Rina winced. Dont say that, she whispered as forcefully as she could. Not here. Someone might hear you.
Its Friday afternoon. Everyone is gone but us. Camerons out at the Castle Ranch, checking on one of the goats there. Her friend moved closer and, Carina noticed thankfully, lowered her voice. Youre my best friend and I totally support whatever you decide, but I also know its time to tell you that youre acting like an idiot.
Youve told me that every day for six months. Its hardly a news flash.
Then do something. If not now, when? Are you going to waste another year being in love with a man who has no idea how you feel?
Rina opened her mouth, then closed it. She wanted nothing more than to confess her feelings to the man she loved.
She could still remember the first time shed seen Cameron McKenzie, DVM. Hed bought the practice from the retiring veterinarian with a promise that all the staff would stay. That included her, the practices resident groomer. Hed requested everyone meet with him on a Saturday afternoon. Shed walked into the building, not sure what to expect. Hed turned, smiled, and shed been lost.
Seriously, thered practically been a swell of music and cartoon animals putting ribbons and flowers in her hair.
She wasnt sure what it was about Cameron that got to her. The wavy dark hair and deep green eyes were only the beginnings of his good looks. Still, her feelings werent all about how handsome he was. It was the way he cared about his work and how he treated his staff. But if she had to guess, she would say her fate had truly been sealed the moment shed met Kaitlyn.
She adored the little girl and they had become instant friends. Kaitlyn was smart and funny and just as caring as her dad. The only part of their family that didnt make sense was the absence of a mother. Cameron didnt say much about his ex, so all of Rinas information had come from his daughter. Kaitlyn was fairly matter-of-fact about her past, stating
her mommy had left shortly after Kaitlyn had been born. Rina could still remember her steady gaze as shed said, Babies are a lot of work and my mommy wasnt ready.
Cameron had shared few details, but those he mentioned were in line with what Kaitlyn had said; his wife had walked away from her newborn and husband and had never returned.
Since then, from what she could tell, hed devoted himself to being a single father and working hard at his practice. He never dated, hadnt once been caught flirting and showed no interest in one woman over another. In a town with a man shortage, he was practically an irresistible force.
Rina had told herself she would get over her crush, that it was just that Cameron was new and shiny. But as time had passed, her feelings had only grown. Now everything was more complicated because of the fact that she took care of Kaitlyn.
Every school day, Rina arrived at the McKenzie household early, made sure Kaitlyn was up and dressed, then fixed her breakfast and walked her to the bus. After school the girl rode the bus to the veterinary practice where she hung out with Rina until it was time to go home.
Back at the McKenzie house, Rina helped her with her homework and started dinner. In the past few months, shed begun staying to eat with them. Unfortunately, she couldnt remember exactly how that had started. She wanted to say that Cameron had asked, but she suspected the invitation had come from his daughter.
Cameron paid her as a groomer and as the person taking care of his daughter. And, even though he was friendly and considerate, she couldnt be completely sure hed ever thought of her as more than a friend. Which meant admitting her feelings put a lot on the line. What if he wasnt interested? What if telling the truth meant losing her friendship with Kaitlyn and her job?
Id rather have what I have now than not have anything at all, Rina admitted to her friend.
Jesse shook her head. Youre living half a life, Rina, and thats not you. Your parents were crazy about each other until the day they died. Your grandparents are still in love. Dont you want what they have?
Im scared.
Love is supposed to be scary. If it was easy, everyone would do it.
Rina knew she was right. The thought of having it all, of being able to admit her feelings to Cameron and having him feel the same way, made her ache with longing. Shed known he was the one from the first second theyd met and her feelings had never wavered. But...
What if he doesnt love me back?
Then you hurt and heal and find someone else.
I dont want anyone else.
So youd rather have half of nothing than take the chance? Thats not like you.
I wouldnt just be losing him. Id lose Kaitlyn, too.
You wouldnt have to. You could still be friends with her.
Rina was less sure that was possible. Losing one would be hard enough, but losing them both would be more than she could handle.
CHAPTER TWO
TINSEL AND GOATS dont mix, Cameron said, looping his stethoscope around his neck. Not that shell listen.
Heidi Simpson nodded as she knelt next to her goat. I swear, Athena has supernatural powers. Shes forever getting out of her pen and doing things she shouldnt. Ive been so careful with the holiday decorations.