Leading Hand (The Dusty Rider Series Book 2)

by Stella Knights

  Leaning close, his nose touches mine. “I can think of a few.” He kisses me before grabbing his Akubra and opening the door.

  Scout runs up and sits obediently next to me.

  “Looks like she can keep you company while I’m gone.” Aiden tips his hat and shuts the door.

  Waving goodbye, I watch him through the window as he walks to his pickup and drives away. This is the first time he’s driven off to town and left me alone on the property.

  Though with Toddy here I’m not alone. Why must Toddy still be here? Oh, that devilish smirk he had makes me cringe. I guess I’ll just avoid him at all costs for now.

  I bend down and give the dog a scratch behind the ears. “Want to hang out with me, cutie?”

  With Scout by my side, I go and find the book I’ve been reading. I need to keep my mind off Aiden having any trouble at his parole meeting. But before I can even finish a chapter, the words run together, and I fall asleep on the couch.

  “WELL AREN’T YOU a sight.”

  My eyes open, but for a moment I don’t register who’s speaking.

  Toddy stands in the doorway, his hands squarely on his hips.

  Startled, I sit up, my book falling from my chest, thumping against the floor. “What are you doing in here?”

  “I came in to see Aiden.”

  “He had to go into town.” Reaching down, I pick up my book and notice Scout resting nearby.

  Toddy clicks his tongue and nods. “Ah, yeah. He’s got his parole meeting.”

  “Yeah, something like that.” I bite my lip and hold the book close to my lap.

  “Sorry I scared you.” He peers down his nose at me, his intense eyes scrutinising my every move.

  I put the book down on the couch and try to avoid making eye contact, but it’s near impossible. Something about Toddy makes me want to stare at him yet hide at the same time.

  He’s so disconcerting. Why does this striking man make me feel so vulnerable?

  “I didn’t realise he left. I would’ve knocked if I knew it was only you in here.”

  My hands clutch around my elbows. “It’s all right. I’m just not used to having anyone but Aiden in the house.”

  “I’m gonna grab a drink and some lunch. Want anything?”

  “Some water will be fine, thanks.”

  Toddy walks towards the kitchen.

  I don’t know if Aiden is fine with him being in the house, so I get up and follow him.

  He walks across the kitchen and begins to rummage through the fridge, taking out bread, Vegemite and butter before also nabbing a beer.

  A beer at lunch? Is that normal?

  He opens several cabinets, looking for where Aiden keeps the glasses.

  I point across to one he hasn’t checked yet. “The glasses are in that one.”

  He gets out a glass and grins as though he’s holding back some secret. “You sure know your way around this place.”

  I shrug but say nothing. His presence renders me speechless.

  He’s Aiden’s friend, so what is my problem with him?

  He presses the glass against the ice and water dispenser then hands it to me. “Here you go.”

  “Thanks.”

  His gaze holds mine.

  A shudder runs through me.

  It’s those eyes. What’s behind them? Something dangerous yet lascivious at the same time, leaving me to debate if I should run away or stay and be pulled in.

  If Aiden were here, my choice would be so easy. I’d run into his arms and forget whatever is unexpectedly alluring about Toddy.

  I drink a mouthful of water, allowing it to soothe my parched throat. I want to escape upstairs and avoid this unease, but I don’t feel comfortable leaving Toddy alone in the kitchen. So, I remain there sitting, drinking my water and watching his every move.

  Toddy makes himself a sandwich.

  He is irritatingly comfortable here. Almost too comfortable. Does he think he can just take anything that’s Aiden’s?

  He twists open his beer and tilts it against his lips.

  Those lips. Full like Aiden’s.

  Toddy catches me staring.

  I quickly look away.

  Geez, Holly. How do you explain that after what happened this morning? Can you dig yourself a bigger hole to get stuck in?

  The urge to say anything overtakes my normally rational brain. “Should you be drinking while working? Surely, that’s not safe.”

  Well, that’s one way to challenge a guy. Point out what you think they are doing wrong. Men always love that. Holly, can you be any dumber?

  With a soft chuckle, Toddy gives me a smug grin and takes another swig of his beer. This time making sure it is a dramatically long sip.

  He obviously doesn’t care what I think. And why should he care? He doesn’t know anything about me.

  Carrying his sandwich, he sits next to me and begins to eat.

  My body goes tense from how close our bodies are.

  There is just something else to this man, some unknown quality that I can’t put my finger on. Reckless abandon? Dangerous excitement, perhaps?

  Toddy’s gravelly voice breaks the silence. “You and Aiden seem to be getting along well.”

  I stare at the glass in my hand. A bead of condensation rolls across my index finger as I stroke it against the wet surface. “Yeah, he’s a great guy.”

  “He is, indeed.” Toddy’s voice exudes an unexpected sarcasm.

  Do I detect condescension?

  My words roll out without thought. “Are you trying to sound sarcastic?”

  Toddy tilts his head, and his tone is unmistakably polite. “Not at all. Aiden and I go way back, but I’m sure you already know that.”

  I decide to lie until I figure out more about this man. “Aiden hasn’t said much about you.”

  His eyebrows raise. “Really? I guess he likes to keep his cards close to his chest. He’s always been like that. I think the ladies love that about him.”

  The ladies?

  An odd feeling creeps through my body. I wish I could tell if Toddy is a good guy or someone I should be concerned about.

  Toddy continues to speak. “Aiden’s always had my back. Did he tell you about all the trouble we got up to in high school?”

  “Like I said, he hasn’t said much, but he did mention you went to school together.”

  “If he likes you, he probably wouldn’t say anything because he wouldn’t want to scare you off.”

  What is that supposed to mean?

  He pauses, taking another swig of his beer, complacent in his actions. “Back then, Aiden and I were inseparable. A force to be reckoned with, on and off the rugby field. We were both breakaways in the firsts.”

  I shrug, shaking my head. “I don’t know rugby, so I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

  Nodding, he takes another bite. “I forgot. You’re American. Of course, you wouldn’t know. But I’m sure hanging out with Aiden you’ll learn about the game in no time. Has he been teaching you a few things about horses and cattle?”

  “Not much, but I’m sure he will, soon.”

  “Have you been out riding?”

  “We rode together on Dusty a few times.” Raw angst shoots through me as I say Dusty’s name.

  “Where is Dusty? I haven’t seen him.”

  I’m stunned.

  Hasn’t Aiden told Toddy about Dusty?

  Toddy notices my glum expression. “What is it?”

  A lump forms in my throat. “Dusty was bitten by a snake. He didn’t make it.”

  Toddy runs his hands through his hair and sighs. “That’s awful. Aiden must be shattered.”

  “Yeah. It’s not good.”

  “I can’t believe he didn’t say anything to me.”

  Our eyes meet and Toddy stares at me downcast.

  I swallow and tear myself away from his gaze. “Maybe Aiden isn’t ready to deal with it.”

  “That’s possible.” He finishes the last of his sandwich whil
e I sip my water. Tilting back his beer, he drinks down another gulp before eyeing me up and down. “Why were you riding with him and not on your own horse?”

  My lips press tightly together. “I don’t know how to ride.”

  He raises his eyebrows and looks amused. “And you’re from Texas?”

  I roll my eyes. “Why does everyone automatically assume that someone from Texas will know how to ride a horse?”

  Toddy laughs. “It’s the same as when tourist come to Australia and expect kangaroos to be hopping down the city streets.”

  “Silly stereotypes.” I relax and shake my head at this thought. Joking with Toddy makes me realise he might not be so bad after all.

  He turns and gives me a crooked smile. “How about I finish my work in the shed and then I can show you a few things about riding?”

  Truth be told, I would much rather learn with Aiden. I don’t know Toddy well enough to let him put me on a horse. Then again didn’t Aiden say something about him being good at teaching?

  “I’m not sure I want to. I’m not feeling the greatest today. I had a bit too much wine last night.”

  “Oh, come on. You’re not scared, are you?” His eyebrows raise as he taunts me.

  Not of a horse, but maybe I’m a bit scared of being alone with you.

  Shaking my head, I bite my lip nervously. “I’m not scared. I just think it should be Aiden who gives me my first lesson.”

  “I don’t think Aiden will mind.”

  I look down, scuffing my feet against the base of the stool.

  “I think you’re scared. Another fearful city girl out in the country. You all move out here thinking life is easy, but then you realise it’s not and you run back to the city with your tail between your legs. I can see it now. You’re going to be like that, too.”

  Sitting tall, my competitive nature comes through as I’m not one to back down from an athletic challenge. And I definitely don’t want Toddy to think of me as some kind of wimp. “I’m not scared.”

  But can I really let Toddy give me my first lesson?

  He looks me up and down again. “Well, unless you prove yourself, I’m just going to think you’re afraid.”

  Toddy continues to speak. “Aiden knows I’ve taught tons of people how to ride. And not to be cocky or anything, but I’m good at teaching.”

  I inhale slowly, mulling over what I should do. I wish I could call Aiden and talk to him, but I don’t have my phone or any phone for that matter. I don’t know if Aiden will mind or not.

  Toddy gets up, swigs the last of his beer and lets out a belch. “Think about it while I finish what I’m working on.” He puts his plate in the sink and leaves the empty beer bottle on the counter. “He won’t mind. I promise. Besides, if you don’t try, how else are you going to prove to me you aren’t scared?” Toddy winks and saunters out the back door, finally leaving me alone.

  Oh, I hate being told I’m scared. I don’t care how hot Toddy thinks he is, I’m going to show him I can do it. Make him eat his words.

  “WHERE ARE YOU, Sunshine?” The penetrating voice echoes through the house.

  Walking downstairs, I find Toddy standing near the door. The sight of him with his shirt plastered against his sweaty muscles makes me instantly nervous. I attempt to sound casual. “You honestly think Aiden won’t care?”

  Shaking his head, he speaks confidently. “Nah, Aiden and I always help each other out.”

  I take a deep breath. “Umm, okay. I guess we can try.”

  His eyes narrow as he glances down at my feet. “Don’t you have any boots?”

  “No, I don’t have much here.” I gesture towards my feet. “Just these runners, a pair of flip-flops and some ballet flats.”

  He reaches up and rubs his stubble. “I’m not sure what the hell ballet flats are, so the runners will have to do.” He motions to me to follow as he walks back outside. “I got one of the mares saddled up. Let’s go get you acquainted.”

  I follow behind, feeling uneasy, but not willing to lose his challenge.

  I’m not sure this is a good idea, but something about Toddy tells me he won’t take ‘no’ for an answer no matter how hard I try to explain my feelings.

  We walk to the paddock where one of the mares is waiting. It is the same horse that Aiden planned to use.

  Toddy stands near the horse, stroking its nose. “Don’t stress too much about trying to do things the right way. The first time you should get on and not overthink things. Just remember to always hold on to the reins.”

  Nervousness has overtaken my body to the point where I cannot speak.

  He points to the saddle. “The saddle and stirrups are like a guide for you, but they aren’t meant to be used to hold on to the horse. They’re basically for comfort. You have to learn balance without relying on them.”

  I nod while he rubs the withers of the horse.

  His muscles flex with each movement he makes.

  Does every guy out here have such strong hands and well-defined arms?

  “Now, to get on the horse, you need to hold the reins, put your foot in the stirrup and swing up and over.” He points down at the stirrup before demonstrating the motions for getting on the horse without actually doing it. He swings one leg around in a motion that brings my attention to his partially unbuttoned shirt.

  I get a glimpse of his chest and my heart beats faster. My insides tighten at the sight of his tanned, glistening curves.

  Holly, focus, you don’t want to fall off the horse!

  He leans his head to the side as if he doesn’t think I am paying attention to what he is saying. “Understand?”

  I swallow the lump in my throat. “Yeah.”

  He gestures towards the horse. “Now, it’s your turn to try.”

  How am I going to do this without Aiden’s strong grip to pull me up? Please don’t make another fool of yourself with this guy.

  Holding my breath, I somehow get into the saddle, surprising myself that I’ve done so in one go.

  Okay, one thing down, now for the thousands of things I am about to learn.

  Toddy looks smug with one eyebrow raised. “Good work. You mounted her with no problem.”

  Interesting choice of words, Toddy.

  My eyes narrow on him as I try to work out if he is flirting. My attention snaps back to the horse as it takes a single step forward. I realise that not falling off the horse is more important than working out what Toddy’s agenda may be. “What do I do now?”

  “I’m going to guide you around the paddock, so you can get comfortable with the motion.” Toddy begins to lead the horse and we slowly move forward.

  A giggle escapes me as we move forward. The gentle rocking is enthralling, and I already want to ride faster, but I know better than to bite off more than I can chew.

  Turning to look at me, Toddy grins. “Glad you’re enjoying it. Be sure to keep your legs as relaxed as possible. If your grip is too tight, you’ll be sore later.” He turns and stares off across the paddock, speaking under his breath. “I’m sure Aiden won’t want your thighs aching from being on a horse.”

  What did he say about my thighs?

  Toddy continues to lead us around the paddock.

  A grin crosses my face as I get more comfortable in the saddle, allowing myself to go along with the movements of this beautiful creature. Even though I have no idea what I am doing, I’m becoming more comfortable with each minute that passes.

  Soon enough, Toddy lets go of guiding the horse. He continues to walk next to us as the horse moves along the fence line. “How are you feeling? Want to go a little faster?”

  “Sure.” My voice cracks. I’m still so nervous about letting Toddy control this situation.

  Toddy looks out across the paddock, grinning as though he is holding some sort of satisfying secret. He gives the horse a gentle nudge to speed up.

  Moving faster, the wind flows through my hair, like the times I had on Dusty riding with Aiden. The pleasurable memories ove
rride my anxiety and I begin to relax in the saddle.

  Toddy speaks in a low voice, almost inaudible. “I just popped your horse-riding cherry.”

  My jaw drops.

  Did he just say what I think he said? Surely, he wouldn’t say that?! Maybe I misunderstood. Tom did always say I had an overactive imagination.

  I glare at him, but he just continues to stare off into the distance, ignoring my look.

  A few moments later, Toddy clicks his tongue.

  The horse responds by increasing its speed as it gallops across the paddock.

  The shuddering motion against my thighs reminds me to focus on not falling instead of whether Toddy was inappropriate.

  My hair flaps in the wind as my body is bumped up and down. I’m the one finally in command. Though, at this point, I’m sure the animal is in more control than I am.

  It’s like I’m in my little girl dreams, riding a unicorn around the clouds. So free, so close to heaven riding on this horse. God, how lucky am I? I get taken to heaven all the time out here. One of these days I bet I’ll get so high I won’t be able to come back down. And do I care? Nope.

  I laugh, enjoying the feeling of moving across the paddock. I throw my head back from my laughter, accidentally jerking on the reins.

  The horse instantaneously increases her speed.

  My pulse races as my hair starts tossing around wildly in the wind. I look towards Toddy to make sure this is all normal.

  I think I’m a bit out of control. But Toddy doesn’t seem alarmed, so maybe this is normal?

  Toddy lets out a whistle, to which the horse responds with a lurch.

  The mare picks up speed, riding faster towards Toddy.

  My fingers wrap around the horn of the saddle and my heart races from fear.

  This is not good. I’m so going to fall off. Why the heck did Toddy whistle like that? This is my first time! Did he think I could ride like this straight away? Couldn’t he have taken it slow?

  Toddy yells at me. “Don’t grab the saddle, just go with the feeling. Don’t fight it. Just ride it.”

  As the horse keeps running towards Toddy, I feel more and more unsafe. I dig my fingers further around the edge of the saddle, letting my grip on the reins go slack.

  The horse continues galloping fast.