Hunter's Mark

by Wendy Smith

  Lily nods.

  “She’s got nothing. Literally just the dress and boots she wore when she arrived. She had to leave in a hurry, and she had nothing planned on the other side. So, I’m it.”

  With a sigh, she nods. “I really feel for her. We’ll shop for some bargains and get as much value for money as we can. Might as well grab her as many things as we can while you’re paying.”

  I chuckle. “Whatever you ladies decide is best. I just want her to be happy.”

  “You really do like her.” Her eyes shine with joy.

  “It’s a bit more than that. No. A lot more than that. But she’s been through so much.”

  “Want my advice?”

  “Please.”

  “Let her come to you. I know you’re not patient at the best of times, but if she shares your feelings, she’ll tell you when she’s brave enough. Or she’ll give you a sign. Just pay attention.”

  Nodding, I reach for her hand. “Thank you. I really don’t know what I’d do without having you to talk to.”

  “You’d work it out. You are the second smartest Campbell boy, after all.”

  My eyebrows shoot up. “Who’s the smartest?”

  She grins. “Adam, of course. He picked me.”

  I laugh as she gives my hand a squeeze and lets go. “I’m sure you’re right.”

  The whole way home, all I can think about is what Lily said. Maybe I need to let Constance come to me.

  Maybe I need to let her go and hope to hell she comes back.

  10

  Constance

  “It’s time you got out of the house.”

  I look up from the book I’m reading. I’ve been engrossed in the world of Harry Potter since yesterday, devouring the first book and moving on to the second. Corey’s bookcases contain a wealth of fiction and I want to read it all. He seems to read a range of genres, and I’m enjoying the variety.

  “Do I have to?”

  He raises his eyebrows. “It’s been three weeks, and you haven’t gone anywhere. Like I said, it’s time.”

  I pout. He can’t really complain. I’ve slowly taken over looking after this place. I cook, and he does the dishes, and vice versa. The bathroom is spotless, and in what seems to be a change, his laundry is up to date.

  “You can’t stay inside forever. You’re safe.”

  Standing, I try and plead with my eyes. “I need to feel safe. I’m still scared.”

  “It’s not good for you to stay here.”

  My head spins. Does he want me to leave? I thought he’d said I could stay for as long as I needed. “What do you mean?”

  His Adam’s apple bobs as he swallows. “You need to get out and about to start living your life. It’s not like you’ll be living in my house forever.”

  “Why not?” Tears prick my eyes.

  “You’re smart, and you’re hard working. Look at what you’ve done around here. There are a million opportunities out there for someone like you.”

  I shake my head. “I like being here.”

  “I know, but you’re better than this. There’s no future in being my cleaning lady.”

  Standing, I place the book back on the couch. He’s a good foot taller than me, but he doesn’t scare me. I know Corey has a big heart, and I’d hoped it was one that had space for me. “I don’t want to be your cleaning lady, but I’ll do what I can to pay my way.”

  “That’s not what I want for you.”

  “Maybe it’s what I want.”

  He runs his fingers through his hair. “God. Sometimes you are so annoying.”

  “That makes two of us.” I can see something’s bothering him. It’s written all over his face. He’s so bad at hiding things.

  “Do you want me to leave, Corey?”

  He sighs. “No.”

  “So, what’s this all about?”

  He swallows hard. “This. Us. You being here. It’s a lot to handle.”

  “I don’t understand.”

  His eyes drink me in, as if he’s never going to see me again. “You’re under my skin, Con. I know that it’d be best for you if you moved on, but I’m struggling to let you go. I’m so fucking torn.”

  My mouth goes dry, and my eyes widen. “You want me?”

  He closes his eyes for a moment. “Just forget I said that.”

  “I can’t. How can I? Did you ever think that maybe I don’t want to leave this house because I like being here with you?”

  He sighs. “I’m not pushing you out. I told you that you could stay as long as you wanted, and I stand by that.” Corey reaches out and grips my chin. “You’re so young, and I won’t be what holds you back.”

  “If you think you’re doing that, you’re an idiot.”

  His lips twitch in amusement. “Maybe I am. I just know that at twenty-two, I didn’t know what I wanted, and I didn’t take all the opportunities I probably should have.”

  “So, now you’re acting like my dad.”

  He shakes his head. “No. If I was your father I would have got you out of that place years ago.”

  “It’s not his fault.” My voice drops to a whisper.

  “It is. You should never have been in a position where you had to escape. What kind of life is that?”

  Tears roll down my cheeks. “It was a good life when I was a kid. You don’t understand.”

  He drops his hand. “No. I guess I never will.”

  I wipe my face with my palms.

  “Come here.”

  I gasp as he wraps his arms around my waist and pulls me to the couch and onto his lap. Being this close to him is overwhelming, and a smile spreads on his lips as my breathing falls to pieces.

  He lets go of my waist, but I stay still as he raises his hands. Cupping my face, he runs his thumbs across my cheeks. “You’re not going anywhere.”

  “Corey, I—”

  “I’m not holding you prisoner, but you’re safe here. I might not have much, but you’re welcome to live here as long as you need.”

  My shoulders slump. I was so sure he’d tell me to leave, and I blink back more tears.

  “Lily, my brother’s partner, is coming to take you to buy some new clothes.”

  I shake my head. “I don’t have any money.”

  “I’m paying. You need time to sort yourself out, and I’ll take care of things until then.”

  “You can’t—”

  “I can, and I will. If you’re starting a new life away from that place, you need to have more than the literal shirt off my back.”

  Biting back my lip, I stifle a laugh. “I like your shirts.”

  “I like you in my shirts. It drives me insane looking at you wearing them. So, for my sanity, I’m asking you to go and buy some more clothing.” He drops his hands. His eyes search mine, and I melt into his in response. “Having you on my lap isn’t helping either.”

  My eyes widen as I realise that it’s not just his leg pressing against my thigh. Corey Campbell wants me, and I already know I want him.

  I don’t really know what to do, so I wriggle, and his lips part.

  “I wouldn’t do that if I was you.”

  “Why? What’s going to happen to me?” I shoot him the most innocent look I can muster.

  His lips curl into a sly smile. I want to dig my fingers into that beard and pull his face to mine. I’ve been attracted to men in the past, but never have I felt like this before.

  “Well …” He leans closer.

  A tap on the door leaves him chuckling. “That’ll be Lily. I’m not sure if her timing is good or bad.”

  “We’re going now? You didn’t think it would be a good idea to give me a bit more warning?”

  He runs his hand down my back. “I’m sorry. She offered, and then got a chance to get away without the kids.”

  “And am I supposed to wear this shirt to go out with her? What if Ash sees me? What if someone else sees me from—”

  He places his hands on my shoulders. “She said she’d bring some of her clot
hes over so you’ll have something to wear in public until you get your own stuff. Relax. We can trust her.”

  This time, there’s a louder tap on the door, and Corey sighs. “As much as I like you sitting on my lap, I’d better go open the door.”

  He’s so close, and he plants a kiss on my nose before gently lifting me off his lap and standing. Adjusting his trackpants, he heads to the door and pulls it open.

  I follow and laugh at the look on Lily’s face as he stands there, half-naked. Her mouth hangs open, and her eyes are wide. “You took so long to open the door, I thought you might have finished getting dressed.”

  He chuckles. “I was telling Con what you were here for.”

  She shakes her head and pushes past him, holding a bag out at me. “Here. I’ve brought a few things. There should be something in there that fits you, and once you’re wearing a proper outfit we can go and get you some new things.”

  “Thank you.”

  She frowns, searching my expression. “Are you okay? You look like you’ve been crying.”

  I nod. “I’m fine. Just a little disagreement with Corey.”

  Lily arches an eyebrow. “I hope you won. He’s a stubborn bastard, and sometimes he’s wrong.”

  I laugh. “What do you mean, sometimes?”

  Lily claps her hand across her mouth. “Oh, I like this one, Corey. She’s a keeper.”

  He rolls his eyes, shaking his head with a smile on his face.

  “Go and get changed, and let’s get going. We can have lunch while we’re out. There’s this great little place where Adam and I go that has the best burgers.”

  “Sounds amazing.”

  I take the bag she offers and turn toward the bedroom. When I get to the door, I turn. Corey’s in conversation with Lily, and although I was literally just in his lap, I hate the way they’re so at ease with each other. I’m jealous.

  This is something new, and I doubt I have any need to be. Corey’s told me how happy she and Adam are together. Is this what a real extended family’s like?

  Shaking my head to focus, I place the bag of clothes on the bed and close the door behind me.

  I smile as I pull everything out. Lily’s brought a variety of outfits. I grab the jeans and a T-shirt that look like they’ll fit.

  The jeans fit beautifully. I’ve always worn dresses in the past, so wearing pants is a bit weird. I run my hands over my hips and thighs. These are something I definitely need for myself. The T-shirt is a little tight across the front, but it’ll do the job. I feel like a completely different person.

  Corey’s eyebrows rise as I walk back in the room, and Lily smiles.

  “You look great. Let’s go get you some things of your own,” she says.

  I nod. “I’ll just grab my boots.”

  “You’re getting some of those jeans, right? Or keeping Lily’s?” Corey says.

  I roll my eyes, pulling on my socks and boots.

  “I don’t know how she puts up with you.” Lily laughs.

  “It’s tough, I tell you.” I stand.

  Corey grips my shoulder. “Have fun, and make sure you get what you want.”

  “Oh, she will. I’ll make sure she spends all the money you gave me.” Lily laughs.

  Corey grins. “Good.” His gaze fixes on mine. “You deserve to be spoiled. I don’t know if you’ve had too much of that.”

  “She will today. Adam’s at home with the kids if you want to go and see him.” She nods toward me. “If you’re ready, Constance, let’s go.”

  “See you later.” Corey smiles at me. I hate saying goodbye, even for a little while. It’s crazy. He’s left me in the house alone while he’s gone into town quite a few times now, but I hate the thought of him being here by himself.

  “Bye.”

  With one last look at Corey, I follow Lily out the door and to her car.

  It’s the weirdest sensation leaving this place, even for a little while. This house has been my sanctuary, and maybe Corey’s right in that I need to spread my wings a little.

  But I’m content to roost here.

  Lily’s nice.

  Really nice.

  I can see why Corey’s such good friends with her.

  She knows enough to understand that I haven’t really seen anything outside of the mountain, and she points out everything along the way to Carlstown.

  “It’s nice to have some company. I’m at home a lot of the time with my little girl, Rose, and while I love her to bits, it’s so good to have some time out.”

  “Where is she?” I ask.

  “With Adam. He worked last weekend and he hates missing out on his time with her. So, I could have brought her, but I thought it’d be a good chance for him to catch up.” She shoots a glance at me. “I also didn’t want you overwhelmed with family.”

  I smile. “The thought of being out and meeting other people has been a bit overwhelming. But it’s nice to meet another woman. Corey’s good company, but he can be a bit … well, he’s such a man.”

  She laughs. “Can I say something? And you promise not to freak out?”

  “Sure.”

  “I love watching Corey with you. People look at him, and they see that tall, bearded, muscular guy who kinda looks scary, when you don’t know the real him. But you know he’s a real sweetheart. And …” She takes a breath. “He has a lot of affection for you. It’s written all over his face.”

  My cheeks burn. “He’s taken good care of me. I’m not sure what I’ll do in the future, but he’s been wonderfully accommodating.”

  “I’ve known Corey more than half my life, and I’ve seen him in relationships before. There’s something really special about what you two have.”

  I sigh. “I don’t even know what that is.”

  Lily pulls into a park, bringing the car to a halt. She fixes her blue eyes on me. “I doubt you have to worry much about the future. You’ll have him behind you no matter what. And I wouldn’t be surprised if you don’t move out of his home.” Her lips curl into a smile. “I was with you both for what, five minutes? You two will burn that house down with the way you look at each other before you move anywhere else.”

  I swallow. Does she think me being there is a bad thing? I can’t tell from her words and the calm expression on her face.

  She places her hand over mine. “Corey’s been up there and alone for far too long. I don’t know much about you, but I think you’re good for him. And he’s good for you. So, let’s go and spend his money.”

  I laugh. It’s good to have someone else on my side.

  I have no idea what to spend Corey’s money on.

  Every single piece of clothing I look at, I love. It’s such a massive change from the garments I used to wear.

  I’m overwhelmed by how everything I try on feels so freeing.

  “Is there anything you want?” Lily asks.

  “Just the whole shop.”

  She laughs. “Well, maybe I can tell you what I think looks best.”

  “I’d like that.”

  Lily smiles. “Corey told me a little about what you’d come from. I hope we can be friends. Sounds like you need a few.”

  “I’d really like that.” I lick my lips. “He seems close to you.”

  “Corey’s one of my best friends. I hope he wasn’t being too much of a dick earlier.”

  For a moment, I’m confused. “Oh, when you arrived.”

  “You were clearly upset.”

  I sigh. “I think we’re both a bit all over the place. He thought maybe I should leave, but then he doesn’t want me to.”

  She scrunches her nose. “Leave?”

  “Yeah. I think that he thinks that being there isn’t enough. Like I should branch out and find something else. Live my life.”

  Lily shakes her head. “And you’re happy right where you are, right?”

  “Very.” I pluck a shirt from a coat hanger.

  “Maybe he’s just a little confused. He’s never lived with a girlfriend before.�
��

  I turn to see her shrug.

  “I mean, he’s had girlfriends, and they’ve stayed there for extended periods of time, but I always thought the one he ended up living with would probably be the one.”

  “I’m not his girlfriend.” Am I? Maybe I am. “Do you think that’s why he’s confused? Maybe I’m not—”

  She grips my arm. “Constance, I’ve never seen him talk about anyone the way he talks about you. There’s so much pride and affection in his voice whenever he mentions your name. I think maybe he wants to give it a go.”

  “Then why can’t he tell me that?”

  A smile crosses her lips. “I think he’s trying.”

  “Very trying,” I mumble.

  Laughing, she nods at the shirt. “That’s nice, and a good price. You should try it on.”

  She points toward the changing room, and I take a couple of steps toward it before she calls me. “Oh, Constance.”

  “Yes?”

  “Welcome to the family.”

  By the time we leave the store, our arms are full of bags, and Lily catches my gaze.

  “Let’s go and get some more things that you’ll need. I don’t know how you’ve survived three weeks in that man-cave.”

  I laugh. “It’s not been that bad. I’ve got stuck into Corey’s books.”

  She nods. “He’s always been a big reader. But a girl has needs that he’s just not going to understand. Let’s go get you some toiletries. Oh, and shoes. You need shoes.”

  “My boots are nearly new.”

  “Yeah, but who wants to wear boots all the time? Live a little.”

  I can’t help but smile.

  And I can’t help but think that I’ve made a friend.

  11

  Corey

  I’m in the kitchen when I hear the crunch of gravel outside, and I smile at the thought of Con being home.

  My thoughts are completely about her when in the past, Lily’s arrival would have been the thing that made me smile.

  I turn as the door opens, and the rustle of bags signals Constance’s arrival.