“Very astute.” He sniffed the fragrant brew then sipped. “Perfect.”
She tucked her hands into the pockets of her sweatshirt. “Apparently the video crew wants to film a segment with Walton and Charles today. They’re going in Jon’s raft. Yancy said something about focusing on the older generation enjoying active sports.”
“Sounds like a great angle. Should be popular with a lot of TV viewers, not to mention the demographic most likely to turn out to vote.”
“Walton was thrilled with the idea and went off to find Charles.” Her breath puffed out in the chilly air. “Jon mentioned the Tappan rapids will be a great place to film.”
“He’s right. We take a trip or two on this river each summer, so we’re pretty familiar with the terrain, which will open up today. We’re likely to see bighorn sheep at the mineral licks we pass. More photo ops.” He took another swallow of his coffee. “You riding with me?”
Her lips twitched. “I could be persuaded.”
He glanced toward the folding tables where Gregor was serving breakfast. The rest of the group was lined up to claim their share of the bacon and eggs. Both teenage boys were facing their way.
“I know how I’d like to persuade you, but since we have an audience I’ll refrain from kissing you senseless.”
She flashed him a grin. “Dwight and Alex could probably use a few pointers on technique. I can vouch for yours.” Her blue eyes warmed and darkened. “Definitely a superior rating.”
Much more of this conversation and he’d be sporting a visible boner. Sawyer cleared his throat and forced his gaze away from her lips. “Go eat. I’ll get my breakfast after I build up the fire. There’s a chill in the air this morning.”
She nodded then turned away.
After he’d added branches to the fire, scraped the last of the eggs onto his plate along with the single remaining strip of bacon and claimed a banana muffin studded with nuts, Sawyer refilled his coffee cup and headed toward the fallen tree where Devin was sitting. Liam Kennedy hailed him with a tentative wave before he could reach her.
The man adjusted his spare glasses on his nose. “Sawyer, do you mind answering a few questions, a little background information for my commentary? Now seems like a good time since we aren’t in a hurry to leave this morning.”
“Sure.” With a sigh, he took the camp stool beside the journalist and settled his plate on his knees. “Roman is hiking up to Loon Creek hot springs with anyone who’s interested to take a soak this morning. Didn’t you want to go with him?”
“I’ll pass. I’d rather get your insights into the congressman’s character.”
A vision of Devin cuddled up to his side in the steaming water of the hot springs disappeared faster than the bacon had. He did his best to keep impatience out of his tone. “What would you like to know?”
“I understand Congressman Hinsdale is your godfather?”
“That’s right. He was my dad’s college roommate, and they remained good friends afterward. Our families are still close, though we don’t spend time together as much as we did while I was growing up.” Sawyer bit into the muffin.
“I suppose Hinsdale’s too busy with politics now?” Kennedy’s tone held an edge.
Over by the fallen log, Devin stood then took her empty plate to Jon who was elbow deep in dishwater. He made a comment that earned him a smile before she continued toward her tent. The workout pants she wore molded her backside as she bent to unzip the flap.
Tearing his gaze away, Sawyer focused on the reporter. “Uh, Walton lives in DC. My brothers and I are scattered around the country. Simple logistics keep us from seeing each other often.” He forked eggs into his mouth then gave Liam a speculative look while chewing. If this guy had some sort of beef with his godfather, he sure didn’t want to help his case. “Walton lived in Jackson Hole for most of my growing up years. We used to visit him every winter to ski. My younger brother, Tripp, fell in love with the sport on those vacations.”
Kennedy glanced up from writing on the notepad he’d pulled out of his coat pocket. “Did Hinsdale spend time on your ranch in return?”
“Sure. He and Cathy visited often, though not so much after Dwight was born.”
“Why’s that?”
Sawyer shrugged. “Other priorities, I suppose. Also, that was around the time he went into politics on a state level and moved to Cheyenne.”
Devin left her tent, wearing nothing but a bathing suit beneath a long sweater, and walked over to join Roman and the two boys. Sawyer let out a sigh. At least he assumed she was wearing a bathing suit. He closed his eyes for a moment and gritted his teeth. “Anything else you’d like to know?”
“Just a few more questions. How would you describe the congressman from a personal perspective?”
“He’s an all-around good guy.” Sawyer scraped up the last of his cold eggs. “Walton has strong beliefs and works hard to make a difference. In my book, that’s an admirable goal.”
Liam frowned. “No faults?”
“Everyone has faults, but you’ll have to ask the man himself what his are. He’s always been a solid fixture in my life, more like an uncle than a family friend. I know if I ever needed him, he’d drop everything to lend a hand.”
“Obviously, you’re a fan. Know anything about the men running against him?”
“Only what I hear on the news.” Sawyer pointed toward the river. “Which isn’t always up to date, considering where I spend my time. I’m sure they’re both worthy opponents.” He stood, balancing his plate with the remains of his muffin on one hand. “I don’t mean to cut you off, but I need to help pack up all the gear.”
“No problem.” Liam gave a nod, and his glasses slid down his nose again. “Thanks for talking with me.”
“You bet.” After shoving the rest of his muffin into his mouth and chewing, he took his plate to Jon. “Here you go. I’ll start taking down the tents while you finish up the dishes.”
The older man grinned. “You looked like a sad puppy left tied to the porch when Devin headed to the hot springs without you.” His eyes sparkled beneath bushy brows, and his smile widened. “The woman does have amazing legs. Not that you’ve noticed, I’m sure, since you told me you aren’t interested in any more temporary relationships.”
Sawyer rolled his eyes. “You’re quite the comedian.”
“It’s a gift.”
“Then save it for my birthday.”
An hour later, he’d finished loading the supply raft with tents while Gregor packed the perishable food into containers lined with dry ice. After the cook pushed off down river, Sawyer joined Walton at the edge of Loon Creek.
“Are we almost ready to head out?” He swung his arm wide to toss a fishing line into the water. The whir of the reel releasing ended in a plop as the weight landed and sank.
“I expect Roman will be back from the hot springs with the two boys and Devin momentarily. How’re you feeling this morning?”
“Never better. Despite what happened yesterday, this trip has invigorated me. I needed time away from Capitol Hill and all the campaigning. I think Dwight is even beginning to enjoy himself a little.” Walton clamped square teeth together as he reeled in his line. “At least he’s stopped bitching about the lack of cell service and is actually making an effort to be civil.”
“Maybe your incident yesterday was the wakeup call he needed. In spite of the surly front he puts up, the kid cares about his old man.”
“Seventeen-year-old boys are pretty self-centered, but I like to think he’ll grow out of it eventually.”
Sawyer glanced up as Walton’s brother-in-law approached. “Griff and Tripp and I all came around eventually. There’s probably still hope for your son. Hey, Charles, how come you’re all sweaty?”
He wiped a handkerchief across his shiny forehead before stuffing it back in his pocket. The olive green tank top he wore clung damply to his chest. “Just trying to stay in shape. I did
a few push-ups and a pull-up or two using a stout tree branch. Not much breeze in the woods.”
Walton cast the line again and snorted. “Or a hundred. Did you know Charles used to be an Army Ranger?”
Sawyer’s brow shot up. “Oh, yeah?”
“It’s been quite a few years. My days of doing a hundred pull-ups are long past.” Charles shoved his hands in the pockets of his shorts. “You two looked pretty serious when I walked up.”
Walton hunched one shoulder. “I’m a little apprehensive about what this campaign is doing to Dwight and Cathy and how they’ll handle it on the off chance I do win the election.”
Charles frowned. “A little late to think about that now, isn’t it?”
Sawyer glanced between the two men. “Surely you’ve discussed the prospect with them?”
“Of course.” Walton frowned. “Dwight just shrugs and says, ‘whatever.’ Cathy vows she’ll always support my decisions and is behind me all the way. I do wonder if I’m asking too much of my family, though.”
“My sister would make any sacrifice for you.” Charles let out a breath. “You’re not the only one worried about her.”
“You’ve made that clear, and believe me, I appreciate your concern.”
Sawyer laid a hand on Walton’s shoulder. “You’re not a man to take advantage of the people you love. Don’t second guess yourself.”
“I try not to.” He reeled in the line, slow and steady. “At first getting elected seemed like such a remote possibility. I was merely running to get my platform acknowledged and make the powers that be on the Hill sit up and take notice. But now…”
Charles stared out over the river before turning, blue eyes dark with worry. “It’s no longer a game.”
Sawyer picked up a flat stone and skipped it across the river. “You could really win.”
“Exactly.” Walton let out a long breath then laid the pole on the rock beside him. “The idea is exciting. Exhilarating. My hand could be the guiding force behind decisions that affect not only the country, but the world. If that thought doesn’t scare the crap out of me, I’ve no business running for office.”
Charles regarded him steadily. “Glad to hear you realize that.”
“You’re not a power-hungry megalomaniac, so of course it’s a frightening concept.” Sawyer nodded. “This country needs a man like you at the helm.”
His godfather flashed a quick smile. “Cathy tells me the same thing. She admits the idea of being First Lady intimidates her, but she says it’s a small price to pay in exchange for the good I can accomplish.”
“Well, there’s your answer. Your wife is definitely in your corner.” At the sound of voices from the trail to his right, Sawyer glanced over. His pulse quickened as he met Devin’s gaze. “Looks like the rest of the group is back.”
“Damn, I’d better go take a quick swim to cool off while I have a chance.” Charles hurried away.
Walton’s gaze followed his brother-in-law’s retreating back. “May as well pack up my pole since the fish aren’t biting, anyway.” He slapped a hand down on Sawyer’s shoulder. “Thanks for listening to me ramble. Sometimes it helps to talk with someone who doesn’t have an agenda.”
“Anytime.” He took a step then stopped. “By the way, does Kennedy have something against you?”
Walton reared back slightly and frowned. “I don’t think so. Why?”
“An odd tone in his voice and a couple of snide comments he made had me wondering. Just in case, you might want your team to vet the video before it goes live.”
“Don’t worry. We insisted. Approval of the final piece was a stipulation to letting Political Spotlight come on this trip. Also, Devin keeps an eye on what they’re filming to make sure nothing the least bit damaging will slip out.”
“That’s smart.”
“I’ve surrounded myself with men and women who have brains and experience.” White teeth gleamed. “They keep me looking good even though I have a tendency to put my foot in my mouth now and then.”
“People like Devin?”
“You bet. The woman is quick and intelligent. Too bad I get the feeling she might not stick around much longer. This campaign is wearing on her nerves, too.”
Sawyer’s response was a shrug and a smile. Devin would talk to Walton about her future when she was ready. Once she decided what exactly she really wanted next. He let out a sigh, wondering what the odds were he’d figure into the eventual equation.
Walton’s chances of winning the presidency were probably a hell of a lot higher.
* * * *
Somehow Devin ended up riding in a raft with Roman and the two boys. She’d left the camp area for a few minutes to pee, and by the time she returned, Sawyer’s raft was full. When she met his gaze and raised a brow, he answered with a slight head shake and an eye roll. Grinning, she took the only spot left with the junior members of the party.
“Not how you wanted to spend your day, I bet?” Roman shoved off from shore then jumped into the raft and settled beside her in the back.
Devin picked up her paddle and smiled at his comment, which had been issued with a touch of sarcasm. “I don’t mind.”
“Sure you don’t. You’d have to be blind not to see the way Sawyer looks at you.” Roman gestured toward the younger boys lounging in the front. “We’re a mismatched group today.” He lowered his voice. “Like one of those old high school dramas I used to watch on the movie channel. The derelict, the nerd, the rich kid and the prom queen.”
Her laughter rang out over the quiet flow of the river. “Believe me, I was never the prom queen. Back in my high school days, I was quick to speak my mind, which made a lot of people uncomfortable. I never fit into a niche.”
“Me, neither.”
Devin paddled in a steady rhythm. “Really? I would have thought you were the bad boy, the one the good girls dated when they wanted to irritate their parents.”
His broad smile reminded her of someone, but she couldn’t think who. Probably one of the young TV superstars always in the news these days. There was no denying Roman’s good looks.
“Is that why they went out with me? I always wondered.” His lips twisted. “Back then, I got in more trouble than I should have and added to my mom’s load of worry. I regret that now.”
Pain shone in his eyes when his gaze met hers before shifting away.
She spoke softly. “You can’t undo the past, but you can show her you’ve changed.”
“Too late. She had a heart attack last year, too much stress trying to play peacemaker between me and my…father.” His knuckles whitened on the paddle. “If she were still alive, I doubt she’d support what I’m doing now, anyway.” He straightened then spoke sharply, “Rapids ahead. Hey, you two slackers. Grab your paddles and help out.”
As they maneuvered through the whitewater, Devin wanted to reach over and give Roman a hug. Not that he’d welcome her pity. The hard veneer was back in place as they floated into calmer waters and caught up to the other rafts. Her gaze shifted to Sawyer, who appeared to be having an animated conversation with the videographer, Yancy. Warmth and worry whirled in her chest, tightening until she fought for breath. She couldn’t help Roman. She wasn’t even certain she was making the right choices when it came to her own life. Devin angled her chin a little higher. Everyone made mistakes then had to work through their problems and regrets the best way they could. And live with the consequences.
Hours later, outside Devin’s tent an impromptu poker game raged on as the moon slid across the night sky.
“I’ll see your quarter and raise you a buck.” Walton’s voice was low, no doubt out of respect for the sane members of the group who were actually trying to sleep. “Damn it, where the hell did my bag of change disappear to?”
“Put your money where your mouth is, Walton. You aren’t playing with a bunch of girls who can be talked into extending you credit.”
Coins rattled in apparent
response to Yancy’s taunt.
“Playing strip poker with women would be a hell of a lot more fun than penny-ante stakes with you clowns.”
Charles’s comment was followed by a hoot of laughter from her boss. “Except Sawyer would have lost his shorts by now. Nobody wants to see that.”
“Ha, ha. Funny, Walton, but I am nearly out of quarters. I don’t suppose you’d let me bet those shorts you mentioned?”
Devin buried her head beneath her pillow and gritted her teeth as Yancy made an off-color joke at Sawyer’s expense.
After an uneventful day on the river in Roman’s raft, she’d found herself missing Sawyer’s company more than she’d ever expected. She’d been looking forward to spending the evening with him. Even assumed she would—until he’d enthusiastically agreed to play poker after dinner.
Not exactly the way she’d envisioned the night ending. Letting out a long, frustrated breath, she closed her eyes…
Her ringing cell phone jerked her awake. What the hell? Who would be calling at this hour? She grabbed it out of her bag and pressed the connect button. “Hello.”
“I can’t believe I finally got you. Damn, now I’m glad I couldn’t sleep.”
“Syd? Do you know what time it is?”
“Late. Why haven’t you contacted me?”
“No need.” She slumped back with a sigh.
“I talked to Walton briefly earlier today. Something in his tone set off all my alarm buttons, but he wouldn’t say squat. Did something happen? Give me the truth.”
She pressed fingers to her brow, not sure if she should tell him or not. Managing Walton’s campaign was Syd’s job, and without all the facts… “He almost drowned.”
“What?” Syd’s tone was low and ominous, not the screech of outrage she’d expected.
“The raft the congressman was in tipped.”
Syd listened without interrupting while she described what had happened. A long silence followed.
“You think it was an accident?”
“What else could it have been?”
His voice came back, sharp and demanding. “Who else was in the raft?”
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