Arizona Cowboy (6 page)

Chapter 9

H
olden pushed the food around with his fork. Irene was a good cook, but he didn’t like peppers, and he didn’t know what to think about the seedy looking things inside them. He was glad she wanted to help his dad keep his blood pressure down, but some of the recipes she came up with were not his favorites.

He looked around the table. Six people from his family. Five from Irene’s. All sitting at their humongous table celebrating his dad’s birthday. But Holden didn’t feel celebratory.

His dad and Irene sat side by side, quietly sharing snippets about their day and laughing intermittently. His sister Sara and brother-in-law Daryl sat next to them, then his other sister, Traci, and her husband, Carl. Mitch and Ellie sat next to them. Their ooey-gooey expressions toward each other made Holden’s stomach churn. Next around the table was Ava, himself, then Matt. Somehow, he’d ended up seated between the woman he couldn’t stop thinking about, and her cousin.

Holden picked through the pepper and speared a couple black beans. Ava looked awfully pretty tonight, wearing a blue flowered dress that made her eyes look amazing, and she smelled so good. Like sunshine and flowers.

He wished she would talk to him. Everyone he knew seemed to be finding love. Jess and Nate. Jake and Megan. Dad and Irene. Even Mitch. Mitch was the last person in Surprise Holden would expect to find a girlfriend, and yet here he was, sitting next to a spunky redhead who looked at him as if he hung the moon.

Holden wasn’t accomplishing anything just sitting and stewing about his lack of a love life. Today was his dad’s birthday, so he might as well try and make the best of it. He turned toward Matt. “So, how are things going?”

Matt wiped his mouth. “Really well. We just finished making repairs on a few homes in the downtown area. Getting ready for our Easter pageant.”

“That’s great.”

“Yes. We’re hoping to have a thousand people attend. The kids have been passing out flyers.”

His phone beeped, and Matt pulled it out of his pocket. He smiled as he opened a text from someone named Barb. Holden leaned back in his chair. Even Matt seemed to have found himself a girl.

This is crazy.
Ava might have decided to avoid him, but Holden was not going to be part of it. They’d made a mistake when they were barely adults. God had forgiven them, and even if she wanted nothing to do with him, he planned to talk to her and treat her as he would anyone else.

He looked her way. She gazed into his eyes, her expression timid and vulnerable. The only problem with treating her like anyone else was he could never think of her that way. She would always mean much more to him. He blew out a quick breath, determined not to drown in the beauty of those eyes. “How is work going?”

She swallowed, and Holden had to look away from her mouth and neck. “Great. How ’bout you?”

“Same as always.”

He twirled the fork between his thumb and fingers. What else could he say to her? She wouldn’t appreciate him sharing that he thought of her constantly and that he was pretty sure he loved her as much as he had eight years ago. No. Those were not sentiments Ava would want to hear.

Irene tapped her fork against a glass of water, and everyone looked toward her and Dad. “Before the cake and ice cream, Jerry and I have a little announcement to make.”

Surely they’re not going to say they’re getting married.
Holden wanted his dad to be happy, and he seemed more alive than he had in years, but he and Irene hadn’t spent enough time together as a couple. Not really. They’d known each other for ages, and they probably didn’t need as much get-to-know-each-other time as most, but still.

“We have decided...” Irene glanced at his dad. “Do you want to tell them?”

He shook his head. “You go ahead.”

“We’re going to sing a duet in Senior Idol.”

Laughter burst out around the room, and Irene scrunched her face. “What’s so funny?”

“We thought you were going to say you’re engaged,” said Mitch.

She pressed her palm against her chest. “Jerry hasn’t even taken me on the first date.”

Dad scratched his jaw. “I suppose I haven’t.” He snapped his fingers. “Well, that’s going to have to change. Irene, how would you like to go out with me tomorrow night?”

She giggled. “Sure.” Then she elbowed his arm. “Do I get to pick the movie?”

“Of course. As long as I get to pick the restaurant.”

Irene shook his hand. “Deal.” She turned back toward them. “We’re going to give you a preview of our song tonight.”

Cheers erupted, and Holden’s heart warmed at the pleasure that spread over his dad’s face. He also noted that each day spent with Irene seemed to make his dad more energetic and youthful.

Dad gestured around the table. “So, let’s finish up and get these dishes out of the way.”

Holden stood and started clearing the table. He carried a pile of dishes into the kitchen and scraped the excess food into the trash. After plugging the sink, he turned on the hot water, added soap and started washing. A few minutes later Ava stood beside him. “I don’t mind helping.”

He nodded. “Why don’t you take over washing, and I’ll dry and put away?”

She agreed. They worked in silence, and Holden fought the urge to ask her out again. His dad always said he was stubborn as an old mule when it came to the things he wanted. And Holden wanted Ava.

“We make a good team.” Ava’s voice was quiet.

“I always thought so.”

She opened her mouth, but before she could speak, Irene hollered for everyone to join them in the living room. Holden grabbed a couple dining room chairs and carried them there for him and Ava. His dad stood holding a microphone connected to a portable karaoke machine, a sight Holden had never imagined seeing. And yet his dad didn’t seem the slightest bit worried about singing with Irene in front of everybody.

She pushed the play button and a country tune filled the room. Within moments, Irene and Dad were singing the lyrics of “Islands in the Stream.” They sounded terrific together. When the song ended, both families erupted in applause.

“You two are gonna win for sure,” said Mitch’s girlfriend.

“Dad, I didn’t know you could sing,” declared Sara.

“No kidding,” added Traci. “You’ve got some pipes.”

He shrugged. “I suppose sometimes there’s more to a person than you realize.”

Holden glanced at Ava. There was definitely something more to her, something that made her run from him. He knew she had feelings for him. At least he believed she did, but for some reason she refused to give them a chance.

* * *

Ava opened the file drawer and pulled out a list of hip exercises to give to her patient. She found a few brochures and scooped them up, as well.

“Do you have plans later?” asked Katie.

Ava shook her head. The nineteen-year-old had recently cut her long dark hair into shoulder-length layers. The more mature style looked good on her. “Not really. Just a quick dinner and some TV time.”

“I need to go to the mall and find a dress for Easter.” She twirled a pen between her fingers. “I’m meeting Corey’s parents this weekend.”

Ava lifted her eyebrows. “Really?”

“And I’m a little nervous. They have a big dinner with extended family and everything after church.”

“You’ll be fine. They’ll love you.”

“I hope so.” She tapped the pen against the desk. “You think you could go to the mall with me?”

“Sure. I might look for a new dress, as well.”

“Terrific.”

“I have one more appointment, then I’ll be ready.”

Ava walked back to the room and finished exercises with the patient. She was glad to have something to keep her busy tonight. Since Jerry’s birthday dinner, she’d dreamed of Holden twice. Aunt Irene and Jerry would be going on their big movie date tonight, and though she was happy for her aunt, she didn’t want to be a bystander to their budding romance. Not every day, anyway. A distraction was welcome.

Once at the mall, Katie led her through shop after shop, trying on one dress after another. Despite being in good shape, Ava eventually found that her feet hurt, and she was ready to settle down and eat some dinner.

Katie hefted her purse higher onto her shoulder. “It’s hopeless. I’m never going to find the right dress.”

Ava pointed to a small, locally-owned boutique tucked in a corner of the mall. “Let’s try in here.”

She pouted. “They never have anything, and their prices are ridiculous.”

“You never know. Maybe they’re having a sale.” Ava looped her arm with Katie’s. “If we don’t find anything, we’ll have some dinner, then try a few places on the other side of town.”

They walked into the store, and Ava nodded a greeting to the clerk.
Please, let us find a dress.
They headed to a rack toward the back of the shop that was stuffed with bright-colored gowns. Ava unhooked a gold dress that cinched in at the waist and flowed down in layers to just below the knees. “Look at this one. It would look beautiful with your skin tone and hair color.”

Katie shrugged. “It’s sorta pretty. I’d need to try it on.”

Ava handed her the gown, then searched through more dresses. She found a red one and an orange one and gave them to Katie. The teen didn’t seem thrilled with any of the options, but agreed to try them on.

Ava continued to look through the rack until she spied a purple dress with spaghetti straps. The bust was pleated above a cinched waist, with a full skirt stopping just above the knee. Something about the light cotton material and simple design drew Ava. She lifted the hanger off the rack.

Katie oohed. “That would look so good on you.”

“You think so?” Ava pressed the dress against her chest. She thought of Holden and how he always complimented her when she wore purple. Realizing what she was thinking, she blinked and hooked the dress back on the rack. She didn’t want to consider things Holden would like.

“What are you doing?” Katie pulled the dress out again. “You’re trying this on.” She lifted the gold dress. “If I’m trying this, you’re trying that.”

Ava grinned as she took the purple dress from Katie’s hand. “Fine. But let’s get to it. I’m hungry.”

They made their way to the dressing rooms. Ava put on the purple dress and gazed at her reflection. A terrific fit. Complimented her shape. Felt comfortable. She looked at the tag. And not a terrible price. Maybe a bit more than she would normally spend, but not too much.

“I can’t believe it,” Katie said from the next cubicle.

Ava stepped out of her room. “What?”

“This dress is absolutely beautiful.” She scurried out in turn and twirled in front of Ava. “I never would have picked this.”

The gold color complimented Katie’s hair and skin just as Ava had predicted, and the design gave her a fun, but mature appearance. “You look beautiful.”

Katie touched her earlobes. “I’ll just get a pair of dangly gold earrings. Maybe an oversize gold ring or bracelet.”

“Now you’re talking my department.”

Katie giggled. “You do wear the cutest jewelry.” She gasped and pointed at Ava. “I love that dress on you. Please tell me you’re going to buy it.”

Ava nodded. “I think I am.”

They changed back into their clothes, purchased the dresses, then made one last stop at a fashion jewelry store to pick up accessories. Katie finally rubbed her stomach. “I’m starving.”

“Me, too. How about Italian?”

The teen nodded and they walked to the restaurant beside the mall. Once they were seated and had ordered their food, Katie took a sip of her water with extra lemon. “I’ve talked so much about me and Corey that I’ve never asked if you have a boyfriend.”

Ava shook her head. “Nope.”

Katie scrunched her nose. “Not even someone you’re interested in?”

She pursed her lips. “Not really.” Her cheeks warmed with the untruth of her words.

“Come on. There’s gotta be someone.”

Ava released a breath. “There is a guy I cared a lot about years ago.”

“From your hometown?”

“No. From Surprise.”

Katie sat up straighter. “Really? Have you seen him since you moved back here?”

“Yes.” Ava clasped her hands under the table and rubbed her thumbs against her palms.

“He’s not married or anything, is he?”

“No. He’s single.”

Katie waved. “Then look him up. See if you can get together.” She winked. “Maybe reignite an old flame.”

“He’s asked me to dinner a few times, but...”

“But what? He still means something to you if you brought him up to me.”

Ava rubbed her hands together. “It’s not that simple. We had a bad breakup. A lot of unresolved issues.”

Katie smacked the table and leaned forward. “Aren’t you the one who told me not to run away from my problems?” She lifted her fist. “But to face them head-on?”

Ava nodded. She needed to do just that, to fess up the whole truth to Holden. She’d feel better. In her spirit, God urged her to go ahead and lay the past out there. The good, the bad, and the ugly.

But then she pictured Holden’s expression when he found out all she’d kept from him. She’d be the cause of so much pain.

The truth will set you free.

She’d be set free, but what about Holden? He’d be devastated. If she’d talked to him eight years ago, everything would be different. Now, the truth would only cause him pain. No. It was better if he never knew.

Chapter 10

H
olden flipped his wrist, casting the hook and bait a good ways into the lake. “One of these days we’re going to have to pick a different place to fish.”

With his line already cast, Jake settled into a collapsible fishing chair. “What are you talking about? This is tradition. We’ve been coming to Surprise Lake the day before Easter for as long as I can remember.”

Holden nodded to the father and son duo setting up their fishing gear a few yards away, then looked to his other side at the couple of older guys settled in beside them, closer than Holden would have preferred. “Yeah, but the lake’s getting a little crowded.”

Jake clicked his tongue. “Few people never hurt nothing.”

“We could easily fish on my land.”

Jake pointed to the ground. “But this is tradition.”

Holden chuckled. “I’m fine if you’re fine. Just seems a little silly that we can only keep four catfish apiece when we fish here, when we can keep as many as we want from the ranch. We always buy more for Dad to fry up.”

Jake lifted his brows and grinned. “Tradition.”

“Hey, boys.”

Holden turned and saw his father walking toward them, carrying his chair and fishing gear. “Dad, I didn’t think you were going to make it this year.”

He plopped his stuff down beside Holden, then wiped his brow with a handkerchief. “I didn’t think so, either. Irene’s got me learning moves to go along with the song for Senior Idol.” He shook his head and mumbled under his breath.

Jake crowed. “Jerry Whitaker dancing. I can’t wait to see this.”

Dad lifted his pointer finger. “It ain’t dancing. It’s just moves.” He pointed to his chest. “That woman can talk me into a lot of things, but dancing ain’t one of them.”

“Your dad’s got a girlfriend.” Jake nudged Holden’s shoulder and laughed. “I never thought I’d see the day.”

Holden bit the inside of his cheek and watched as his father baited the hook and cast the line. He never thought he’d see the day, either. Irene was a terrific woman, and he was glad Dad had found someone to care about, but the whole thing still seemed strange. Even though his mother had been gone since Holden was knee-high to Dad, and she’d passed away not too many years after that, the thought of his dad and dating had never gone together in his mind.

“Never thought I would, either.” After sitting down, Dad shoved a piece of licorice in his mouth. “Expected to grow old alone.”

Jake whistled. “Hmm. Are you saying you don’t plan to grow old alone now? Are you thinking long-term?”

Dad shrugged as a silly sideways grin spread his lips. Holden looked across the lake. Parents and grandparents were setting up all around them, with children of various ages and sizes. A young man and a very pregnant woman walked a small terrier on the dog trail that went around part of the lake.

Though it was early in the morning, the air was already warm. Supposed to be ninety degrees by afternoon. He lifted his cowboy hat and wiped perspiration from his forehead with the back of his hand. He was tired of thinking about happy couples and families and kids.

His dad spat on the ground. “What are you teasing me for, Jakey boy? I believe you have a love interest, as well.”

Jake smiled as he folded his hands together behind his head. “That I do.”

“You and Megan getting serious?” he asked.

Holden touched his pole, then looked at Jake’s and his dad’s. Couldn’t just one fish latch on to one of their baits so they could stop talking about women? Jake was determined to keep up tradition, but to Holden’s recollection the yearly fishing trip to Surprise Lake the day before Easter never included discussions about girls. In fact, when they were younger the mention of the female population had been expressly forbidden.

“I’d reckon,” responded Jake. “We’re getting married.”

Holden and his dad sat forward and looked at him at the same time. “What?” they said in unison.

Jake laughed as he smacked the top of his knee. “You heard me right. She’s agreed to marry me.”

Holden furrowed his brows. “What about Jess and her wedding?”

“I don’t suppose me getting married has anything to do with my sister.”

“But you said your mom and sister were going nuts with plans for Jess’s wedding. Your mom’ll be fit to be tied.” Holden recalled Jake’s mother from when they were kids. The woman went berserk anytime something unexpected or overwhelming happened. Holden especially remembered the time Jake ran into the house, his head bleeding all over the place because he’d fallen out of a tree, and his mom had fainted. Literally passed out flat on the floor. Holden and Jess had to clean Jake up before their mom finally came to.

“Well, we’re not getting married at the same time. In fact, Megan and I decided not to have a formal gathering. We’re just going to have Vince and our immediate families at the church to exchange vows. No reception or nothing.”

“So your parents don’t mind that the two of you are getting married so close together? Your mom especially?” asked Dad.

Holden didn’t look at his father; he’d burst out laughing if he did. Dad knew Jake’s mom to be a little tightly wound. She’d had a conniption fit once when he and Jake got into a tussle when they were boys. Nobody was hurt, and both of them faced discipline from their daddies, but Jake’s mom had had a hard time getting past the incident.

“Why, they’re happier than a rooster in a henhouse. They’ve already taken Vince on as their grandson and are hinting for us to add a few more as soon as possible.”

Holden swallowed back the shock. Jake and Jess were getting married, and Jake was even talking about babies.

Dad stood, walked over to him and extended his hand. “I’m happy for you, son.”

Jake hopped out of his chair and grabbed him in a hug. “You can do better than that.”

They both chuckled as they patted each other’s back, and Dad offered his congratulations.

Holden stood on heavy legs as he hugged his best friend in turn. “Congratulations, man.”

Jake gave Holden a fistbump. “Thanks. I’m still praying she’ll come around.”

Holden pretended not to hear that as he released his friend and sat back in his chair. He didn’t want to think about Ava. Jake jabbered about his and Megan’s plans, and Holden tapped the fishing pole again. He glanced around them. Most everyone had caught at least one fish, but they hadn’t gotten even a nibble.

While Jake continued to talk, Holden focused on his boots. They were scuffed quite a bit at the toe, and the leather looked pretty worn. Comfortable, true, but maybe it was time for a new pair. He moved his feet. No. He liked these boots. No reason to go searching for a new pair when these fit him just fine.

Ava’s face floated through his mind.
That’s the problem, God. When something or someone fits, you just wanna keep ’em. Ava fit me just right, and I gotta figure out a way to get her back.

* * *

“Did you hear Jerry telling me about Holden?”

Ava adjusted the thin white belt around her waist. Though she’d berated herself several times, she’d been disappointed when Holden wasn’t at church for Easter Sunday. Not that she wanted him to notice her. She didn’t. Or at least she didn’t
want
to want that. Still, she’d hoped to see a glimmer of approval in his eyes.

Deep in her heart, she couldn’t deny the purple dress was for him. She’d added a thin white belt, white stone earrings and bracelet, and sandals with white ribbons that tied around her ankles. Extra effort had been given to her hair and makeup. But he wasn’t there. “What did Jerry say?”

“Apparently, he sprained his ankle badly yesterday, getting on or off the tractor.” Aunt Irene placed the roast on the counter. “Can’t remember which he said.”

Ava took down plates for the family, then set the table. “I hope he’s all right.”

“They thought he broke it. Took him to get X-rays, but it was just a sprain. Supposed to stay off it for two weeks minimum, but I doubt he will.”

Ava set out the plates, silverware and napkins. She stirred the mashed potatoes, then took the rolls out of the pantry. As much time as they spent together, she’d expected Jerry and Aunt Irene to want to share Easter dinner. With both families. But her aunt hadn’t mentioned it, and Ava had been relieved.

Aunt Irene took the rolls from her hands. “I’ll butter them. Why don’t you give your mom and dad a call before the boys and Ellie get here?”

Ava grabbed her smartphone off the counter and walked into the living room. As she scrolled through her contacts, she released a sigh. She’d moved to Surprise seven weeks ago, the last week of February, and she’d talked to her parents only a handful of times. Each time, she’d been the one to call them.

Trying her dad’s number first, since he was most likely to answer, she waited through the rings until his voice mail picked up. After leaving a message, she tried her mom’s number.

“Hello.”

Ava sat up straighter. “Hi, Mom.”

“Hello, Ava. You sound surprised.”

“I just didn’t expect you to answer.” She bit her lip, realizing, true or not, that the words didn’t sound nice.

“Well, you know how busy your dad and I are.”

Ava nodded. “I do. So, how are you?”

“We’re good. Dad’s sitting beside me. He says hello. We’re heading to lunch. How are you?”

“Good.” Ava searched her thoughts for something to say. She and her parents had never been close, but even casual conversation had become strained after she’d left Surprise eight years ago. “I love my job here. The family I work for have really taken me under their wing.”

“That’s good. And how’s Irene?”

“She’s great. Has a boyfriend.”

“Oh my.” Her voice sounded distant, and Ava knew her mom wasn’t really listening. “Turn here, dear,” she whispered, most likely to Ava’s dad. “Well, we’re almost to the restaurant, Ava. Have a good day.”

“Happy Easter, Mom.”

“Oh, yes, yes. Happy Easter. Dad says to tell you we love you.”

Ava pursed her lips. “Love you, too.”

She pushed the end button, then set the phone on the couch beside her. Staring at a picture on the wall, of a Mexican family gathered together at a table for an afternoon meal, she tried to empty her mind of all thoughts. Not an easy task. Especially at this time of year.

“They’re busy, huh?”

Ava turned and saw Aunt Irene wiping her hands on a white apron with Kiss the Cook embroidered on it. Ava shrugged. “Like always.”

Her aunt walked around the couch, sat beside her and patted her leg. “I don’t know why they don’t take some time to smell the roses.”

Ava grinned. “They’ve always been busy. Go-getters, Dad likes to say. I had everything I wanted, and often the very best, but they weren’t around much.”

“They do love you.”

Ava twisted the bracelet around her wrist. “You know, I think they do, but...”

“They don’t know how.”

She shifted to face her aunt. “But why? You’re one of the most loving mothers I know, and I’ve seen the pictures of you and Dad growing up. Your family was close.”

“Yes, but your mom was passed from one home to the other. She’d been neglected, and I think she just doesn’t know how to show love. Providing for you is her way of telling you.”

Ava closed her eyes. Most of her life she’d avoided getting too close to people. Not that she didn’t enjoy them. She had a care and concern for others that must have come directly from God, but aside from Aunt Irene, Ava feared allowing herself to truly open up and love. Which was why her feelings for Holden had been so terrifying. Why the upcoming week would be so hard.

“Seven years this week, huh?” Aunt Irene whispered.

Tears welled in her eyes as she nodded. Aunt Irene wrapped her hand around Ava’s head and pressed her face into her shoulder. Ava was helpless to stop the tears as they fell.

Her aunt held her and cooed whispers of reassurance, while Ava tried to breathe against the weight that pressed on her chest. From experience, she knew the deep-to-the-core sadness would pass in a week or so. But she could never forget.