When the bell tinkled above the door, she jumped.
“Good morning, Faith.”
Shane stood inside the door, all uniformed up and smiling. She had an impulse to pat her hair, and had to stifle it with some difficulty. “Good morning. Are you ready?”
He nodded.
Merle walked out from his office and greeted Shane. “Where are you two headed today?”
Faith looked askance at the older man's beaming smile. It was odd coming from one usually more blustery than sugary.
“Indian Rock. Going to check some of the old mining roads.”
“Should be gorgeous with all the alpine flowers.”
Faith held up her Canon EOS 7D. “That's why I'm bringing this.”
The older man's smile deepened. “You kids have fun now.” Then he went back into his office.
She sent a sidelong look toward Shane to see if he noticed anything out of place. He simply held open the door. Faith grabbed her camera bag and backpack and headed out to where he was parked.
Once they were settled in his Jeep, she released a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. This was simply going to be a routine photo job. No big whoop. Of course, accompanying a federal ranger wasn't the norm, generally, but beyond that, she could declare the trip mundane. She glanced over at the driver. Almost.
Shane fired up the Jeep. While the vehicle was a late model, the interior was filmed with a light layer of dust and the floor mats were littered with pine needles and dried mud—just like everyone else's car in the area.
He turned on his CB radio. “Where we're going there's no cell service, so we go old school.” He smiled as he patted the receiver. “This baby is what we'll be using when the zombie apocalypse happens.”
Faith raised her brows. “The zombie apocalypse?”
“Yeah, you know, when everything goes crazy. Civilizations fall, anarchy reins, and zombies—”
“Don't finish that, please.” She struggled to suppress a smile, not wanting to encourage him.
He pitched his voice low. “It could happen, you know.”
“Very cute.”
He pretended to be offended. “I can see you didn't read comic books when you were a kid.”
A reluctant smile slipped past her guard. Whoops. “Alas, no, I never read comic books.”
Shane pulled out of the driveway and onto the road. “Apocalypse comics were what got me into forestry, if you can imagine that.”
Her eyes widened. “How?”
“You know the theme of the lone survivalist fighting it out against his environment, whether it's bad guys or nature...or zombies.”
She bit back a wider smile. “So you're a loner survivalist type?”
He sent her a rueful grin. “Right now I pretty much just fight paperwork and regulations. It was much more romantic when I was a teenager.”
Faith knew all about youthful ideals. “You said you grew up in a big city. That must've have something to do with it.”
“Yep. I'd had enough of asphalt and noise.”
“Do you ever miss it? City life?”
Shane turned onto the highway. “It's been eight years since I've been back, and so far, no thanks.” He paused. “I guess I could always pursue my second interest. Photography.”
Faith stared out at the passing scenery without seeing it, her heart pounding hard. Was he provoking her or was it a harmless comment? “Did you take it in college?”
“Just a few classes. It wasn't my minor if that's what you mean. At this point I'm more of an enthusiast.”
She swallowed and addressed his profile. “Do you have a portfolio? I'm sure Merle would love to see examples of your work.”
“I plan to show him soon. I'm looking forward to getting his opinion because he's really got a great eye for that kind of thing.”
Faith felt herself sink in the seat. So Shane didn't represent an either-slash-or when it came to Merle. He was a double whammy. He probably wouldn't even charge Merle for his photos. He'd be like a free employee, which made her a liability. She licked her lips. “Did you bring your camera today?”
“Yeah, I keep it in the Jeep. But I'm not supposed to be framing shots as I make my rounds, so I don't get to use it as often as I'd like. When I do use it, it's more along the lines of collecting information for my office. You know, animal remains, the presence of pests, forensic evidence if a crime has occurred on federal land. Any number of things that probably wouldn't make into in one of your brochures.”
“Oh.” Faith wondered if that gave her another chance—at least for today. She swallowed. Merle had mentioned alpine flowers so that's what she'd find.
“Have you been to the Indian Rock area before?”
She shook her head. “As much as I've hiked these mountains there are still millions of acres I've never seen. I don't think I could ever get through it all.”
“This will be my first time too. I found out Vinegar Hill is the summit of the Greenhorn Range and one of the highest points in the state.”
“That's in the Blue Mountains, right?”
Shane nodded.
He must've done his homework. Faith looked out at the scrub-covered foothills that made up the John Day area. Soon they began a slow ascent that would take up to the eight thousand foot range. The weather was perfect. It was chilly but a clear blue sky led all the way to the horizon. That didn't mean it would keep. Storms, especially in the spring, could hit suddenly. Either way, she was ready. Her backpack and camera case were waterproof along with her jacket and boots.
“So tell me about your sisters.”
Faith turned to Shane, wishing he'd talk about something else. Thanks, Merle. “Well, they're twins. Younger than me by about four years. What about you?”
“No twin siblings, or any for that matter,” he said, his eyes on the road, an ever-present smile on his face. “How often do you see them?”
Faith cleared her throat. “It's been a while.” More like never.
“Maybe next time they visit, you can introduce me.”
“I wouldn't count on it.”
“Oh?”
“I just mean it could be a long time.”
He shot her an amused look. “I'm getting the vibe that you don't want to talk about your family.”
“You're sharp, Zadopec, I'll give you that.”
He chuckled. “Okay, my turn. I'm an only child of divorced parents. Grew up in the mean streets of the city. My mother is Merle's sister. She was a lot younger than him and took off after high school. He didn't know I existed until about ten years ago.”
Faith wanted details, but knew he'd expect details in turn. Luckily, she didn't have to ask as he continued.
“My mom died about that time. My dad had left before that. I don't know where he is.”
“That's awful, but I guess I know how you feel.”
“It helps having Merle around. Makes me feel like I have a connection.”
Faith considered his words for a moment, then narrowed her eyes slightly. “And let me guess, you've discovered how important family is, and want everyone else to experience that wonderful feeling.”
He looked over at her, a slight smirk on his face. “Someone sounds a little bitter.”
“I'm not bitter. I'm content with my choices.”
“So do you choose to avoid your sisters or is it the other way around?”
She crossed her arms over her chest and slumped against the door. “Are we there yet?”
He laughed softly. “Just another hour or so.”
Despite Shane's attempt at keeping the conversation light, he was concerned for Faith. She was too young for that closed, hunted look to descend when she spoke of her family. What was responsible for it? He couldn't put his
finger on it. What was it about her that made it seem as if she was waiting for the second shoe to drop? It didn't make any sense. So she and her sisters were on the outs. A lot of people had less than ideal family situations and still managed to function at a certain level.
Shane was glad for the rocky road that kept his eyes busy. Otherwise he'd be tempted to stare at her in an attempt to discern all her secrets. Even without discerning, he'd enjoy staring. He doubted she knew how attractive she was. She'd been hidden away—whether on purpose or not—in the cleft of the rock that was the John Day River Basin area. Her church was small, her town was small—and she worked in the mountains and forests on her own. Was her lifestyle by choice or was something keeping her here?
One thing he knew for certain, she wouldn't tell him.
The landscape changed with their elevation. Rugged hills studded with pockets of pine rose over wide meadows misted green with spring growth. The Jeep labored over the uneven ruts in the road. At five thousand feet, he put the four wheel drive in Low and took the climb more slowly. Faith had her forehead pressed against the window in her door, watching the scenery go by.
“Sorry for the bumpy ride. How's your ankle?”
She looked over at him. “Fine. Does the road go all the way up to the summit?”
“Depends on the time of year. It hasn't rained for a while, so we might get lucky.”
Faith was silent for the rest of the drive. Shane wondered how much Merle would tell him if he asked. Actually, the older man would probably tell him anything he wanted to know. It was obvious Merle was hoping he'd take a shine to his lone employee. Was Faith aware of it? He figured if she was, it wouldn't help him out any.
When Merle had first told him about Faith, Shane had listened with half an ear. It seemed to disturb people that he was unmarried at the advanced age of thirty and everyone had a daughter, cousin, or niece who would suit him nicely. He had to admit his ranger job afforded him a certain amount of protection from too much matchmaking. It was pretty hard to hide from Merle's employee however. And now that he'd met her, he didn't want to—not that he'd let Merle in on that little revelation. Yet.
So how could he encourage Faith to open up? What if he was the thing she was afraid of? He frowned, not sure how that could be considering they'd just met. But what if she'd taken an instant disliking for him and dreaded their forced friendship via Merle? His shoulders stiffened. It was depressing to think he'd failed right out of the gate.
They reached a sign that read Vinegar Hill—Indian Rock. “We'll take another road here and see how far it goes.”
Faith sat back and looked out the front window. “How far to the summit?”
“About a mile.”
“We can walk if the road is out.”
Shane raised a brow. “I can walk. You're still at the limping stage.”
She sent him a steady look. “Are you saying you'll make me stay in the truck while you hike to the summit?”
“You said you wanted shots of alpine flowers. You'll get your shots.”
Faith opened her mouth, then closed it and looked away. Shane knew he hadn't won anything. Even if he pulled rank, she'd still probably figure out a way to get to the summit. He gripped the steering wheel. Had Merle mentioned she was stubborn? He'd heard words like beautiful, capable, sharp...no, Merle had left the word stubborn out of the list. Interesting omission.
The road ended just shy of the summit. As he put the truck in park, Faith clambered from the Jeep and stood, shading her eyes from the glare of the midday sun.
She peeked at him. “I didn't know there was a lookout here.”
Shane glanced at the portion of roof that was visible from where they stood. “That's why we're here. Needed to check in with the staff.”
“You couldn't use your CB?”
“I have a delivery to make.” He smiled and pointed to the side of the road. “There are a lot of pretty flowers around.”
“I'll take pictures after I reach the summit.”
“Do you want me to carry you?”
“You're a laugh a minute, Zadopec,” she said before striding up the trail ahead of him.
Shane shook his head, hiding a grin, and followed close behind. A hundred feet later they came upon a small structure perched out on the ledge. Square, with a flat roof and windows all the way around, the lookouts watched for fires. This early in the season it wasn't usually manned, but the spring had been drier than usual, so a call had been put out. The lookouts were popular with college students in need of a little extra cash and a quiet place to study.
He called out to announce his arrival and a moment later, a woman came out and waved.
“Ranger Zadopec?”
“That's me.”
“I'm Miriam Reynolds. The Chief said you'd be up today.”
Shane shook her outstretched hand and introduced Faith. The women exchanged polite nods.
“Anything to report?”
Miriam shook her head. “It's been quiet except for a few hikers. It's been unseasonably warm so they're out earlier than usual.” She smiled. “Come on inside.”
Shane followed her into the building, watching Faith out of the corner of his eye as she brought up the rear. A small table near the windows was littered with college textbooks, along with an iPod docking station and small speakers. Faith headed straight for the windows looking out over the valley. Shane joined her and took in the sprawling view below. Automatically, he scanned the vast area for evidence of smoke, but all was quiet on the northern front.
He turned toward Miriam. “You have everything you need?”
“Oh, I put in for some extra batteries.”
“I've got them right here.” He opened his backpack and handed her the package.
“Thanks. Other than that I'm fine. I can't believe how much studying I'm getting done up here. Working here has been such a great idea.”
Faith twisted around. “I'm going to be outside getting some shots.”
Shane watched her go, wondering at the rigid set of her shoulders.
Faith rolled her eyes so hard on her way out of the lookout, she tripped down the stairs. Her ankle throbbed with a fury but the pain served to clear her mind. What did she care if frail blonde twenty-somethings gushed all over Shane? It was none of her business. What was her business—if she wanted to keep it anyway—was to get some shots for future brochures. And she couldn't do that without Miriam's breathy little speeches fogging up the windows.
A feeling of shame pierced her. Faith knew she was overreacting and being unfair to a stranger. Not only that, to have such a reaction was silly and immature. It was almost as if she was jealous. Which she wasn't. Ugh. God, that was low and I'm sorry.
She arrived at a small clearing at the base of the lookout. Faith pulled the camera tripod from its case and set up the shot. Peering through the viewfinder, she forced herself to get a grip on her emotions. Releasing a cleansing breath helped a little. Seeing giant pines reduced to small trees through the glass also reminded her to get her own issues into perspective. After a few moments, she had calmed enough to capture the image below.
Faith spent the next several minutes changing the angle of the shot until she had about thirty pictures of the valley, some panoramic, some focused tight on a particular tree or rock formation. She even took a few of the lookout in case Merle ever wanted to do a feature on that particular subject. Shane and the blonde were still in there chatting it up.
Faith took her tripod, shortened the legs, and limped back toward the truck. A meadow fell away from the poor excuse of a road, so she went out a ways and got down on her stomach, glad for the dry conditions. She set up the camera and took several tight shots of the local flora, much of which she wasn't familiar with. She did recognize the golden bee plant
, golden yarrow, and purple monkey flowers. Merle would be able to correctly identify the rest. Maybe they could have a wildflower feature brochure to appeal to the female tourists. She'd be sure to ask him about it.
“Getting some good stuff?”
Faith jerked at the sound of Shane's voice. She scooted into a sitting position and looked up at him with trepidation. When she saw the noonday sun form a halo around his head, she groaned inwardly. Some angel. He walked over and held out his hand. Faith accepted his offer and got to her feet.
He looked out at the meadow. “They didn't have flowers like that in Detroit.”
“Surely they had green spaces somewhere,” she said, dusting off her bottom.
“Yeah, but nothing so untamed as this.” He glanced her. “While a planned flower garden is pretty, there's something inspiring about plants springing from native soil, even if it's in a remote place where they might never be seen.”
Faith blinked, having no idea why he was getting philosophical about flowers. “Uh, are you done here?”
He nodded. “How about you?”
She leaned down and began disassembling her equipment. “Yes,” she said, wondering why it came out sounding grumpy.
Shane was silent on the path back to the truck. Faith was pretty sure he was keeping his mouth shut about her pronounced limp and her bad attitude, and for that she was grateful. Once they were back inside the truck, he turned to her before inserting the key into the ignition.
“A lot of college students take this job so they can study in peace.”
Faith nodded. “I know that. I've been to several other lookouts.”
He stared at her, questions crowding his dark eyes.
She knew he was explaining himself because he'd noticed her abrupt reaction in the lookout. But how could he make her understand when she didn't know why it happened in the first place?
Rock and A Hard Place (Cascade Brides Series) Page 4