The Brothers of Brigadier Station

by Sarah Williams

  Meghan nodded. "He’s the oldest one."

  "That’s right. The one next to him is my youngest, Noah, he lives in New Zealand now. And that’s Darcy." She pointed to the slim little boy in the picture, her voice softening. "He's still here. He's saving money to buy his own property one day."

  "They all have your beautiful blue eyes."

  "Yes, they are a good-looking bunch. Temperamental at times, but I'm proud of them. Lachie’s had lots of responsibility put on him since Daniel died. He wasn't expecting to inherit Brigadier’s until he was much older. Darcy has helped a lot with the workload which lets Lachie visit you in Townsville." Harriet smiled widely at her visitor. "Come, the jug’s boiled."

  Meghan followed her to the kitchen where she made cups of tea and set the table with freshly baked scones, strawberry jam, and cream.

  "I hope you like it here."

  "I love it so far. I can't wait to see more of the station."

  Meghan topped her scone with jam and took a bite. It was still warm and melted in her mouth. "It's been a long time since I’ve had homemade scones and these are delicious."

  "Thank you. I’m glad you like them."

  Meghan was surprised to find out they had much in common despite the generational gap as they continued chatting. Harriet admitted to reading voraciously. "I like to support Australian writers in particular."

  "Me too." Meghan sipped her tea. She found it comforting that Harriet, a woman born and raised in the country, would be an avid reader.

  "Do your parents live in Townsville too?"

  Meghan’s shoulders slumped slightly. "My Dad died before I started school and Mum passed away in a car accident two years ago."

  Harriet's voice softened. "I’m so sorry for your loss."

  "Thank you. They were great people, and I miss them so much. Especially Mum, we were very close."

  Tears threatened as they always did when talking about her family, but she pushed them back.

  "Mum would have liked you."

  "I'm sure I would have liked her too." Harriet sipped her tea. "Do you have any other family? Brothers or sisters?"

  "No, Mum never remarried. She was happy with her teaching career. She taught at one of the Catholic schools in Townsville. I have a best friend, Jodie, she’s like family."

  As they finished off their tea, the phone rang, and Harriet glanced at it. "I’ll get the phone. When you’re ready, you can go and unpack."

  Downing the last of her black tea, a drink she would have to get used to as no one else drank coffee, Meghan collected her bags and went in search of Lachie’s bedroom. All the bedrooms came off the same long hallway, and Lachie’s appeared the first on her right. She knew it was his by the familiar, dirty clothes scattered on the floor. Obviously, Harriet didn’t pick up after him. Meghan smiled; she’d given up the hope he would start being tidier.

  His room was large, taken up by a king-size bed and matching dresser. Meghan put her bag on the bed and considered changing out of her jeans and T-shirt.

  But, curiosity got the better of her, and she left the room and wandered further down the hall. She found two more bedrooms similar to Lachie’s but without the mess; the bathroom, and a separate toilet. The large room at the end she presumed was Harriet’s. A glance in told her she was right and, to her relief, she noticed an en-suite. At least she would only have to share a bathroom with Lachie and his brother.

  After finding cupboards and the laundry, Meghan came to the office where Lachie sat, his chin resting in his palm as he scrutinized something on the computer screen.

  "Hey, sexy," she purred as she came around to stand behind him and snuggled her head against his shoulder.

  "Having fun?" He turned his head and kissed her cheek.

  "Your Mum is on the phone. I found your room and put my bag in there. I presume we’re sleeping together?"

  "Yeah, Mum’s cool with that. Do you want to see the horses?"

  "Absolutely I do. You know I love horses."

  "There’s a path from the kitchen. Easy to find, past the chickens."

  "You don’t want to show me?"

  He barely raised his eyes from the screen. "I’m sorry. I’ve got so much work to do."

  Disappointed, but excited to explore, she took off in the direction he had said.

  The dirt path stretched beside a row of young coolabah trees, past the chicken coop and down to a wooden stable. Meghan spotted a chestnut horse's head peeking out over a metal railing. Cautiously, she stretched out her hand so it could sniff her, then stroked its head gently when it appeared friendly. The long-forgotten smell of horse assailed her nostrils.

  "Oh, aren't you a handsome boy! What's your name?" she cooed.

  "Thank you for the compliment, but if you're talking to the horse, I don't know if she would appreciate being called handsome." The warm, masculine voice coming from behind the horse surprised her. She jumped back, lost her footing and landed butt first on the dirt floor. The stranger walked around and stopped abruptly when he saw her.

  He must be the brother.

  Heat filled her cheeks as she pushed herself back to standing and wiped at the back of her pants. She focused her gaze on his dirty jeans and the dark brown of his work boots. "I'm sorry, I didn't know you were in here."

  "It's okay, I don’t get to hear compliments that often." He sounded amused.

  "I meant the horse," she stuttered. "S-she’s beautiful.”

  "Yes, she is." His voice was soft.

  Meghan tucked her hair behind her ear nervously, then looked up into his deep blue eyes. "Darcy, right?"

  "And you must be Lachie’s girlfriend." His easy smile produced a dimple on his unshaven cheek.

  "Meghan." She tried to calm her pounding heart. What was wrong with her? Yes, he was ruggedly good looking, similar to Lachie but rougher and with a squarer jawline. Something about Darcy captured her gaze and refused to release it.

  A small black and white dog appeared beside him and yelped for attention, breaking the moment.

  "And who are you?" She smiled at the fox terrier.

  "This is my dog, Joey. Go ahead he won’t bite."

  Bending down, she extended her hand for the dog to sniff. After a brief glance at his owner, the canine trotted over for a scratch.

  She could feel Darcy watching her. She stood up and looked about the barn, but her eyes soon came back to rest on him.

  Darcy shook his head, breaking the contact and pointed to a shelf behind her. "Can you hand me a brush, please?"

  Meghan turned and surveyed an array of brushes, combs, and hoof picks before choosing one and handing it over, careful not to touch him. He nodded in thanks.

  She turned her attention back to the mare. "She's a lovely horse."

  He brushed the horse with long strokes. "This is Shadow. She's pregnant. Due in a week or so. That’s why she’s not in the paddock with the others."

  Meghan stepped back. The mare's belly was protruding, full with foal. She stroked it, and the baby inside rewarded her with a gentle kick against her hand.

  "Do you ride?" He bent to brush the mare's legs, his denim clad buttocks caught her gaze.

  She averted her eyes to a comb, grabbing it she began working on the horse's mane.

  "I was born on a station near Charters Towers. My dad bred horses.

  Mum used to say I was riding before I learnt how to walk." She smiled at the memory. "I remember sitting in front of my dad. He used to let me hold the reins."

  "And you live in Townsville now?"

  "Yep. Dad died when I was little, and we had to sell up and move."

  Meghan remembered her early years on the station. Her mother and father still young and deeply in love, working side by side with the horses while she watched from a safe distance. A feeling of complete happiness and serenity enveloping her. Those years remained the happiest time of her life.

  "I'm sorry to hear that. I know what it's like to lose a father," Darcy sympathized.

  "
It was a long time ago." After her father had died, her mother had mourned him for years. Meghan had struggled at school both academically and socially. The small unit they had moved to was claustrophobic, and the moist heat of summer was suffocating. Eventually, she had grown used to it, but the yearning for the country life had remained. Now, finally back on the land, she could almost feel the dust settling back into her veins.

  Darcy's gravelly voice pulled her back to the present. "So, what do you think of Brigadier Station?”

  "I haven't seen much of it yet. It's very dry and dusty."

  "Yep. Queensland's dust bowl. We need a good wet season."

  "I can imagine it's even more beautiful when it's green," she smiled, envisioning long green grass where cracked brown dirt lay shrivelling more every day.

  "The drought will break someday," Darcy said surely. "Nothing lasts forever."

  Chapter 3

  Darcy watched Meghan with interest. She had a natural tenderness towards the mare. Her country upbringing was apparent in her confidence and ability as she expertly combed the horse's mane.

  She was undoubtedly attractive, but instead of the blonde, high maintenance city girl with big boobs and little brains that were Lachie's usual choice, she was shorter and dark-haired. Tight blue jeans accentuated curvy hips. Memories of his ex-girlfriend briefly invaded his thoughts. He shook his head, ridding himself of unpleasant memories.

  Darcy continued brushing his horse. His gaze frequently coming back to the woman beside him. Occasionally she would ask a question which he would answer with his usual honesty, but even when neither of them spoke there was a strange easiness between them.

  "We should head back. Dinner’s probably ready by now." He placed the tack back on the shelf and gestured for her to lead the way. She waited as he bolted the stable door in place behind them, keeping the mare safe inside.

  "Thanks for letting me help. Please tell me if I get in your way," Meghan said as they walked side by side back to the house.

  He turned to her, his mouth set in a straight line, his gaze steady on her. "I will. And just so you know, I never lie. Not to anyone." If there was one thing he hated, it was secrets and lies. He’d seen what damage they could cause, and he was not about to repeat the sins of his father.

  Meghan bit her bottom lip. As he studied the lines in her lips, he wondered about their softness.

  Joey barked and ran up to the house. Darcy watched as his mother greeted the dog at the door.

  "Come on. I smell dinner." They started walking back up the path.

  Darcy couldn't imagine Meghan getting in his way. In fact, it might be nice to have a young woman around the place for a few days, especially if she could keep Lachie in line. God knows he needed it.

  Meghan breathed in the cooler evening air and gazed across the brown plains. Lachie and Darcy were relaxing next to her in wicker chairs spaced out on the veranda specially to enjoy the evening sunsets. Both men had their long, denim-clad legs stretched out in front, a cold beer in hand.

  Harriet came out and took the vacant seat closest to Meghan. A ready smile on her face.

  "What work do you do in Townsville?"

  "I'm a vet nurse at a surgery. We mainly see cats and dogs." Meghan sipped her beer, the crisp ale washing away her nerves.

  "You must really love animals then." Harriet leaned towards her. The faint smell of perfume lingered, reminding Meghan of the similar scent her mother had worn.

  "I've always loved animals. But it's hard work. I really only see sick or abandoned pets, which is hard." Even talking about it choked her up and she swallowed back the emotions. "I’d like to learn more about cattle and horses."

  "You’ll certainly get a chance to do that here."

  Lachie leant forward to join the conversation. "She’s also a great photographer, Mum. You should see her work."

  Meghan felt her cheeks warm. "I love photography. Painting too, but only as a hobby."

  "I'd love to see some of your work. I'm sure you're very talented." Harriet patted her hand lightly. The familiar action surprised Meghan. She had forgotten what it was like to be part of a family.

  "I see you brought your camera with you," Harriet nodded at the SLR on the coffee table. "Our sunsets are pretty spectacular."

  "I'm always prepared."

  "Speaking of." Darcy pointed to the huge orange disc hanging low in the Western sky. She snapped a continual stream of photos as the sun made its graceful descent below the horizon, streaking the sky red and orange for a few moments before darkness suddenly surrounded them.

  "You don't see sunsets like that at home," Meghan breathed in awe as a cool breeze brushed her cheek.

  "They are pretty spectacular," Darcy murmured.

  "Come on then. I'm starving." Lachie's stomach growled in agreement.

  Meghan collected her camera and followed the family inside to the dining room. She took the space next to Lachie while Darcy sat down opposite her.

  Harriet's tender beef roast didn’t disappoint. Meghan enjoyed every moist mouthful, unlike both the men who scoffed the meat and potatoes and picked at their greens.

  "Seconds, Mum?" Lachie smiled sweetly.

  Harriet nodded toward the bench. "There's plenty there. I cooked enough for sandwiches for the next few days too."

  He stood and went to retrieve more.

  "Do you ride any of the horses, Harriet?" Meghan asked, curious to see who Darcy had inherited his love of horses from.

  "Not anymore. The horses are Darcy's. Lachie doesn't like horses. He prefers his motorbike." Harriet turned her attention to Darcy. "You should take Meghan. Molly’s a sweet, gentle horse for a beginner."

  Darcy glanced at Harriet. "Her dad used to breed horses."

  "Really?" Lachie returned to his seat with his plate loaded up. "I didn't know that."

  Meghan brushed the comment off. "Yes, we had a small property near Charters Towers, but we sold it when Dad got sick. I haven't ridden much since."

  Darcy shifted slightly in his seat. "I need to do a bore run tomorrow if you want to come."

  "That would be great. Thanks." Meghan smiled, eager for the chance to ride and explore the vast station. "You don’t mind, do you, Lachie?"

  He shook his head in reply.

  "Now, Meghan," Harriet patted her hand gently, "Lachie has brought a couple of girls’ home in the past, I won't lie."

  "More than the couple you know about," Darcy teased quietly. His mother shushed him and continued. "He usually likes blondes."

  "Mum!" Lachie protested.

  "It's true. Darcy’s the one who likes brunettes."

  Meghan glanced across the table at Darcy. His sun-kissed skin had a touch of pink on it, but he avoided her gaze.

  "Anyway, it's lovely to have you here, for the next couple of weeks." Harriet raised her wine glass in a toast.

  "While we're toasting then, I should tell you that Meghan and I are engaged," Lachie announced.

  Meghan's eyes widened. She had almost forgotten the reason for their trip. Her pulse raced as she took in the reactions. Darcy's eyebrows were raised in disbelief.

  "Congratulations!" Harriet cried out, clapping her hands together.

  Meghan stood to accept a warm hug, relief sweeping through her.

  "I never thought this day would come!"

  Darcy shook his brother's hand with a forced smile plastered on his face.

  Lachie didn't seem to notice. He had a smug smile and a cheeky twinkle in his eye.

  Darcy turned to her, his voice light with humour. "Sure you want to join this family? He’s a handful." Darcy nodded at Lachie.

  Meghan grinned. "I think I can handle it."

  Harriet clapped her hands together. "We should be celebrating with champagne or something bubbly. I don't have anything, though."

  "Beer will do." Darcy raised his bottle. "To the happy couple."

  "To the happy couple." Harriet cheered as they all clinked their drinks together.

  As th
e others sat down, Darcy pushed his chair in and gathered his plate.

  "Where are you going?" Harriet asked.

  "Gotta check on the horses." Meghan found Darcy's attention focused on the plates in his hands. "I’ll be back late, so I’ll say goodnight."

  "Okay then. Good night." Harriet waved him off.

  Harriet and Lachie dismissed him as if this behaviour were normal for Darcy. Meghan frowned at his excuse. They had already closed the stable for the evening. Why did he need to check on the horses again? She watched as he put his dishes in the sink and slipped quietly out of the house and into the chilly night.

  "What's the deal with Darcy?" Meghan asked Lachie later as they were getting ready for bed. "Does he have a girlfriend?"

  "Nah. He did in high school, but she did a number on him, and he hasn't dated much since."

  "What did she do?"

  "Who knows?" Lachie shrugged. "Darcy doesn't tell people much; he keeps to himself."

  Meghan frowned and wondered what had happened. Darcy was good looking and would surely have women fighting over him if he lived in town. Perhaps he hadn’t found one willing to live so remotely yet. Or perhaps he was a romantic and was holding out for true love. She liked the idea of that.

  He must get lonely, though. She knew loneliness well enough.

  Lachie, Harriet, and Darcy were her family now. She couldn’t have hoped for a better welcome or a better family to marry into.

  Meghan woke to find the bed empty and sunshine streaming through the curtains. She had hoped that Lachie would wake her so they could have breakfast together. After quickly dressing in a pair of jeans and a T-shirt she headed into the kitchen.

  "Good morning. How did you sleep?" Harriet stood at the kitchen counter kneading dough; the smell of baking filled the room.

  "Amazingly well, thanks. Must be the fresh air."

  "Good. The boys have left already and don't know when they'll be back. Help yourself to cereal and toast, or I can cook bacon and eggs for you."

  "No, you're busy, and cereal sounds great." Meghan fixed her breakfast and chatted to Harriet while she ate. It had been a long time since she had enjoyed the company of an older woman and she was surprised how comfortable it was.