Chapter 12
Wyatt Woods
As we headed back, the clouds slowly rolled in, giving us a much-needed break from the sun. Valerie leaned back against me as we rode in silence. The only sounds were Hub’s hooves hitting the uneven ground and the birds chirping nearby.
As we trotted along the trail, the cemetery came into view. I debated whether to tell Valerie about Lauren, but something told me that now was not the time. Soon, I would unload the baggage I was carrying, and Valerie would head for the hills, sooner than she planned on leaving.
Until then, I would savor the brief time we spent together.
I brushed her auburn hair aside and kissed her neck.
Within a few minutes, we were back at the house.
I got off the horse, then Valerie put out her arms, and I helped her down from Hubs.
Once her feet were firmly on the ground, I gazed into her eyes.
One was blue like a storm. While the other was hazel, like a radiating golden sun, holding my attention.
“Why are you staring at me?”
“Forgive me, I was a little distracted. You have the most beautiful and interesting eyes.” I cleared my throat. “Would you mind if I took care of Hubs first, and then we could have lunch?”
“No, not at all. I want to watch if you don’t mind.
” After guiding Hubs back to his cozy stall.
I carefully unstrapped the saddle, feeling the warmth of his powerful back beneath my hands.
The scent of hay and horses heightened all my senses.
She stood outside the stall, looking closely as I explained the proper care of a horse.
I figured she was likely bored, but she seemed to listen intently to every word. When she asked me questions, I realized she was genuinely interested. She even asked about the other horses in their stalls. I provided her with their names and detailed their distinct traits and characteristics.
Once I was done with Hubs, I ran into the house to grab some carrots and offered them to Valerie.
“Would you like to give them a treat?”
“Sure.”
“Now, place it in your hand, palm flat.”
She did as she was instructed. She giggled when Stargazer took the carrot from her hand. “That tickles.” I watched as she went from stall to stall to give them treats. The smile on her face was priceless. “I bet Emily has a blast taking care of these beautiful beings.”
“If you think those are fun, you should try feeding the chickens.”
She scrunches up her nose. “Chickens?”
“On second thought. Let’s not have you do that.”
“Do you not think I’m capable?”
“I don’t doubt that you are. I just don’t want you to be attacked by Elvis Pecksley. He’s a bit of an asshole.”
“Really? How come?”
“He likes to attack ankles.”
“Look at you being my hero and saving me from being attacked.”
“I wouldn’t go that far.” I shrugged my shoulders. “But I’ll take the compliment.” Her hands were now empty. “Are you hungry yet?”
“Yes, I could eat a horse…I mean a cow.”
“For a vegetarian, you might want to rethink your words.” We walked back towards the house.
“I know, bad choice of words. I haven’t always been a vegetarian.”
“Really? Do you mind me asking what made you change?”
She bit the corner of her lip. “I always thought I was heavy set and wanted to lose some pounds. ”
“Who put that in your mind?”
“Me. I often felt myself feeling a bit self-conscious around my friends, who always seemed more petite and radiant than I was. Their effortless beauty only amplified my insecurities, making me question my attraction in comparison.”
I stopped in front of her to get her undivided attention.
“I don’t want you to be offended since we’ve only known each other for a short time.
But that is the stupidest thing I’ve heard come out of your mouth.
” She opened, then abruptly closed her mouth.
“You are one of the most gorgeous women I’ve ever seen.
No woman could ever compare or hold a candle to you. ”
Her eyes watered at my words. “That’s very kind of you to say.”
“It’s the God’s honest truth. If you want a burger or a thick, juicy steak, go ahead and have one.”
“I’ll think about it. Thanks for your words of encouragement. Especially coming from a guy that initially came off rude and conceited.”
I wrapped my arms around her waist. “I know, and I did apologize for being inconsiderate.” I gave her a peck on her cheek. “Let me take you back to the inn so you can change if you’d like, and we can grab a bite to eat.”
She looked down at her dress, and her cheeks changed to a light shade of pink. “Great, now I can do the walk of shame into the hotel.”
“Darlin’, there’s no shame in what happened between us, and it’s nobody’s business.”
“Won’t the local tongues wag?”
Although I could give two shits about what people think, her expression made me rethink my careless attitude. “If you’re that concerned, I’ll give you something to add over your dress, if it’ll make you feel better.”
“I appreciate that, Wyatt.”
“I may not look like it. I can be a gentleman when need be.”
∞∞ ∞
When the evening came around, I wanted to show Valerie a night on the town, so I took her to the nearest watering hole.
I haven’t set foot in this place for years.
It’s a place where locals like to go for a beer or two, dance, and have a good time.
It’s a casual atmosphere, and the reason I dragged Valerie to the store to purchase a pair of jeans and boots.
She was hesitant at first, but once she put them on, she felt comfortable.
She didn’t mind when I told her that her ass looked good in jeans.
Before I pulled open the establishment’s door, I took a deep breath as I knew I would be bombarded with twenty questions from everyone I ran into.
However, I also knew that it was Saturday night and people were going to be here for a good time and perhaps they wouldn’t give it a second thought about seeing me.
I stood motionless as these thoughts ran through my mind.
“Wyatt. Did you want to go in? Or are you having second thoughts about being seen with me?”
I pulled the door open and stepped aside, letting her enter first. “No, not at all. Let’s go on in.
” As she walked in, I felt I was deceiving her as I wasn’t forthcoming regarding Lauren.
I mean, not telling her feels like I’m lying to her.
I’m not sure why I haven’t been truthful about the situation.
I know I should have said more when she thought I was married.
The music drowned out my thoughts as I stepped inside behind her.
It looked as though several people were waiting for their turn at the bar.
I looked around, and the place still looked the same.
Even the neon lights hanging above the bar, highlighting the shelves lined with alcohol bottles.
The dance floor was encircled by several tables, creating a lively atmosphere, while two pool tables occupied the back of the room.
The dim lighting and the hum of conversations created a cozy ambience.
A live band played covers of country songs.
We made our way to the bar, and I ordered a beer for myself, and Valerie ordered a Shirley Temple.
“A Shirley Temple?” I couldn’t help but laugh.
“I think I took you for drinking a Manhattan or maybe a Martini.”
“What. Can’t a girl change it up every once in a while.” The smile on her face was radiant. I stood next to her as we waited for our drinks. As I scanned the room, I noticed a familiar face across the bar, which made me dread and reconsider my earlier decision to be here.
Nurse Gina McDermott. I admit that our last conversation outside of work was not my finest hour.
I know my reaction to her bringing up Lauren was uncalled for.
I’ve been trying to maintain professionalism between us, which has strained the office dynamic.
“Valerie, can you excuse me for a moment? I’ll be right back. ”
I approached her cautiously, unsure how to address the past. “Gina, can we talk? I think we need to clear the air.” She looked up, surprised, but nodded.
We moved to a quiet corner, and I began to explain my side, hoping to mend our strained relationship.
“I want to sincerely apologize for how I handled our last conversation,” I started, taking a deep breath.
“I was defensive and didn’t give you the respect you deserved.
I hope we can put it behind us and work towards a better understanding.
” I further explained that I was flattered she was interested in me, and that I think highly of her as a staff member, but my feelings for her were only for friendship, and value our professional relationship.
“I hope we can move past this and work together effectively.” She nodded, and I could see a hint of relief in her eyes.
We agreed to start fresh, focusing on our shared goal of providing excellent patient care .
When I returned to the bar, Valerie was in a conversation with a man I didn’t recognize as he was turned away from me.
They laughed, and it seemed like they had known each other for a while.
I hesitated, unsure if I should interrupt, but Valerie spotted me and waved me over with a warm smile.
As I got closer, I realized it was Devin, her coworker.
My brief jealousy faded as I joined their conversation.
Devin had a fantastic sense of humor, and we quickly found common ground discussing how Valerie felt out of place in the country.
He also thanked me again for taking care of him when he was sick.
He stayed only for a short time since he wanted to call home.
Although he didn’t elaborate, I understood he wanted to keep his personal life private.
After he left, I noticed Valerie bit her lip.
“Don’t be nervous. Everyone around here is very down to earth.
” I took her hand, and we found an open table.
I pulled out the chair for her to sit on.
“Have you ever two-stepped or line-danced before?”
“I don’t think I can honestly say I have.”
“I haven’t done either in a long time, and I might be rusty, but I’m willing to give it a shot if you are.”
“Do you mind if we just sit and watch for a little bit?” I nodded in response. As we sat and people watched, we discussed our interest in music. I found out she was a fan of the Zac Brown Band and Chris Stapleton. Both were among my favorites as well.
The band took a break, and the DJ took over. Several people stopped by, and I introduced them to Valerie. Her body relaxed, and I knew she was finally feeling at ease. The song changed to a medium tempo, and I recognized it was Two to Two Step by Midland. “How are you at following?”
“I can follow, but this is a dance I have never tried. Heck, let’s give it a try.
” I offered my hand and escorted her to the dance floor.
I briefly explained the pattern of movement, to the slow, slow, quick, quick steps.
She nodded her head, and I counted it off and began to guide her around the floor.
She was adorable as she stumbled for a few minutes until she got the hang of it.
She didn’t get discouraged but persevered with determination.
Once the song ended, we walked off the wood floor. She couldn’t help but smile. “Oh my god…that was so embarrassing but so much fun!”
“I almost forgot the footwork myself. I guess it’s true what they say, it’s like riding a bicycle.”
“I would have never guessed it. You’re such a natural. I, on the other hand, wasn’t as graceful and found myself laughing.”
“Well, I’m glad you enjoyed dancing. I’ll let you get some rest, then we can try again. Are you thirsty?”
“Yes.” She followed me to the bar. This time, she ordered a round for us and refused to let me pay. Standing beside her was the town mayor. They got to talking and Valerie was invited to the town hall meeting scheduled for Monday morning.
Our evening was coming to an end, and I was dreading having to be without her. As the last song for the evening played, we slow-danced, and she laid her head on my shoulder. I wanted so badly to kiss her as we swayed to the rhythm. I found myself wanting to hold her tight and not let go.
How is it possible to fall in love in such a short time? Is this truly what I’m feeling? Does she feel the same way? This could be a one-sided relationship, and I may have to let her go when her job is complete. But until then, I’ll make do with what little time I have with her.