'I'll get the beers and a glass of water for myself,' said Samantha.
'Thanks Sammy.' Jordan eased down onto a chair, and Mark sat at the end of the table.
'So how's things going? I didn't know you were in the area.'
'We called in for a quick catch up. We've been busy with the property and organising things for the baby and wanted to ask you something. I'll wait until Samantha comes outside.'
'And you couldn't do it by phone?'
'Not this.'
'It must be important.'
'It is. I'd like Sammy to be present when we ask you.'
'Sammy does look good for someone that's pregnant.'
'She is, mate. She's as healthy as a mallee bull. How's things with you?'
'I got a shocker a while back. Guess who's back in town?'
Jordan grinned and as he waited, he studied Mark’s face. 'You haven't a clue have you?'
'Here you go.' Samantha placed the stubby bottles on the table in front of the men. 'You still going on about Jordan being alone?' She directed her gaze at her husband and sat beside him.
'I don't think Michelle would want you to be alone mate. You've been working yourself to the bone lately. No fun and well, other stuff.'
Jordan laughed, picked up his stubby and snapped the top before taking a long swig.
'Ease off Mark. If it's meant to be, it's meant to be. The right woman will walk into town one day, and well. It'll be all wedding and babies.'
Jordan let out another deep chuckle wondering where this would take him. God he loved his best mates. He'd known them since high school and they bonded like blood.
'Well,' said Samantha.
Mark grinned, rolled the sleeves of his blue checked flannelette shirt up to his elbows and picked up the stubby bottle. 'I can't win. She's always right.'
Samantha slapped him playfully on the shoulder. 'Yeah and this baby is hearing everything you say.' She rubbed a hand over her eight-month swell.
'Sorry tiger,' Mark said to her stomach.
'It's going to be a little girl, a tigress.'
Jordan loved the respect they held for each other. Loved the way they bantered openly in front of anyone. His best mates knew his heart, knew it was anchored on his sleeve for that special woman.
'Jordan. Come in, Jordan. You're off with the damn cows again.'
Jordan snapped from his reverie.
'They say you never forget your first love but don't you think you should move on?' Samantha questioned.
'I tried that remember?' Jordan stilled, sculled a mouthful of beer. 'I even dream about her on the occasion.'
'You mean to say the dreams are back?'
'Yeah. Pretty much constant now.'
'I thought they left when you met Michelle.'
They did but as I said, they're knocking me out. They're pretty damn vivid. Some scenes are disturbing.'
'What do you mean?' Samantha leaned closer toward the table.
'Well there's this woman yelling at Zoe, more like screaming. I see a strap and this woman orders her around like a dog. I can't make it out.'
'I think your brain is that wound up about her, everything is getting mixed up in there. Let it go. It's going to bring you down even more.'
'It won't. She's back.'
Mark and Samantha stilled, gazing at him.
'Come again, mate?' Mark said.
'What? Do you mean Zoe?'
'Sure do. Zoe Montgomery is back in town.'
Samantha covered her mouth. Mark straightened his back.
'Here in Munna?'
'Yep.'
'Hell...have you spoken to her?'
After Jordan explained the events surrounding Zoe's disappearance, Samantha looked like someone that had been hit over the head with a shovel, and Mark's face revealed a touch of relief mixed with curiosity.
'So there's hope for you yet mate.'
'I'm not too sure about that.' Jordan remarked, and leant back in his chair.
'Oh poor Zoe. That means she won't remember us. So does this mean she doesn't remember what...anything...us...school...no one?' Tears filled her eyes.
'That about sums it up.'
'I can't believe it. A lot of people thought she was dead, that she was kidnapped.'
'Yeah, everyone had their own story to tell. One thing, we'll have to take it slow.'
'Yeah, you especially. Have you told her much about that night, or the past?'
'No. I want to get to know her a bit and then tell her what I know. It's the only way I can envisage getting through this in one piece.'
'Sounds like a plan.'
'I need one, that's for sure. So how long are you staying?'
'Two nights, that is if you don't mind?'
Jordan laughed. 'You could stay permanently and I wouldn't mind Sammy. You can have my bed. I'll sleep on the couch.'
Mark shook his head. 'You sure mate? We can stay at the motel in town.'
Jordan moved forward, the stubby in one hand. 'No bloody mates of mine are shacking up at the Banners’. That place is so small and well Ned and Sally aren't too fond of us remember? I'd love to have you both.'
'That's settled then.'
'Banner was a friend with old Wright wasn't he? Remember him?'
'I'll never forget.' Mark let out a heartfelt chuckle.
'Wright didn't take too kindly to us when we blew up his mailbox after leaving primary school. I don't think he ever got over it. He shoots me that glare each time I see him in town.'
'I can't believe Zoe is back. Are you sure she hasn't said anything about where she's been?' Samantha sniffled a few times.
'She's said a bit about staying with an aunt. But it didn't sound too good.'
'I can't help thinking the worst. At least she's back home. It's like a miracle come true.' Samantha gazed at Jordan as tears brimmed to her cheeks.
'Hey. It's not something to get all sad about.'
'Yeah, but it was the not knowing. All those years we wondered what happened to her. I was so scared for her. Don't forget we were only young. Poor Zoe. We all had dreams in those days. Then it suddenly everything changed. It was a scary time. And you Jordan, you've waited for this day for so long. You wanted her to return, you never gave up on her. Did you tell her you set out on a search party at least twice a year looking for her, and that you'd covered most of Australia in the process?'
'She wouldn't want to hear that. I don't want to scare her off. It's slow and steady, remember?'
'Since when have you ever been slow and steady? I can see this unfolding before my eyes.' Mark grinned.
'I'll give it my best shot.'
'No doubt you will Jordan. No doubt you will.'
'What does she look like?'
Jordan rested back in his seat, and a grin stretched across his face. 'Well, she's got beautiful silky hair, and eyes that knock me off my feet.'
'That happened when you were young. I recall you saying,' Mark said.
'You've never stopped loving a ghost have you?'
'Sammy.'
'Well it's true Mark. Jordan didn't know if she was dead or alive, yet he still loved her. He still held on for all these years. It sounds so romantic.'
The men laughed.
'Anyhow, what brought you here? You said you had something to ask me, or to tell me.'
Mark sat forward in his chair. 'Sammy and I wondered if you'd be godfather for our child when he or she is born. If anything happens to us, well, you get the job.' Mark grinned.
'You know I'd love to, Mark. Sammy. Hell, it'd be a privilege.'
'We thought you'd say yes. It means a lot to us Jordan.'
'I know. After all, you two are Luke's godparents.'
'Thanks Jordan,' Sammy said, her cheeks beaming.
'Seeing it is Saturday arvo how about you come with me into town for a feed? I've got to pick up Luke from Mum and Dad's first.'
'Sounds good. I can't wait to see him. How's he been? I bet he's grown.'
'Yeah, he
's a good kid. Come on. Finish up. It's almost time get going.'
***
Zoe grabbed her handbag and locked the front door. She walked up along the path and turned back gazing at Montagreen. It felt good. Everything felt right. She was celebrating tonight, alone, and she wondered what Jordan was having for supper. One thing on her to buy list wasn't a barbeque, and her stomach wouldn't let up with the craving for a good steak. She closed the black wrought iron gate behind her as pride and contentment filled her body.
As she drove into town, she glanced at the ochre sunset spearing across the sky and wished she had someone to share it with, wished... she reprimanded herself. She was lucky to have escaped her aunt, let alone wish for anything more. She should be grateful, having a roof over her head and a place to call home, without having to live in fear.
The dry heat sat heavy in the atmosphere, and with her window down, the drum of the tyres over the bitumen road, the occasional squawk of a bird and the humming of insects broke the silence.
One hour later, she slowed her ute and crawled down the main street. She glanced about, noticing the growing number of cars parked out the front of the pub, and she hoped she wasn't too late to put in a meal order.
Zoe stepped from her ute, and ran a hand down the side of her jeans, her gaze fleeting in all directions. She adjusted her ice blue top and swung her bag over her shoulder. After closing the door of the ute, she stepped up onto the footpath and headed toward the pub.
A few stares from the surrounding men had her on edge as she walked into the pub. The meal area was to one side, and she wove a path through the crowd to join the line-up. Fifteen minutes later, holding a number in her hand, she turned, looking for a spare table.
Standing on tiptoes was the only way to see above the many heads as she tried to find a vacant seat. Wolf whistles echoed above the crowd, and Zoe's cheeks filled with heat.
'Zoe, over here.'
She glanced around and spotted Jordan standing at a table with his son and another couple.
She made her way over, and stopped by the table. 'Hi Jordan. I didn't expect it to be so busy.'
'Saturday nights are usually flat out. We've got a vacant seat if you'd like to join us.'
Zoe flicked his friends an uneasy glimpse, but what choice did she have? The place was full and she'd already paid for her meal. 'Thank you.'
Jordan pulled out the chair next to him and Zoe slipped onto it feeling uncomfortable. Everyone in the place was staring, and she didn't know what to do or say.
'It's okay. They are probably wondering what happened to you. I think....hell I forgot to introduce you, sorry.'
Zoe gave a polite nod toward the strange couple and a smile touched her lips.
'Zoe this is Samantha and Mark Butterworth. Most people call her Sam, or Sammy and Mark's just Mark.'
The men chuckled.
'It's nice to meet you Zoe,' Samantha said, gazing at the woman that was once a close and dear friend.
'Same here, Zoe. Jordan's told us a bit about you.'
'It's nice to meet some of Jordan's friends.' Zoe smiled again, shifted her feet under the table, and dropped her hands in her lap.
She looked at Jordan, and then to Luke who sat on his left side.
'Hello Luke. You're quiet.'
'Dad said I can't talk unless someone talks to me. Thanks for talking to me Zoe.'
'How did the present go?'
'She loved it. Dad said next time I go to a party we might invite you to help pick out the present. It was the best present she got.'
'That's good to hear.'
'You've ordered I see.'
'Hey mate. Who's your friend?' someone yelled from the crowd, and it appeared to be coming from the bar area.
Zoe dipped her head, trying not to be so conspicuous, but she knew it wasn't working. Everyone in the place spotted the new face in town.
'Hey Zoe; do you mind if I shut them up for a while? You have to let people know what happened to you, otherwise this could go on forever,' Jordan said in a hushed tone.
'Really?'
'The people who knew you are curious, and don't understand why or how it took so long for you to return. Perhaps they think you've come back from the dead. The men who don't know you think some hot chick has moved into town and they're ready to pounce on your bones.'
Zoe raised her eyebrows. 'Pounce on my bones.' She laughed. 'Do you think they'd do that?'
'It's an expression, but it'd be pretty close to the truth.'
'I can't stand up and announce I've come back from the dead.'
'Where did you come back from Zoe?'
Zoe looked over at Samantha, gathering they had once known one another. 'I was living with my aunt. Apparently she was in town the night of the fire, and she took me away that night not wanting me to face anything horrific.' Well most of it was the truth, there was no need to elaborate and she hoped it would be enough to settle the curiosity of the townsfolk. 'I've already discussed the issue about being listed as missing with Constable Berry. I had no idea.'
Jordan pushed upwards to his feet. 'Hey, can I have your attention everyone?' He knocked a fork against his stubble bottle. 'For everyone that doesn't know this young lady, her name is Zoe Montgomery. Zoe has been living with one of her aunts for the last fifteen years.' The roar of the crowd reverted to a mumble of whispers leaving a hum in its place.
Jordan looked at Zoe. 'Can I tell them about the missing part?'
Zoe nodded and Jordan continued. 'Zoe has spoken with Constable Berry here in Munna and discussed the circumstances surrounding being listed as missing. Zoe was unaware she was listed as missing. Tonight she's another local trying to get a feed and get on with life.'
A few voices called out, 'Yeah, thanks Jordan.' Another called out, 'She's a hot one.'
Zoe stared at the table.
'Looks like you've dug your claws into her already, Townsend.'
'Yeah well a leopard doesn't drop his spots when he loses a mate, he continues with hope.'
Embarrassment highlighted every part of exposed flesh Zoe owned, she was sure of it. Something about a leopard doesn't drop what, spots, loses a mate? Her stomach tensed as Jordan eased down on his seat. She looked at him and mouthed a thank you. He did the job well, and the bubble of curiosity reverted to chatter and laughter. In the background, a jukebox hammered out one of the latest songs.
'You look good, Zoe,' Samantha said across the table.
'Thank you. Um. Did we know each other...well...before?'
'Yes. We were all good friends.'
Zoe relaxed. They were strangers and for the life of her, she wished she could remember these lovely people. They were friendly and it was apparent they wanted to re-connect.
She flicked an uneasy glance about.
'Zoe is doing a great job with Montagreen. You should see it.'
'Jordan lies. He's the one that has transformed the place.'
The night continued without any disastrous interventions and Zoe relaxed in the company of Jordan's friends. Her steak dinner was superb and not overdone.
'I'm so full.'
'I gather you still have a hankering for steak.'
She gave Jordan a strange look.
'I'm sorry Zoe. You use to love steak. Never stopped raving on about how it's good for you and contains...what was it...iron.'
Her lips thinned. 'Well I still enjoy it.'
'So I noticed.' Everyone laughed.
'I was hungry.'
'I don't know where you put it all.'
'She's always had holla legs.'
'Very funny,' Zoe said, and loved the playful banter as Jordan's friends joined in.
'We should go Jordan. Samantha here tires out a bit earlier these days.'
When she stood, Zoe's eyes widened, spotting her swell. 'Oh, I had no idea. You look wonderful. When are you due?'
'Four weeks from yesterday.'
'Congratulations,' Zoe said, and noted the way Mark put his arm around his wif
e. They made a lovely couple.
'When we settle back in the area, you'll have to come over for a barbeque?'
'I'd love that, thank you.'
Zoe could see her life turning out well. Everything was going according to plan.
'We can take Luke back with us mate, if you'd like to spend some more time with Zoe and lend us your wheels.'
Zoe looked at Jordan who gave her a quick glance.
'I could give you a lift home,' Zoe suggested.
Jordan looked up at Mark. 'Yeah, thanks mate. We could talk some more about well...things.' He dug around in his pocket for his car keys and handed them to Mark.
Luke stood and turned to Zoe. He reached out and gave her the biggest hug she ever remembered receiving.
Jordan spoke up, 'Hey matey, easy on her. You might break her neck.'
Zoe grinned. 'I'm not that easily broken.'
'That I'm beginning to find out.'
Jordan waved Luke off with his friends and settled on his seat. 'Would you like another wine?'
'Thank you.'
When Jordan returned with a wine and a beer, he placed the wine glass on the table and sat on the vacant seat beside her.
'Thank you Jordan. Samantha and Mark are lovely people.'
Jordan explained some of their childhood and when he'd finished she found out they were tagged with the name the awesome foursome. At least an hour had passed and Zoe realised for the first time in her life she was comfortable and relaxed. Her jaw was beginning to ache from laughing so much.
'I've got an early start in the morning,' Jordan said.
'That's right, I'm giving you a lift.' She flicked him a sideways glance.
'You scared someone is going to run off with me if you leave without me?'
'There's a possibility.' She grinned.
He chuckled. 'Come on. Let's head off.' He pushed to his feet.
When she stood, Jordan's hand rested over the small of her back and it didn't move until they were out on the footpath heading toward her car. His hand felt good, and Zoe couldn't shake the feeling that this man had touched her heart more than the few jackaroos she'd met at the Pattersons.
Moonlight filtered from behind a cloud, and not a puff of wind disturbed the still night. They walked side by side under the soft glow of a few streetlights.
'It's a beast. It's been making a few strange noises lately but it goes.' She flicked Jordan a nervous glance.
Outback Flames: Australian Rural Romantic Suspense Page 8
