He stopped to collect their
shoes from the bank, then followed more slowly, letting himself cool down a little. What exactly had happened back there, other than the closest thing hed ever known to spontaneous combustion?
3
She headed for the car and he came up behind her as she was arranging things in the back seat. About what happened just now he began.
She whirled to face him, her face hot with embarrassment. It didnt mean anything, she blurted. I meanit just happened. And it shouldnt have. She stared at the ground. This was coming out badly.
Yeah, uh, I guess we both got a little carried away.
She risked a glance at him and saw that he had his head down, his hands shoved in his pockets. She relaxed a little. He didnt look like a guy whod gotten the wrong idea. He dug a trench in the gravel with the toe of his shoe. Look, not that its an excuse or anything, but its been a while for me and He shook his head. I dont want you to think that because Im giving you a ride, I think you owe me anything. Because I dont. Think that. I mean, Im not like that.
Something in her melted right then. It was all she could do not to throw her arms around him again. For a guy who had come on this morning like Mr. Macho, she liked this version even better. Call him Mr. Decent. How many of those did you meet anymore? Its okay, she said. I guess. She shrugged. I guess we could say we both did what came naturally. But that doesnt mean it meant anything. Except shed been on plenty of nature walks, camping trips and day hikes before and fresh air had never affected her this way.
Right. He nodded and took his hands out of his pockets. Their eyes met, then they both looked away, as if afraid to focus too closely on each other just yet. So, we both agree well go on like before. As if nothing happened.
Right. Should she warn him that at various times shed also sworn off chocolate, coffee and ice cream, and hadnt managed to stay away from any of those temptations longer than a week? But then, a week was all she needed, right?
So, I guess wed better hit the road if were going to make it to Kingsport by dark.
He started around the car to the drivers side, but she stopped him. Let me drive for a while. You can take a nap.
He shook his head. Thats okay.
Oh, come on. Well make better time and be more alert if we take turns driving. Besides, this was another way to keep things even between them. Not that she didnt believe what hed said about her not owing him any special favors for agreeing to give her a lift, but she didnt want any room for doubt.
He frowned. I thought you didnt have a license.
A picky detail. Yes, but that was just bad luck. Im not a bad driver, really.
He shook his head. Thanks for the offer, but Ill pass.
Come on. Were out in the middle of nowhere. She spread her arms wide. Its a nice, straight road. What could happen?
He stifled a yawn.
See, you are tired! She took a step toward him. He started to back up and bumped into the car. Im the only one whos ever driven this car and I think it should stay that way. He put his hand on the side panel, a protective gesture.
I get it now. Youre worried Ill hurt your precious car.
He looked uncomfortable, but she saw shed scored a bulls-eye. What was it with men and their cars, anyway? Look, if youre tired, dont you think the chances are greater that youll have an accident? Whereas Ive already had a nap and Im fresh and alert. She leaned closer, almost but not quite touching him. I promise I wont let anything happen to your precious car.
Confronted by her in such close quarters, he apparently decided to relent. Okay, okay. You can drive. But only for a little while. He held out the keys. And no speeding. Be careful.
She traced an X over her heart. I promise. Ill take it nice and easy. And you can get some rest.
They got in the car and he pushed the seat back and reclined it slightly. She slipped on her sandals then started the engine. See, this was a good idea, she said.
He nodded. Maybe youre right. I mean, how much trouble could anybody get into way out here?
MARLEE GRIPPED the steering wheel so tightly her fingers were practically fused to the leather. She gnawed her lower lip and tried to think calming thoughts.
Deep breaths, she reminded herself. Take deep breaths. Theres no need to panic.
Except that she didnt have a clue where she was, or even if she was headed in the right direction. She glanced over at Craig. Head back, mouth open, he snored softly. Thank God he wasnt awake to see her predicament. Though if he was, he might be able to get them out of this mess.
Shed done fine for the first hour or so, cruising along at a nice safe speed, humming in harmony with Bonnie Rait on the stereo, enjoying the beautiful spring day.
Then one of those nasty orange signs had popped up on the side of the road. One that said Road Construction Ahead. And then an even nastier sign had appeared. Detour.
Shed sat up a little straighter in the seat and told herself she could handle it. All she had to do was follow the signs and shed end up back on the highway, traveling in the same direction. No problem.