“Really? But being slammed up against the back of a barn in a moment of passion is right up your alley.”
“Oh, it is. We kind of got interrupted.”
“By who?” I glance at her, hoping Duke or Rusty didn’t stumble upon them.
“Dudley.”
“D … Dudley? Is that a new ranch hand?”
“He’s a goat.”
I can’t stop laughing as Allie details how she and Topper had to chase Dudley back into his pen.
“Topper’s a good man.”
“He is. Want to know the best part?”
“Absolutely.”
“He gave me a nickname.”
“Wow, this is serious,” I say. “So what is it?”
“Bubbles.”
My nonstop giggling catches Duke’s attention. He flashes a sexy smile my way and I almost trip on a rock. “Bubbles, um, Ilove it.”
“I know. I can’t stop calling him Wyatt, and he calls me Bubbles. What a world.”
“And this brings me back to my original question. What are you going to do?”
“Savor every last moment of this summer.”
Duke stops ahead and points toward a clearing near a riverbank. “Welcome to, what we call, Hawk Hollow. Built it out last year. Ground’s fire-safe, and we’ve got fresh water from the river. We bring each new group here at least once.”
It’s clear the space was carved out with intention. The ground is level and cleared of debris. A few weathered benches made from thick logs surround a stone fire pit that feels more intricate than the setting should allow for. At the camp’s edge, the river flows fast and cold. The trees surrounding us are thick and green, dappled with late-summer sunlight.
I don’t usually feel safe in the woods, but somehow Duke’s made this place feel different. For once, my brain isn’t scanning for exits. I’m just … here. Allie leaves my side to chat with Topper and Georgia while Duke directs everyone where to set up their tents. He then makes his way to me.
“What do you think, Trouble?” he asks.
“It’s …” I set my pack down on the ground. “It’s lovely. I can’t deny it.”
“Great, need help with your tent?” he asks.
“I think I can manage.”
More lies.
Duke heads off to help with the fire and I catch Topper stealing a kiss from Allie. I’m glad Dudley isn’t here to break up the love fest they mostly likely have planned for tonight.
I can’t help but smile, but it quickly fades. The light dims and the air tightens. When the first raindrop hits the back of my hand, it’s like the universe is saying,don’t get too comfortable.
fire circle
DUKE
By the timecamp takes shape, the air’s gone heavy and the clouds have a stranglehold on the sky. It starts to sprinkle, but thankfully it’s just a tease. I know the last thing Roxanne needs is for a storm to hit tonight.
