He whispered in her ear. “What do you think?”
“I love it.” She pulled her woolen hat lower on her head, transfixed by the magnificent scenery.
Patches of snow glimmered like crystals in the morning sunlight, surrounded by clumps of purple, yellow and white wildflowers. Eagles Nest, their destination, came into view, the buildings a stark contrast to the rugged landscape.
Harry helped her off the chairlift and led her to the entrance of a nearby restaurant.
He smiled. “Coffee time.”
“Absolutely. This cold weather has given me an appetite.”
“It doesn’t feel like spring up here.”
A dozen mountain bikes were parked outside the restaurant. She curved her mouth into a bigger smile. “My cycling friends love coming here in summer.”
“You haven’t joined them?”
“I work weekends, and that’s when they go out of town for their long rides.”
“Do you find your work hours limiting?”
“Sometimes, but I love my job and I wouldn’t swap it for a nine-to-five office job.”
“That’s not my ideal job, either.”
She chuckled. “I can’t see you being happy with an office job.”
They walked inside and she followed Harry to a corner table beside two large windows.
The spectacular mountain and valley panorama claimed her full attention. She leaned forward in her seat, her elbows resting on the pine wooden table top. “I can’t get over the stunning view.”
“This restaurant is one of my favorite places to visit.”
“I can understand why.” She snapped a few photos on her phone, mesmerized by the diversity of the pristine terrain.
A waiter appeared and she joined Harry in ordering Devonshire Tea with her latte.
“Harry, you’re right. It looks like there’s plenty of snow further up the mountain where it’s misty.”
He twined his fingers through hers, his gaze tender. “We won’t make it to the summit today. The conditions aren’t looking good.”
“It’s okay. Maybe another time.”
“The weather should improve by summer, and there’ll be less snow in December.”
Her knee brushed his under the table, and she wriggled back in her seat. “A friend of mine climbed to the summit on Australia Day.”
“A good way to escape the January summer heat.”
“One day I’ll climb to the very top.”
“We could come back in December, before you leave Snowgum Creek.”
She squeezed his hand. “I’d like that.”
The scones arrived with their lattes. Serena opened her scone and spread a layer of strawberry jam on one half. She topped it with a dollop of clotted cream and took a bite. “Mm.”
He held her gaze. “It’s good.”
She nodded, her palate pleased by the light texture and sweet favor. “I’m fussy when it comes to scones.”
“Your scones are the best.”
“Thank you. That’s a big compliment.”
“And it’s true.” He sampled one of his scones, smothered in a generous helping of jam and cream. “These are good scones. I packed boxed lunches from your B&B, and bottled water.”
“You’ve thought of everything.”
“I aim to please.”
She sipped her latté. “I could do this every day.”
“Yes, and I believe we’re sitting in Australia’s highest restaurant.”
“Wow. That’s impressive. I’m sure they’re run off their feet here during the ski season.”
He stirred a teaspoon of sugar into his latte. “Are you a good skier?”
She shrugged her shoulders. “I guess I’m average. I struggle at times on the intermediate slopes.”
“Skiing isn’t easy.”
“I prefer snowboarding, but I only make it to Perisher once or twice a season.”
“Snowboarding is fun. My dad was a skiing fanatic. When I was younger, we spent many of our winter weekends at the ski fields.”
“My parents aren’t into skiing, and my mom hates going away and leaving her horses. Our grandparents took us to the beach each summer. They lived on the South Coast and we’d stay with them for part of the school holidays.”
“We mainly went to the beach when we visited family in Sydney. My aunt and uncle live in The Shire, not far from Cronulla Beach.”
“A pretty part of the world. We used to go to church youth camps in the nearby Royal National Park.”
“Port Hacking is a great place to visit.” He drained his latte glass. “Are you ready to go hiking?”
She nodded. “Thanks for a lovely morning tea.”
“You’re very welcome.” He stood, his smile radiating from his eyes. “I’ll settle the bill.”
“Thank you.” She was impressed by his manners and loved everything about their date.
They left the restaurant and commenced their hike up the mountain, the raised steel mesh walkway providing an even path. They passed rocky granite outcrops, and patches of snow became more prevalent the higher they climbed. A heavy mist engulfed the peaks. The air temperature reminded her of a frosty Canberra winter morning.
He paused. “I think we’ll stop for lunch at the next lookout. It could rain soon.”
“I agree, and I’m hungry.”
He shook his head. “The scones didn’t fill you up?”
“Breakfast at five this morning seems like a long time ago.”
“It’s not too cold for you?”
“Nope.” She grinned. “I’m used to cold winters.”
Half an hour later they reached an isolated lookout not far from the main path.
She strode to the edge of the viewing platform, looking out over the ravine. “It feels like we’re walking in the clouds.”
“And most likely snow.”
She wrapped her red woolen scarf tighter around her neck. “Do you think it will snow?”
“Possibly. It’s cold enough.” He laid out a picnic blanket on the mesh platform.
She joined him, sitting cross-legged. “Did my father make our lunches?”
He nodded and pulled two cardboard boxes out of a small cooler bag in his backpack. “I hope that’s okay?”
“Dad knows what I like.” She opened her box and found a large wrapped sandwich, a red apple, and one of her savory cheese muffins. “Looks great.”
He unwrapped his sandwich. “I wonder what’s on it.”
“Turkey, cranberry and brie. My mom’s favorite combo, and a popular menu item in November.”
“Are your parents doing an American Thanksgiving dinner this year?”
“Yes. We’re fully booked over the Thanksgiving weekend. I’ve been rostered to help with housekeeping, and I’m baking all the pies in advance.”
“Is that normal?”
She shook her head. “Bookings normally drop off by late November, and pick up again when we reopen at the end of December.”
“It’s good your parents can take a break before Christmas.”
“Dad catches up on work in the orchards, and Mom still has to take care of the horses. This year we’re all going to stay at Debbie and Mark’s new home in Melbourne for Christmas.”
“Sounds good. Do they live near the bay?”
“Yes, and I’m looking forward to spending some time at the beach with Gina.”
“We’ll spend Christmas with Josh and Lindi’s family. It will be my niece’s first Christmas.”
“That’s special. You’ll have to take lots of photos.” She finished her sandwich and munched on the juicy apple, grown in her father’s orchard. She stretched out her legs, content to chat with Harry. They could talk for hours and not run out of conversation topics.
Harry screwed the lid back on his empty water bottle and tossed it in the cooler. “The weather is turning. I think we should head back soon.”
“Sure. Thanks for lunch.” She stood, tucking her bare hands into her jacket pockets. �
�I appreciate all the effort you’ve put into organizing our date.”
“No problem.” He stepped closer, his thumb tipping up her chin. “You look gorgeous today.”
She stared into his eyes, entranced by the warm depths framed by long lashes.
He bent his head and she closed her eyes, trembling as his arm circled her waist. He traced the line of her cheek with his thumb before weaving his fingertips through her loose hair and drawing her closer.
His lips touched hers, tentative at first until she parted her lips and welcomed his kiss.
She placed her hand on his muscular chest, his jacket soft under her palm.
He deepened the kiss and she became lost in the warm sensations he’d awakened, dormant feelings that gained new life. Time stopped and she couldn’t think, couldn’t imagine being anywhere else but in his strong arms, reveling in his embrace.
He stepped back, his mouth tilting into a wide smile. “It’s snowing.”
A perfect flake landed in the palm of her hand. “It’s so pretty.”
“Just like you.” He kissed the tip of her nose.
She sighed and tucked her head under his chin, her arms around his waist. “I wish today didn’t have to end.”
“Me, too.” His fingertips caressed her cheek.
She closed her eyes, a myriad of conflicting emotions gaining momentum in her heart. How could she leave him in seven weeks?
Chapter Six
Harry held Serena in a warm embrace on the viewing platform at the Mount Kosciuszko lookout. Snowflakes drifted to the ground from the misty clouds engulfing them from above. He twirled long dark strands of her hair between his fingers, the soft texture bringing a smile to his lips. Inhaling her sweet scent, his senses were in overdrive from their emotion-charged kiss.
Wow. He closed his eyes and acknowledged the truth. He’d fallen in love with Serena Blaxland, and he didn’t want to think about her leaving Snowgum Creek. Leaving him.
He loosened his arms around her waist and she raised her chin. Luminescent hazel eyes, with flecks of gold altering their hue to a deeper green, softened his heart.
He traced his thumb over her lips, eager to kiss her again. He’d have to wait, the snowfall dashing his plans for a romantic afternoon stroll back to the chair lift at Eagles Nest. “We need to pack up.”
She flicked snowflakes off her jacket sleeve. “I’ll help. We can stop at the restaurant for tea.”
“I’m not drinking green tea.”
She laughed. “I wouldn’t dream of inflicting green tea on you, and I might even join you in a pot of black tea. English Breakfast, or would you prefer Irish?”
“English is fine.”
“Deal.”
Serena worked with him to pack up their picnic lunch before they walked, hand in hand, back to Eagles Nest. The snow slowed their progress, the metal mesh path slippery underfoot. They reached the restaurant, crowded with tourists escaping the sleet. The view was now obscured by a cloudy mist, and they drank their pot of English Breakfast tea at a small table for two in the center of the busy restaurant.
Before long, their turn came to ride back down the chair lift to Thredbo. The sun peeked through the clouds during their descent, and they returned to dry ground and an overcast sky.
Harry stowed their backpacks and wet-weather gear in the rear of the minibus. The warm interior of the vehicle was a welcomed change.
Serena smiled. “Thanks for an amazing date in the mountains. I’ve loved every minute.”
His heart warmed at her genuine words, and a glimmer of hope ignited inside him. “Will you go on another date with me?”
She nodded. “I’d love to. I can’t explain what it is about today that’s so special.”
He tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear and stole a brief kiss. “You’re a very special woman. I’m glad I’ve had a chance to get to know you.”
“I’m sure you’re also glad you haven’t had to rescue me from any more disasters.”
He clicked on his seat belt and idled the engine. “You’re more than capable of taking care of yourself. Look at the progress you’re making with riding old Bessie.”
“She has been very kind to me, and my confidence is growing.”
“Why don’t we go for a long ride sometime soon?”
She twisted her hands together in her lap. “I’m not sure I’m ready to ride cross-country. What if she gets spooked by a car or something?”
“We’ll head up into the pine forest. Stay away from the roads. I know a few riding trails near the creek that aren’t too arduous.”
He drove their vehicle out of Thredbo, heading in the direction of home.
She remained silent, appearing lost in her thoughts.
Harry changed gears, the bends in the road absorbing his attention. Serena was ready to conquer her fears and ride Bessie outside the boundaries of the farm. He was impressed by her riding ability, and she was more than capable of tackling an easy trail in the forest near the farm.
Serena let out a soft sigh. “Okay, I’ll do it.”
“We’ll have fun. You won’t regret it.”
“I hope so.”
“We will. The trail I have in mind is only a short ride.”
“A good idea. Baby steps, remember.”
“You won’t let me forget. We’ll line up a time, and make sure the weather is fine.”
“That works for me.”
He settled back in his seat for the drive home, a content smile on his lips. Everything should run according to plan if he kept their horse riding date simple and didn’t add in any complications. What could possibly go wrong?
***
Two weeks later, Serena chatted with her mother at the reception desk as she waited for Harry to arrive for their first trail ride. She wore her mother’s riding gear, her stomach churning.
Her mom’s smile lit up her face. “I’m so happy Harry has convinced you to overcome your riding fears.”
“I guess it’s time—the accident was years ago.”
“And don’t think your father and I haven’t noticed you’re spending all your free time with Harry. That ring will be on your finger soon.”
She shook her head. “We can’t have a future together. Our lives are too different.”
“Nonsense, Serena. If you love each other, you can make it work. I believe God brought you together for a reason.”
“Mom, I’m not sure how I feel-”
“You love him. Everyone can see that you’re both in love. I’m planning your engagement party with Maggie. We’re thinking an outdoor afternoon tea would be nice, if the weather is warm.”
“Mom! What are you thinking?”
Hope patted her hand. “Calm down. When I first met your father, I knew he was the one for me. God has blessed our marriage, and I’ve prayed for years that you’ll find a wonderful husband.”
“That’s nice, but I’m not getting married anytime soon. You’re wasting your time making these plans.”
“Call it motherly instinct. You can’t live in denial of your feelings forever. Don’t walk away from Harry without at least trying to see if you can make your relationship more permanent.”
“I don’t know. I’m happy with my life in Canberra, and I’ve finally got a great job I enjoy. I don’t want to give that up.”
“Who said you had to give it up? Just give Harry a chance to prove himself as worthy husband material.”
“I’ll pray about it.”
Hope gave her a warm hug. “Honey, you won’t regret it, I promise.”
Serena blinked, her eyes watery. She hated it when her mom was right. Harry had crept into her heart, and she couldn’t deny her growing feelings. Was love enough? Could their relationship have a future?
***
Harry saddled Bessie and passed the reins to Serena. “This ride is going to be easy. You’ll have nothing to worry about.”
“I hope so.” She led Bessie into the paddock, the familiar routine calming her
pulse. Harry’s confidence in her abilities provided the nudge she needed to face this new challenge.
The weather was perfect; a light mountain breeze fluttering the leaves in the orchard and a few wispy clouds hovering on the horizon. Harry joined her with Mighty Boy, a strong bay gelding with an unpredictable temperament.
“If Mighty Boy upsets Bessie, I won’t be happy.” She stroked Bessie’s gray neck, and the mare rewarded her with a gentle nuzzle below her ear.
“He’ll behave himself.”
Harry mounted the horse, the fluid movement a testament to his years of riding. A battered cowboy hat adorned his head, and he looked like he belonged on a Texan ranch.
“Come on, Serena. It’s time to roll.”
She placed the ball of her left foot in the stirrup and hopped up, swinging her right leg over Bessie’s back and sitting deep in the saddle. The action still felt awkward, and her stomach tightened. Would she overcome her fears today? The helmet on her head gave her a small degree of comfort. If she fell, she shouldn’t sustain a nasty concussion like last time.
“Good girl, Bessie,” he said. “See, she’s looking forward to our ride.”
Serena wrinkled her nose. “Maybe. I’m yet to be convinced.”
“Everything will be fine.” He lifted his wrist, glancing at his watch. “We can turn back for home in half an hour. Or we can continue riding the trail for a bit longer, depending on how you’re feeling. How does that sound?”
“Okay. An hour is doable.”
She followed his lead, guiding Bessie out of the paddock and along a dirt path to the road. Clear of traffic, they crossed to the other side and made their way along the edge of the road on a track heading toward the pine forest.
Harry slowed Mighty Boy and walked him alongside Bessie. Mighty Boy remained closest to the empty road, and he seemed to be in a good mood.
Serena relaxed her body, her grip light on the reins. Bessie seemed content to match Mighty Boy’s pace.
Harry grinned. “You’re doing well.”
“Bessie seems happy.”
“She often hangs out with Mighty Boy in the paddock. They’re good friends.”
She chuckled. “That’s a relief. Mom talks about the horses all the time, and I tend to tune out.”
The Bridesmaid's Hero Page 5
