Call of the Canyon

by Nancy Pennick

  “Who knows with that boy?” Lindsey sat down next to her. “He’d never figure out what cabin you meant, so I think you’re safe. Can you picture Tyson wandering around Salt Fork looking for you or pounding on cabin doors saying, ‘I know you’re in there’?”

  Kate had to chuckle at that picture. “I guess you’re right. I feel better, but don’t let me out of your sight today.” She grabbed Lindsey’s hand. “Come on, let’s join the others.”

  When they got downstairs, no one seemed to notice they’d been missing. Drew and Jake were playing a basketball video game. The parents sat around the dining room table, sharing a bottle of wine. Kate and Lindsey slid onto the couch and pretended to be interested in the make-believe game the boys were playing.

  “I know you two are up to something.” Drew turned around after the game was over. “Do tell.”

  “No, not really, just chillin’.” Lindsey acted very nonchalant.

  “If you say so. You guys usually share. Is something going on I need to know?”

  “No, it was just girl talk,” Kate said. “We were getting ready for the game, that’s all.”

  “Drew said I can sit with you at the game.” Jake stuck his tongue out at his sister.

  “Can I ever get away from you?” Lindsey said dramatically, ruffling his hair, but Kate knew she didn’t really mind. “You’ll have to drive home with Mom and Dad after the game because we’re going out.”

  Jake gave her thumbs up and started another game.

  After dinner everyone headed for the high school. Kate didn’t know why she felt so nervous, her hands trembled. She decided to sit on them in the car so no one would notice but then did a whole body shiver as they walked toward the gym.

  “You cold, Kate?” Drew rubbed her arms.

  “Just a bit.” Kate lied through chattering teeth.

  Lindsey must have realized there was more to it. “This was a tough day for her last year, Drew. I’m glad you’re here.”

  They found a spot higher in the bleachers than last year and Kate liked the spot much better. Gazing around the gym, she noticed a very blonde girl talking with all the cheerleaders on the sideline and realized it was Erin. Of course she would be there for the game. Kate couldn’t imagine her missing it. She came home from college every weekend to be with Ty. Probably didn’t trust him. Jordyn spotted them in the crowd and waved. Erin turned and gave her an icy stare.

  “Ooh, Kate, I don’t think she likes you very much.” Drew teased and wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. “What’s the word you girls like to call each other when someone acts like that?”

  “Bi...” Kate felt Lindsey’s hand over her mouth as she nodded towards her brother.

  “It’s not like I never heard that before!” Jake smiled at all of them, making everyone burst out laughing.

  The boys’ basketball team came running out onto the court and started warming up. Tyson was captain and star of the team. He was getting college basketball offers already, something he didn’t let Drew forget. Tyson would ask Drew if he’d had any football offers, trying to egg him on. Drew would never tell him he’d received offers but wasn’t planning on going to any of those colleges. He had enough money to go wherever he wanted and not play football. He only played because Coach Dallas begged him to try out since he needed a quarterback.

  “He’s improved his game since last year.” Drew had to talk directly in Kate’s ear because the noise was so loud in the gymnasium. “He looks good.” The team was warming up on the court and Tyson was front and center.

  “Didn’t notice.” Kate waved her hand in the air.

  The game started and she concentrated on Jordyn and the cheer team more than basketball. Jordyn was head cheerleader and doing a good job directing the girls.

  When the game finally ended, to Kate’s relief, the three friends headed to the locker room doors to wait for Jordyn. They couldn’t wait to find out who was taking her to the dance. It didn’t take long until she appeared with a huge smile on her face.

  “Didn’t Brian do well tonight?” She stared at the trio standing there, looking confused. “Guys, did you hear me?”

  Lindsey had dated Brian last year, although they were really just friends. They went to Homecoming together and he played on the team with Tyson.

  “He never told me...” Lindsey seemed surprised.

  “That’s because I asked him not to.” Jordyn took her hand. “I wanted to tell you myself. You dated him last year and I wanted you to hear it from me. I hope it’s alright that I’m dating him.”

  “Alright? It’s more than alright! I’m so happy for you!” Lindsey hugged her tightly. “Right, Kates? ...Kate?”

  * * * *

  “Tyson, what do you think you’re doing? Put me down.” Kate demanded. She couldn’t believe he’d tricked her into coming with him. Jordyn was in the middle of telling her story about Brian when Kate felt a tap on her shoulder. Tyson motioned for her to step over to the wall to talk. Kate believed it was harmless enough until he picked her up, threw her over his shoulder and went outside. No one gave it much thought because people got out of his way when he announced, “Coming through.” They ignored her pleas for help or just laughed. What girl wouldn’t want to be cave-manned out of the school by Tyson Gray?

  The last thing she remembered hearing was Lindsey’s voice calling her name. They had no idea Tyson took her away.

  He lowered her to the ground and smiled. “That was fun, right? I just want to talk to you. It’s so noisy in there you couldn’t hear a thing.”

  “Tyson, don’t you remember what happened last year? I’m still a little freaked out about it and being in this parking lot standing next to your car doesn’t help.”

  “Sorry, you know I didn’t mean to hurt you. It was an accident. You said so yourself.”

  Kate saw that as an opening to try to reason with him. “You know, Ty, I’m tired of defending you to everyone. I keep telling them you’re really a nice guy, but I don’t believe it myself anymore. I can’t trust you or anything you say.”

  “Then let me make it up to you. I wanted to ask if you’re doing anything this week, like maybe visit the Fork or getting a cabin there. Erin and I would love to join you and hang out. It would be nice to get away from the parents and really have some alone time, if you know what I mean.” He gave her a sickening grin.

  Kate was shocked. Nothing she said sunk in. “I know what you mean and no, we’re not going anywhere. Whatever gave you that idea?”

  “Just a hunch, I know your family always goes there and you love it, too. Thought you might want to introduce the place to lover boy.”

  “What makes you think I haven’t already?”

  “You slept with him? I can’t believe it. You were such a prude with me.”

  “Tyson, what in the world are you talking about? We’re discussing the cabin. Plus it’s none of your business what I do with Drew.”

  “So you have slept with him.” He seemed as upset as last year. He grabbed her by the shoulders and pulled her to him. “Why didn’t things work out between us? It wasn’t supposed to be like this.”

  Kate looked into his sad eyes, seeing just a small portion of the little boy she once knew and relaxed a bit. He saw it as a signal to kiss her. As he came closer, she pushed him away. “Ty, stop it. You need to realize once and for all, I’m with Drew. We can’t be friends if you keep acting like this. What am I saying? We’re not friends...anymore.”

  “If you’d just make plans with me once in a while and didn’t act like you hated me, I think we could be friends. I know I’m forcing myself on you. It’s only because I miss you. How about if you and Drew go to the movies or hang out with Erin and me this weekend? That might help. We’ll take it slow and in no time I’ll bet we’re friends again.”

  Kate couldn’t believe her ears. She wanted to get away from him so decided to go along with whatever he said. “I’m not sure, Ty, I have to ask Drew first.”

  “Ask me
what?” Drew walked out of the shadows between two parked cars like he was some kind of superhero. “Kate, are you alright?”

  “Kate, are you alright?” Tyson mimicked. “Tell him, Katie, that you’re fine.”

  She could tell Tyson was getting a little on edge and wanted to get away from him. She promised Drew that he would be out of their lives for good and here he was, smack dab in the middle again. “Drew, I was just telling him what a good game he had. We couldn’t hear inside so we came out here. Talk to you later, Ty.”

  Kate grabbed Drew’s hand and headed back to the school. “Don’t say anything. Just wait until we’re far enough away from him.”

  Lindsey stood on the sidewalk outside the gym with her arms wrapped around herself, trying to stay warm. She jumped up and down when she saw the couple come out of the parking lot. “Great bodyguard, I am! How did he manage to get to you this time?”

  “I’ll tell you at the restaurant. I could use a cup of hot tea.” Kate’s teeth were chattering.

  Drew drove slowly. Kate noticed he gripped the steering wheel with all his might. “I could’ve landed a punch right in his gut before anyone saw it coming. I’m not saying anything else until I hear the whole story.”

  Lindsey leaned forward from the back seat of the car. “Right now Tyson is the hot commodity at school so you made the right choice. Football season’s over and you’re old news...no offense. People wouldn’t appreciate their best basketball player getting sidelined.” She patted his shoulder. “Way to restrain yourself. I’ll let him have it for you after we hear the details.”

  Drew dropped Lindsey and Kate off at the entrance and parked the car. As the girls came out of the restroom hallway, Kate saw Drew let out a huge sigh of relief.

  “Drew, did you get us a table? Or are you checking out the pies? I can’t decide between chocolate cream and apple.” She slid her arm through his and they headed for a booth.

  “I had an uneasy feeling someone followed us here, but I guess not. Must be my imagination in overdrive.” Drew let Kate slide in and slipped in next. “When I first walked in, I didn’t see you and panicked. I know that sounds dumb. I thought something happened to you. Then I heard your voices and was so relieved. I plan on staying with you for the rest of the weekend, never letting you out of my sight.”

  “Aww, that’s sweet.” Kate rested her head on his shoulder. “I’m sure my dad will approve of you sleeping over if you want.” She wrapped her arms around his muscular one. “I know I’m too wishy-washy when it comes to Tyson. I’m sorry. I grew up with him, played with him and know so much about him. I have to keep reminding myself he’s not that same boy. I keep giving him second chances, but not tonight.”

  “I think you’re on his seventh chance.” Lindsey opened the menu, scanning its contents. “Time to rethink the chance thing, girl.”

  “I did. I ended it tonight. I told him we’re not friends. It’s like he doesn’t hear me.”

  After ordering their drinks, Kate recounted the scene outside the gym and in the parking lot. “Tyson’s just so hurt, he’s acting out. I’m not defending him, but at the same time I feel sorry for him.” She held up both hands. “Still not his friend, just saying.”

  “He knows exactly what he’s doing and it’s working.” Drew’s hands changed into fists and then he relaxed. Kate could tell he was uneasy. She watched him sip his soda and stare out the window. “Hey, do you recognize the SUV pulling into that parking space?” He nodded his head toward the spot.

  As they watched, Tyson jumped out and ran around to the passenger side. He opened the door and helped Erin out. They stood by the car, appearing to have an argument and then he took her by the arm and pulled her toward the restaurant.

  “Incoming,” was all Drew said to the girls.

  “I don’t believe it.” Lindsey slammed the menu shut.

  “I think my first instinct was correct.” Drew tapped his finger on the table. “We were followed. Tyson went back to school, found Erin and brought her with him so he wouldn’t look suspicious. It looked like she wants to be anywhere else but here.”

  Lindsey nodded in agreement. “Don’t give him an eighth chance, Kates.”

  “Well, Erin, looky who’s here!” Tyson was a little too animated as he approached the table. “Mind if we join you?”

  Lindsey looked at him as if he had two heads. “Not enough room, Ty, sorry.”

  “Oh, this will be fine right here.” Ty sat down at the booth across from them. He made sure he was on the side where he could look directly at Drew and Kate. “I was just telling Erin we’re getting together this weekend with you guys. You can tag along, too, Lindsey. I’m sure you’re bored since your boyfriend lives in Arizona.”

  Lindsey shot him a “shut up, Tyson” look and continued to play with her pie.

  “I know how difficult that is, Lindsey.” Erin looked sympathetic. “I’m only gone during the week, but it’s hard to be away from Ty.” She smiled sweetly at him and then glanced over at Kate. “You’re lucky, Katie. Drew’s always by your side.”

  Kate nodded and continued eating. She wanted to get out of the restaurant as soon as possible. “Lindsey, are you going to kill your pie or eat it?” She smiled as Lindsey took out her aggression on the poor piece of lemon pie.

  “Kill it.” Lindsey said very softly in a monotone voice. Kate knew she didn’t mean the pie and again smiled, squeezing Drew’s hand.

  “Are you going back to school for the dance?” Erin seemed very interested in knowing their plans.

  “No.” Drew waved the waitress over to the table. “Could we please have our check?”

  Kate sipped her tea casually, trying to not look like she was in a hurry. They finished, got up and left the restaurant. Drew couldn’t start the car fast enough. “Damn!” he pounded the steering wheel.

  “Drew! I never hear you talk like that.” Kate was surprised.

  “I’m sorry. I’m frustrated, it’s just that...” He hesitated. “What if something happened to you when I’m not around? I can’t bear the thought.” He backed the car out of its spot and drove off into the night.

  Chapter Eighteen

  Drew spent the whole weekend with Kate and her family. After talking with her dad, he was given the green light to stay until they left for the canyon. Kate’s dad did not like hearing what occurred at the game and said he was grateful to have Drew in the house.

  “Andrew, I heard you’re staying at the cabin for Thanksgiving and not coming home until Sunday. Do you think that’s a good idea? You could be seen by someone. I really prefer if you didn’t go back at all, but I know the call of the canyon can be irresistible.”

  “No one will see us, Jack, I have it all worked out. I did my research. For some unknown reason, Thomas doesn’t come back to the cabin Friday night. I think it might have something to do with Rachel. He heads for the bottom of the canyon on Saturday after work to greet me upon my return. When I don’t come back, he stays another day.”

  “I forgot about that. Thomas was never there when I started my search, but I heard he was there through the weekend waiting for our return.”

  “Funny how the small details of our past lives have so much meaning now.” Drew shook his head in disbelief. “I never thought all this was possible when I took off down that river. My only dream was to get down the Colorado by myself and return in triumph. So much for that. I died instead.” He pounded his head. “So arrogant!”

  “May I remind you my lovely daughter saved your life?”

  “Yes, I know. Keep reminding me. It’s good to talk. Thanks, Jack.”

  “These conversations are important. I need to be a good listener, counselor and father figure all rolled in one. Thank goodness, Joanna has been my therapist all these years besides wife, mother and professor. I don’t know what I would have done without her.”

  “And you have me, too.” Kate was quietly listening, appreciating all her father said. He got through those early years with her mom’s hel
p.

  “That’s right. Things have a way of working out. When secrets come out, it’s like the weight of the world lifts off your shoulders. I don’t have to pretend anymore.”

  “Dad, Drew and I need to make plans for the weekend and also have two days of school this week. Do you mind if I steal him away now?” Kate settled into the sofa, pulling Drew next to her.

  “I have to do some finishing touches on my book, so I’ll leave you alone.” He headed for his office.

  “Let’s not even go to school. Let’s head for the cabin tonight,” Kate teased Drew when they were alone.

  “We have to stick to our promise, Kate. We said we’d stay here until Wednesday night and that’s what we’ll do. Is that project you’re doing with Tyson done yet? I want him to have no excuses for coming over.”

  “We turn it in tomorrow. What about the plans we have with Tyson and Erin?” Kate teased as she made air quotes when she said plans. “I swear I didn’t make any with him. I was shocked he told Lindsey we’d be doing something together.” Kate’s phone buzzed and she looked at the screen. “It’s a text from Linds, hang on.”

  Kate’s face turned to a frown and she leapt from the couch. “Drew, we have to go rescue her! Tyson told her we’re meeting at the mall cinema for a late movie.”

  “What? If he can’t get to you, he’ll use Lindsey?” He hit his head in disbelief. “Wait, let me call Beth.” He quickly hit a button and waited. “Aunt Beth, has Lindsey left yet? Not a problem...no...we just wanted her to go with us. Fine...yes...goodbye.”

  “She left already, didn’t she?” Kate’s eyes grew wide.

  “You go tell your father what happened and I’ll go get Lindsey. Do not answer this door unless your father is right behind you. Do you understand?”

  “Drew, you’re scaring me.”

  “Good, maybe it’s starting to sink in how serious this is.” He turned and hugged her. “Sorry, didn’t mean to yell. Please, go get your dad.”