girl is probably already there.” Before Rex could say two words, Tessa hurried out of the garden and back toward the bookstore.
The next time they did something together, he would make sure she could not run off.
Chapter 10
Tessa was ashamed of her behavior. Rex had prepared a lovely picnic. They were enjoying each other’s company, and then she had to go and ruin it. There were simply too many emotions that she could not control. She moved to Devlin to find peace, to escape the memories that had been haunting her, to start anew. Now she was faced with a new dilemma, one that was disrupting her life and making her want more, making her believe she could have more.
Between the insanely busy afternoon at the bookstore and thoughts of Rex, by the end of the day, Tessa’s nerves were strung so tight she thought she might snap in half. A quiet evening at home, a glass of merlot, and a book was just what she needed to start her weekend. Fortunately, Bernie’s quilting club was meeting at Nina’s and she would have the house to herself.
Bernie and Nina left a little early so they would have plenty of time to set up for the evening, and Tessa’s newest employee, Dorothy, was just finishing tidying up the bookshelves. Even on the most hectic days, Tessa wanted to leave the bookshop clean and organized.
“Do you need anything else?” Dorothy asked with eagerness.
“No, you can go. Enjoy the weekend.”
“Thank you, Tessa, you too,” Dorothy said as she strolled out the back door.
Dorothy was the perfect addition to the On the Wings of Love family. She had read more romance books than Tessa, Bernie, and Nina combined. She was like a romance encyclopedia. Dorothy knew what every author wrote, in what in order, and had even memorized the book covers.
Tessa clicked off lights and double-checked the timers before heading to the kitchen. A pretty dainty envelope embossed with roses was propped up against a bottle of wine.
“Bernie.” Tessa giggled. Bernie knew exactly what she needed.
She opened the envelope and pulled out the matching card. Oh dear, her heart thudded against her chest.
Thank you for the picnic. I thought you might enjoy the merlot.
Rex
p.s. perhaps you would join me for a hike tomorrow?
> The thought of spending more time with Rex both frightened and thrilled her. She grabbed the bottle of wine, locked the door, and headed up to the house. Clearly there was an attraction between them. Despite Tessa constantly running away, Rex continued to be patient, to wait, but for how long? What was she going to do?
An hour and two glasses of wine later, she still had not answered that question. Curled up in one corner of the rose and gold floral patterned Queen Anne sofa in the study, Tessa stared out the window, watching the hypnotic headlights of cars flicker through the shrubs as they passed by the house.
Keys fumbling in the backdoor followed by it quickly opening and closing broke through Tessa’s thoughts.
“Good evening, Tessa,” Bernie called from the kitchen.
Tessa cleared her throat, hoping to sound casual and nonchalant. “You’re home early.”
She could hear Bernie shuffling around the kitchen, putting a kettle on the stove and pulling down a cup and saucer. It was her standard evening routine.
“There were only three of us tonight, so we decided to call it quits early. I’ll be out in a moment.”
A moment to Bernie meant after the teakettle began to whistle and her tea was steeping. She strolled into the study carrying a silver tray with a beautiful iridescent flower teapot flanked by two matching teacups. “I made a pot of rose tea, but I see you opened the wine Rex left for you.”
At the mention of his name, Tessa turned away, feigning interest in the darkness outside.
Bernie set the tray down and began to pour. The moment the tea streamed from the spout, the room filled with the sweet scent of roses. “Now, why don’t you tell me what’s bothering you.”
Tessa whipped her head around, staring at Bernie, her mouth hanging open. “Why do you think…”
Bernie inclined her head.
“How did you know something was bothering me?”
“I would have to be blind, not to mention unconscious, not to have noticed what’s been going on between you and Rex. I see how you look at each other. Talk to me, I might be able to help.”
Tessa didn’t want to burden Bernie with her woes, especially when they all seemed to be centered on her grandson. But her friend was thoughtful and caring, and stubborn as ever. She took the seat beside Tessa, her eyes full of compassion.
Bernie didn’t say anything, just went about serving tea, offering sideways glances every few seconds, waiting. Maybe Tessa could tell Bernie what was bothering her. She had become a dear friend, a confidant, and in some ways a surrogate mother.
Tessa sucked in her breath. “Do you mind if I ask you something… personal?”
“Not at all.” The warmth of Bernie’s smile echoed in her voice.
Mixed feelings surged through Tessa. She’d always assumed Jim was the only man for her, but now…
“Do you think there’s only one right person for each partner?”
Bernie took in a short deep breath. “I will share something with you that not even my family knows.”
“I won’t tell a soul.”
“Oh, it’s nothing that serious.” Bernie let out a little chuckle. “I just never needed to mention it.”
Tessa fingered the shawl at her chest and leaned in, waiting for the great secret.
“I was married before I met my dear Algernon.”
Tessa blinked several times wondering if she’d heard correctly. “Your family doesn’t know you were married before?”
“No.” Bernie shook her head as a sad smile teased the edge of her lips. “I was seventeen when I met and fell in love with Josiah.” She tapped Tessa’s knee. “Oh, he was the love of my life and the most handsome man in town. We adored each other. Against my parents’ wishes, we eloped.”
“How long were you married?”
“Josiah was killed in a plane crash two days before our second wedding anniversary.” Sadness lingered in Bernie’s voice.
Tessa reached for Bernie’s hand. “Oh, I…I’m so sorry.”
Bernie covered Tessa’s hands with her own. “It took several years before I could even look at another man, but my Algernon was quite persuasive.” Bernie ended with a wink. “I’m going to tell you the same thing my mother told me. Love can happen again. You’re young. Don’t let what happened keep you from having something wonderful again.”
Tessa sat, absorbing Bernie’s words. Could she really have a second chance?
“I don’t know, Bernie. I don’t know if I’m adventurous enough to take another chance.”
“Pish-posh, my girl! You are quite adventurous, you just don’t realize it.”
“I am?” Tessa giggled with uncertainty.
“You moved away from everyone you knew, started your own business—an all-romance bookstore nonetheless—moved in with a crazy old lady you didn’t know—”
“You’re not crazy,” Tessa attempted to correct her.
Bernie teased in return. “I most certainly am, and don’t you dare tell anyone otherwise. I have a reputation to protect.”
Their laughter filled the air. It was comfortable being with Bernie like this. Tessa missed her family, but she was finding new friendships and purpose here in Devlin.
“My point is,” Bernie’s tone turned soft and caring, “give love a second chance, and I’m not just saying that because Rex is my grandson. I wouldn’t let him near you if I didn’t think he was worthy.”
Apart from their interesting beginning—Tessa now better understood his behavior—Rex had always been a gentleman. He fixed broken pipes, moved furniture, helped with customers, held doors open for her, and….and tempted your secret desires.
But there was still one thing Tessa had never even voiced, not even to Jillian. It was her greatest fear. The words started on a shaky breath. “But… what if…”
Bernie’s brows crinkled together with concern. “What is it?”
“Children.” She forced the words past the hard lump in her throat. “What if things get serious? I just don’t…” Her heart ached and practically tore in half. She still couldn’t even be around children without breaking down and crying, and the thought of having another baby and losing… Hot tears that seemed to be her constant companions over the past few years streamed down her cheek.
Bernie brought Tessa into a warm embrace. “Shh, it’s okay, dearest. Nothing has to be decided today. Just give it time. Talk to Rex, tell him your fears.”
“But what if he changes his mind about me? What if he wants children and I can’t—” The words lodged in her throat.
Bernie raised Tessa’s chin with her fingers. “Tessa dearest,” her words were soft, yet firm, and meant to get her attention. “One step at a time.”
“Where are we going? We’ve been driving for over half an hour up this windy road.” Tessa inquired with a slight nervous edge from the passenger seat.
“It’s a surprise.” Rex glanced over. “Not much longer now.” He could have just told her where they were going, but he wanted her to be surprised. When she texted last night and accepted his invitation, he knew exactly where he wanted to take her.
Thankfully, the storm that had raged through the night had passed, leaving a crisp freshness to the surrounding hills. The sun shone bright and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. Rex could not have asked for a more perfect day.
Tessa shifted in her seat, looking off in every direction. “Where does this road go?”
“You’re not going to give up, are you?”
She answered in a casual jesting way, “Not until you tell me where we’re going.”
“Where’s your sense of adventure?”
“What is it with you and Bernie and your sense of adventure?”
Laughter floated up from his throat. “Grams always encouraged adventure. Except when it involved sneaking food and climbing up trees.”
“I can imagine her chasing after you,” Tessa replied with a chuckle.
“More like yelling for all the neighborhood to hear.” Rex brought the truck to
a gentle stop in a deserted parking lot at the end of the long windy road. “We’re here.”
Tessa glanced about and then stared at him. “Where exactly is here?”
“We still have to hike to the spot, but I think you’ll like it.” Rex ignored her inquisitive stare, got out of the truck, went round to Tessa’s side, and opened the door. “It’s still a little muddy from last night’s rain, let me help you.”
He offered his hand in assistance. Tessa placed her hand in his and slid from her seat, landing on the slippery surface. Her grasp tightened as she tumbled into him, sending a bolt of electricity through his veins.
“Sorry,” she giggled. “It’s slippery.”
Rex helped her up, trying to contain his thoughts of ravishing her.
Once on solid ground, he guided her toward one of the far trails flanked by pine trees. A hawk cried overhead before landing in one of the tall pines.
“It’s beautiful up here,” she said in awe as they walked up the steep hill. “It doesn’t seem like very many people come here.”
“Not really, group hikers every once in a while, but it’s still one of those hidden treasures.”
Tessa kept an even stride as they climbed up the narrowing path. She didn’t complain or ask to stop, just continued to glance around in wonder.
“Not much farther,” Rex offered in encouragement.
When they reached the summit, the terrain evened out. Thick outcroppings of pine trees formed a natural barrier to the outside world. All was quiet. Only the gentle caressing breeze rippling through the meadow in the distance disturbed the silence.
“It is very pretty here,” Tessa whispered as if she were inside a church.
“This way.” Rex nodded toward the grouping of pine trees.
Dried pine needles crunched beneath their feet as they walked closer to the slight downward slope. The tree line began to thin, the clear blue sky peeking through, exposing more of its brilliance. Soon, they were clear of the trees.
