After dinner, Hannah came back from having brushed her teeth and presented Lachie with a soft brown monkey.
“Who's this?” He studied the toy, which had seen better days. One of its ears had been chewed on and it was missing an eye.
“Mr Monkey. He'll help you sleep,” she said.
He frowned. “Don't you need him with you?”
She shook her head. “You're sick. He'll help you get better. He always helps me.”
Lachie’s heart was full. He thanked the little girl for her thoughtfulness.
She put her arms around his neck and whispered into his ear, “Promise you'll be here when I wake up.”
“I will be.” He hugged her. “Thank you for Mr Monkey.”
“Come on, Hannah. Bedtime,” her mother said and Hannah unwrapped herself from him.
“Good night, Lachie.”
“Good night, squirt.”
He watched as Hannah took her mother's hand, and they walked down the hallway together.
He could get used to this life.
Shit.
Chapter 4
It took Abbie twenty minutes to read to her daughter. Three stories just hadn't been enough.
“Can Lachie read to me tomorrow?” Hannah had asked, eyes full of hope and anticipation.
“Maybe. You'll have to ask him,” she'd replied. Judging from the way he did everything Hannah asked, Abbie knew her daughter had Lachlan McGuire wrapped around her little finger. He was smitten, of that she was sure. She was already in lust with the man, but seeing how fondly he treated her child made her heart melt.
As she walked the few steps to the kitchen, she thought out her to-do list. Dishes, wipe down the table, and sweep under it. Hannah was a messy eater and always dropped food. She had enough house guests and didn't need any more, especially those of the bug, insect, or rodent variety.
Abbie stopped in her tracks when she saw the kitchen. There was nothing sexier than a man doing housework and that was exactly what Lachie was doing.
The dishwasher was humming away and the tabletops were sparkling clean. Even the dining table had been wiped and, sure enough, under the table was food-free too.
“You cleaned up.”
He turned to her, a tea towel and the casserole dish in his hands. “It's the least I could do.”
“Thank you. But you’re supposed to be taking it easy.”
“I’m fine,” he said.
With nothing to do, she sat in the nearest chair and sighed. “It's been a long time since I had any help. I really do appreciate it.”
He turned that sexy smile on her and raised one eyebrow. “Well, I was hoping you could do something for me in return.”
Her blood heated at the sight of his smouldering expression. “What's that?”
He put the dry dish away—in the right place, no less—and walked toward her. When he was mere inches away, he lifted his T-shirt above his head, revealing his smooth chest and pecs.
She bit the inside of her lip and tried not to stare at the scattering of dark hairs which led down, down, down.
His voice was teasing when he spoke. “Would you change my bandage?”
Her eyes shot to his face, and she felt her cheeks burn. “Oh, yeah, of course,” she said, trying to compose herself. “Lie down on the bed.”
He raised his eyebrows. Shit, even they were sexy.
“I mean the couch. Lie down on the couch.”
She took her time gathering the fresh dressing and antiseptic ointment, all the while telling herself to get a grip and be professional.
She knelt beside him and carefully peeled off the old dressing. “It looks good. No infection there.”
“That's a relief. I'm not keen to go back to hospital anytime soon.”
She prepared the ointment. “This might sting a little.” She touched it to the wound, and his muscles flexed but he stayed silent. It was as she'd expected; these rural men always put on a brave face.
She taped the new bandage on and rolled back on her heels. “All done. Tomorrow I’ll dress it again after your shower.” When he was warm and wet and slick …
“Thanks.” He pushed himself up and her hand automatically reached out to help him. He looked at her fingers wrapped around his bicep, then turned to look at her.
She dropped her arm and stood up. “I think I'll call it a night.” Before she did or said something stupid. “You should too. But if you're not tired, you're welcome to stay up and watch TV or read.”
He stayed sitting on the couch. “I don't suppose you have any good books I could borrow?”
“Not unless you like to read romance.” She shared her daughter’s love for literature, though she didn't expect Nora Roberts or Danielle Steele novels would be Lachlan’s thing.
“I've never been much of a reader, unless you count Outback magazines and stock prices.”
She picked up a magazine she remembered had arrived in today's mail but she hadn't opened. “Must be your lucky day. Look what just arrived.”
He grinned as he took the latest edition of Outback from her hands. “You have a subscription?” He ripped open the packaging and flicked through the must-have rural magazine.
“It helps me to understand my patients better. What challenges you guys are facing and how I can help.”
“You’re just full of surprises.” The amused glint in his eyes did more damage than if he’d flashed her another grin.
She turned to leave. “Good night then. If you need anything, you know where I am.”
“Good night, Abbie,” he said as she started down the hall. “See you in the morning.”
Lachie tossed and turned, unsure if it was because of the pain that he couldn't sleep or the visions of Abbie and the rosy pink blush that had tinted her otherwise pale skin the night before.
When she listened, her brow furrowed in concentration. When she laughed, a dimple flickered in her cheek. When she blushed, her eyes appeared a brilliant grey.
He sat on the edge of the bed and gathered his wits. He couldn’t let his discomfort show, especially in front of Hannah. She was too young and innocent to learn of his past. He stared at her monkey on the bedside table and remembered the unassuming kindness of her action. He was a stranger to her, to both of them, and yet they had welcomed him into their home.
He pulled on a T-shirt and readjusted his rugby shorts before opening the door. As he passed, he glanced into Hannah's empty room. Both the beds looked slept in with the sheets still tousled and a collection of soft toys spread out on Hannah's bed. He wondered if she had slept alright without Mr Monkey.
“Morning,” Abbie said as she looked up from tying her daughter's hair. Hannah was dressed in her school uniform—a polo shirt and navy shorts—while Abbie was still in her pyjamas. Her blonde hair was piled high in a knot on top of her head with loose tendrils brushing her long neck.
He smiled and greeted them before flicking on the electric kettle. If he couldn't have painkillers, he could at least have a strong cup of tea, his hit of caffeine. “Can I fix you a cuppa?” he asked Abbie.
“That would be great, thanks.” She finished tying her daughter’s hair. “Get your shoes on. Jenny will be here in a few minutes.”
Hannah rushed down the hall to her room.
Abbie walked over to him. He took in her cotton shorts and oh-so-tight pale blue singlet. His pain was forgotten as all the blood in his body flooded to one organ. “Tea or coffee?”
“Tea please.” She opened the fridge and pulled out the milk. “How did you sleep?”
“Fine, thanks.” He lied.
She placed the milk on the table then turned and put her hands on her hips, studying him. He tried to avoid looking at her, but it was like hiding from a hungry hawk.
She sighed. “Did you take some painkillers?”
He shook his head. “Not yet.”
“Mum, where's my smelly pen? I want to take it for show and tell,” Hannah said as she brushed past her mother, pushing her into L
achie's chest. He caught Abbie and held her, not wanting to let go. She smelled delicious, like ripe, freshly picked strawberries.
She cleared her throat and shifted gently away from his wound and out of his arms. “You know you aren’t allowed toys at school. Now get your lunch box.”
Lachie finished making their drinks and took his to the table. He sipped as he watched Abbie and Hannah finish their morning routine. Bag on her back, Hannah went to him and kissed his stubbly cheek. “Will you read to me tonight?”
He smiled. “I'd love to, squirt.” He hugged her back, his heart full of emotion.
“Bye,” she called as she bounded out the door to meet her friends.
“She walks to school?” he asked.
Abbie nodded and gulped her drink. “Her friend’s mum collects a few kids on their way. The school is only a couple of minutes from here.”
He nodded. “What are your shifts like at the hospital?”
“I've worked out a roster now that frees up most weekends and there is an after-school program she attends when I have to work.” Abbie took some bread out of the fridge. “Would you like some toast? I'm addicted to Vegemite.” She stopped and turned to him, an apology written all over her face. “I shouldn't have said that. I'm sorry.”
“It's okay. I swapped mine for Coca-Cola and caffeine.” He stood and took his cup to the sink. “Vegemite toast sounds like a good addiction to have. I might have a shower first though, see if the hot water helps.”
She bit her lip, just like she had last night. It took all his energy not to take those lips in his own and kiss them until they started to swell.
She nodded, clearly unaware of the thoughts going through his mind. “Try not to get the wound wet.” She pulled some plastic wrap from the drawer. “Stick some of this over the bandage before you get in, and I'll change it when you get out.”
He took the wrapper.
“Do you want me to help?” She looked up at him though dark lashes.
He shook his head. If she touched him right then, there was no knowing what he would do.
“I'll be right, thanks,” he said before heading down the hall. Perhaps it had better be a cold shower he took, rather than a hot one.
Lachie’s attempt at appearing fine didn’t fool her. The hollows defining his cheekbones and the pallor beneath his tan suggested he should still be in bed.
Abbie opened the refrigerator door and started making a shopping list. It was important Lachie stay home and continue to rest. Judging by his pallor, she hoped he would be amenable to this idea. Although if he were like other country men, he would hate fuss, let alone being out of action. No doubt while she was making shopping lists, he was making to-do lists. Harriet had mentioned that Darcy was staying on to run the station while Lachie recovered with her.
She pulled out her phone and typed things into the notes app. Then she turned to the fridge and unclipped the stack of paperwork hanging on with magnets, which she had yet to deal with.
She signed the last of the forms just as Lachie’s feet padded on the floorboards behind her.
She turned to see him wearing nothing but his blue jeans. His bare chest glistened with the residual water.
She focused her attention on the bandage and smiled when she saw it was still dry. It must have been awkward for him to clean around.
He dragged his hands through his wet hair as he walked towards her. “That feels much better.”
She stood, careful not to meet his gaze in case he saw the desire swimming in her eyes. “I’ll be right back.” She headed for the kitchen to wash her hands and gather the medical kit.
When she returned, she worked silently, concentrating only on cleaning and re-dressing the wound. She was happy with the stitches and as she finished taping the bandage down, she told him so.
“Just another scar to add to the collection.” He pushed to sitting in front of her when she was done.
“How many scars do you have?” she asked curiously.
He twisted so she could see his back. Various raised lines crisscrossed his skin. Although they looked faded with age, she cringed. “How did you get these?”
He moved back to face her. “Farm accidents and sporting injuries mostly. My dad had even more.” His eyes glossed over then.
“Your dad?” she asked. “He’s passed on, hasn’t he?”
Lachie nodded. “That’s right. More than ten years now.”
“I’m sorry for your loss.” She brushed her hand over his before quickly drawing back. Then, Abbie stood. “I need to do some jobs and get some groceries. Will you be okay by yourself?”
He waved the Outback magazine at her. “I’ll be fine, thanks.”
“Is there anything you want from town?” she asked as she gathered her keys and bag.
He looked at her and a mischievous smile creased his face. “Could you get me some Coke and maybe a bag of chips?”
She smiled. “Sure. What flavour chips?”
“Salt and vinegar.”
Her own mouth started watering as she imagined the tangy taste. Personally, she preferred lightly salted. “You’re as bad as Hannah; she loves them too.” Abbie opened the door. “I’ll buy enough for both of you. She’ll never forgive me otherwise.”
“Thanks, Mum,” he said in a sing-song voice just as she closed the door behind her.
She loved taking care of people; it was why she had become a nurse. Lachie was just another patient. She had to keep reminding herself of this.
Although she wouldn’t mind if he were something more.
The supermarket was quiet today and Abbie enjoyed her solitude as she collected the products on her list. She paused in the snack section before selecting four large bags of salt and vinegar chips then making her way to the checkout.
She smiled and exchanged niceties with the woman working the cash register as she loaded up her purchases.
The bell above the entry door chimed, and Abbie looked up to see Maddie enter the store. “Hello, fancy seeing you here.”
Maddie smiled and hugged her friend. “How is Lachie? I heard he’s staying with you.”
Abbie nodded. “He's good. He ended up having to have emergency surgery. The doctor wanted him to stay in town in case there were any complications.”
Maddie smiled listened to the explanation but Abbie could swear she saw a shadow of emotion cross her friend’s face. “Are you okay?”
Maddie waved her hand, dismissing her friend’s concern. “I’m fine. Still recovering from the party.”
“There were so many people. No wonder you’re exhausted still.” Abbie rubbed her arm. “It must have been great to catch up with everyone.”
Maddie’s voice softened. “Yes, it was a lovely day. It meant a lot to Dylan and me that everyone came.”
Abbie knew Dylan was struggling emotionally. He had a lot on his shoulders these days. A young family, that huge mortgage, and a drought with no end in sight. She might be new to the country life, but the plight of graziers had been in the news for several years now.
“Remember I'm here if you or Dylan need to talk,” she said. “Or if you need anything at all. We love you guys.” Abbie gave her friend a hug, which she hoped conveyed all the love she felt for her. When they parted, Abbie was sure she saw tears in Maddie’s eyes.
“Thank you,” she said. “That means a lot.”
Maddie left to gather her own shopping, and Abbie paid for her groceries and returned to her car.
She wished there was more she could do for them. Not just Dylan and Maddie, but everyone who was struggling in the district.
She closed the boot of her car and looked around the main street. It was quiet even for a weekday morning. Across the road was the Banjo Patterson water feature and the tiny museum at the visitor information centre that Hannah love so much.
Beyond that, she could just make out the roof of the community library. On a whim, she decided to drop by and see if she could find something for her houseguest to read. If he
didn’t have activities to do, she was afraid he might wallow in self-despair, especially being so newly sober. That certainly wouldn’t help the healing process at all. No, what he needed was something to keep him entertained while he recovered at her house, especially when she was at work and not able to keep an eye on him.
Chapter 5
Lachie wasn’t used to being fussed over by women. His mother, who was a loving and caring parent, was being even more attentive.
“Mum, I’m fine,” he said. “Abbie’s taking good care of me.”
Harriet gave him a stern expression before handing over his laptop. “Okay, you can work on this, but you better be sure to rest too.”
Lachie took the computer before she could change her mind. There always seemed to be emails to reply to and work to be done. Sometimes he felt like he spent more time in his office than on the land itself.
“Thank you. Now I won’t be stressing so much.” He shot his mother a smile and placed the laptop on the coffee table beside him.
He didn’t mind being laid up so much when Abbie and Hannah were around, but without them, the house was quiet and lonely. Lachie banished a tug of loneliness.
Outside, he heard the hum of an engine. Abbie was home.
Forgetting his injury, Lachie leapt from his chair and hurried out to help her.
“You shouldn’t be lifting heavy bags,” Abbie said, stopping him when he reached for a green canvas bag.
“Then give me the light ones,” he insisted.
She pointed to the smaller of the shopping bags, and he lifted them with ease. “Mum’s here.”
“Oh, good. I was worried you’d be lonely.”
The strength of the sun slanting through the oversized window bathed the kitchen in warmth. Lachie went to work putting the shopping away, shooing Abbie when she tried to help. “I can do this,” he said.
Abbie sat with his mother and the two women chatted on like the best of friends. Harriet asked after Hannah and from the way she spoke, Lachie could tell she yearned for grandchildren. His thoughts turned to Darcy and Meghan, and he wondered what their journey to parenthood held. It must be hard wanting something so much but having it just beyond reach.
The Legacies of Brigadier Station Page 4