Colorado Cabin in the Pines (Peakview series Book 3)

by Jill Haymaker

  Luke stood in silence, his hat in his hand, looking over at Penny sitting very close to a young man who had his arm possessively draped over her shoulders.

  “Luke, this is Penny’s friend, Darrell, from Chicago.”

  Remembering his manners, Luke walked forward and extended his hand to the other man who hastily rose to his feet. “Nice to meet you,” Luke mumbled with no conviction. “What brings you to our neck of the woods?”

  What kind of game was Penny playing? Did she know that Darrell was coming today when she cuddled in his arms last night? This was the last thing he expected from her. Of course, he didn’t really know her any more, did he? Well, he wasn’t about to be a summer fling.

  He watched Darrell return to his position beside Penny. “I missed this one. Had to come and see for myself these Colorado Mountains that she’s always talking about.”

  “Must be pretty impressive compared to the city.”

  “I guess. I can see why she wanted to get away to civilization.”

  Penny’s back bristled at Darrell’s words. She loved Peakview and her home. He was right though, she had wanted to get away—at least four years ago she had. And what was Luke doing here? This was a disaster. The way he was glaring at her. Why did Darrell have to show up today of all days? She slid over slightly, dislodging Darrell’s arm from her shoulder.

  Her dad’s voice boomed, shaking her from her thoughts. “Join us, Luke. I have an extra T-bone with your name on it.” Have a seat.

  “I don’t want to intrude.”

  That’s right, please leave. Penny looked up into those blue eyes for the first time since he arrived. He didn’t understand. This wasn’t her fault. What she saw—hurt—mixed with anger made her want to crawl right under that picnic table as she had as a child.

  “Don’t be ridiculous.” Her mom’s voice rang out. “Come and sit here next to me. You’re family. A Walker could never be an intrusion.”

  Luke slid next to Ann, and Gary plopped a huge steak in front of him.

  Penny sighed and tried to concentrate on her salad. “Great vegetables, as always, Mom.”

  “Yes, the salad is excellent, Mrs. Anderson.” Darrell looked over in disgust at the meat on the other plates. “So Luke, what do you do?”

  Penny jumped in to answer for Luke. She wasn’t sure why, other than that she sure didn’t relish a sparring match between these two. “Luke is our nearest neighbor. He and his father run a horse ranch just to the west. We’ve been friends since we were kids.”

  “More than friends,” her mother added. “They dated all through high school.”

  Penny threw her mom a daggered look. Really, she had to add that? All eyes were on her.

  “That was a long time ago,” she said hastily. “But we’re still friends.” She glanced up to see that Luke’s blue eyes had turned from shallow calm pools into smoldering embers. She had to change the subject—fast.

  “Darrell has never ridden a horse. I’m planning a trail ride for him tomorrow to really show him the beauty of Peakview County.”

  Luke looked over at the man sitting way too close to Penny. Ha, he’d like to be there to see that. Better have a gentle old horse, or this guy might get hurt. He probably doesn’t even have a pair of boots or a Stetson. If he’s what Penny wants….

  “Only way to see this beautiful land is on horseback,” Luke said after he took another bite of the delicious steak. “Make sure you get a horse with some spirit. There’s nothing Penny likes more than a full out run on Ginger. Gary, this beef is wonderful.”

  He could almost feel Darrell’s discomfort at the idea of galloping across the countryside. Did they even have horses in Chicago?

  Ann jumped in and changed the subject, asking about the school where Penny and Darrell would be teaching in a few weeks. Despite his dislike of this intruder, Luke had to admit that he admired what they’d be doing in the classroom. It sounded like those children really needed compassionate teachers, and Penny could be so caring. Likewise, Darrell seemed to truly care about his community. It was time for Luke to accept what he should have accepted four years ago and bow out of her life for good.

  Finishing the last of the food on his plate, Luke stood. “I best be getting back. Early day tomorrow. Thanks for a delicious meal.”

  Ann smiled up at him. “You’re welcome. Any time. Don’t be a stranger. I’m sure we’ll see you again before Penny leaves for Chicago.” Gary and Ann stood up and each gave him a hug. Penny stayed where she was, staring down at her plate.

  Placing his hat back on his head, he tipped the brim. “Nice to meet you, Darrell.”

  “You too.” Darrell replied in a dull, flat voice.

  Luke didn’t dare look at Penny. Too many emotions swirling around inside of him. She’d always been able to read him, ever since that day in the barn so many years ago. He didn’t need her picking up on his hurt and pain. Better she left Peakview and his life as soon as possible.

  Climbing back on Geronimo, he walked the horse calmly until he was sure he was out of sight, then spurred him into a fast gallop. The wind in his face always made him feel better. He didn’t slow down until the horse skidded to a halt in front of the Walker corral.

  “Whoa,” his dad said stepping out of the barn. “Who’s chasing you? It looks like you’re trying to outrun a whole gang of desperados.”

  He wished that was all it was. Trying to outrun his emotions was a much harder task.

  Luke slid off the saddle. “What are you doing out here so late?”

  “Just cleaning up. Remember June and I are driving down to Denver International Airport tomorrow to pick up her daughter, Mary.”

  “That’s right. I forgot she was coming. Let me know if you need my help with anything.”

  “Just hold down the ranch while we’re gone. I’m trusting you’ll spare some time to show Mary around and make her feel at home.”

  “Sure thing, Dad. I’ll be happy to spend time with my new sister. I hope she likes our ranch.” Unlike Penny these days.

  As he unsaddled and brushed down Geronimo, Luke smiled at the thought of his step-sister being at the ranch for a few weeks. He needed something to take his mind off of a certain little annoying blonde. Although he had only met Mary once, she seemed like she could be fun, and that was what he needed—someone his own age to pal around with. Maybe she could even give him some advice about re-entering the dating world. He’d get over Penny Anderson once and for all.

  ***

  Penny rolled over and glanced at the clock for what seemed like the hundredth time since she had climbed in bed last night. Thankfully it read 7:00, and she could give up trying to sleep. Bandit wagged his tail and reached over to lick her face.

  “I’m glad you still love me.” She put her arms around the dog and drew her close to her face. I’m sure that Luke hates me now. Did he really think that she planned to be with him one night and then Darrell the next? The way he looked at her last evening had said it all. She hadn’t planned anything—not spending the night in his cabin and definitely not Darrell showing up at her doorstep. Why was life so complicated? After all, she was going back to Chicago. Being with Luke again was a mistake, for both of them. It hadn’t accomplished anything except to bring up old feelings best forgotten. Then why had she spent the entire night dreaming of him instead of Darrell who was in a room just down the hall? She climbed out of bed and tried to mentally prepare herself for a day of riding with Darrell. Maybe he’d surprise her and enjoy it.

  Penny plastered her best smile on her face as she walked into the kitchen to find Darrell already chatting with her mom. None of this was his fault, and she resolved to make the most of the rest of his visit. No, her heart didn’t beat faster at the sight of him, but maybe that was okay. It was time to give up childish fantasies.

  “Good morning. Ready to learn how to ride?”

  “Ready as I’ll ever be.” Darrell grinned.

  “I packed a sack lunch for the two of you,” her mom sa
id. “I think Betsy would be a good fit for Darrell’s first ride.” Betsy was Ann’s horse. Over twenty but still sure-footed, she was great for new riders.

  “You’re the best. Thanks.” Penny leaned over and kissed Ann on the cheek. Grabbing a quick cup of coffee, she turned to Darrell. “Let’s go.”

  Penny saddled both horses and packed her saddlebags. She adjusted Darrell’s stirrups and showed him the proper way to mount before climbing up on Ginger. After a brief lesson in the corral on how to hold the reins, signal the horse to start and stop, and how to sit in the saddle, she led the way out through the gate. She would head east along the ridge. Granted the views weren’t as spectacular as those to the west, but west was Walker Ranch, and she wanted to avoid any further run-ins with Luke.

  Darrell seemed to relax on the gentle horse. The trail up the mountain narrowed and they had to ride single file, which didn’t lend itself to easy conversation. These mountains were so beautiful and peaceful. She missed them when she was away. They did something for her spirit. Gave her a sense of peace. They neared the top, and the trial widened. She pulled back on the reins to allow her guest ride up alongside.

  “So what do you think?”

  “Of the mountains or of riding?”

  “Both.”

  He looked at her fondly. “It’s very beautiful. I think my rear end may be sore for days from this saddle, but Betsy and I are getting along just fine. I’m glad we did this. I can see how this will be a relaxing place for you to visit in the summers.”

  She was reminded of why she liked him. He could be so charming at times. They conversed casually and easily for the rest of the day. She worried that Darrell might bring up the subject of Luke, but he never mentioned him. She was content to let that go.

  ***

  Working side by side with Darrell on lesson plans for the upcoming school year, Penny remembered why she had become his friend. He was truly a caring person and was going to have an impact in children’s lives. He cared so deeply about his neighborhood and community. She had no doubt that he’d one day make a great husband and father—to the right person. What she was starting to have doubts about was whether she could be that person. Even though the night with Luke was a mistake, she kept reliving the passion she experienced in every inch of her body when she was near him. She needed that. She suspected that even after thirty years together, her parents still had that spark. Surely there was someone in Chicago who could do that for her again. But for now, she tried to appreciate what she liked about Darrell. Thankfully, there were no more encounters with Luke. By the time Darrell’s last evening in Colorado arrived, Penny felt like they were well prepared for the upcoming year, and she was ready to have some fun.

  “Maybe we should head to Aspen Ridge. It’s the next town over, a little bit bigger than Peakview. They have a restaurant and bar with a dance floor and live music. It can be a good time. Do you want to check it out?”

  “Sounds, like fun.”

  “Let’s go then.”

  Penny guided the Camaro out onto the highway.

  “Is this the direction I came when I got here?” Darrell asked.

  “Yep, just head back out this way in the morning and stay on this road until you hit I-70. Take a left, and you’ll be back in Denver.”

  About halfway to the town, she rounded a curve and quickly slammed on her brakes to avoid a group of horseback riders making their way across the road. She saw about twenty children of varying ages clad in helmets, forming a line with a wrangler on each end. She could hear the sounds of laughter and joy rising from their midst. Where had they come from? Peaktop Guest Ranch was in the other direction. Looking off to her right, the front of the long line of horses entered a wooden gate with a sign that read, Peak Adventure Camp.

  “I wonder what that place is? I don’t think I’ve ever seen it before.” Penny said more to herself than to her passenger.

  “Looks like some kind of a summer camp.”

  “I’ll have to remember to ask my mom about it.”

  The small dirt parking lot behind the Apple Creek Saloon was already crowded with many vehicles, mostly pickup trucks, when Penny pulled in a short time later. On a Friday night during the summer, it was the place to be in Peakview County. She led the way into the semi-dark interior. Although smoking had not been allowed for quite some time, a faint smoky odor still permeated from the old rustic siding and farm implements—the décor here for as long as she could remember.

  “Interesting place,” Darrell remarked as they took a seat at an old wooden table with wobbly chairs. Over the years, people had carved their names into the tables with pride. She was pretty sure a “Penny heart Luke” was carved somewhere. Hopefully not at the table they had chosen. The band was warming up on the small stage, and the place was already loud with conversation.

  “What do you think?” Penny yelled above the noise.

  “It’s different.”

  “They have the best burgers around.” She stopped short, remembering that Darrell didn’t eat meat. “Sorry, I’m sure their salads are good too.”

  A waitress, who looked as though she had been there as long as the building itself, took their order. Several people Penny had known since her childhood stopped by to talk. She smiled. Everything about Peakview County was so comforting—so natural. The last few days she’d been racking her brain to remember just why she had wanted to get away so badly. These people were truly happy with their existence. Could she feel that way here again, too?

  The band began its first set of rowdy country songs, and since talking became nearly impossible, she turned her attention to the band. A line dance formed, and she grabbed Darrell and pulled him out on the floor. Although he stumbled to keep up, he was a good sport and laughed along with her. Finally a slow song started, and he looked relieved and pulled her into his arms. Penny leaned against his shoulder and swayed with the music as he held her close. Darrell had been good to her for these past four years, but she felt as though she was dancing with a brother. No tingling—no warm fuzzies when he held her close. Why had she not seen this before? She needed some passion in her life. She longed to feel the way she did when Luke held her in his arms. When she got back to Chicago, she’d have the “just friends” talk with Darrell. She hoped he wouldn’t be hurt, but she needed to find someone she could fall madly in love with for life.

  CHAPTER FIVE

  Darrell left at the crack of dawn, and Penny sighed in relief as his car disappeared down the road. The next month would go by fast, and she needed some time to relax before the challenging year ahead. Knowing that Darrell had feelings for her she didn’t return made his visit awkward to say the least. She wanted to make things right with Luke. Unfortunately, she was at a loss as to how to go about it.

  It was a beautiful morning—deep, blue Colorado sky without a cloud in sight. She breathed in the sweet aroma of pine as she saddled Ginger and set out for a ride. This time she headed west, she’d always ridden through Walker land, and there was no reason to stop now. Spurring Ginger across the meadow at a full gallop, she relished the wind in her hair and the warm sun on her face. Entering the hills on the other side, she slowed to a walk and wound her way up the steep path. At the top she dismounted and plopped down on the small marble bench. She knew Luke came here when he needed to think and feel close to the mom he’d lost. Over the years, she started coming here, too. She hadn’t known Luke’s mom well. Penny was still a child when his mother passed, but somehow this place gave her peace.

  She softly began to mouth the thoughts on her mind into the breeze. “I know that I hurt Luke—again. I never meant to. It’s the last thing I ever wanted. How can I make things right with him? I don’t want him to hate me. I love him.” Whoa, where had that last sentence come from? She looked around nervously and was glad no one was there to hear her. She did love him, as a…what? That was the problem. Her feelings became jumbled after that night she spent in the cabin. Was he just a friend or something more? She
wished she knew.

  She sat for a while in silence until Ginger began to paw impatiently at the ground, then mounted and started back down the rocky, steep trail. She listened to the wind in the pines, as she felt the back and forth movement of her horse’s muscles as she made her way down the path. Reaching the edge of the clearing, she pulled up on her reins. There was the cabin. She couldn’t help but be curious as to what he’d accomplished since her last visit. Maybe she should ride up to the back side and have a peek in the windows. No harm there.

  About to emerge from the cover of the trees, she heard the sound of horse hooves and laughter, so she held back. Heading across the meadow were two horses. As they drew closer she saw that it was Luke riding Geronimo with a girl close beside him on another horse. She had striking long, thick, brown hair and a pretty face. She threw her head back laughing at something Luke said. Luke laughed, too. They weren’t close enough for Penny to hear their words, but it was evident they were having a good time. Who the heck was he with? Penny knew almost everyone in Peakview County, and this girl didn’t look familiar. She fought the tentacles of jealousy that crept up to her heart and threatened to strangle her. Had Luke moved on? Did he have a new girlfriend he failed to mention? She had no hold on Luke. Of course, he had the right to move on. But still….

  She held Ginger’s reins tightly and remained in the shadows until they passed. Thank goodness they didn’t see her. All she wanted now was to get home. She spurred Ginger and flashed past the cabin, trying to leave her unexpected pain behind.

  ***

  As Penny sat drinking coffee with her mom the next morning, she couldn’t help feeling restless. She needed something to occupy her time here, especially since Luke had apparently found someone to occupy his.