Wilde Side

by Jannine Gallant

  Eden’s sympathetic gaze met Devin’s in the rearview mirror before she directed her attention to the traffic as she pulled out onto the street. “That sucks.”

  “Yeah, it does. What happened to the rental car?”

  “I dropped it at the agency in town while you were in your interview.” Sawyer sprawled against the tan upholstery of his sister’s SUV, taking up more than his half of the seat, and shrugged one shoulder. “Faster than taking it back to the airport in San Jose.”

  Devin frowned. “I bet they charged you an arm and a leg for that.”

  “I can afford it.”

  “You can. Me, not so much.”

  He touched the fist clenched in her lap. “Don’t worry about it.”

  A sigh slipped out. “Maybe I was hasty in giving notice before I found a new job. I just thought…” She bit her lip.

  Hannah turned around in the front seat as they came to a stop at a red light. “Do you have more interviews lined up?”

  “One at a museum in Denver, and another in Boston. But this one…” She blinked quickly before turning to look out the window. “This place is lovely and interesting and not a big city. I’d hoped…oh, well.”

  Did she hope I’d consider living here? Sawyer’s stomach twisted. He’d given the matter some serious thought the previous night while he lay sleepless in the tent beside his brother. Carmel wasn’t the mountains or the prairie, but it had its own unique appeal.

  “Think positive. One of the other interviews will go better.” Eden stepped on the gas as they left the town behind and headed onto the highway. “Next stop, Lake Tahoe.”

  “Thanks for bringing me along for the weekend.” Hannah rolled the window down a few inches and faced the breeze blowing off the ocean. “After my last job, I needed a break to decompress.”

  Sawyer wanted to gather Devin into his arms. Her stiff back told him she was upset. But there was nothing he could say to make the situation any better, so he kept his hands to himself. With a sigh, he directed his conversation toward Hannah. “Who was your difficult client?”

  “One of the Giants’ relief pitchers. An egotistical jerk with a dislocated shoulder. I’m working with a young female ice skater next. Should be a nice change of pace from jocks who think they’re God’s gift to women.”

  Devin turned away from the window with a frown. “Did the ballplayer hit on you?”

  “I’m in close physical contact with most of my clients for weeks on end. The single guys usually make a move eventually. Sometimes the married ones do, too.” She flashed a grin over her shoulder. “I can take care of myself, and I have a strict policy against getting involved with patients.”

  “Smart woman.” Eden laughed. “Although I bet you’ve been tempted a time or two.”

  “I’m only human, and some of the guys I work on are hot.” She waved a hand. “Good thing I’ve cultivated tremendous willpower. If I can turn down chocolate, I can resist a man with abs to die for.”

  “Do tell.” Devin’s eyes brightened as she leaned forward and seemingly shrugged off her melancholy mood. “Who has the best abs?”

  Sawyer rested his head on the seatback and closed his eyes as the conversation between the women heated up. It was going to be a long drive home.

  * * * *

  They dropped Hannah at her cabin on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe then switched places in the car. Sawyer drove back toward the freeway while Eden stretched out in the rear to take a nap. Devin occupied the front passenger seat and turned the radio from country to a classic rock station.

  “I figure we’ll stop in Twin Falls, Idaho for the night. Should take us about eight hours with a quick break for dinner.”

  Devin glanced at her watch. “It’s almost three now, but I guess we can take turns driving if you get tired.”

  “Sure.” He crooned softly to the Pink Floyd song on the radio, his voice rich and mellow.

  She drew in a long breath, trying to still the flutters in her chest that had no business being there. It wasn’t good for her to feel this way. Not since she’d blown the job interview and any last-ditch hope Sawyer might consider moving to the coast with her. She hadn’t wanted to suggest the possibility until she knew the outcome of the interview. Good thing she’d kept quiet. She let the breath she was holding out on a sigh and tried to relax. “The man can carry a tune. Be still my heart.”

  “Yeah?” He flashed a smile. “Everyone in the family has a reasonably decent singing voice, except Tripp. He’s tone deaf. Eden’s really good.”

  Devin glanced over her shoulder. His sister was slumped in the corner of the seat, long dark hair hanging across her face. “She’s already asleep. I was going to ask for a duet.”

  “The woman can sleep anywhere.”

  Devin focused on the trees flashing by outside the window. “Your family is great. Ainslee certainly can’t complain about her future in-laws. Your parents are open and friendly and welcoming. They made me feel right at home.”

  “They liked you, too. Everyone did.” He grunted. “Tripp would have hit on you, but he values his life too highly.”

  A giggle escaped, and she settled back in her seat. There was no point in being morose over a situation she couldn’t control, so she might as well enjoy the ride and his company. “Your younger brother is darn entertaining. I noticed him trying to chat up Hannah. She didn’t seem very interested.”

  “Hannah is way too smart to fall for Tripp’s lines. His nickname is the Wilde Thing, and it’s not just about his skiing.”

  “That’s hilarious.”

  “There’s one in every family.” His grip on the wheel tightened, and his smile fell away. “I know you were upset about the interview…”

  “Can’t win them all. I guess I can always wait tables if all else fails. I have a feeling I’d be out of a job even if I hadn’t quit. When news of Walton’s indiscretion breaks, I bet his numbers in the polls will plummet.”

  “You think so? It’s not like he’s the first politician to have an affair.”

  “Despite the cheating on his wife part, there’s too much drama surrounding the whole situation. America is sick of drama.” She frowned. “Based on all Syd’s research—and since he’s an excellent campaign manager you can bet he knows his stuff—the voting public wants a president who will heal the nation. That’s why an Independent candidate stood a chance at winning this election. A secret child who tried to murder his father isn’t the Band-Aid that will patch our country back together.”

  “I tend to think you’re right. Too bad. Walton would have made a damn fine president, but he’s still a member of congress.”

  “Only until January. His term is up, and he isn’t running for re-election. His whole career has been riding on this presidential race. If he bows out now—or stays in the hunt and loses—he’ll simply retire from politics. That was the plan all along.”

  Sawyer glanced over. “So you would be out of a job come January, even if you hadn’t given notice.”

  “Yep, but I really thought he’d win. His whole staff did.”

  “There’s no way to keep this quiet. The press will uncover his connection to Roman as soon as he’s brought in for questioning.”

  Devin nodded. “I know. I’m sure Walton realizes that, too.”

  Sawyer was quiet for a moment. “You’ll find work. A job you want, not one you have to settle for. You’re smart and engaging. Any employer would be lucky to hire you.”

  “Thanks.” She swallowed against a sudden rush of emotion. “I hope so. I’ll turn thirty in January. I want to settle down in a career I enjoy. In a home of my own.” Tears threatened. “In a stable relationship. I want a family. I want to be in a place where my damn dog can actually live with me!” With an effort, she lowered her voice. “The single life was fun, but I’m ready to grow up.”

  “I understand completely.”

  They drove in silence for some time with only the radio playing t
o accompany her gloomy thoughts. She could have used a distraction, but apparently Sawyer wasn’t feeling chatty. After they passed through Reno, the freeway wound into the Nevada desert with only sagebrush to decorate the barren hills.

  Terrific. Now even the scenery is depressing.

  In the backseat, Eden finally yawned and stretched. “Where are we?”

  “Middle of nowhere.” Sawyer changed lanes to pass a big rig. “You slept through our exciting gas stop in Reno a couple of hours ago.”

  “Great. Now I need to pee.”

  “You’re going to have to hold it until we reach Winnemucca. I’m getting hungry. We can grab something to eat there when we stop.”

  “How much farther?”

  Devin turned in her seat to give his sister a sympathetic look. “Maybe twenty minutes.”

  “I guess I’ll survive.” She bent and twisted. “I feel like a pretzel after that nap.” She grimaced. “So, what did I miss?”

  Sawyer sighed. “Not much. This stretch of Nevada is pretty desolate.”

  “I meant conversation-wise.” She rolled her eyes at her brother’s back. “What were you two talking about that has you looking all serious?” She met Devin’s gaze and frowned. “Global warming? The economy? Some new terrorist attack? You look like you just lost your best friends.”

  A knot twisted in Devin’s stomach to match the lump growing in her throat. No way could she open her mouth to answer.

  Sawyer shrugged. “We were just enjoying the music.”

  Devin cleared her throat. “Sorry, but I switched stations.”

  “Hey, I don’t always have to listen to country.” Eden leaned forward and scowled harder. “Okay, I’m going to butt in here even if you don’t want my opinion. You two obviously care about each other. And, you’re both miserable.”

  “Thank you, Dr. Phil.”

  “Shut up and listen, Sawyer.”

  He let out another sigh. “Do I have a choice?”

  “No. Ever hear of compromise? It’s this amazing thing that allows people with different opinions to get along. Try it.” She flopped backward. “You’re both intelligent people. Figure out a solution to your problems. Oh, and by the way, I’m not sharing a room with Devin tonight.” She shot her a quick smile. “No offense since I’m sure you don’t snore, but you two can bunk together and hash out a compromise. Got it?”

  Sawyer snorted. “We have absolutely no problem in that department. In fact, we—”

  Eden covered her ears. “Eww, too much information. I sure don’t need details.”

  Devin could feel her cheeks heating. “We’ve tried. Really.”

  “Then try harder. Do whatever it takes.”

  “Says the girl who hasn’t had a serious relationship in how long?”

  Eden directed her blue-eyed laser glare at the back of her brother’s head. “You don’t know everything about my personal life.”

  “I’m sure I don’t.” Sawyer flipped on his blinker and passed a motorhome. “Why don’t you just marry Zane, already, and get it over with.”

  “Who’s Zane?” Though Eden squirmed in discomfort, Devin was happy to keep the conversation off her relationship with Sawyer.

  “Our ranch foreman. We’re friends…no more.”

  “He’d like to be more. He’s been in love with you for years.”

  Eden winced. “Zane is a great guy. We tried dating for a while, but…”

  Still twisted around in her seat, Devin gave her an encouraging glance. “But, what?”

  “I don’t look at him the way Ainslee looks at Griff—or the way you look at Sawyer. He isn’t my…everything.”

  Sawyer glanced in the rearview mirror before returning his attention to the road. “Too bad since you’d be a perfect match. You have plenty in common.”

  “Maybe we’re too much alike. Maybe a relationship needs a little tension to keep things interesting. Ever think of that? I’m too young to fall into comfortable middle age.”

  “Well, when you put it in those words, you may actually have a valid argument.” Sawyer met Devin’s gaze briefly. “With our issues, we wouldn’t have to worry about getting old. Who would have thought conflict was the key to eternal youth.”

  “Fine, make fun of me.” Eden wrinkled her nose. “Just keep all my points in mind when you’re having that discussion tonight.”

  He let up on the gas as they cruised past a patrol car parked behind a prickly shrub. “I would, but you’re reasoning like a girl.”

  “Thank you.”

  Devin couldn’t hold back a chuckle. “Love it.”

  “I know, right? If men thought like girls, the world would be a better place. Because I’m curious, brother dear, how exactly am I reasoning like the superior sex?”

  Sawyer rolled his eyes. “When a guy is alone in a hotel room with a beautiful woman, talk is overrated. Why start a fight when you can…” He met Devin’s gaze and wiggled his eyebrows.

  “Oh, my God, now you sound like Tripp.” Eden’s voice rose in a squeak.

  He pressed a hand to his chest. “Direct hit! Anything but that.”

  “Then man up—or should I say woman up—and have that conversation. Figure out a compromise. Just do it.” She crossed her legs. “And drive faster. If we don’t find a restroom soon, you’ll definitely regret it.”

  “I won’t regret anything. It’s your upholstery.”

  As they rolled into Winnemucca and stopped at the first burger joint they saw, a glimmer of hope stirred deep inside Devin. Could she and Sawyer find a way to compromise? His sister made it sound simple, far easier than it would be, but maybe…”

  Doors slammed, and Eden bolted toward the restaurant.

  Sawyer stared at her through the windshield. “Are you planning to join me?”

  She opened her door and stepped out. “Yes, I am.”

  * * * *

  Sawyer pushed open the motel room door, held it for Devin, then dropped the overnight bag he’d bought to replace the one ruined in the crash on the burgundy carpeting. “Not a bad place.”

  She glanced around before setting her suitcase on one of the two queen-size beds. “Pretty luxurious compared to the tent accommodations you had at Ainslee and Griff’s place.”

  “Nothing wrong with a tent.” He turned to wave at his sister as she disappeared into a room farther down the walkway then closed the door after he stepped inside. “You’re sure you’re okay with sharing? Not that I’m trying to discourage you or anything.”

  “I’m sure. Eden was right. We do need to talk. Alone. With no interruptions. I’ve been thinking.”

  His heartbeat stuttered. “You’ve reconsidered moving to the ranch?”

  She closed her eyes for a quick moment. “Compromise, Sawyer. Look up the meaning of the word while I go take a quick shower.” Grabbing her bag, she disappeared into the bathroom. The door shut with a whack.

  He winced. Not an auspicious beginning to the night. Apparently living in Wyoming still wasn’t part of her game plan. He wondered what was. Seemed like they’d talked the subject to death and gotten nowhere on several occasions. He flopped down on one of the beds and closed his eyes. It was after eleven, and exhaustion wore on him. She’d better take a very fast shower, or he’d be asleep before she got out…

  “Sawyer.”

  He opened his eyes and blinked. Devin stood at the foot of the bed dressed in her penguin pajamas, which she’d salvaged from her smoke-damaged clothes. Her hair was damp, and she wore no makeup. She looked so sweet and serious and freaking beautiful, his heart couldn’t stand it. He sat up slowly and held out a hand.

  “I’ll do anything you want. Live anywhere you say. I don’t want to lose you.”

  She sat on the edge of the bed. “That isn’t a compromise. That’s a full surrender. You’d end up resenting me in no time. There has to be give and take on both sides, or this will never work.”

  He scooted forward until their th
ighs touched. “I’m listening. What do you suggest?”

  “What if I take the Boston job off the table? Your summers are spent in the west. You’d have to be central to the rivers where you raft.”

  “Agreed, but I can spend winters anywhere. All I need is a worktable and my carving knives. I liked your parents’ home. I could see myself living in Vermont.”

  She sighed. “I left Vermont the second I graduated from high school for a reason. I can’t find the type of work I want in Linden, or anywhere nearby for that matter. Same goes for your ranch.”

  He hesitated, trying to hide his frustration. “Do you have something else in mind?”

  “The Denver interview. I spent most of the day thinking about this. Honestly, I’d hoped the gallery in Carmel would make me an offer. Griff and Ainslee are there. When I saw their home, kind of isolated with that terrific view…”

  “You hoped I’d be on board with living in the area?”

  She nodded.

  He took her hand and squeezed it. “The coast wouldn’t be my first choice, but for me, Carmel sure as hell beats living in a city.”

  “That’s what I figured. So, about Denver.”

  His chest tightened. “I’ve spent plenty of time on the rivers in the Colorado Rockies. The state is beautiful, but the capital…”

  “Denver is right at the foot of the mountains. I’d be okay with a commute to work. We’d still have access to the best of city life, but we could live in the woods.”

  “You’d do that? Even in the winter when there’s snow on the roads?”

  “I’m not afraid of snow. I learned to drive on some icy roads in Vermont. Would you be okay with leaving your ranch?”

  “If it meant I could be with you, I would.” He tightened his grip on her hand. “Not to put a negative spin on this, but what if you don’t get the job?”

  “I’ll look for a different one. There are art galleries in addition to the museum in Denver where I have the interview. Or we check out other places that offer a similar environment. Santa Fe, New Mexico might work. I was there with Walton on a campaign stop and liked the vibe of the city.”