by Vella Day
“I do since I live in the country. Sometimes, when I want to go to the store I get on my horse and head on out.”
She didn’t dare ask where he tied up his horse. Parking lots didn’t have hitching posts. “Does that mean you remember where you’re from?”
He tossed back half the bottle of water. “Yes. I’m from a small town in North Carolina.”
She refused to address the wave of disappointment. He’d be leaving soon. “Great! I bet your parents and siblings are relieved that you’re okay. They must have been frantic when they didn’t hear from you for a few days.”
A flash of melancholy crossed his face. “Yes, they were.”
“Now that your memory has returned, will you be leaving soon?” she asked. North Carolina was only one state away.
Zane leaned back on his elbows. “I’m not so sure. I like Tennessee.”
That answer surprised her. “I do too. The terrain is pretty much the same as North Carolina.”
He looked off to the side, as if he was trying to come up with a good reason why he wanted to stay. “That’s part of it, but I told Rye that I would stay until their janitor, Victor Muñez, returns.”
Zane did seem like the type of guy to honor a commitment. “That’s very nice of you.”
He shrugged. “Rye did me a great service when I was down and out, and I want to pay him back in kind.”
It seemed like she had misjudged the man. “What about your job back home? I thought you shoed horses and made art from iron.”
He smiled. “You were listening.”
Well, of course she listened. “I’m interested in people.”
“I like that about you.”
He was good at changing the subject, but she wasn’t going to let him off the hook. “Won’t your clients need your services?”
His brows rose. “Are you trying to get rid of me?”
“No!” Damn. She shouldn’t have been so emphatic. “I just like to consider all aspects of the situation.”
Zane sat up and opened the container of strawberries. “That’s smart.”
“So tell me, do you have any theories about how you ended up in a cave hundreds of miles from home?”
He held up his hands. “Do you want the truth?”
“I do.” The sudden crinkles around his eyes implied he would be making something up, but that was okay. “I’m game.”
“Game? What are we playing?” he asked in a serious tone.
She chuckled. “I meant that I’m willing to listen to your new theory.”
His mouth slowly opened. “Ah. Okay. Well, I’m not really from North Carolina. I live in a realm similar to your Earth called Cargonia. It’s just a portal jump away.”
She hadn’t seen that coming. “Really? When I checked out the cave the other day, I didn’t see a space ship.”
He waved a hand. “I didn’t need one. All anyone has to do is to step into the portal and a short while later, you’re here!”
She was beginning to enjoy this fun side of Zane Barons. “Why would you come without any money or clothes for that matter?”
“I entered the portal without meaning to. If I had planned it, I would have been more prepared.”
She laughed. “You have an answer for everything, don’t you?”
“You act like you don’t believe me.”
“No, I do. Do you know I also came from a different realm?”
His eyes widened. “Really? Where?”
“It’s called Witcheron—where only women live, and where we don’t need money because we all live on a commune and share our goods.”
“Witcheron? That’s good. There’s one problem with your scenario.”
She sat up straighter. “What’s that?”
“You need men to procreate.”
“Well, smarty pants, it just so happens that on this realm, women can reproduce without their help. We breathe different air, and over the years have developed the ability to reproduce. It’s called asexual reproduction.”
Zane dropped back his head. “Well, that doesn’t sound like very much fun, but I do love your imagination.”
Perhaps she had been too silly, but his made up realm wasn’t any better. “Tell me this. Is your portal two-way?”
His brows pinched. “What do you mean?”
“If you came here via a portal, can you go back the same way?”
He snapped his fingers. “Now why didn’t I think of that? Actually, that’s not how it usually works. You see, I don’t have the clearance level to use the portal. It’s mostly reserved for those beings who have a higher purpose—like gods.”
“But you said you came through one. Don’t tell me you’re a god, or did you lie about that?”
“On the contrary, I’m not a god. I was sent through without my consent. You see, I was in an altercation with a very bad being who decided to shove me through one.” He opened his arms. “And here I am!”
Admittedly, Zane was one of the best storytellers she’d ever met. “Do you ever write down your sci-fi ideas?”
“Sci-fi?”
Missy couldn’t fathom why he pretended not to understand. “Science Fiction.”
“You think my ideas are fiction, do you?”
His faked outrage was enjoyable, and she saw no reason to halt this fun. “You have to admit, your ideas are rather unique. I bet others would enjoy hearing about your homeland.”
Zane shook his head. “It’s probably better if you don’t let on to anyone that I’m not of this world.”
“Not even to Rye?”
“Especially to Rye. He might think I’m a threat to his Clan.”
She’d play along. “Mum’s the word.”
As if that conversation had closed, he plucked a strawberry from the container, and stuck it in his mouth. “Mmm. Good.” Juice dribbled out of his mouth, and he dragged the back of his hand across his lips.
Missy stuffed one in her mouth and immediately enjoyed the burst of flavor. With his gaze still on her, Zane popped a second one in his mouth, only this time he slipped it between his lips then slowly sucked it into his mouth. She had to look away. The man was trying to seduce her.
Horses’ hooves broke the erotic spell, and Zane looked up. “Looks like Grandma arrived home rather quickly and brought the cavalry.”
Missy didn’t know whether to be happy she wouldn’t have to walk the two miles to the farm or be disappointed her date was about to end.
Chris pulled to a stop. “Are you two okay?” he asked as he dismounted.
Zane slid off the rock then reached up to help her down. “We’re fine. Grandma spooked when a snake darted out in front of her. Missy took a little tumble, that’s all.”
That was all? Hell, she could have broken her neck. To be fair, she had acted as if it wasn’t a biggie. “My pride was damaged and my butt will be bruised, but other than that, I’ll be okay.”
“I’m glad to hear it. The old mare promises to behave, don’t you Grandma?” Chris let go of her reins, and the horse lowered her head as if she was embarrassed for having thrown her.
“I appreciate you bringing her back.”
“No problem. I was really worried when I saw her. Stay out as long as you like.” He looked up at the sky that had turned gray. “But it looks like we’re in for an afternoon shower, so be careful.” With that he mounted his horse and trotted off.
Getting rained on would ruin the pleasant time they’d had after her fall. Missy moved toward Grandma and moaned.
“Are you in pain?” Zane asked.
“My muscles have tightened up, that’s all.” No doubt she’d be sore tomorrow. As much as she enjoyed his humor, her senses were already on overload. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to head back. I could use a hot bath.”
“I understand. We can return another time.”
Missy managed to smile, but it was a chore. Zane Barons was a nice guy, but spending more time with him might cause problems in the future. He’d charm her, just like h
e had today, and then leave. After all, he had a life in North Carolina.
Zane insisted he clean up while she rested. In less than a minute, he’d packed up, filling the backpack with their leftover food. “Need help getting onto the horse?” he asked.
“Let me try mounting her myself.” Not only was her pride at stake, having his hands on her again might cause unwanted lust to shoot off sparks. Stupid Wendayan body.
Missy slipped her foot in the stirrup, but when she swung her leg over, many of her muscles rebelled, shooting pain up her spine. With effort, she was able to hold in her moan. Once seated, she twisted toward him. “I’m ready.”
He gave her a thumbs up. While riding would be painful, she focused on getting home and soaking in the tub. Hopefully, when she dropped Zane off, he’d have forgotten all about them going out again.
Chapter Seven
‡
What had Zane been thinking telling Missy about his home world of Cargonia? One benefit was that he now had a clear conscience. He’d told her the truth. It wasn’t his fault she didn’t believe him. However, he had chuckled at her fictitious story about her being from Witcheron. Clearly that was make-believe.
Side by side, they rode back to Chris Renford’s farm. Every few minutes, he’d study her, trying to detect if she was in pain. Missy was probably uncomfortable, but with the way she was looking around with a small smile on her lips, she seemed to be doing okay.
Zane too was enjoying the outside. He also loved the feel of the beast under him. Storm was headstrong, yet controlled at the same time—kind of like Missy. She wasn’t looking for a man to take care of her, and that attitude was refreshing. While the women in his realm could shift and fight, they preferred a male’s protection and rightfully so. The demons often targeted the female werewolves who didn’t stand a chance against one. That wasn’t to say he wasn’t at the mercy of the demons either. He’d gotten lucky on his last encounter—or rather his second to last encounter. When he’d killed the demon Janoc, Zane had been carrying a sword of the finest steel. His one hefty strike had caught the animal off guard, and that mental lapse had given Zane the chance to cut off his head.
“What are you doing for transportation?” Missy asked as both horses entered the barn.
“Right now, Rye drives me to work.” Yes, it made him sound needy, but Rye had insisted.
“How long will Victor Muñez be out of work?” Missy dismounted, and when both feet hit the ground, she swayed.
In a flash he was off his horse and helping to steady her. “Are you sure you’re okay? Maybe we should take you to a hospital to get checked out.” Zane was quite good with animals, but he had no experience with humans.
She waved a hand. “I’ll be fine, I promise. I just need a hot bath and some rest.”
She sounded like him—in denial. Zane took pride in being self reliant, but sometimes, one had to accept a helping hand.
Chris was in the barn brushing one of his horses. When he spotted them, he came over and took Storm’s reins. “How did you like him?” Chris asked.
“He’s special. We mostly walked, but someday I’d like to see what he can do going full out.”
Chris smiled. “I’m sure Storm would like to be given a free rein. Let me know if you’re interested in him. He’s for sale.”
His heart jacked up. What he wouldn’t give to own such a fine animal as this stallion. “I’ll start saving.”
Chris smiled. “I hear ya.”
“Do you want me to brush him down?” Zane asked. As far as he knew, Missy hadn’t paid for borrowing the horses. It was the least they could do.
“Nope. I owe Rye a ton, and this is my small way of helping. You two head on out.”
They both thanked him again. As Missy walked toward her car, she rubbed her neck and that worried him. Zane placed a hand on her back. “I know I keep asking, but you don’t seem okay.”
She stopped and faced him. “I appreciate your concern, but I’ll be fine. Trust me.”
He knew better than to argue with a woman, especially one that kept him off balance. Most likely, she just needed some alone time. As much as he wanted to tell her everything about who he was and why he was there, if he were too convincing, she’d really freak out, and he couldn’t let that happen. His goal was to earn her respect and then try to win her heart. After today, he had no doubt that Missy Berta was his mate. Convincing her would be another matter—especially once she believed that he really was from another realm.
When they reached her car, he tossed the backpack in the back. Instead of her walking over to the driver’s side, she held out her keys. “Would you mind driving? I’m not feeling one hundred percent.” He moved closer, but she held up a hand. “Don’t ask. I’m good. I figured you’d want to drive. Most men do.”
He wanted to learn how, but getting behind the wheel could lead to disaster. Telling her the truth however might be worse. Sure, he’d driven something that resembled a model T—twice in his life—and Zane had been watching Rye every time they were in the truck together, but that didn’t make him an expert. “Sure.”
Crap. His ego had gotten the best of him. But hell, driving couldn’t be that hard. The roads were super wide, so staying in his lane would be easy. He was used to maneuvering a cart down a canyon that wasn’t more than four feet wide.
Missy dropped the keys in his palm, and he inhaled deeply. You can do this.
Pretending he was Rye McKinnon, Zane strode over the driver’s side and slid in. Missy smiled and eased into the passenger seat.
Trying to mimic Rye, Zane put on his seat belt then shoved the key in the ignition. At first, he had the key upside down, but Missy didn’t seem to notice. “I have to admit, I didn’t pay a lot of attention to how we got here.”
“It’s really easy. Just follow this road until you come to a T-intersection then hang a right. The McKinnon’s estate is about a half mile on the left.”
That sounded easy enough. “Lean back and close your eyes. We’ll be there in no time.”
She smiled, and Zane wanted to reach out and hug her tight. He might be from another realm, but he had enough sense to know Missy was skittish around him, which meant touching her wouldn’t help his cause. Most likely his size scared her—or the fact he’d been in a cave when she found him.
Zane looked at the gearshift, and once he started the engine, he carefully put the car in reverse. Now came for the difficult part. He had no idea how much pressure to exert on the pedal, but he figured driving was like riding a horse. Kick the animal too hard and he’d go flying. It was all a matter of finesse.
Zane pressed on the pedal, and the car lurched backward. Missy jerked to a sitting position. “What happened?”
“Nothing. I’m used to driving a much larger truck and using more pressure.”
“Oh.” She leaned her head back and closed her eyes once more.
That was close. This time Zane wasn’t so heavy-footed, and he successfully backed up the car. Maybe driving wasn’t so hard after all. Once in drive, he eased over the bumpy dirt road that led to the farm. After he arrived at the paved road, driving became easier and a lot smoother. Because this was shifter territory, the roads were private, and as such, didn’t have that handy white stripe down the middle to help guide him.
To make sure he didn’t wreck, Zane kept his speed right around twenty-five miles per hour. While it seemed as if he were flying, it was as fast as he dared to go given this was his first time behind the wheel.
When he spotted the McKinnon estate a few minutes later he let out a breath. “Are you okay to drive home or do you want me to drop you off at your house?” he asked. Not knowing where she lived, the walk back could be several miles.
She opened her eyes, sat up, and looked around. “I really am good to drive.”
Zane hadn’t wanted to lie to her again, but since she didn’t seem to believe him when he told the truth, his hands were kind of tied. “I have missed it.”
Maybe becaus
e men liked driving, Zane decided to show off a little, hoping to impress her. He took the turn into the driveway too fast and overshot the entrance. A second later, the front end of the car ran into the bush. His excellent reflexes engaged, and he shot out an arm to stop her forward momentum while he pressed on the brake. Her chest and his forearm collided, but at least she didn’t hit the dash. “Shit!”
“It’s okay, it’s okay,” she said, her voice almost an octave higher.
Damn. Any hope of her thinking of him as a hero just disappeared. “I’m sorry. I took the turn too fast. Are you okay?”
“Yes.” Now she sounded pissed—and she had every right to be.
He backed up to get out of the bush and then pulled to a stop, hoping he hadn’t damaged the car. The bush would grow back, but the metal would not. Zane jumped out and rushed to the front. Kneeling down, he ran a hand over the bumper, but he didn’t detect any damage.
Missy eased out of the seat and stood over him. “It’s okay,” Missy said without any anger in her voice. “It could happen to anyone.”
“I need to stick to horses. They’re smarter.”
When Missy chuckled, his muscles relaxed. No one was hurt, and that was all that mattered.
Zane stood and handed her the keys. “I can walk to the guesthouse from here.”
“Thanks again for the picnic.” The shine in her eyes spoke of sincerity.
“It was my pleasure.” Zane opened the door to the backseat and retrieved his pack. “I’d like to pay you back for taking me riding. How about dinner tomorrow night? My treat.”
Rye said he’d be paid tomorrow.
Her glance to the side spoke of heartbreak—his. “Listen, Zane. You’re a really nice guy, but why start something when you’ll be leaving soon?”
“Who says I have to leave? I promised to stay until Victor returns to work.” That didn’t come out with as much assurance as he’d planned.
“You have a family and a job one state over.”
He couldn’t let her go. “It’s just dinner.”
Missy moved to the driver’s side and opened the door. “Maybe some other time.”