by P. L. Harris
Two ladies fussed busily behind the counter, serving customers. One looked to be in her late fifties, the other well into her seventies. He presumed the older of the two must be Ginger, sporting a name like that. He waited in a line that dwindled quickly with the efficient service and smiled as the ladies turned to greet him. He did not miss the glint of appreciation in the elder of the two ladies’ eyes as she looked him up and down. He returned her grin cheekily.
“What can we get you today?” she asked.
“I’ll take it all,” he said.
The ladies laughed.
“I’m actually looking for Ginger Meek.”
“Lachlan Fraser?” she asked.
“Yes ma’am, that’s me.”
“Well, you’ve certainly come to the right place. She’s out back. Take a seat, we’ll fix you a nice cup of tea.” The older lady said kindly.
Lachlan nodded, “That would be great, thanks. Black, no sugar.” He watched as the younger lady of the two walked into the back room calling, “Ginger, there’s a fine young gentleman here to see you.”
He wandered to a table near the window and pulled out a chair, chuckling quietly. Fine young gentleman. That was something his nana had called him and his brothers since they could walk. A sigh left his lips and he looked out the window; heart aching from missing her.
Within a handful of minutes, a plate of sandwiches and a piece of pavlova topped with fruit and a dollop of passionfruit curd was placed in front of him, with a pot of tea and two cups. His mouth watered.
“Are you married?” He laughed happily before lifting eyes towards his server, expecting to see the older lady, but his breath caught at the delectable vision before him. A gorgeous figure with gentle curves wrapped up in a short green dress, with a tidy white apron tied around her waist. He spotted small, white sneakers before she plopped down in the seat opposite him offering a small hand to shake.
“Hi Lachlan, I’m Ginger, nice to meet you, and no, not married.” She flashed him a brilliant smile as she tilted her head, causing silky red hair to spill over her shoulder from her high ponytail.
“Nice to meet you,” Extremely nice, he shook her hand. Her skin, pale and smooth as a newborn’s behind, had a sprinkling of stardust freckles across high cheekbones and a pert little nose. He watched her blue eyes sparkle brightly, as her pretty lips formed a friendly smile.
GINGER MEEK WAS JUST as happy to sit there and look at Lachlan Fraser, as he seemed to be looking at her. Gorgeous male specimen that he was, smelling divine and looking delectable as firm chest muscles rippled under his tight T-shirt when he moved. She imagined what being in his arms would feel like- pure heaven, no doubt. Reality quickly chased her daydream away. She’d been alone for far too long, but that’s the way she liked it after being used and thrown to the curb by her last ideal romance. Lachlan Fraser wasn’t going to be here long enough anyway, to return any of her silly fantasies. Yet, her heart skipped a beat all on its own, simply by looking at him. She held in a sigh and poured them both a cup of tea.
“Thank you,” he said graciously, before taking a roast beef and spicy relish sandwich. He moaned in pleasure. “Tastiest sandwich I’ve had since the last one my nana made me.”
She laughed over the rim of her teacup. “I’ll take that as the highest compliment. There’s nothing as wholesome or more precious than family recipes passed down. Everything in our cases reflect that.”
“I look forward to sampling them all. I’m a huge sweets guy.”
“Wait till you taste my fluff.”
His hand trembled just a little, as it stopped in mid-air halfway to his mouth. “Excuse me?”
She burst out laughing at his bewildered expression. “God, sorry, that didn’t come out right. My ginger-fluff, it’s my speciality and the only family recipe I’ve improved upon.”
She watched as he nodded, popping the remainder of the sandwich into his mouth, chewing slowly. Heat rose up her neck to settle in her cheeks as his penetrating gaze focused entirely on her, stirring a flutter of butterflies in her stomach. He washed his sandwich down with tea, before reaching for the slice of pavlova.
“Nice place to work,” he waved his spoon around, before tucking in.
“Yes, it’s my pride and joy. This building has been in my family for generations. It’s transitioned from a blacksmiths, to a grocery store, then a dressmakers, and was the town’s post office until 1882. This building, like a lot in town, has seen a very colourful past since the goldmining rush from 1850 and onwards.” She indicated to the photographs on the wall that portrayed an era where country folk worked hard and enjoyed the simple things life had to offer, reflecting pride and contentment in a small Australian town.
As Ginger spoke of the shop’s history, she watched with satisfaction as Lachlan took his first mouthful of pavlova. Eyes closed; he made a surprised sound. It may have looked like a simple pavlova, but it was anything but. Bursts of citrus combined with sweet honey and crushed pistachios would be dancing over his tongue, along with lemon curd and thick cream, flavoured with secret spices.
She took the opportunity to take a real good look at him while he was lost in her world of flavour. Sandy-brown hair fell dishevelled into eyes that had a caramel glow to them, when he had stared at her moments before. A smile that hinted at kindness set in an extremely attractive face. Those sixteen years as a carpenter that he’d marked on his resume, had certainly paid off, and had sculpted his upper torso to absolute perfection. She couldn’t wait to view the rest.
His eyes opened, meeting hers, and her cheeks warmed again at being sprung staring.
He grinned. “This is beyond delicious,” he pointed his spoon towards his plate.
You are totally scrumptious.
But said instead. “Thanks. Once you finish up, I’ll take you to the cottage; it’s just up the road. You can settle in for a few days before you start work on the renovation if you like.” She topped up his tea.
He shook his head. “I won’t need a few days,” he finished off the pavlova and reached for his teacup. “I’m more than happy to start tomorrow. Once I see the space, I’ll work on a few designs and we’ll see which one aligns with your vision.”
“That sounds great! It’s the empty shop next door.”
He nodded. “That’s handy. Give me a quick outline of what you’re planning.”
“I want to create a warm, opulent space with a touch of old-world charm, to complement Ginger’s Delights. A lounge section with wingback armchairs and a chesterfield 3-seater. The walls lined with shelves to be filled with books and scented candles. In the front section, a long trestle table with low padded stools for social gatherings.”
“Who do you see using the space?” He took another mouthful of tea, eyes unblinkingly focused as they swept over her, as if she were sitting there stark naked. She shivered in pleasure at the mere thought, trying not to squirm in her seat; this man was too good-looking, for her own good.
“Anyone who needs time out for themselves. The districts writers’ and book club have already booked in, despite the unknown opening date. Teachers want to hold their fortnightly meetings there, along with the bowls and pony club. I’ll be hosting a high tea once a month for charities in the Greater Bendigo and surrounding towns, to support those who have fallen on tough times in the community.” Her eyes sparkled with excitement, and by the look on his face, he was getting caught up in her enthusiasm for the renovation project.
He tilted his head. “It sounds great. I can hand-craft tables from recycled timber and do your wall shelving with a bevelled finish.” He rubbed his hands together enthusiastically. “Can’t wait to get started. Got a name for it yet?”
She nodded. “Blue Eucy Lounge. Inglewood is the heart of Eucalyptus country.”
He smiled, “Yeah, I did my research.”
Ginger raised an eyebrow, impressed. “I want to make the front section a little bit special, maybe a stained-glass window?”
He nodded. �
�I actually have an idea, but we’ll get to that.”
Ginger grinned. “Teamwork, I like it. I’m also hoping to knock out a section of wall and put a stable doorway between Ginger’s Delight and the Blue Eucy Lounge.”
“We can certainly do that if it’s not a load bearing wall.” He said.
“Great. Lou, Sal,” she called to the ladies who had popped into the back of the shop, “I’m taking Lachlan to the cottage, I’ll be back soon.”
“No worries,” Sal called out.
Lachlan gathered up the used dishes and crossed over, placing them on the counter. “Thank you,” he called, walking to open the door for Ginger.
She smiled as she walked by him, catching his delectable scent, before bending to kiss her aunts, who were beaming at him. “Lachlan, these are my two favourite aunts.”
Lachlan inclined his head. “Yes, we met earlier.”
“We certainly did,” Edna grinned, leaning forward.
Ginger caught the glint of mischief in Edna’s eyes, and knowing how forthright and blunt she could be at times, quickly asked. “Did you enjoy afternoon tea, Aunties?”
“Oh yes dear, it was lovely, thank you,” Betty smiled, patting the soft head of the Border Collie.
“Oh, hello, Lizard.” Ginger dropped to her knees to stroke the pretty dog’s face, her silky fur a luxury to touch. “I’ve been expecting you, and the yard has water and food waiting.”
“Thanks for that.” Lachlan reached down to stroke Lizard’s neck. The dog leaned against his leg, as Ginger rubbed her gently. A man with a kind smile who seemed to thoroughly enjoy her creations and loved animals. Tick, tick, tick. She jumped as his fingers stroked over hers and she quickly got to her feet, shaking off the fact that his touch had sent a jolt of delicious energy down her spine.
“Do you want me to give you a lift home?” she asked as Edna reached for her walker.
“No thank you dear, we’re going to the pub for a nice cold beer with Ms V. Come on Betty, hurry it up.”
“Nothing like a cold beer on a hot day.” Lachlan agreed, taking out his car keys.
“Absolutely. We’ll see you at dinner on Sunday, dear boy.” Betty said, following Edna. Lachlan turned to Ginger; an eyebrow raised in question.
“Once my aunts knew you were staying in my cottage, they insisted they’d treat you to Sunday dinner. They cook once a week for myself and a few locals. It’s actually a lot of fun.” She shrugged, following him to his car and getting into the passenger side, as Lizard jumped up to sit in between them.
He backed out carefully and followed her directions to her house, with wraparound porch, lush lawns, vibrant gardens, and a charming exterior. Country living at its finest. Ghost Gums swayed in the breeze beside peppercorn trees and the delightful scent of eucalyptus from the Blue Mallee trees lingered in the air.
“Smells like Christmas,” he whispered, as he stepped out of the Rover. Lizard shot out, black coat glistening in the sun as she danced around his legs.
“Pretty,” he gazed admiringly at her property, before reaching into the back of the Rover, pulling out a large duffel bag.
She looked at her garden through a newcomer’s eyes, and had to admit, it was an absolute picture that looked like it had rolled off the pages of Better Homes and Gardens.
“Thanks,” she said, opening the white picket gate, walking under an arbour of red roses.
“Oh my God,” Lachlan stopped, taking a deep breath. “What is that?”
“Loving memory. I planted all these roses with my aunts after my parents died.” Ginger smiled wistfully, “And now they are all around me.”
She met his gaze, “Ready for the tour?”
“Lead the way.” He nodded and followed her into the house. Natural light flowed in through the open windows, wooded floorboards worn, scattered with rugs, from the front door, past a living room furnished with comfortable, rustic pieces, to a large open kitchen that sparkled and gleamed. An entire wall of bio-fold doors opened up onto a backyard that, if possible, was more glorious than the front. Ginger was proud to show it off as she watched Lachlan’s eyes take in her home.
“Ever thought of running a Bed and Breakfast?” he asked.
“I have actually but with the patisserie I haven’t, as yet had the time. I hope you’ll be happy with the cottage.” She led him out to a garden that looked like a tropical paradise, under a canopy of tall, Sapphire Dragon and fruit trees before reaching what looked like a typical miner’s cottage. Small, rectangle no fuss, but oozed old-world charm. She opened the door for him and was pleased to see he looked impressed with the inviting, comfortable space.
“There’s a small area to make a sandwich and a cuppa,” she followed him in. “But part of the deal with your pay and living arrangements was that I’d cook for you.” She stroked Lizard who had sat quietly near her feet. “Cooking for two is easier than cooking for one, believe it or not.”
He placed his duffel bag onto the bed and turned to face her. “Thank you, it’s perfect.”
He looked perfect, standing there all tall dark and handsome near the bed. Heat filled her cheeks as she imagined him laying there, gloriously naked. She had to put a stop to this fantasy, of him fitting into her life. He was here for a job, then, he’d be gone. She was used to people leaving her. She’d get over it. But why did her heart hurt at the thought? She walked over to a side door to his bathroom and stopped abruptly, not realising he’d followed so closely. As she turned, they collided, and Ginger gasped as she stumbled backwards.
He quickly caught her arms, steadying her.
“Sorry,” she smiled, looking up at him, breath catching in her throat. At this close proximity, his good attributes were magnified. His molten caramel gaze intensified, and her lips parted in pleasure as she once again caught his intoxicating scent; a mix of mandarin, orange, white cardamom, patchouli, and bergamot clouded her senses as a recipe began forming in her mind.
His eyes dropped to her lips, before meeting her gaze, then rubbed her arms gently before releasing her, shoving his hands in his pockets, smiling.
“All good, what’s out here?” he asked, curiously.
“It’s your outdoor bathroom,” she turned, taking a steadying breath to slow her accelerating heartrate, and to clear her head. She shouldn’t have enjoyed his hands on her quite so much.
It was more than just an outdoor bathroom. A shower stall with Bamboo panels stood opposite a clawfoot tub, overlooking a pond where goldfish swam lazily. Banana palms and twelve-foot Elephant ears shaded the area as bursts of potted colour added warmth to the shadows. She watched his eyes widen.
“An oasis in the bush. I feel I should be paying you to stay here.”
“I’m so glad you like it,” she laughed, eyes twinkling.
“Do you want a lift back? It will give me a chance to check out the space, get some design ideas and take measurements.”
“Sure, thanks.” She smiled up at him, her mouth-watering for a taste of those perfectly male shaped lips. His expression reflected hers of, ‘wanting-a-nibble.’ Their eyes remained locked.
“Let’s go.” She burst out, breaking the sexual tension that was building between them, and headed towards the door.
His low chuckle followed her. “See you later girl.” He said to Lizard.
SEVERAL WEEKS LATER, after Ginger had turned the closed sign on Ginger’s Delights, she walked through the adjoining stable door, and into the Blue Eucy Lounge.
Lachlan had just hung a chandelier in the centre of a colonial style rosette and was admiring his work. He grinned at Ginger. “What do you think?”
She passed him a slice of ginger-fluff, his first sample. She brought him something different to taste each afternoon.
“It’s stunning.” The space was sublimely breathtaking.
“Ready for the big reveal?” He pointed to the drop sheet covering the stained-glass window.
“Absolutely,” she returned his enthusiastic smile.
“Go
for it.” He took a mouthful of the sponge, watching as she crossed over and tugged the sheet down. Her gasp of surprise made him chuckle.
“Lachlan, this is perfect,” tears of happiness filled her eyes. A Blue Mallee stood along the Loddon river, under an Australian sky so blue.
He grinned, “Love a happy client.”
She smiled softly, wishing he would stop reminding her she was just a client to him. Nothing more, nothing less. She swallowed the lump of regret in her throat. It was almost time for him to leave, and she wasn’t ready for that.
He took a mouthful of the ginger fluff, and sighed. “Sheer heaven. I’m going to miss eating your sweet delights, although, my waistline won’t.”
“You can always say no,” she shrugged.
He grinned down at her. “I could never say no to you.” He took another mouthful as a dollop of cream fell from the fluffy sponge to land on the plate.
Ginger scooped it up with her finger, planning on licking it off, when Lachlan grabbed her wrist, and slowly drew her hand towards his lips. Her breath froze. Butterflies and high emotions danced in her stomach.
Lachlan smiled as he gently took her finger into his mouth and sucked the cream off.
“Mm, yum.” He said softly, eyes locked with hers.
Butterflies swarmed in Ginger’s belly, as her heart raced. Taking a deep breath, she quickly tugged her hand free, caught in his gaze, like a moth to the flame.
She saw a frown cross his face at her expression. “Ginger, I’m sorry.” He took a step forward, as she took one back.
A look of angst spread across his handsome features, before she turned and fled from the room, and out into the night.
“GINGER,” LACHLAN CALLED as he opened her front door, hearing her in the kitchen. “Ginger?”
He’d known before she had fled, that he didn’t want to be parted from her. He had found his forever home, here with her. In this tiny town, where neighbours looked after neighbours. The thought of having to leave in a day’s time, wasn’t a pleasant one.
