I glance at him and then back at a display in the store. “Aiden, how did you figure out what to have at your house for me?”
“I came here, picked the brand that looked the nicest and told the saleslady I had a guest coming, but I wasn’t sure what she’d need. I told her to just give me whatever she thought would be good.”
“My goodness, that would have cost a lot.”
“Money is not an issue, and when it comes to you, no cost is too high. I don’t want you to ever want for anything, Holly.” He takes my hand and gives it a squeeze.
“Well, since being with you, I’ve learned I don’t need much. All I need is you.” I pause to look at Aiden before glancing back at the rows of cosmetics and skincare. “Have you always been this sweet?”
He shrugs as a blush crosses his cheeks.
I can’t help but laugh. “After giving me a hard time about not being able to take compliments, it seems you’re not one to take them easily either.”
We continue shopping a little longer before leaving to check into the hotel Aiden has booked for us.
On our way to the parking lot, Aiden glimpses down at our bags. “Do you think you have everything you need?”
I nod. “Yes, Aiden. Thank you for doing this.”
He puts his arm around me. “At least now I know you’ll have something warm at night when we go camping.”
I lean into his shoulder. “I doubt I’ll ever get cold if you’re wrapped around me.”
WE CHECK INTO what Aiden says is a heritage-listed hotel. Walking into the historic master suite, I’m transported back in time by the elegant, wooden antique furniture and what they call the emperor’s bed. The décor is quaint and enchanting, complete with a fireplace for a perfect romantic evening.
I lie on the bed, stretching out my arms above my head. Rolling onto my side, I can see out the large bay window. There’s a sloping view of tall trees and manicured, flower-filled gardens, a constant reminder of why they call Toowoomba the ‘Garden City’.
Aiden lies next to me. “I had a thought. There’s a phone here if you want to call Lisa.”
Rolling onto my back, my face lights up. “Actually, I think I will try to call her.”
He stands up. “I’ll leave you alone to do it.”
“Where are you going?”
“I’ll go take a walk, but don’t worry. I won’t be gone long. I’m going to call Toddy to check on things.” Aiden winks at me as he leaves the room.
I sit up and stare at the phone.
Am I ready to make this call? What do I say?
In my mind, I’ve rehearsed my story a million times, but I’m not sure the words will come out right when I actually say them.
I pick up the phone and dial slowly, almost hoping she won’t answer. Though I do miss my friend.
After two rings, she picks up.
My voice cracks as I speak. “Lisa, it’s Holly.”
Her voice comes across full of excitement. “Oh, girl. I’ve missed you. Where are you? Are you okay?”
Slowly, calculated, I let the words come out. “Yes, I’m better than okay. I’m really good.”
“Where are you? I’ve been worried sick.”
“I can’t tell you where I am, but I promise you, I’m safe and doing well.” My fingers swipe against the headboard but do not find any dust.
“Are you alone?”
“Yes.”
“If you say my full name, then I’ll know you need help.”
“I promise I am fine.”
“You aren’t somewhere being held against your will?”
“No.” While speaking, I fiddle with the stationary on the bedside table, moving it to sit evenly on top of the room service menu.
“Okay, honey. I believe you. If you are in trouble though, say the words, and I’ll do whatever it takes.”
“Lisa, honestly, I’m good. I’m having a bit of an adventure and one day I’ll tell you all about it in person.” As I speak, I aimlessly twist my knuckles in the cord of the old-fashioned phone.
“Girl, I don’t care what you’re doing as long as you’re safe and happy. I’ve been there with marriage issues, so I know what it’s like to want to disappear.”
“Have you talked to Tom?”
“Yes, I have. He called me once right after you went missing. Then the police talked to me, and I told them you were having issues in your marriage. Ever since then, he’s been convinced I’ve had something to do with you disappearing.”
“I’m sorry if he’s given you trouble. And I’m sorry if I’ve worried you. Everything just happened so fast and before I knew it, I was out on a property without any way to tell you what was going on.”
“Don’t you have your phone?”
“No, I lost it where my car was parked.”
“Hmm, I guess someone walking by picked it up.”
“What do you mean?”
“When they found your car, they didn’t find your phone or anything else for that matter. The police assumed it was probably with you wherever you were because no calls have been made on your account.”
“Umm, what are the police saying?”
“Nothing much. There were no clues and they ran out of leads. They investigated Tom as a suspect, but I’m not sure if they are doing much with that anymore. Without evidence of anything, they have just decided you didn’t want to be found.”
“Oh Lisa, it’s such a long story. One day I will tell you everything.” I pause, shuffling my feet against the thick carpet. “Please don’t tell anyone I called.”
“I won’t. Don’t worry, I understand. I’m just glad you’re okay. And there’s one good thing coming out of this. Our bosses are finally reviewing the security they have for us, or should I say, lack of security. Everyone was shocked when they found out how little they gave us in the rural centres. They are finally looking at dedicated, secured parking with video cameras and maybe even moving our offices to be part of the police station. It’s sad that it takes something bad happening to make a government want to act and protect its people.”
Aiden walks into the room.
“Lisa, I need to go, but I promise I’ll call again soon. Maybe there’s a way you can come see me. You’ll love where I’m at. It’s amazing countryside with horses and cattle.”
“I bet I would love it.” She’s silent for a moment. “I’m just so relieved you are okay, girl. I’ve missed you. You need anything, just call me.”
“I miss you, too. And I will call again soon.”
“Take care of yourself.”
“I will. Bye, hon.” I hang up, staring at the phone for a moment.
Aiden walks towards me. “How did it go?”
“Fine.”
He puts his hands on my shoulders, pulling me against him. He smooths my hair. “I’m glad you talked to her.”
I rub the tension from my eyes. She was the one friend I had out there, and I feel better knowing she won’t be worrying about me anymore.
“Why don’t you take a shower and then we can go out to dinner? You can wear that dress we bought today. I’m sure you’ll look incredible in it.”
We drive into the centre of town and eat at a beautiful Turkish restaurant, a satisfying end to an incredible day. Returning to the hotel, we gaze at the fire and fall asleep in each other’s arms.
SOMETHING WAKES ME before sunrise. I stare around the room, confused and wondering what could be wrong.
Why am I awake?
Aiden is asleep, but tossing around, mumbling fearfully, wrestling with the sheet.
I whisper and gently shake him. “Aiden?”
Yelling out, he jolts upright in a cold sweat, staring around the room as if someone is with us.
Another nightmare. What terror is plaguing his mind?
Feeling a sense of dread, I try to coax him back to reality. “Aiden. It’s okay.”
He swallows, still panting and inspecting the room.
I stroke his forearm. “It’s only me. N
o one else is here.”
He nods, breathless from adrenaline. His body trembles as he pulls me close, burying his face in the crook of my neck.
He falls straight back to sleep, but I don’t.
CHAPTER TWELVE
AFTER ONE RESTFUL night back on the property, we leave to go camping. Aiden, Toddy and I drive several hours to our campsite on the Condamine River.
Aiden gets out of the truck and scans the area. “I think that spot will work for the night.” He points to a shady area under some willow and gumtrees.
Getting out of the car, I stretch my legs and take in the scenery.
Close by, there is greenish blue water lapping against a grassy riverbank. The river is smaller than I expected, but I’m guessing it’s enough for water skiing and wakeboarding. The air is filled with the sounds of sulphur-crested cockatoos flying overhead, while occasionally, the cackle of a kookaburra breaks the quiet stillness. I find the sounds reassuring because Aiden told me they love to hunt for snakes.
One less snake in the world makes me a happier person.
Aiden and Toddy busy themselves with unloading eskies full of food, multiple cartons of beer and the other camping equipment they’ve brought.
I walk towards the boat hitched to the truck. “Can I help you guys?”
Aiden takes a wakeboard out of the tray. “No, hon. We’ve got it. You can help me set up our tent in a moment.”
I bite my lip.
I guess I better tell him I have no idea how to set up a tent.
“Something wrong?” Aiden removes his Akubra and runs his fingers through his hair.
A sheepish look crosses my face. “I’ve never set up a tent before.”
He laughs and shakes his head. “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it.” He rubs his hand against my shoulder.
It doesn’t take long for the two of them to empty the truck and set up our campsite.
Toddy wipes sweat from his brow. “Aiden, before you put up your tent, can you help me get the boat in the water?” He removes the cover, revealing a caricature of a boar with huge tusks along with the name ‘Mudda Fucker’ painted eloquently on the side.
I sigh, rolling my eyes. Toddy really is a piece of work.
They move the boat towards the water just as two utes roll up.
Toddy walks closer to me. “Come meet James, Will, Carly and Tara. We’ve all been mates since high school.”
We walk towards the vehicles while the occupants are getting out.
Wait a minute. There are five people. Who’s the…?
I bite my tongue when I see Jess is with them.
Why am I surprised? She seems to pop up everywhere lately. There must be a way to hook her up with Toddy and get her away from my man.
Aiden walks over eagerly. “Hey, guys. So good to see you.”
A few hugs are exchanged between old friends. Of course, Jess also hugs and kisses Aiden as though she hasn’t seen him in years.
My stomach turns, seeing how she takes advantage of every opportunity to touch him.
Aiden grabs my hand and pulls me closer. “Guys, this is Holly. Holly, this is James, his wife Carly, Will and his girlfriend Tara.” He gestures to each one as he says their names.
I shake their hands. “Nice to meet y’all.”
Carly throws back her long, auburn hair. “Oh, I just love your accent. Are you from the states?”
“Yes, I grew up in Texas.”
Enthusiastically, she says, “I’ve always wanted to go there. You must tell me what it is like after we set up.”
Aiden and Toddy get their gear off the utes. Once everything is unpacked and the tents are up, the guys finally move the boat into the water. They start taking turns water skiing and wakeboarding while I go and sit with the girls.
Carly cracks open a beer and offers it to me. “Want one?”
“Sure. Thanks.”
She grabs a few more from the esky, passing one each to Tara and Jess.
Tara takes off her hat and smooths her short brown hair back, tucking it behind her ears. She looks at Carly. “Have you guys heard any news about the CSG?”
Carly inhales slowly before answering. “There’s a local meeting about it soon, but it’s going to be an uphill battle. James is afraid of what could happen to the property if we can’t stop them.”
I glance at Carly. “What’s CSG?”
She takes a swig of her beer. “It’s coal seam gas. The government is allowing exploration for natural gas in Queensland and New South Wales, but the farmers want to stop it because it could ruin the groundwater. And I’m sure you can guess what ruined water would do to the farming industry.”
I look around at the already parched land surrounding me. “I’m shocked they would mess with groundwater that seems to be in short supply already.”
Carly shakes her head and raises her eyebrows. “It’s our short-sighted government. They’re only focused on the now and making money. They refuse to see the long-term damage it can do to the industry that keeps Australians fed.”
Tara stares at the ripples in the water as the boat goes past. “My biggest fear is that all of our family farms could be lost for good. It only takes one mistake and the groundwater’s wrecked forever.” She passes me a bag of salt and vinegar potato chips.
I take it and throw a couple chips into my mouth before passing the bag to Carly. “Is there anything anyone can do to stop it?”
Carly eats a few, then puts the bag on the table behind us. “We’re going to try to fight it. You and Aiden should find out if there are any meetings in your area. The more people we can get speaking out against it, the better. Surely, these politicians will start to worry about getting re-elected if they see how many of us are upset.”
“I’ll definitely talk to Aiden. It’s infuriating the government would want to take a chance with something so important. I’d totally fight this, and I’m sure Aiden would, too.”
Carly smiles and tips her beer in my direction. “I knew you were like me, Holly. A woman who can’t just sit back and do nothing.”
Jess mutters, “You obviously don’t know Aiden well. He’s not the type to get involved with this sort of thing.”
Carly is quick to rebut. “That’s not true, Jess. Aiden is always one to stand up for his mates when they’re in trouble. I bet he’d get onboard. And Holly, I bet you’re the woman to help him.”
Tara leans towards me and cuts to the chase. “Holly, you must tell us. Is there something serious going on with you two?”
Jess stops fiddling with her nails, looks up and studies my expression.
A grin spreads across my face. “Aiden and I are dating.”
I’m not one to waste a passive aggressive opportunity to stake out my territory.
Carly pats her hand against my knee, showing friendly approval. “I think that’s great. Aiden needs a Texan. James told me that Aiden’s been sounding happier than he has in years.”
Tara also smiles at me. “Will said Aiden sounded like a kid on Christmas day, but he wasn’t sure why. Now, we know why. How did you two meet?”
I answer casually. “Through a friend.”
Jess shifts in her seat but doesn’t say a word.
What was that little move? Is Jess a bit uncomfortable with the truth about Aiden’s feelings for me?
Carly swigs her beer. “Are you going to stay on the property to help Aiden out?”
Jess rolls her eyes and huffs as she speaks. “She’s already moved in.”
Tara glares at Jess then looks back at me. “Well, Holly, Aiden’s a good guy, regardless of what he did, he really is one of the good ones.”
An irritated Jess peers towards the water. “I’m going for a ski.”
We watch as she struts towards the water, waving to get the guys attention.
Once Jess is out of earshot, Tara says, “I don’t know why Jess is getting all huffy.”
Carly leans closer to me. “Don’t worry about her. She’s always had a thing
for Aiden, but it’s all one-sided. I never understood why she acts like she owns him.”
I knew she liked him! But what a relief that these two say it’s one-sided.
Tara shakes her head. “I heard from Will that she wrote to him all the time when he was in prison, but he never wrote back. You think she would’ve taken the hint by now.”
Maybe Aiden needs to make it clear that she doesn’t stand a chance?
I shift uncomfortably in my chair. “Does Jess always hang out with y’all?”
Carly answers nonchalantly. “Not really. She’s been around on occasion, but we haven’t seen her much in a few years. I guess now that Aiden is back we’ll see her more. Or maybe we won’t since you’re with him.”
Tara snorts. “As if, Carly. Jess won’t give up that easily. Actually, Holly, I don’t know you well yet, but I can tell you’re a good person and I’d say keep an eye on her. My sister was in the same grade as Jess and she told me all about her. I don’t buy the whole innocent act she puts on in front of all the boys.”
Carly gets up for another beer. “I’m sure she’s harmless. Besides, Aiden is clearly smitten with Holly,” She winks at me as she opens the esky.
I watch Jess strip down into a pink striped bikini that barely covers her small breasts. She hops into the boat and sits next to Aiden while Toddy drives.
Taking a drawn-out swig of my beer, I fight the jealous urge to run and get in the boat to keep her advances on my man at bay. Then again, Aiden did say she meant nothing to him, and I don’t want to act like a possessive girlfriend, especially since we have just started dating.
Or should I be more aggressive? Am I again being too naïve when it comes to the dirty games that some women play just to steal a man that’s not theirs?
AFTER ENJOYING A few cold ones with the girls, I notice Toddy stopping the boat. The guys and Jess hop onto the riverbank and come up to where we are seated.
Aiden slides his arm around my waist, pulling me close against his damp skin. “Want to have a go?”
“Sure.” My heart flutters from his touch. I ogle his bare chest, noticing his boardies are sliding low, exposing his lower abs. I trail my fingertips along his sinewy lines, marking my territory for all to see.
Leading Hand (The Dusty Rider Series Book 2) Page 12
