Dandelions on the Road

by Brooke Williams

  After everyone made s’mores and told scary stories that turned into comedic farces, Chad appeared with a guitar and sang a few songs. Eva had a permanent smile glued to her face. She was where she was meant to be. She enjoyed Steve’s one-liners, Harris’ dramatic antics, and even Pete’s occasional burps. But when she caught Cane’s eye across the fire, her heart skipped a beat.

  “Cane, can we go for a walk?” she asked, holding his gaze.

  “Absolutely.”

  “Why don’t you go to the barn and visit some of the horses?” Kate suggested with a wink.

  “Good idea, thanks.” Eva held her hand out and Cane wove his fingers with hers. Once they entered the barn, he twirled her toward him and caressed her chin between his thumb and forefinger.

  “I’ve been wanting to do this all day.” His breath mingled with hers as he lowered his head and placed his lips against her cheek. He slid his mouth over a few inches and captured her lips.

  When he pulled back a few moments later, Eva was breathless. “Cane,” she whispered. She got lost in the way he made her feel. His captivating eyes made it hard to think.

  Cane pecked her lips again as a horse stomped and whinnied nearby. “I think they’re anxious to meet us.”

  Eva smiled. “I guess so.” She turned to greet the large, impressive animals. Each horse had his or her own stall, complete with a nameplate. They were obviously well loved and cared for. “Did you know Kate and Chad run camps at the farm for kids and adults? They use the horses for different kinds of therapy.”

  “That’s really neat,” Cane held her hand tightly as he used his other hand to pat the closest horse on the nose. “Someday I’d love to come back and help with one of those.”

  Eva stopped in her tracks. “Really?”

  Cane stroked the horse. “Absolutely. I’m a paramedic. It’s in my nature to help people. I usually do so in a physical sense, but I bet these horses could show me a thing or two about taking care of them in other ways.”

  Eva’s heart soared. “Horses have a calming ability. They can teach us so much.”

  “I completely agree, but I’m fairly certain I know everything I need to know on one particular topic.”

  “Oh really? What’s that?” Eva turned away from the golden brown mare in the next stall and looked at Cane with a glimmer in her eye.

  “Love.” Cane took his hand from the horse and pulled her toward him until he had both hands wrapped around her back. “I know we haven’t known each other that long, but I love you, Eva. I feel like we were meant to come together on this show. Maybe we would have been together all these years had I not been such a stupid teenager. But I’m grateful we found each other again and I think this is the beginning of something really special. I’ve fallen for you and I don’t want to be anywhere else but wherever you are.”

  Eva glanced over his shoulder at the camera intruding on their personal space. She tried to ignore it and searched Cane’s eyes for any hint of something less than genuine emotion. She couldn’t find it.

  “Wow, Cane…I really don’t know what to say.”

  Cane stroked her hair and rested his hand on the back of her neck. “You don’t have to say anything yet. It’s enough that you know how I feel. The rest can come later.”

  Eva gripped his arm with one hand and moved her fingers through the back of his soft, curly hair. She stood on her toes and pressed her lips against his. Cane loved her and she felt very strongly about him. The sounds of the horses, the imposition of the camera, and even the other men waiting around the fire faded away. It was just the two of them, falling for one another…as it should be.

  BRIAN’S ALARM CLOCK sounded way too early the next morning. He’d gotten used to the later evening hours and to sleeping in. Re-adjusting to the morning news schedule would be a challenge. Especially since he wasn’t sleeping well.

  After he talked to his friend Kate and told her what happened between him and Eva, he was filled with doubts. Had he given up too easily? Mike said no to his idea, but the producer wasn’t all-powerful. He could have gone over his head or ignore his mandate and pursue Eva anyway.

  Brian trudged into the green room when he arrived at the studio and went through the motions. He’d let sleeping dogs lie…for now. Eva was in Texas and he had a job to do in Omaha. But once she returned, he’d make himself clear. He was falling for her and he believed he was the right man. Not one of the other guys on the show, him. She’d have to listen. Whether Mike was happy with the outcome or not; Brian couldn’t let Mike nor a bunch of weeds stand in the way of love. If he and Eva were meant to be, they’d overcome Accept this Dandelion…and anything else that got in the way.

  Brian adjusted his tie and strutted to the news desk. He was Brian Schaffer, morning anchor on KETO. No one dictated who he dated…even if it cost him his job.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

  EVA CHOSE STEVE and Harris for the early morning horse ride. She felt like she floated through the rest of the night after her time with Cane. It had been hard to concentrate on her conversation with Pete when they were alone. Cane loved her and her feelings for him soared as well. He may be the man for her, but she still wanted to explore things with everyone else to be sure.

  “I’ve chosen horses for each of you,” Kate announced when Eva and the men arrived in the barn before sunrise. “I picked them based on your height, weight and personality. Eva, this little lady is, well, Little Lady. She’s a sweet, gentle mare and she’ll be the perfect match for you.”

  Eva squealed in delight. Being away from animals to tape the show had been a real challenge. She was anxious to get back to her passion and riding a horse would help her feel connected to the animal world again.

  “This dashing gentleman here is Skywinder and I’ve chosen him for you, Steve.” Kate patted a large horse on the side.

  “Hey Winder.” Steve approached the jet-black horse with eyes full of mischief.

  “And this guy is Wild One. We named him that because he’s pretty slow. You said you didn’t have experience with horses, Harris, so he’ll be a good first ride for you.” Kate led the horse out of his stall.

  “I appreciate that,” Harris said tentatively.

  Kate showed them how to mount their horses and Eva swung herself up and onto Little Lady. Steve flung his leg over Skywinder so fast he almost threw himself over the other side and Harris mounted slowly and methodically.

  “Okay,” Kate said as she adjusted the saddle on her horse and climbed atop his back with ease. “I’m going to take you on a trail ride around the back of the ranch. I’ll narrate a bit and give you some details on the land. If you have any questions, shout them out. Otherwise, I’ll keep to myself and let you enjoy your date.”

  Eva smiled at Kate and looked down at Mike and the crewmembers in two separate golf carts. They had a challenge in filming today, but she was sure they were up for it.

  Little Lady ambled out of the barn, following Kate wherever she led. Eva ran her fingers through the horse’s coarse mane. It felt good to be with an animal again. She looked back at Harris and Steve. Steve sported his usual look of exuberance. Harris looked a little unsure of himself, but he was adjusting to the horse.

  Kate led the group single file to the outer edge of the ranch along a dusty trail. Soon, the space around them filled with trees and they entered a small wooded area.

  “Um,” Harris called, “what do I do?”

  Eva glanced back. His horse stopped to munch on the grass and weeds.

  “Just pull back on the reins,” Kate suggested. “She’s a hungry one. Eats like a horse.”

  Steve guffawed as Harris pulled the horse’s head back and caught up with the group. Every time Eva caught him in her side view, the horse was bent over, snacking. She should have invited Pete. Wild One was more suited to him.

  Kate told them how Chad put Leida Lands together and then allowed them to watch the sunrise and enjoy the ride in silence.

  “I think Skywinder here has a
little itch,” Steve said as his horse backed up against a tree and rubbed its bottom against the rough bark. “Kate,” he called, “you misnamed this horse. I’m sorry, but from this day forward, he shall be known as Scratch-i-bottom.”

  Kate snorted and Eva joined in the laughter. Leave it to Steve to come up with a one-liner about a horse with an itchy rear. Skywinder, or Scratch-i-bottom, trotted ahead of Eva and she fell back alongside Harris. His horse slowed for yet another snack and Eva pulled Little Lady to a stop beside him.

  “I don’t know whether to scold him or thank him.” Harris shook his head. “He’s got quite an appetite, but at least I get a little time alone with you.”

  Eva grinned. She liked Harris. He had boyish good looks and a unique approach to life.

  “We’ll have more time, Harris.”

  He nodded. “Can we make the most of what we’ve got right now? No one’s looking, not even my horse. Come here.”

  Harris leaned over as far as he could without falling out of the saddle. He wanted to kiss her. It wouldn’t be a long kiss, but it was still romantic. Eva loved the idea of sharing her first kiss with Harris atop a horse. Given her love for animals, it couldn’t have been more perfect. Though she and Harris hadn’t had as much time as some of the others, she liked him enough to wonder what his lips would feel like against hers. That’s what the show was about…testing the waters with a variety of men to find the right one.

  Eva leaned over in her own saddle. She got within a few inches of Harris’ lips when her horse jolted beneath her, let out a high-pitched whinny, and took off through the forest. Eva leaned forward and shot a backward glance at Harris who sat up on his horse with a look of disappointment.

  Little Lady took Eva into the woods and off the path. When Harris was no longer in view, the horse stopped. Eva swung herself down and walked around in front of the horse. “What was that all about?” she asked when she was eye to eye with the creature. “You don’t like Harris?”

  The horse made a motion that almost looked like she shook her head. It was ridiculous, Eva knew that, but Eva felt like Little Lady was trying to tell her Harris wasn’t the one. “Are you sure, girl?” The horse threw her head back and then down. “You certainly are opinionated. Well, thanks for the help.”

  Eva led the horse a few steps and turned her head when she heard hooves crashing through the leaves. Steve’s horse stopped twenty feet away, backed up to a tree, and resumed scratching. Steve shook his head and dismounted. He pulled on the reigns until the horse reluctantly moved closer to Eva and Little Lady. And then found another tree.

  “See? Scratch-i-bottom. Told you.”

  Eva laughed.

  “Are you okay?” Steve asked with concern. “I heard Little Lady take off and all I saw was a blur. When Harris caught up to us he said you headed this way and Kate said Skywinder here would be able to find you. Though he seems preoccupied with his behind at the moment…”

  Eva watched the horse grunt and rub against the tree. He certainly had issues. But Kate was right, he was perfect for Steve.

  “I’m fine, just a couple of scratches on my arm.”

  “What spooked the little gal?” Steve asked.

  Eva shrugged. “Harris, I guess.”

  “He is kinda creepy.” Steve took a few steps forward. He kept one hand on the reins, but picked a twig from Eva’s hair. “That’s better.” He laid his hand on her neck and took another step toward her.

  “Thanks, I must look like a forest nymph.”

  “You look great.” Steve’s blue eyes lit up with the rising sun. “I know I kid around a lot,” his voice took a serious tone, “but I want you to know there’s more to me than jokes and pranks. I’m a real person with genuine feelings.”

  Eva breathed in the fresh, country air. “I have fun every time I’m around you and I know a life with you would be a blast.”

  “I am pretty fun.” Steve rolled his eyes. “But certain people bring that out in me and I think you’re one of those people.” Steve leaned closer.

  Eva glanced at her horse. Was Little Lady going to protest if Steve tried to kiss her? The horse narrowed her eyes. She didn’t look pleased, but she wasn’t yanking Eva away by the reins.

  Steve brushed his lips against Eva’s in a soft, light touch. Eva looked into his startling blue eyes. She wasn’t sure what she expected from a kiss with Steve, but she didn’t think it would be tentative and unsure. He seemed like the kind of man who would go big or go home.

  Steve’s eyes crinkled at the corners. “You’re such a beautiful woman, I feel lucky to be in this position.”

  Little Lady nickered by her side as Eva stood on her toes to initiate a second kiss. This time, she let go of the reins with one hand and wrapped it around Steve’s shoulder. Even when they kissed, he made her feel light-hearted and happy. She would live a long, laughter-filled, happy life if she chose him.

  Breaking sticks interrupted their quiet moment. Eva pulled back and looked over Steve’s shoulder. Mike thundered toward them with a cameraman close behind.

  “No fair taking off like that, guys,” Mike scolded.

  “It wasn’t our fault,” Steve defended. “Blame these two.” He gestured toward the horses. “But I’d be happy to show you what you missed, ready camera one?”

  The crewmember lifted the camera and aimed it in their direction. Steve wrapped his arm around Eva’s waist, lifted her off the ground, and planted a dramatic kiss on her lips.

  “Got it?” Steve asked when he placed her back on her feet.

  “You better have.” Mike stomped back the way he’d come, leaving the camera operator behind.

  “Well, shall we get back to the trail?” Eva asked.

  “Do we have to?” Steve replied.

  “Maybe not.” Little Lady jerked on the reins, pulling Eva and Steve apart. “Then again, maybe we should.” She jogged to her horse and swung into the saddle. She watched Steve pull Skywinder away from his latest tree and follow her to the trail.

  Eva shook her head. First Cane, then Steve. She felt like she belonged with whatever man she was with at that moment. She was going to have to make a decision in due time. For now, she’d just enjoy the attention.

  CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

  KATE HELPED HARRIS, Steve and Eva return the horses to their stalls and the group went to the lodge to clean up. After hugging both men and sharing a tender look with Steve, Eva turned her thoughts to the other two bachelors. She knew it was ironic to take Pete on another picnic date, but this time there wouldn’t be sandwiches.

  Eva changed into fresh jeans, removed the barrette from her hair and shook it out. Kate gave her directions to the picnic location so she headed that way early. She wanted to see it for herself and have a few moments to decompress. She tromped through the wooded portion of the ranch until she spotted the camera crew. So much for being alone. The tree house sitting above her in a large oak tree was phenomenal.

  During the horse ride, Kate told them a little about the house. They built it for the children who came to the ranch. Many of them didn’t have a good home life and the treehouse was something they’d always remember. Eva was certain it was something she wouldn’t soon forget either.

  She examined the entrances and chose the rope ladder at the back of the house. She climbed with excitement permeating her veins. She couldn't wait to see inside. As her head came above the last step, she spotted the camera right away. There was no operator in sight, but she still wasn’t alone.

  “Cane.”

  “Hey, beautiful! Join me.” Cane sat cross-legged on the floor of the tree house. Eva glanced around. It was rugged and beautiful. It had a child-size kitchen set in one corner and various other toys scattered about.

  Eva sank to her knees and got lost in Cane’s eyes. “I thought I’d beat you guys here.”

  “And I thought if I got here early enough I might grab a little extra time with you.”

  Eva leaned against Cane and put her head on his shoulder. “
This is really neat up here. I would have loved it growing up.”

  “What kid wouldn’t? Speaking of family…what can you tell me about the next step in this process? If I’m to make it farther, who will I meet?”

  Eva raised her head and kissed Cane on the cheek. “Nervous already?”

  “You could say that. I really want everyone in your life to approve of us.”

  “That’s sweet.” Eva adjusted herself on the floor so she could see Cane better. “Actually, I’m keeping my family out of it.”

  Cane frowned.

  “It’s nothing against you or any of the guys. My parents are really private people and I didn’t want to display them on TV just because I’m doing it myself. It wasn’t fair to ask that of them.”

  Cane tucked her hair behind her ear. “You’re a thoughtful woman.”

  “But, I do want the final two men to meet someone important to me before I make a final decision.”

  Cane leaned over and brushed his lips against hers. Staying near to her face, he asked, “Are you going to tell me more?”

  “Remember last season?”

  “Who could forget? You were on it.”

  Eva smiled and kissed Cane again. When she pulled back, she could barely remember his question.

  “Technically, Renee didn’t win the season, but she ended up with Ben in the long run. And she also became a very good friend of mine. I’d love her perspective on the situation.”

  “Ah yes, Renee. So all I have to do is make sure I lean over a candle at the wrong time and light myself on fire and I’ll earn her favor, right?”

  Eva swatted Cane’s arm. “You’re terrible.”

  “Hey, I’m willing to do whatever it takes.” He leaned over and looked into her eyes. “I’m not allergic to lobster like she is, but one whiff of pineapple and I blow up like a balloon.” He puffed his cheeks out. “So bring me an entire pineapple, please. I’ll eat the whole thing, I promise.”