by Siera London
Elliott hopped off the stool so fast, Hank shot to his feet. "Really, dad?"
"Careful," Hank warned, reaching around Kelby's back to stop the spinning seat.
"Sorry," he stammered. "Miss Kelby do you like Lady Gaga?"
Kelby lifted her hands, clapping in delight. "Sure I do."
Thinking it not the best time to revisit the issue, Hank had a few more questions. “You mentioned people making decisions for you…do you mean some guy?”
Kelby sucked in a breath, like he physically hit her with the words. Now he was sure. Something very wrong had happened to his girl. Leaning over he took her hand. “Look at me,” he said. “We don’t have to talk about it now.”
She breathed out a breath, an obvious weight lifted. “Good,” she sighed. “Just know I came to Endurance to start over, not relive the past.”
He understood, not that he agreed. The past had a role in the present and the future. In his opinion, running only prolonged the inevitable. Acknowledging the good and bad of previous choices fostered a deeper understanding of self and enhanced the ability to make better decisions in the future. In his experience avoiding the problem meant stepping into something similar or worse.
Instead of saying that, he simply squeezed her hand. “Got it.”
Owen chose that moment to reappear with an overflowing basket of fried stuff in one hand and two plates balanced on his forearm. His son Cai trailed behind him sporting his Captain America footy pajamas.
“Miss Kelby” Cai squealed, running around his father, and under the bar. “Pick me up, Uncle Hank.”
Kelby smiled. “Well hello, Cai. It’s nice to see you when you’re not running.”
Hank, grinned, of course Kelby being an elementary school teacher would be acquainted with every kid twelve years and younger. What surprised him was how readily her conversation shifted from engaging with him to totally drawing in a six-year-old. She managed both with ease. Come to think on it, Elliott had been smitten with her all day.
“Grubs on,” Owen stated, lining up the plates on the bar top. “Cai, let the folks eat.”
Kelby tilted forward, darn near over her burger. Hank wondered what she was doing, then the woman sniffed the food. He snorted. “Really? You’re a sniffer?”
“This smells wonderful,” she beamed. “I can’t wait to try it?”
Wrapping both hands around the half-pound burger, Hank looked on at Kelby trying to decide which angle to attack. Yep, this was her first time with one of Owen’s off-the-grill creations.
Owen not the least bit offended, laughed. “Kelby, How are you enjoying our town?”
Hank swung Cai up and onto his lap. He regarded Kelby. Was this her first time trying a No Limit burger? Hard to believe with it being the only restaurant in town. Between Miller and Saratoga Roads, there was Owen’s, which doubled as the local hangout. News of births, baptisms, break-ups, make-ups, hook-ups, all were served over a cold beer and a hot meal. Bee Bee’s Bookstore, High Altitudes Coffee House, Sherron’s Cupcakery encompassed their entire Endurance culinary gamut.
She glanced at Hank when she spoke. “It’s getting better everyday.”
“Now what man could keep a straight face when a beautiful woman looked at him like a prized trout?”
Hank felt Kelby brush against his arm, the nearness and the compliment heating him up inside. A few chuckles came from behind them. Ask Hank if he cared? Not one bit. He was having the best day of his year with a beautiful woman, his son, and his friends at his side.
“Sounds like you’re doing something right, my friend. And Cai’s looking forward to having you as his teacher in a few years,” Owen teased.
Kelby gave a laugh. “He’d better hurry. I won’t be around forever.”
Hank lifted his brows in surprise. Was Kelby planning to leave Endurance? Not on his watch. She’d said there were the real thing. Guess he’d have to show her how committed he was to keeping her.
Cai poked him in the stomach and Hank fiend injury. Little blue eyes lit up and the giggles started. “Uncle Hank.”
“Yeah, buddy?” He snagged a few fries, much to Elliott and Kelby’s dismay, and stuffed them in his mouth.
“When daddy kissed Ivy, she had my baby sister,” Cai went on, “where’s your and Miss Kelby’s baby?”
Hank watched in horror as Kelby coughed and sputtered with a wad of Grade-A ground chuck dangling from her lips.
A couple of thunks on the back from him and she cleared her throat. “Cai, honey… there won’t be any babies,” she explained.
Frowning, Hank noticed the thinned line of her lips, the strain around her eyes. Did Kelby want children? After ten years as a single parent, he’d enjoy having another child, or two or three with his wife.
Cai just flashed that innocent grin, wiggling out covered feet to the wood floor. “That’s what Mama Ivy said before baby Faith came too.”
Out of the mouths of the babies, Hank thought.
Two hours later, Hank had dusted off his burger and swam in the shallows with Lady Gaga twice. Boy howdy, had he tumbled headfirst into the deep end with Kelby. The woman had a big appetite and an uncanny ability to connect with children. At least three couples wandered in and struck up conversations with his new girlfriend. Despite her low-key persona, she seemed to take the added attention in stride. Managing larger numbers of people and conversations seemed to come naturally. She loved music-more singing than listening-and Elliott and Cai joined in. Unfortunately, the woman had to be tone deaf or losing her hearing. Even a few of the looky-loos ran for the door when she reached for a high note and missed... by about a football field.
Elliott had fallen silent and Hank knew it was past his son's bedtime. The night had to end. Kelby realized it too.
"Thanks for saving me today." She nodded her head. "I had a really nice time with you and Elliott."
He chuckled. "Good to hear. We still have tomorrow."
Complications had been a constant part of his life with Jodi Ann. After high school, she’d gone to college at UCLA. He’d gone to work. The first two years, she'd come home to Endurance for every break and holiday. Then things changed. Her look, her vocabulary, heck, she was too good for a burger and beer. Their last time together she'd gotten pregnant. Thinking the baby would get them back on track, Hank had offered marriage. Jodi Ann had accepted his ring.
Elliott arrived in August and the vows had gone unspoken. He and his mom had taken the baby while Jodi Ann finished her last year of college. After graduation she'd refused to return to Endurance. Hank had packed up his six-month old baby and relocated to Los Angeles. That first night, Jodi Ann hadn't bothered to come home. Three months of late nights and broken promises, Hank with his son had returned to Endurance. Remembering what he endured with his baby's mother, he offered Kelby this one last out. He would let her bow out and there would never be sideways glances or snide remarks.
"Hopefully, they'll be no more N2U dates at the track."
He chuckled. Okay, she was all in...and, so was he. "We still have tomorrow. Fair warning, bring the sunblock, a hat, and a padded seat. I'd better get you home, so you can get your beauty rest."
She placed a hand on his forearm. "Your place is on the other end of town."
Another surprise. The woman knew where he lived. With all the dirt roads and unmarked streets, that took some investigative skill. Perhaps, this attraction was more mutual than he had anticipated.
"I can call Xenobia to take me home, Hank."
Hank laughed. He leaned in close, ensuring little ears couldn't hear what he said next. "No way am I missing out on the chance to kiss you good night."
“Ah daddy,” Elliott cut in. “The man with all the potatoes at the wedding is here.”
Kelby gasped.
Hank jerked to his feet just in time to see Gordie step inside.
Chapter 5
This had been the best day of Kelby’s time in Endurance. Thank goodness Hank and Sheriff Fullerton had intervened with
Gordie. The guy seriously could not take a hint. Her new boyfriend had taken the role to heart and promising her N2U date a country boy ass kicking if he persisted. Keith had left Minister Roxy at No Limit’s to escort the neon green Kia loaded with Peyton and Gordie beyond the Endurance town limit.
The night breeze carried the fresh scent of pine through the open windows of Hank’s pick-up truck. They sat side-by-side on the front bench seat. When they’d climbed in the cab, he’d slid behind the wheel, back onto Kings Bay Drive, and grabbed her hand. Kelby looked at their joined hands and her stomach did a somersault. She felt giddy and beautiful and…happy. Tonight at No Limit’s people talked with her beyond the customary greetings. With Hank and Elliott, she had crossed the divide. For the first time since her arrival in Endurance Kelby celebrated her connection to this community.
Abel and Julie Burney, the owners of the local golf course and the little blue house on Dodger Lane had invited her to join them for a round of eighteen holes. Hank had thanked them and said they’d consider it. And she would. Their questions and responses conveyed genuine interest in her conversation.
Chadwick Winters had dropped in with a dozen of his wife’s Banana Pudding cupcakes in celebration of the new baby. The pediatrician had whispered something to Owen about sweet treats in the bedroom. Kelby had immediately diverted her attention sure the conversation had to do with husbands, wives, and a different kind of dessert. She was as much a part of Endurance as he had been born into the fabric of this town.
Light snoring sounds arose from behind Kelby. Glancing over her shoulder, she smiled. Elliott had kicked off his shoes and curled up in the back seat.
“He asleep?” Hank whispered.
“Yes,” Kelby nodded. “Out like a blown light.”
The truck speed slowed, and Hank threw an arm around her shoulders, and pulled her over until their thighs touch.
“Wow,” she shook her head. “You totally planned this?”
“You give me too much credit,” he chuckled. “Even as a baby, motion would send him off to la-la land.”
She grinned. “Nice to know it still works.”
“You have no idea.” Hank kept his eyes on the curb in Hood Road, but with his right hand he rubbed his knuckles against her cheek. It felt nice. “As a single parent I don’t get much time to myself. Even less with other adults.”
He meant women. Questions about his relationship status came to mind, but her sad property came into view, so she slipped all her doubts and insecurities into a three-ring binder for another day. They pulled up to her farmhouse. Her car was in the driveway, so Hank cut the engine directly behind her Toyota Camry. The place had one bedroom and one tiny bathroom with an old-fashioned claw foot tub. With a roof that leaked in a heavy downpour, a listing porch, and a fence with more holes than a gun range target, it wasn’t pretty. Old man Fenty had rented the place at a bargain with the understanding Kelby would complete the needed repairs.
“I had a good time tonight, Kelby.”
So had she. She didn’t want this night to end. “Yeah, same here. And,” she dropped her head, “thanks for getting rid of my N2U disaster.”
Kelby felt the gentle tug at her chin. She didn’t shy away. Instead she looked him in the eyes and smiled. Man, was he doing a number on her heartstrings. He was a big man, yet his touch gentled with her.
“Only doing what a man should for a woman.” Warmth flowed through her to all the right places, and she blushed. “With any luck, our Saturday will be uneventful.”
Would tomorrow be awkward? Without the crowd, Gordie, and half-cooked potatoes would they still have this energy arcing between them? Would he still want to kiss her tomorrow, or would she be yesterday’s sandwich, soggy and stale?
“I meant what I said earlier, Kelby. I like you.” He grinned. “I like kissing you even more. You taste delicious.”
Smiling at the thought of kissing him again. She laughed. “We have that in common.”
“My son’s in the back seat, so I can’t come inside.”
She almost laughed at his presumption. On the drive over she’d considered how to send him away without seeming too skittish. Elliott had spared her the awkward conversation.
She shrugged. “Who said you were invited?”
He kissed her temple. “You did when you stayed by my side. You don’t want this night to be over and neither do I. But we’ll have to save the passionate love making for tomorrow night. Afterwards, we’ll see about breakfast and fixing that front stoop of yours.”
Kelby’s voice hitched and she pulled free of his hold. Talk about moving fast. Lovemaking, breakfast, and repairing her house. More than a man, Hank broached on sainthood. If this, whatever it was, went sideways between them, she couldn’t afford the cost, literally or figuratively. Tiffany’s education came first. As the oldest child, Kelby’s needs had always fallen to second or third place in the family.
Hank’s baritone slashed through her thoughts.
”It’s not a demand, Kelby-just the natural progression is all. Now that things are happening between us, I want us to do this right. A real date, with dinner, maybe some dancing if you don’t have two left feet.”
“Two left feet,” she squealed before throwing a hand over her mouth. They both turned at the same time to check out Elliott. The little boy hadn’t moved.
“We never danced at the reception. Prove me wrong. Proffering his hand, he gave a seductive smile, “may I have this dance, ma’am?”
Giggling like a schoolgirl, Kelby slipped her hand in his. “You may, but we don’t have any music.”
Hank pulled her in close. “I’ll take care of that.” Opening the door, he stepped out. Taking her by the waist he placed her feet on the gravel. His shirt lifted with the movement and she got a glimpse of his abdomen.
Holy guacamole, he had that sexy man “V” women fawned over in romance books. Cute, kind, good with kids, great with his lips, and he had the V. Kelby had a suspicion he’d have her legs in a V if they stayed locked in each other’s arms much longer. Could this night really be happening to her? Really, who met their forever guy at a wedding?
“What are you about, Hank Stewart?”
He wrapped her hands around his waist. “You just hold on to me darling.”
That she could do. Excitement coursed through Kelby. Next thing she knew her head was against his hard chest and his melodic croon sounded in her ear.
“The night sky, it seems so blue,” he began, “and the stars, shine a little brighter too. Now that you’re in my arms, they all look so plain.”
God heavens, no man had ever sung to her. “Hank, what are you doing?”
“Trying to get the girl.” He pulled back, regarding her. “Is it working?”
“Oh yeah,” she said. “It’s working.” Her heart was off to the races and she didn’t want to stop herself from dashing to the finish line. She felt giddy, and happy, and like she could lose a lot more than money to Hank Stewart and his little boy.
Chapter 6
Kelby didn't know what to expect from an elementary school track meet, but this was amazing. They arrived in Lincoln’s Gap, a town north of Endurance by about 40 miles, halfway between home and Sacramento. All of Placer County—Pine Valley, Prospect Hill, Zolusa Creek, and Dominion Summit were represented.
A sea of little faces, ranging in age from maybe, six to ten huddled in groups around an oval dirt track. They were moms and dads, grandparents, and of course fans filling the seats on all four sides. Not an ounce of shade could be found, but no one seemed to care. Even with her wide brimmed hat and sunblock, she felt baked. There was lots of yelling and screaming, and some downright unsportsmanlike behavior. Hank had gone to the concessions twice for ice. Not that she asked, he anticipated her needs. Last night he’d made her feel special, today-was more of the same-a lot more. He was a good father to his son, encouraging and supportive, yet she didn’t feel the least bit neglected.
Elliott had won his first race, the 10
0-meter dash. Now, he stretched on the sidelines, preparing for a second win. Hank sat next to her, cheering with all the enthusiasm of a proud father. Kelby had heard how good of an athlete Elliott was but to see him in action had her own enthusiasm on the rise. He ran faster than the Santa Ana winds. The way he shot out of the blocks, got the crowd on their feet.
“Where does he get his talent from?” She asked.
Hank chuckled. “I could lie and say me, but I was never good at track and field.”
She wrapped her fingers around his forearm and squeezed. “I don’t believe it.”
“It’s true. I played football and baseball. Elliott never took to either one. My younger brother Daniel could run for miles. In fact, when my dad wanted something quick, he knew not to call me.”
“So how often do you all do this?”
“You really don't know anything about track, do you?”
“Not a thing,” she laughed, hanging her head.
“Come here, woman,” he said removing her hat and slipping an arm around her waist. “I’ll teach you the basics, and then it’s on to fishing. Usually the coach has the kids practice twice a week. About forty minutes to an hour. Most of the competitions happen on the weekends.”
Kelby rested her head on his muscled bicep, before glancing up at him. “They all seem so young.”
As he talked the announcer named the runners for the race to come. A new line-up of young athletes took to the track.
“Most of the training programs require that the kids are at least seven-years-old.”
“I can't believe how disciplined they are.” She laughed, “if most of their teachers could see this, they’d probably have all their classroom students on the team.”
“The key to training kids in this age group is fun. Like most boys his age, Elliott is competitive. The coach uses games like tag, relay racing, and short bouts of stretching and strength training to get the kids ready for a meet."