Montana Wild

by Hall, Roni

  “They’ll sit there chewing the fat until the bonfire’s ready. I brought something for us.” Kevin opened up one of his bags and produced two wineglasses and a bottle of wine.

  “I still can’t believe you’re here.” Kevin retrieved his corkscrew and proceeded to open the bottle.

  “You? Me neither. I’m usually not this impulsive. I mean this is crazy, but I have to thank you. After Aunt Jenny and Jacob . . .” She stopped, not trusting her voice. “It was tough there for a while. Losing Jacob was hard enough, but when my aunt died, I was blindsided. I‘ve never been so alone in my life.”

  “That’s sort of how I felt when my parents died. It’s an awful feeling.”

  “Yeah, I guess being alone is about the worst feeling in the world.” Jamie’s voice trailed off.

  Neither spoke but their eyes met. “But . . .” Jamie wanted to lighten the mood, “you were right. This already has gotten my mind off the real world. I so needed a distraction and boy, you provided a doozy!” She paused and took in the scenery again. “I see what you mean about this place. I had no idea Montana was so beautiful.”

  Kevin poured the wine and handed her a glass. “Here’s to . . . new beginnings.” He toasted and they clinked glasses, eyes meeting again and this time he held her gaze, causing her breath to catch.

  “To new beginnings. Yes, I like that.” Breaking eye contact, she sipped her wine while trying to slow her racing heart. Kevin’s rugged handsomeness combined with the sensual voice that had kept her company so many lonely nights sent an electric charge through her. Hoping to extinguish any external signs of her internal reaction, she swallowed a big gulp of wine. Slow down, girlfriend, that’s the last thing I need.

  There were some natural seats from felled trees and they made their way over to them. Kevin filled her in on some of his old friends that were here and the agenda of the night and the trip.

  “Tommy’s a sweetheart. I can tell Rick and he have a special relationship.”

  “Yeah, they’ve gotten very close since Tommy’s mother died. They lost her to breast cancer about eighteen months ago.” Kevin paused then continued, “It’s been hard on both of them, but they’re making it with the help of family and friends.”

  That information sobered all amorous thoughts and Jamie’s throat closed for a second. The thought of Tommy’s loss was unimaginable. That poor sweet boy, and here I am, babbling on about my sorrows.

  “I didn’t mean to bring up any sad subjects, but I thought you should know since you two seemed to be fast friends.”

  “No, I’m glad you told me. No doubt I would’ve asked about his mother at some point. I’ll make sure I’m careful about the subject.”

  Kevin changed the topic and they chatted easily until it began to get dark.

  “I guess we should go and join the others. The bonfire’s lit and I want to introduce you to some of my friends.” He stood and offered his hand to help her up. They put away the glasses, then walked over to join the group.

  In all, there were about sixty people here tonight but not all were going on the raft trip. About ten of the men worked for the outfitters that supplied the rafts and guides. There were some wives and girlfriends that came for the first night but did not want to brave the primitive camping of the next few days. Only the most serious campers would go on from here, about thirty total. After hearing the jokes and stories about what lay ahead, Jamie hoped she would survive. Even though her experience with nature was limited, she did not consider herself a fussy girl. As a runner she ran for miles through rainstorms, ice, and snow, but she had not slept under the stars since childhood. Silently she prayed she could hang with the guys. She had the essentials: a ponytail holder, baseball cap, and toothbrush. What could go wrong?

  Chapter 5

  As Jamie climbed into her tent for her first night in the wild, Tommy ran up. Earlier, she had confessed to him that she was nervous about sleeping outdoors.

  “Don’t worry, Jamie. Remember, no animals will come into camp with all these people. You’ll be okay. Uncle Kevin will make sure you’re okay. I already told him to check on you. And remember, I’ll be right over there.” He pointed to a two-person tent only yards away.

  “You did? Thanks, Tommy. I’m so lucky to have you looking out for me.” He took her by surprise as he hugged her then ran off. Standing motionless, she contemplated Tommy’s recent loss. Kevin walked up and questioned her obvious sadness.

  “What’s wrong?”

  “Tommy just left. I can’t imagine his pain.”

  “I know. It’s tough but they’re getting through it. They have lots of friends and family.” He paused for a moment. “Now let’s get you set up. Tommy made me promise that I’d make sure you’re safe and sound tonight. He’s very protective of you.”

  That last sentence tugged at her heart again. “Okay.” Kevin helped her ready her sleeping bag.

  “All good?”

  “Yes. Thanks.” She crawled into her tent.

  “Good night.”

  The bonfire had been lively. From what she gathered, Kevin had started this annual rafting outing five years ago and kept the tradition going. It was a fun group that made her feel welcome. Most of the wives and girlfriends marveled at her bravery for taking on the raft trip but the more they encouraged her, the less confident she became. It was too late to turn back now, so she put on a good face. If they only knew what a city girl I am.

  Jamie had no problem drifting off, but her sleep was interrupted by the disturbing sound of a child crying. Opening her eyes, she took a minute to get her bearings.

  Blinded by the total darkness, her hearing honed in on Rick’s voice whispering soothing words to his son. “It’s okay, Tom, I’m here. I got you.”

  “I still miss her, Dad. I miss her a lot . . .” Tommy’s voice broke. “But sometimes it’s hard to remember what she looks like unless I see her picture, and that makes me sad. I don’t want to forget Mom.”

  Jamie could hear Tommy trying to muffle his sobs. She put her hand over her mouth to stifle her own cry.

  “I know, son, I know. Me, too. But she’ll always be in our hearts forever, even if we forget some things. She’ll always be a part of us. And I bet you can still feel her love, can’t you? She loved you so much. Heck, sometimes I got jealous. She couldn’t get enough of you. I was her main man until you came along.”

  Tommy let out a giggle. “Really?”

  “Yeah, really. You should’ve seen her face the first time she saw you, just seconds after you were born. You were all gooey with slime all over you, but her eyes lit up like you were the most beautiful thing in the world. Then she reached for you and took you in her arms and started kissing you. Yuck! Don’t mind telling you, it was pretty gross!” This got Tommy giggling more. “I told the nurse, ‘put that kid in the washing machine, then bring him back and I’ll hold him.’” Tommy howled at that.

  “Did you really, Dad? Did you tell them to put me in a washing machine?”

  “Heck yeah! I loved you already, but I didn’t want to get that stuff all over me.”

  Tommy was still laughing.

  “Hey, we better get some sleep. We have to be rested for some big time rafting in the morning.”

  “Oh yeah. Night, Dad. Love you.”

  “I love you too, son. G’night.”

  The sound of birds chirping and people moving about with soft voices greeted Jamie as she opened her eyes and stretched her limbs in the tiny tent.

  “Did she do okay? Was she scared?”

  She could hear Tommy whispering outside.

  “I think she’s all right. I didn’t hear her at all,” Kevin answered.

  “But did you check on her?”

  When she heard Tommy ask that, she had to suppress a laugh. Oh my god, how sweet is that?


  Time to rise and shine. “Tommy, is that you?”

  “Jamie! Yes, it’s me. Are you okay? Did you do okay last night? I told you that you’d be all right, didn’t I? No animals came, did they? I told you you’d be safe.”

  “Yes, you sure did and you were right. I shouldn’t have doubted you.” Jamie unzipped her tent and felt the cool refreshing air rush in as she climbed out.

  “Good morning. What a beautiful day. Let’s go rafting!”

  Tommy rushed at her. “Good morning, Jamie! I can’t wait to get started. Breakfast’s ready.” And with that, he ran off as fast as he came.

  Already taking down his tent, Kevin asked, “Good morning. How’d you sleep?”

  “Surprisingly well, thanks for asking.” They packed up the tents and gear, and then made their way to the mess area.

  Everyone finished their breakfast and packed their gear. The non-rafters bid their good-byes, and the rafters gathered near the floats for instruction. Four persons were assigned to each raft with at least one guide or experienced rafter in each boat. Prior to each major rapid they would congregate the rafts to review instructions on the best way to maneuver through.

  Before boarding, they put on life jackets and helmets. Jamie was in Kevin’s boat, along with Ben and another friend, Michael. Jamie sat up front with Ben while Kevin positioned himself behind her, and Michael behind Ben. Kevin gave Jamie a one-on-one instruction with the paddle and stroking techniques. There were four loops of rope embedded in the floor of the raft to slip one foot into to help secure the rafters into the raft. If she did fall out, Kevin explained what to do to help minimize her chance of injury in the rapids. This was all very exciting and frightening at the same time. Waiting on the go signal from the outfitters to space the rafts, their boat was second in queue. Feeling the firm rubber craft secure beneath her, Jamie’s sweaty palms gripped the paddle. The sound of rushing water beckoned and Jamie could hardly stand the wait. She wanted to go. She was ready to kiss life!

  The first raft was released. Only a few minutes more to wait. Finally they got the go ahead and they were off.

  “All forward!” Kevin gave the command to paddle and the initial motion startled her as the raft was pulled by the current. With little effort they flowed around a few bends until she could hear the rapid waters ahead.

  “Right back!” Kevin commanded his crew to maneuver the raft through the rocky course. They hit a wave head on and the spray of ice-cold mountain water hit Jamie in the face like a wakeup call. She felt alive. It was the ultimate amusement ride, the upward climb of Mother Nature’s roller coaster and she didn’t know whether to scream with fright or shout with joy. No time to think or ponder the emotional ups and downs. She was too busy trying to hear Kevin’s instructions and carry them out instantly.

  “Left forward!” She heard him shout from behind her as anticipation built with each wave, knowing that in seconds, she would reach the crest, and then the downhill thrill would begin again. Eyes and mouth wide open, she welcomed the water’s cold slap in the face as the river challenged her.

  “Bring it on!” She dared the raging waters. Sapphire blue skies, emerald pine treetops, and majestic mountain skylines were all a blur as she focused her attention on the beast below. The foaming water tossed them around like a toy but her crew had played this game before and met the challenge head on. The first three-hour segment seemed like fifteen minutes. The rafts pooled together and beached in a calm area. Jamie climbed out of the raft and kissed the ground. Kevin caught sight of this and laughed.

  “So how’re you holding up?” he asked as she lay face down in the sand.

  “Who me? No problem, I’m fine,” she said, her voice weak and slow. Then she bolted upright. “No really, that was AWESOME! What a rush!”

  Sandwiches and drinks were passed around and they were back in the water within thirty minutes. With three hours of rafting experience under her belt, Jamie had a bit more confidence as the thrill and excitement continued into the afternoon.

  The goal was to set camp by 4 p.m. and they pulled in shortly before their target time. The rafters were exhausted but exhilarated. Everyone set about doing their assigned tasks and once again the ant colony was busy at work. Impressed with their efficiency, Jamie was now one of the ants. This time without help she set up her tent and readied her sleeping bag, knowing she would plop in later and drift off immediately. She was tired enough to fall into a dead sleep now but her hunger proved stronger than her need for sleep. After setting up her camp, she surveyed the new campsite and found Tommy struggling with his tent.

  “Tom, need some help?”

  When he saw her, he dropped his tent. “Wasn’t that cool today? Man, that was so much fun! Did you get wet? I did.” Not pausing for a breath, he continued, “It was so cool! Did you like it?”

  “I loved it, it was way cool! I got wet but that cold water felt so good after being in the sun all day.” She couldn’t help smiling. His enthusiasm was contagious. “What did you think of that last rapid? That was my favorite. Our raft bent in half, front to back, but only for a half second and then it was over. So scary, but man, it was awesome!” Jamie found it difficult to control her passion too. “Let me help you with your tent.”

  “Thanks. I can’t get these poles right.” She helped him straighten out the tension poles and the tent went up without difficulty. “Thanks. I wanted to surprise my dad. He’s going to be so happy that it’s up.”

  “You’re a thoughtful son. Your dad sure is lucky to have you!”

  Tommy looked solemn for a moment, then spoke, “I’m lucky to have him for my dad.”

  “I think you’re both blessed to have each other.” Jamie walked over to Tommy and gave him a quick hug. “And I’m so happy to have you as a new friend!”

  Tommy blushed and hugged her back without saying a word.

  “Let’s go check out dinner. I’m starving.” She said as she patted her belly.

  “Not if I get there first!” He dared her, and took off.

  Jamie accepted the challenge and sprinted after him, wondering where she found the energy.

  Tommy slowed just enough for her to catch up, then sped up again. Her laughter interfered with her running and she called time out.

  “No fair making me laugh. I can’t run and laugh at the same time. I’m not a kid anymore. You have an age advantage.” Jamie tried to catch her breath and slowed to a walk.

  “Okay, okay, I’ll walk. We’re almost there anyway.” Tommy conceded. The mess area was in sight, but even more important, they were within olfactory distance.

  The dinner bell rang and the rafters began to line up. “I gotta get Dad,” Tommy said and off he ran.

  “Mind if I join you?” Kevin asked from behind.

  “Please do.” She answered with a wave of her hand.

  “Save some chow for us,” Tommy joked as he and Rick approached.

  “Tom, that doesn’t sound polite.”

  “Aww, Dad, it’s Uncle Kevin and Jamie. They know I’m kidding. Don’t you?” He looked at them with a pleading smile.

  “Yeah. Rick, you know, Tom’s one of the guys now, so we cut him some slack,” Kevin nodded as he winked at Tommy.

  Upon hearing he was one of the guys, Tommy beamed with joy.

  Hamburgers and pasta salad had never tasted this delicious before. Jamie ate heartily and leaned back, content. Her belly full, she felt a well-deserved fatigue after a day of using muscles she had forgotten she had. Campers began to wander over toward the bonfire. The setting sun with hues of pink, orange, and blue were melting in the western sky.

  “Want to take a short walk to get a better view of the sunset?” Kevin asked her.

  “Absolutely.” Kevin knew the area and they followed a rocky path up a mild grade to a look-out point. From this height, a v
iew of the treeless mountaintops against the multi-colored painted sky took her breath away.

  “Wow.” There were no words to describe the stunning vision in front of her as she appreciated it with all of her senses. A gentle breeze kissed her face as her ears registered the branches dancing ever so slightly in response. She inhaled the scent of spicy pine that surrounded her and tasted the freshness of the mountain air. Her eyes were afire with the artistry that lay before her. Surrounded by such surreal beauty confirmed the presence of a higher being and she became overwhelmed with emotions of loved ones recently lost. Wiping her eyes to hide her tears, she turned away from Kevin.

  “You okay?” he asked as he put his hand on her shoulder.

  Taking a minute to steady her voice, she answered. “I can feel them here, Aunt Jenny and Jacob. It’s like we’re so close to heaven, I can actually feel them.” With her hand over her heart, she looked up at Kevin with wet eyes, then steered her gaze back to the melting rainbow of colors as the sun set on the horizon. Kevin put his arm around her shoulder as they stood in silence.

  “I don’t know how much Uncle Jake told you, but my parents died when I was barely fourteen.” He pulled away to lean on a boulder.

  “Yes, he said they died in a car accident. I’m so sorry.”

  “Yeah, they were on their way home from grocery shopping of all things, and a semi ran a red light. They died instantly.” Kevin paused. “Aunt Sarah and Uncle Jacob took me in without a second’s hesitation. A childless couple taking in a bitter teen is never an easy task.” He stopped again and looked off into the horizon, a slight breeze playing with his hair. “I was angry, so angry for a long time and I took it out on them. I don’t know how they put up with me.”

  Jamie turned to look at him as he continued.