A big bellowing laugh erupted and a huge man who looked like he must be the parent of the Powell boys came and gave Natasha a hug. “You’re definitely a Powell now.”
“No doubt about that.” An older, dark-haired woman chimed in. “Hello, Sashi. We’re Doug and Doris Powell. We love Cole and consider him our third son. We’re so happy you’re able to be out of the hospital, dear. I told Cole you could come and stay with us. But he’s stubborn and insisted he was the only one who could take care of you.” She paused, then added, “We’re so sorry for your loss.”
Tears smarted Sashi’s eyes. None of these people knew her, but they came out to welcome her. It made her homesick for her parents. Yet it also made her yearn for this life with Cole. What would it be like to be pregnant with his baby and be part of this amazing loving community?
“Thank you, everyone, for coming here to welcome me. Especially those of you who don’t know me. It has lifted my spirits more than you’ll ever know.”
“Oh, we’re thrilled to meet you,” Doris said warmly. “We’ve never had Cole call us up and invite us over to his house for a woman’s sake. Believe me, it’s our treat.”
Sashi blushed before looking at Cole. She whispered her thanks.
“Just wait,” he whispered back. “Mary has a surprise for you.” He resumed his normal tone. “For now, are you hungry? Can I get you something to eat or drink?”
She nodded. “I’m starving for normal food. Can you get me anything that’s not too much like the hospital’s?”
Cole nodded and rose. Natasha came over and sat beside her. “Sashi, you look stunning in that dress.”
“Well, you look stunning pregnant. Your husband helped saved my life. He’s a hero.”
Natasha gazed lovingly at CJ. “I have to agree. He’ll always be my heroic fireman.” Cole was back, and she got up to be with her husband.
Sashi watched as CJ rubbed Natasha’s baby bump, then whispered something in her ear. The pair walked off then.
Cole put a tray of food in front of her. “Here are some treats. Chicken wings, pizza, chips and salsa, as well as chips and cheese dip. All recommended by the American Heart Association.” His face was deadpan.
Sashi grinned. “This is definitely a treat. I haven’t had this much food for so long I can’t even remember.”
“Dig in. I know I’m going to.”
The party was great. Everyone ate and talked and made sure they met Sashi and engaged her in conversation. Toward the end, Mary stood up and announced, “In Tlingit culture, we have a special welcome dance. My daughter, Abigail, myself and my father, Joe, will dance in celebration. We’ll play our ceremonial drums and wear our robes known as Chilkat blankets. I hope you will enjoy this, Sashi.”
The drums began, followed by the rhythmic chanting of the singers who swayed. Their regal dancing of such an ancient culture was beautiful for Sashi to behold. She watched their movements, so free and graceful, and was mesmerized by the intricate footwork and the to-and-fro movement of their hands.
Tears stung her eyes, she was so moved. When the dance was done, she clapped enthusiastically while the other onlookers cheered and whistled. She could see the pride in Joe, Mary and Abigail. They had a tradition of something beautiful and sacred.
She realized that she, too, had learned a tradition of dance passed down from the past. The tradition of ballet! It was something she could do—and pass on to future dancers.
She couldn’t wait to heal completely and then strive for her dream: to teach children the art of ballet at her own studio. Her heart filled with gratitude to Mary who’d danced tonight to help Sashi remember who she was.
At last the party drew to a close. Sashi thanked people for their kindness in coming. Knowing she had no family or friends here, they’d come out on a dark foggy night to cheer her up and celebrate her discharge from the hospital. She would be forever grateful to them for that. Many of them promised to visit her soon. Cole saw everyone out as she rested on the couch, exhausted.
* * *
COLE WAS OUTSIDE WITH the departees. “Thanks for your help, guys.” He knew Jake and CJ would be flying most of the guests home to Prince of Wales Island tonight. Everyone had really gone out of their way to help him.
“She’s a wonderful girl, Cole,” Doris said. “And a real beauty. How all you men manage to find such good-looking women is beyond me.”
“She’s just a friend,” Cole insisted.
The forest service van erupted in laughter. Jake swatted him on the back. “When you’re willing to talk reasonably, I’ll be happy to give you some advice.”
“I have no clue what you’re talking about.”
“I think he’s the densest of the three of us, don’t you think, Pops?” Jake looked at Doug.
“I don’t know, Jakey. You were pretty stubborn with Sammi.”
“We don’t talk about that period,” Jake muttered.
Sammi soothed her husband. “Dad? You know how sensitive he is about that time. He gets upset at the thought of my time away from him, so it’s best not to bring it up.”
“I was dense,” Jake said, “but I knew I’d lost the girl I loved. Cole here won’t even admit he has feelings for this woman.” He faced Cole. “You’re crazy about her! What is it with this doctor code of yours? She’s not a patient anymore. What’s holding you back?”
“She needs to get healthy and strong,” Cole said. “I want her to return to the woman she was before. Once she’s no longer afraid and has healed, then she can make good decisions.”
Sammi eyed him solemnly. “Just make sure you don’t play it too safe, Cole. You might push her out of your life. The chemistry between the two of you is obvious. That’s a very special thing. Don’t let her go.”
“All right. Thank you, guys.”
“Remember this,” CJ said from the back of the van, “Sashi’s never going to be the woman she was before. She’ll be stronger and she’s getting better. Make sure you’re part of that process so she doesn’t leave thinking she was just a duty to you. I’ve spent time with her. She’s very smart. Give love a chance!”
Cole gave Jake a hug. “See ya soon, and thanks again.”
“No problem, Dr. Love.”
Cole stepped away from the laughter, then waved to them. The door closed and the van set off for the long journey home. He was a lucky man to have such good friends. They’d given him a lot to think about, but right now he needed to sleep on it.
He walked back into the house, grateful for the help with the cleanup. Everyone knew he wasn’t the best housekeeper. His gaze flicked to the couch where he found Sashi fast asleep.
A new feeling of peace and contentment seized him knowing that the person he cared most about was in his home and soon would be settled for the night. He wanted to take her up to his bedroom in the loft, but that was definitely not going to happen. And he would definitely be taking a cold shower tonight.
Time to get her settled.
He went into the garage and grabbed her luggage. It took a little time to get her stuff put away. When he returned, he studied the woman sleeping so peacefully on the sofa. Her shimmering hair hung over the edge of the bolster.
Filled with emotion, he picked up this red-haired angel who’d come into his life and turned it upside down. What a blessing he’d had this apartment added on to the house for his parents when they came to visit. Jake mostly used this place when he couldn’t get all the way home after a rescue. It
had served many purposes, but none as important as this one.
The apartment had a kitchenette, dining room and a TV lounge area, all fashioned in the same style as the house. A hall led to the bedroom with a king-size bed. The intricately carved wood head and footboards were done in a light wood.
There was an en suite bathroom with a jetted tub and a walk-in shower done in travertine beige tiles. He was sure Sashi would like it. It should be easy for her to use and get around in.
Cole carried her into the bedroom and pulled the white sheets back before he set her down. He wasn’t the doctor right now and didn’t feel he had the right to undress her. He looked for her antibiotic and pain pill. She needed to take these so she could sleep.
Once he’d gone to the kitchenette for a glass of water, he returned and sat on the side of the bed, holding her up right in his arms. “It’s time to take your medicine, Sashi. Can you put your pills in your mouth and swallow for me?”
He placed them in one hand and put the cup of water in the other. Obediently she put the pills in her mouth and swallowed. Then she lay back in his arms. He put the water on the dresser. Now it was time for him to leave, but all he could do was stare down at her perfect profile, wondering how to find the strength.
How many times had he imagined her in his bed? Her hair had splayed all over him and across the pillow. As he gently lowered her to a prone position, he studied her flawless skin and rosy lips. She didn’t need any makeup. He’d never forgotten that night all those weeks ago up at Marshall’s when they’d lost their inhibitions and kissed for hours.
The remembrance drove him to his feet. He’d best leave. He pulled up the comforter and tucked her in, and then with one last caress of her cheek, he left.
He headed straight up to his lair, as he liked to call it. His father, the architect, had enjoyed building this home. Cole loved all the light-colored materials his dad had used downstairs and he particularly liked the large windows. But he loved his bedroom with its Caribbean look. He even had a palm-style fan over his bed with posters of tropical places on his walls.
The downstairs might be a tribute to Native paintings and Wild West photos, but this was the real Cole up here. The tropics were what cheered him up. He’d never live anywhere but Alaska, but for vacation, he sure loved trips to the Caribbean and Hawaii.
He’d love to take Sashi with him, love to see her in a bikini, walk the beach at night with her. They’d lie in a hammock watching the stars at night while they talked about nothing, then make love until morning.
Cole removed his clothes, wondering how she was doing. But of course he knew how she was doing. She was fine!
He kicked his clothes away and headed for the bathroom and that cold shower.
* * *
SASHI WAS RUNNING FROM the bear. “No, no, no!” She could see Kendra running up the tree. “Please, Kendra, NO!”
She sat up, thrashing in the sheets of the darkened room, having no idea where she was. Panic seized her. “Help!” But her voice wouldn’t work. She tried again. “Help!” Only a squeak came out. “Please.” Her voice came out louder this time. “Help me!” There. Her voice was working again. “Please...somebody help me!”
Sashi looked around the room trying to find her crutches or walker. Where were they? Where was she? Where was Cole?
She got so scared she climbed onto the floor, careful not to bang her leg. Thank heaven her arms were strong. She crawled out of her room into the hall.
“Help, Cole! Where are you?” Tears streamed down her cheeks. He’d promised he wouldn’t leave her. Where was he?
* * *
COLE HAD JUST WALKED OUT of the bathroom in pajama bottoms when he heard Sashi screaming for him. His first instinct was to grab the gun he kept by his bed at all times in case of an intruder, human or animal.
“I’m coming, Sashi!”
He raced down the stairs two at a time with his gun strapped across his back. He could hear her continued screaming. It terrified him. He couldn’t comprehend what on earth could have happened in the past twenty minutes. When he turned the corner that led to the apartment, he flipped on the lights in the main room. Farther away he saw Sashi lying on the floor of the bedroom.
“Cole? Is that you?” she cried. “Where am I? What’s going on? I’m so scared.”
“It’s me.” He turned on the bedroom light.
Sashi looked wildly around the room. “I’m sorry. I had a nightmare. I get them every night. There’s this bear coming for me. I’ve talked to Dr. Samuelson about it. He said he was going to prescribe medicine to help me not dream, but it doesn’t work. Every time I close my eyes, I relive Kendra dying.” Moisture bathed her face.
“Is that a gun?” she asked as he put it behind the door. He’d hoped she wouldn’t see it.
“Yes.” He crossed to her and picked her up. There was no way he could leave her in this kind of condition. She was terrified and needed comfort, and he was just the man to give it.
Chapter Seven
It was an amazing sensation to be pressed against Cole after her terror. Sashi had danced with many men before, but had never seen such a beautiful male body before. He had a rugged build with a smattering of blond hair across his pectorals. He had the physique of a man who lived outdoors, strong and lean.
She pulled herself together. “What were you doing with a gun?”
His gaze met hers. “We’re in Alaska. When I heard you scream like that, I grabbed my gun to be ready for anything. I told you I’d protect you.”
“So where are we going?”
“My room,” Cole said calmly.
“Your what?” Sashi could barely believe her ears.
“My room. After this experience I’m not going to be able to sleep with you downstairs. With you having posttraumatic nightmares, you need to be watched. I’m going to take care of you.”
“But in your bed?” Sashi’s body filled with heat.
“If you’re uncomfortable with that, I’ll put my air mattress next to the bed. I know how bad those nightmares can be. I had them for years. I’m sorry. I should never have left you alone in a house you weren’t familiar with. I blame myself.”
“Please don’t.” She touched his cheek. “I should have told you about the nightmares.”
He wanted her forgiveness. “No, I should’ve read your charts more thoroughly. It’s my job as your doctor to make you comfortable while you stay here.”
They reached his room, which was a complete contrast to the rest of the house. Cole placed her on top of the sea-green duvet. She took in the whole island theme and loved it. “This room is you, Cole!”
He smiled. “You think so?”
“I know. After listening to the music in the car and your carefree attitude, this room suits your personality completely. Who decorated the bottom floor of the house? It’s beautiful, but more like a showplace.”
“My dad, he’s the architect,” Cole replied. “My mom chose the furnishings. It looks like a miniature of their house. I drew the line at my bedroom.”
“You must be proud of your dad to let him come in and build your home.”
“Are you sure you didn’t get your degree in psychology?”
Sashi laughed. “No, maybe then I wouldn’t be an in-debt dancer. I just figured that a child who would let his parents design and decorate his house must be proud of them. Or he wants their approval?”
“Maybe a little of both.”
“And that’s okay,” she said.
“Do you want to change into one of my T-shirts to sleep?”
His question reminded her of the precarious arrangement, but she’d been in this outfit for most of the day, and something else to sleep in would be nice. She hated being a coward, but maybe having someone close by would help with the nightmares. Cole seemed pretty adamant about her sleeping with him.
“Sure. Could you help me to the bathroom since I don’t have my crutches?”
Cole rummaged through his drawers for a shirt. She stared at his back, aching to really touch him. She’d touched some of him when they’d kissed back at Marshall’s with their clothes on. Those kisses...when he was around she couldn’t stop thinking of them.
In a minute he put on some music she hadn’t heard before, a soothing jazz number. As she looked around his bathroom she saw various pictures of him with friends and two different beautiful women on the wall. He was a grown man. Of course he’s had girlfriends. Don’t be silly.
Focus. But as she did, she realized she’d only been to the Caribbean once with Kendra and her family. The trip had been an absolute blast. Life with her best friend had always been a blast. She would always miss her...
“This is peaceful,” Sashi said.
Cole nodded. “Do you dance to jazz?”
“I do, actually.”
He grinned. “But I prefer music from abroad more. I love exotic vacations, and some señoritas taught me and my buddies some fun types of dancing.”
Sashi took that as her cue to back down. Cole always played the friend card. “Well, the music’s very soothing.”
“I thought it might calm you down. I know music used to help me get my mind off my problems.”
Of course. He was doing what a doctor would do. Find a treatment to calm the patient so she’d sleep.
“Thanks, Doc,” she said. “Will you help me to the bathroom? Sorry to be such a pain.” Sashi felt foolish sitting on his bed like a child. She wished she had her crutches. “Hey, Cole, you know? You’ve made me feel much better, so I think I’ll be fine on my own back in my room.”
The Alaskan Rescue Page 10