by Wendy Davy
Chase approached the barn, its once vibrant red paint peeling in some areas, fading in others. Wood rotted near the foundation, waiting to be fixed, but he doubted his father even noticed. Tucking his hands into his pockets, Chase ambled inside and took in a deep breath. Familiar scents of wood and varnish caused memories to rush back, and although horses hadn’t been kept here since the days his grandfather owned the place, lingering scents of hay filled the stale air.
He’d played here as a child, watching his father work on various carpentry projects. Dad had created hundreds of furnishings for his business, but Chase’s favorite items were the hand-made toys his father had created at Christmastime for needy children. It was here that Chase had experienced firsthand what it meant to care for others—a valuable lesson he’d carried into adulthood.
Chase smiled. His father probably didn’t even know his young son had been watching his every move, absorbing all that was around him.
“There you are.” Dad stepped from behind a tall wooden shelf housing various tools and equipment. His shoulders, once standing proud and wide, rounded with fatigue. His usual vibrant green eyes looked weary and worn. “It’s good to see you.”
At six feet tall, Chase usually had the advantage of height, but standing near his father, who stood a few inches taller, Chase felt humbled. “It’s good to be here. I’ve missed this place.”
His father looked up, scanning the old rafters. “I’ve been using this barn as a workshop for many years, but it seems like yesterday that I stood in here with my own father, tending horses, milking cows.”
“When you inherited it from Granddad, did you ever think about keeping it as a farm?”
“I thought about it. But, my passion was in carpentry.” A ghost of a smile touched his lips. “Your mother couldn’t stand the smell of the livestock anyway.”
“For what it’s worth, I’m glad you and Mom decided to live here.” He glanced around. “It was a great place to grow up.”
His father’s eyes showed appreciation. “Have you told your mom that?”
Chase shook his head. “I guess I’m not so good at telling people how I feel.” He thought of Sierra. He wanted to tell her he’d fallen for her, but what if she didn’t feel the same? His stomach flip-flopped, and he suddenly felt like the fifteen-year-old boy who’d stolen his first kiss behind this barn.
Funny the things he remembered when he returned home.
“Where’s your new friend?”
“You mean Sierra?” Chase leaned a hip against the workbench and crossed his ankles. “She’s inside with Mom. Hopefully they’re getting to know one another.”
“You like her.” There was no hint of a question in Dad’s words.
“How did you—” Chase wondered exactly what Jake had told his father. Had he stuck with the basics, or added his own opinion into the discussion? “Did Jake say something?”
“Nope. I can sense things. It comes with years of living with your mother.” A touch of fondness entered his tone. “If I hadn’t learned to guess what she was feeling before she had to tell me, I would’ve been hung out to dry a long time ago.”
His father’s eyes shone. Chase wanted to experience that same type of intimacy which could only come with a lifetime commitment to love and cherish.
“Of course, it doesn’t take a genius to figure out what your mother’s feeling these days.”
Chase had wondered how much losing Amber had affected his parents’ marriage. “Has anything changed? Has she called the garden club? Has she had anyone over?”
“No. I try to encourage her, but it’s almost as if a part of her died along with Amber.”
Chase wanted to bring up the fact his father now spent all his time in the workshop, but didn’t think it would help anything. “I think a part of us all died with her, but that doesn’t mean we can just give up living.”
Shadows passed deep within his father’s eyes, mirroring the darkening sky. “I’d better check on the ribs.” He moved around the workbench and disappeared outside, behind the barn.
Chase followed. Smoke curled into the air, scattered in the breeze. He inhaled. The hickory scented smoke made his mouth water. “Smells good.”
“Hope it tastes good.” Dad leaned over to check the temperature gauge. “Time to add a bit of fuel.” He knelt, added charcoal and hickory shavings to the smoker and shut the door. Standing, he dusted his hands. “If only life was this simple.” He shook his head. “Your mother’s not coming around like I’d hoped. Whenever I speak of Amber…well, let’s just say it usually ends in a fight. She doesn’t think I can hurt as much as she does. But, she’s wrong.”
“If she won’t talk to you, is there anyone else?” Chase had tried, but often ended with the same result. He loved his sister, and Mom knew that, but she always said it was different losing a child. Nothing compared. Chase guessed she had a point, and he only prayed he’d never have to find out.
“Pastor Paul has offered more than once to come for supper. Eliza declines every time.”
“I know I’ve said this before, but I’m hoping catching Amber’s killer will help Mom heal.”
His father looked at the surrounding property, long ago consumed by trees and lush vegetation. “There is that hope.”
“How about you?” Chase studied his father’s brows, wrinkled with fatigue. “Will it help you?”
“I’m all right, son.”
“Really?” He glanced toward the house. “I’ve never seen the place so neglected.”
“I’ve been meaning to get around to those gutters. Just can’t seem to gather up the desire to do anything about it.”
“What about the store? You sold the inventory and closed it months ago, have you thought about selling the building?”
“I should, it just seems like a lot of effort.”
“Have you considered speaking with Doctor Yarborough? Maybe she can prescribe—”
Dad held up his hand. “The type of healing we need doesn’t come from a bottle.”
Chase agreed, but aside from putting Eason away, he was at a loss for suggestions. Again, the weight of responsibility intensified. If he didn’t come through, no telling what would happen to his family. Jake would be all right, but Chase wasn’t sure about his parents. And, what of Sierra? She’d held it together well enough, considering. How would she handle it if Eason did manage to evade capture?
“It’s not all up to you, you know.” Dad’s voice held conviction. “Not one of us is ever alone. Even if it feels like it.”
“I know. There are plenty of other officers looking for Eason.”
“That’s not what I’m referring to.” His father pointed up above. “God’s with us.”
“You’ve continued to go to church, then?” Although Chase had turned from God for a time, he’d begun to see how foolish the decision had been. He didn’t want his parents making the same mistake. “How about Mom?”
“Well, we both go. Difference is, I go to hear the sermons and your Mom goes during the week to pray.” His father clapped him on the shoulder. “We’re going to be all right. Don’t you worry. Ready to go in? These ribs are just about done.”
The wet drizzle turned into solid droplets, splattering on the lawn. “Good timing.” Chase turned to go inside, then paused. “Thanks for having us here. Sierra needs a place where she can feel welcome and secure.”
“Well, she’s certainly welcome here. But, I think you’re the one who makes her feel secure.”
“Why do you say that?”
“She’s sticking with you when she doesn’t have to. Jake said she has a sister. Sierra could’ve gone to stay with her, right?”
“She could have, but she didn’t want to put Piper in danger. She didn’t want to put you and Mom in jeopardy, either, but I convinced her Eason wouldn’t look here.”
“You sure? Seems if this guy showed up clear cross country after her, he might just track her down here—I say let him. My shotgun’s ready and loaded.”
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Chase touched his holstered gun. “I’m ready too, but just in case, I’ll call in a favor to the Granite Falls, P.D. Jimmy owes me for rounding up those two car thieves last summer. I’ll ask him to have a patrol car drive by every hour.” Then, maybe he could relax enough to enjoy his family’s company—at least for one night. Tomorrow would be another story.
Dad—seemingly satisfied with the plan—placed the ribs onto a platter. “Sierra’s a special woman.”
“How do you know? You haven’t met her yet.”
“I don’t need to meet her to know she’s got something worth fighting for. You wouldn’t have brought her here otherwise.”
Chase wanted to argue that he would’ve brought any woman Eason was trying to kill, but stopped himself short of saying it. Truth was, he’d wanted Sierra to meet his family. He’d wanted to see for himself if she could fit into his life. Dad was right, his decision to bring Sierra here was more personal than he’d let himself believe.
Which is exactly why I will have to let her go. Sierra needed her freedom. She deserved it. Hopefully she’d have it soon. Tomorrow he’d hunt for Eason, and with any luck, put him where he’d never be able to threaten Sierra again.
His father waved toward the house. “Let’s get inside, son. We’re going to be drenched as it is.”
Thinking about Sierra, Chase had forgotten it had started to rain. His shirt, damp and cold felt like a wet rag plastered to his chest and shoulders. He turned and headed inside, glancing toward the surrounding trees for signs of Eason.
Assaulted by rain, leaves shook, hanging low on branches. A rabbit bounded through underbrush, and birds nested in trees. All seemed to be normal, everyday occurrences. Satisfied nothing was out of place, Chase shoved aside his unsettling thoughts and climbed up the concrete porch steps with his dad close behind.
Chase opened the back door and delicious aromas greeted him, along with sprinkles of laughter. His mother stood by the stove as Sierra added cinnamon to some kind of dessert, a glowing smile on her face. Suddenly, he didn’t feel so cold anymore.
21
“There you are,” Eliza turned from the stove. “I was beginning to think you two decided to keep those ribs all to yourselves.”
Chase stood in the doorway, a wet shirt clinging to his broad shoulders and a boyish grin encompassing his features. “There’s something on your face.”
“Oh.” Sierra smoothed a hand over her lips. “Bread pudding? I only took one teeny sample—”
“No. It’s not food. It’s a smile. I haven’t seen you wearing one before.”
Speechless, Sierra could only stare back. She had been smiling. In fact, she was still smiling. Eliza had not only erased her fears of not being welcomed into the Price’s home, she’d made Sierra feel as if she was actually helping by being there. “I’ve been known to smile now and then.”
“I like it.”
Pleasure spiraled through Sierra, and her spirits lifted higher. She hadn’t been so at ease in a very long time. She no longer felt alone, and for once, she felt as if Kevin wasn’t an immediate threat.
A tall man standing behind Chase tapped his shoulder. “I’d like to see that smile too, if you don’t mind letting me in out of this rain.”
Chase stepped to the side. “Oops. Forgot you were out there.”
“Uh huh.” The man grunted, but couldn’t hide the mirth in his eyes. “Seein’ as how my son has lost his manners somewhere between here and Virginia, I’ll introduce myself. I’m Eddie, Chase’s father.” He set down the platter and offered his hand.
The resemblance between father and son was remarkable. Both had emerald eyes, and their strong, angled jaws all but mirrored each other. Although Chase’s father’s hair had grayed at the temples, traces of rich, dark color still remained.
“It’s nice to meet you.” Sierra shook his calloused hand.
“I’m usually better at introductions.” Chase grinned, keeping his gaze on Sierra. “Guess I got a little distracted.”
Warmth crept up Sierra’s cheeks at his unabashed approval. Apparently, he really did like her smile.
“No worries. A beautiful woman has a way of doing that.” Chase’s dad winked at her. “I’m glad you’re here.”
“Thank you.”
As Chase’s mom and dad moved about the kitchen preparing dinner, Sierra stood by and watched. She had no doubt losing Amber had put a tremendous strain on their marriage, but they had endured the hardship, evident by the way they worked alongside each other as a team—as if each anticipated the other’s next move.
As Sierra’s thoughts turned serious, her lighthearted mood shifted, and an ache grew in her chest. She had yearned for love before, and it had nearly gotten her killed. Her mind warned her not to want a relationship again, not to take the chance, but her heart told her otherwise. She glanced at Chase, knowing deep down if anyone was worth the risk, it would be him. But, she wasn’t the same outgoing woman she’d been a year ago. Kevin had stolen so much from her, stripped her of her confidence and turned her into a bundle of nerves. Was there anything left of her to love?
Chase watched her with keen-eyed interest as he stepped close. “What are you thinking?”
His damp, earthy scents cascaded around her. Craving some sort of physical contact, she touched his shoulder. “You’re cold. You’d better change.”
“I do need to change, but I doubt that’s what you were thinking about a moment ago.” He took her hand, laced his fingers with hers and tugged her out of the kitchen.
“Where are we going?”
Without answering, Chase led the way to a door down the hall. He opened it and turned on the light. A bathroom with pink tiled flooring and flowery wallpaper greeted them, along with a sweet scented air freshener. “Pink’s Mom’s favorite color, can you tell?”
“It’s nice.”
Chase stepped inside, tugging her along.
“What are you—?”
Taking her by the shoulders, he turned her to face the mirror and stood behind her. “Look at yourself. Tell me what you see.”
“What?” She crinkled her brows. “I don’t understand.”
“Just tell me. And be honest.”
“I…” What did she see? If she were to be completely candid, she’d admit she was looking at a stranger. Too dark hair framed her face, and haunted eyes stared back. “I see someone else. This isn’t me, Chase. I wish you could’ve known me before.”
“You mean before Eason transformed you into an undesirable cast away?”
Sierra’s breath caught in her throat. “W-what?”
“That’s what you see, isn’t it?” As if she were breakable, he gently trailed his knuckles across her cheek, and then lifted her hair away from her face. “I saw the way you were looking at my parents, as if you didn’t think such real love could possibly be in your future.” He removed his wet shirt and tossed it aside before wrapping his arms around her and pulling her back against his chest. His cool skin absorbed her warmth, and heat radiated between them. “Let me tell you what I see.”
Sierra dropped her gaze.
“Look in the mirror,” he coaxed.
She forced her eyes to her reflection. What could he possibly see that she couldn’t?
“When I look at you”—he lowered his head and whispered close to her ear—”I see a beautiful, desirable woman filled with compassion and love waiting to be released. You’re exactly what dreams are made of, Sierra.”
She couldn’t breathe, and it took her a moment to regain her voice. “I haven’t thought of myself as desirable since—”
“Since Eason convinced you otherwise?”
“I tried to ignore his cutting remarks, but…I guess some of them sank in.”
“Eason is a fool.” Chase moved aside her hair, exposing her neck. He placed a warm, lingering kiss on her tender skin. “You have no idea what you do to me, do you?”
A powerful physical awareness swept through Sierra. Chase held her as if she
were priceless, making her feel loved, accepted, and wanted. Snuggled in his strong arms, she looked again at her reflection. “I only hope one day I’ll see what you see.”
He placed his chin on the top of her head. “I tell you what. I’ll just keep reminding you how beautiful you are. How does that sound?”
“I suppose it would be a start.” She smiled then, and she did see traces of her old self begin to show through. “I am looking forward to changing my hair color back to normal.”
“You will have your life back, soon.”
“I hope so.” But, how long did Chase want to be part of her life? Her smile faded and her brows wrinkled. “What happens when—”
“Shh.” His warm breath caressed her as he planted a kiss on her cheek. “Let’s not worry about anything tonight, OK?”
The thought of taking a break from her problems, if only for one evening, sounded wonderful. “All right.” Her gaze landed on his bandaged arm. “But, I should look at that.” She wiggled from his embrace. “You shouldn’t have carried in the luggage.”
He caught her hand as she reached for him. “My arm is fine.” He turned her palm up toward his lips and pressed a soft kiss to her sensitive skin, keeping his gaze locked with hers. “You just concentrate on taking care of yourself. You need some good food, and rest. Speaking of which, dinner’s probably ready. Why don’t you go ahead and freshen up? I’m going to find a replacement shirt.” He slowly released her hand, scooped up the wet garment and tossed it across his shoulder. With a parting glance, he left the room and shut the door behind him.
Cool air replaced his presence, but Sierra still tingled with warmth, and her palm had ignited into flames. She hoped Chase wanted to be a part of her future, because at this point, she didn’t think she’d have much of one without him. If she’d thought herself in love with him before, now she knew without a doubt that her heart had been taken hostage, captured by the one man who had the power to send her to her knees with a gentle touch.
