The Bridesmaid's Hero

by Narelle Atkins

  Serena grabbed Gina’s arm and whispered in her ear. “I can’t stand that woman.”

  “What did she do?”

  “The usual snide comments, this time about Harry.”

  “Oh.” Gina pressed her lips together. “You have to sit next to her at the bridal table.”

  “I’ll take every excuse I can find to stay as far away from her as possible.”

  “You and me both.”

  Serena drew in a sobering breath, preparing herself for the long evening ahead. She smiled for the camera, relieved when the photographer dismissed her and Gina. Harry stood in the distance beneath a shady gum tree with Jack. The bridal party had photos scheduled in the gardens at the reception venue. In five hours she’d be done and could trash these wretched shoes.

  She snuck away and found a bench seat around the side of the church. She took off her shoes and typed a fast message to Harry. Her shoe had stayed intact.

  Within seconds a shadow fell over her.

  Harry stood in front of her, grinning. “I’m not good at typing fast on my phone.”

  “So I noticed.” She giggled. “Autocorrect can be annoying.”

  “And funny. I need to remember to edit my messages.”

  “Did you watch the wedding?”

  “No, I went back outside with Jack after the bride walked down the aisle.”

  “It was a lovely ceremony.”

  “I’m glad. We need to go to the reception venue soon for photos.”

  She grimaced. “Not more standing up.”

  He glanced at her bare feet. “Your heel’s okay?”

  “It’s holding up. But my feet are sore and I can’t wait to get rid of these shoes.”

  His blue eyes twinkled, tiny creases forming at the corners. “You can ditch them at the reception and risk your sister’s wrath.”

  “Yeah, I know. Not a smart idea.”

  Crystal appeared on the path, hands on hips. “Serena, what are you doing hiding out here?”

  She muffled a low groan. “Resting my feet.”

  “Remember what I told you earlier. I won’t have Debbie upset by your foolishness.” Crystal strode away, her head at a haughty angle.

  Harry raised an eyebrow. “What was that all about?”

  “Apparently I’m not allowed to associate with the hired help.”

  “Sorry. I didn’t mean to get you in trouble.”

  “No, it’s fine. I’m not going to be bossed around by her.” She’d stay away from Crystal and message Harry whenever she pleased. There was no way she’d allow Crystal to dictate who she could talk to at the reception.

  Chapter Three

  Later in the evening, Harry leaned back against the BMW, parked on the drive at the reception venue. The balmy air carried a sweet jasmine fragrance from a nearby trellis. The historic mansion was known for its rose gardens. Fairy lights were strung in the trees overhead, adding to the festive atmosphere.

  He’d wandered through the gardens earlier with Jack, the flower displays reminding him of the Blaxland B&B. Serena’s parents had established a tearoom and gardens for their guests. Visitors travelled from interstate to see the spring tulips.

  His phone beeped and he smiled. Serena. The bride and groom were leaving now.

  He’d watched Serena from afar, relieved her shoe had survived the rigors of the wedding reception. She’d messaged him at regular intervals all night, their banter giving him more than a few belly laughs. Gina had kept Serena sane as they both tried to ignore Crystal’s bossy antics.

  The bride and groom appeared on the drive. The groomsmen had decorated a white hatchback with shaving cream and an assortment of tin cans attached to streamers. The happy couple waved to their guests then left for an undisclosed destination.

  Serena and Gina walked toward him, fatigue evident on their weary faces.

  “Are you ready to go home?” he asked.

  Serena nodded. “We’ve already said our goodbyes.”

  He assisted the girls into the car and Jack wandered over.

  “Harry, thanks for your help today.”

  “No problem. I’ll see you next weekend. Have fun in Sydney.”

  “We will. Kate’s looking forward to a midweek break.” Jack returned to his car, ready to drive Serena’s parents back to Snowgum Creek.

  Harry slipped behind the wheel. “Music or sleep?”

  Gina yawned. “I’m going to sleep, but don’t let that stop you two from chatting.”

  “I don’t want to disturb you,” he said.

  “I can sleep through anything,” Gina said. “Your entertaining conversation won’t bother me. Serena shared your messages, and I know why you had her in stitches.”

  “I’m glad you like my sense of humor.”

  Serena closed her eyes. “I’m ready for a nap, and I have an early start in the morning.”

  “Are you working?” he asked.

  “Yes, I need to get organized for afternoon tea and prepare the desserts for tomorrow night. Dad and I have a big day in the kitchen planned, starting at seven.”

  “In that case, I think you both should sleep.”

  A smile hovered over Serena’s full lips. “Thanks, Harry. I appreciate everything you’ve done for me today.”

  “You’re very welcome.” He drove back to the main road, watching in the mirror as both girls fell asleep within minutes.

  Serena had piqued his interest and he wanted to get to know her better. He’d go to church in the morning, and then the horses would need his attention. A few guests had booked riding lessons for late tomorrow afternoon. Between the lessons and his trips to the bus station, he hoped he’d have an opportunity to see Serena.

  ***

  The next day, Serena rolled her shoulders and stretched her arms above her head. Three in the afternoon, and the tearoom overlooking the gardens was full of paying customers. Her mother’s famous spring tulips were in full bloom, and her roses weren’t far behind.

  She pulled her last batch of scones out of the oven. Freshly baked, she’d received numerous compliments on her culinary skill. High teas were one of her specialties, and she’d perfected her scone recipe a few years ago.

  Maggie, Harry’s mom, helped Serena’s mother look after the guests seated in the tearoom and on the adjoining veranda. They worked well together, a strong bond of friendship evident in all their interactions. Her father was in the larger kitchen, further along the hall near the formal dining room. Dinner preparations were underway for the thirty B&B guests who would arrive by eight tonight.

  Serena had spotted Harry through a kitchen window earlier, along with half a dozen new arrivals. Gina was in charge of the front desk. Between the day visitors in the gardens and their overnight guests, their parking lot was filled to capacity.

  Maggie entered the kitchen, a broad smile on her face. “Those scones smell good, and your chocolate mud cake is receiving wide acclaim. Our Snowgum Creek friends have told your mother you’re not allowed to return to Canberra.”

  Serena grinned. “They’ll cope without me. Your cream cakes are popular.”

  “Not so much when we have a pastry chef in the house. Your father’s lemon meringue pie is another big favorite with the Snowgum Creek crowd.”

  “It’s on the dessert menu tonight. I’ve made single-serve pavlovas as the alternative.”

  “That’s a tough choice. Have you spoken to Harry?”

  She shook her head. “I’ve spent most of today in the kitchen.”

  “Not good, and you’ll burn yourself out if you don’t take your proper meal breaks. Your mother and I can finish up in here.”

  “Are you sure? Mom isn’t overdoing it?”

  “Hope is managing just fine. I’m doing most of the serving, and she has sold a number of plants to our visitors.”

  “She’ll be happy her stock is moving.”

  Maggie nodded. “You need a break, and I know you’ll be back in the kitchen with your father before church tonight. If you see Harr
y, can you ask him to stop by?”

  “Sure.” She removed her hair cap, untied her apron and hung it on a hook by the external kitchen door. “Thanks for your help today.”

  “You’re welcome, and I’ll see you later.”

  Serena stepped outside, the cool mountain air tickling her bare neck. She pulled her hair loose from the confines of her bun, appreciating the sunshine on her face. A bike ride in the orchards should release the tension in her hamstring and calf muscles.

  She skirted around the rear of the B&B and along the short drive to her parents’ colonial-style home. She’d change into comfortable cycling clothes and use her mom’s bike. The farm perimeter provided a nice circuit with mountain views and a few challenging hills.

  Before long she slipped on a bike helmet and straddled the mountain bike. The bike settings were perfect, an advantage of being her mom’s height and build.

  Serena cycled along the drive, enjoying the breeze as her muscles warmed up. She passed the stables and waved to Harry. He sat tall on a chestnut mare, putting her through her paces in the paddock beside the stables. She’d ride three circuits and take a short break with Harry to do her stretches.

  Her exercise routine was important, and dry weather was forecast for the coming week. A daily bike ride, either outdoors or in the gym, was part of her schedule back home. Horse riding was an activity she’d rather avoid.

  ***

  Harry waved to Serena, admiring her slim physique as she powered by the paddock on a mountain bike. He hoped she planned on stopping to see him. A group horse riding lesson was scheduled for four-thirty, and he had a few guests to collect from the Snowgum Creek bus station afterward.

  He finished working the mare and let her join the half dozen horses on the far side of the paddock. His work in the stables was done, and he could take a break until he needed to prepare for the riding lessons. Serena rode passed a second time, head down as she concentrated on her ride.

  Harry grabbed his water bottle and walked over to the fence. Next time Serena rode by, he’d do something to attract her attention. Had they only met yesterday? She’d captured his thoughts, and he couldn’t stay away from her.

  Serena came into view and slowed her speed. She drew to a halt and removed her helmet. “Hey, how’s your day going?”

  “Better now I’ve seen you.”

  Her face flushed from pale pink to crimson. “You flatter me.”

  “That’s the plan. How’s your ride going?”

  “Pretty good.” She pulled her water bottle out of the holder and took a long drink. “I love riding out here. No traffic, birds everywhere, a fresh mountain breeze.” She replaced her bottle. “What have you been up to today?”

  “I’ve just finished exercising your mom’s horses.”

  “I’m glad you can help her out. You’re making a habit of rescuing the Blaxland women.”

  He laughed. “Your heel issue was no biggie. An easy fix.”

  “Maybe, but Debbie got her dream wedding without being stressed by my broken shoe. For that reason alone I’m grateful.”

  He hoisted himself onto the fence and sat on top of the sturdy white wooden plank. “You managed to survive the day without any other mishaps.”

  “Thanks to you.” She flicked down the bike stand and stepped away from her bike. “Your mom wants to see you at the tearoom.”

  “No problem. I’ll head up there soon.”

  Serena held onto a fence railing and moved into a hamstring stretch. “It’s a full house in the tearoom.”

  “Our mothers are known for their great coffee. Did you hear about the cream cake?”

  “Yep, and apparently we’re getting married soon.”

  He chuckled. “So I’ve heard. I told you my mom can get carried away when she gets an idea in her head.”

  “It’s my mother who’s getting carried away.”

  “Don’t underestimate my mom. Josh and Lindi have provided a granddaughter, which has taken some of the pressure off.” For now. This morning his mom had outlined her concerns for his future. Twenty five. Single. No marriage prospects. His argument that he’d need more permanent employment before considering a serious relationship had appeased her. Temporarily.

  Serena stretched out her calf muscles. “You live with your mom, right?”

  He nodded, fascinated by her exercise routine. “Just the two of us. My dad passed away when I was in my last year at school.”

  “I’m sorry. He must have been young.”

  “Forty-seven. He left my mom in a difficult financial situation, but things are better now.”

  “That’s good to hear.” She repositioned her arms into a triceps stretch.

  “The job provided by your parents has made an enormous difference to her life.”

  “Maggie is part of the family. Her official job title of housekeeper doesn’t come close to describing her role.”

  “Agreed.” He was glad his mom had secured a job she enjoyed.

  Serena stood on tip toes, her fingertips touching above her head. “Do you like living on a farm?”

  He nodded. “We’ve leased our apple orchards to local growers, so there’s hardly any farm work to do. The regular income has saved us from having to sell up.”

  “Good news.” She finished her routine and sipped her water. “My parents have always been generous, and I know they’ll look after your mom.”

  “I’m thankful they’re a good employer.”

  “So how many jobs do you have?”

  “A few. I drive cars for Josh and I have my twelve-seater minibus. My current mode of transport. I haven’t replaced my old car yet.”

  “Frustrating.”

  He shrugged. “I’ll sort something out next year. I also work with the local vet, and I’m a qualified vet nurse.”

  “Really? Is there much work in Snowgum Creek?”

  “It depends. My main interest is equine and we’re not a big horse community compared to other towns.”

  “That makes sense.” She shifted her weight from one foot to the other, as if her feet were sore.

  “I’m looking at other opportunities, and I’ve applied for a university course starting next year.”

  “Does that mean you’ll be moving?”

  “Maybe.” He shoved his sunglasses on his head, the sun behind him in the clear afternoon sky. “It’s distance education. There are no guarantees I’ll eventually get accepted into a vet science degree program. It’s competitive.”

  She nodded. “Do you have horses?”

  “I used to. My old mare passed away a few months ago, and I haven’t invested in another horse because my plans are uncertain.”

  “I understand. Horses are expensive and time consuming.”

  “Did you grow up with horses?”

  “My mom has owned horses for as long as I can remember.”

  “How about we go riding sometime? These horses need exercise while your mom is out of action.”

  She shook her head. “I don’t think so. Horse riding isn’t my thing.”

  “But you grew up around horses.”

  “I haven’t ridden much since I was seventeen.”

  “Why? What happened?”

  Her sunglasses dangled from her left hand as she held his gaze. “My horse spooked and threw me into a river. It kind of turned me off for life.”

  He stepped off the fence and moved to her side, his tone gentle. “I’m sorry that happened to you. It’s not fun to get thrown.”

  “Has it happened to you?”

  “More times than I can count. Only minor injuries, though.”

  “I’ve ridden a couple times since, but I won’t go faster than a trot. I prefer an enclosed paddock where the horse is less likely to bolt.”

  He nodded. “Bessie would be a good horse for you. She’s older, docile, and prefers to walk.”

  Serena returned to her bike and reattached her helmet. “You’ll have to work hard to charm me into riding Bessie again in the wild. She
was the horse who threw me.”

  Chapter Four

  Five days later, Serena slipped on her running shoes and headed over to the tearoom. She’d agreed to meet Harry mid-afternoon before he drove into Snowgum Creek to collect another group of guests from the bus station.

  Her first week of work on the farm had been fun. The tearoom was quieter on weekdays, and she’d enjoyed the slower pace. Yesterday she’d taken the day off to go shopping in Sunny Ridge and pick up farm supplies for her parents. She’d returned early to spend time with Harry and the horses.

  At Harry’s insistence, she’d started taking Bessie for short rides each day in the paddock. To her surprise, she’d enjoyed riding again. Harry’s presence in the paddock made a difference, and she appreciated his encouragement. The mare’s dawdling pace suited her, and she’d long forgiven Bessie for the nasty fall that had led to a concussion. The shallow river water had buffered her fall, and she’d kept all her bones intact.

  Harry waited for her on the veranda, looking relaxed and comfortable in a polo shirt and knee-length shorts.

  He stood, a broad smile on his face. “You look ready to explore the gardens.”

  “Yes, and I have my phone to take photos. My mother has to update our website tonight.”

  “You don’t have a camera?”

  She shook her head and tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “My father can’t remember where he put it. He’s too busy to take the photos, and the special online promo starts tomorrow.”

  “Okay. Would you like a drink before you start? Tea. Coffee.”

  “Definitely tea at this time of day.” She walked inside with Harry. A few customers were scattered among the tables, and Maggie was perched on a tall stool behind the counter.

  “Hey, my favorite people are here. Can I tempt you with cookies, or cake? Scones are sold out.”

  Serena laughed. “Tea is all I need. Lemon green tea to go, please.”

  Harry furrowed his brows. “You drink that stuff?”

  “It’s refreshing and healthy.”

  “If you say so.” He gave his mom a wide smile. “My usual latte, please.”