When tires scrunched on the drive, Caitlin froze. What if Scott had returned? Minutes passed before Caitlin headed towards the driveway. Garrett sat in his truck, staring ahead.
She watched for a few minutes, finding delight in the confused, but very cute man sitting in her driveway. "Hey you," she said opening the door. "Are you staying in there all night?"
The aroma of vanilla fields permeated the air inside the truck and Garrett's grip tightened on the steering wheel. "I'm sorry about earlier," he stuttered. He did not release the wheel nor make any motion to exit his truck.
Caitlin shrugged and returned to the porch, a smile lighting her way. Something about this new side of Garrett added joy to her life. Soon Garrett stood on the porch but stayed near the railing. "Are you serious about the ranch?" he finally asked.
"Yes. Everything about this place feels right. I loved my job at the newspaper, but I never enjoyed city living. Here I feel complete. This is where I belong."
The long pause offered questions and concerns. "Do you think I'm making a mistake?" she asked, now standing beside him. Again, he remained quiet. She reached out and placed her hand on top of his. "Please tell me what you're thinking."
His gaze moved from their hands to her face. The tender look held desire and longing. Only Caitlin had no idea how to read what his eyes said. "I'm glad you're staying," he said, reaching out to caress her arm but stopping midway.
"Why?" she said almost inaudible, but still looking at him.
He blurted, "A new shipment of horses is arriving Friday. Would you like to see them?"
She nodded as her heart sank into her stomach. There's more to it than that, but I can't push him. If I do, I may push him away, for ever. Why won't he admit his feelings? I know he's worried about the age difference and the past. So, what's my problem? Why can't I tell him how I feel? Insecurity filled the void around her heart.I want to hear him say the words first. Silence proved daunting as they stared into the open sky. Though their bodies never touched, heat emanated between them. Caitlin realized they had reached a point where there was no returning to friendship. Taking that next step seemed like skydiving. You want the thrill of flying, yet leaving the ground seemed dangerous. If neither of us is willing to leave the ground, we can't soar together into the future. Caitlin shivered at the idea of losing Garrett.