“You want it right there, so you protect yourself. This gun has minimal recoil, but you’ll feel it.”
She glanced up, her eyes catching his. She looked nervous.
“Now, take a breath. Just get used to how it feels. Lower it and try again.”
She did, and reset the butt of the rifle at her shoulder.
“Excellent. It looks perfect.”
She moistened her lips. “Can I shoot now?”
“Line up your shot. Right there on that blue ring on the target.”
She let out a slow breath and then pulled the trigger.
“You stayed focused on the target. Great shot!”
She squealed. “I did it.” She jumped and turned around. “That was sort of fun.”
“You might enjoy some skeet shooting sometime. I’m a member out at one of the skeet clubs.”
“You’re putting pressure on me. Isn’t skeet where they throw those things in the air? I just shot my first standing-still piece of paper.”
She was right, that was a leap, but he’d love to take her. He explained, “Well, it’s a lot of fun. Sort of like putt-putt but without the windmills, and guns instead of putters.”
“So, nothing like putt-putt?” Her eyes were wide and challenging, but her smile was adorable.
“Yeah, nothing like it, except it’s competitive and fun.”
“Well, then I might like it. I do like a challenge,” she said.
“Oh, Iwillbe keeping score,” he teased.
“I’m counting on it.”
“Okay, quit the smack-talking. Let me see you hit the other target.”
She took a moment, got into position, and took her time. Squinting at the target, she finally pulled the trigger. It wasn’t a perfect shot, but it hit the paper edge, which was pretty impressive the first time out.
They spent the better part of two hours shooting. She didn’t like the handguns, too much kick, but she was pretty good with both the shotgun and .22 rifle he’d brought.
“You’re doing great.” He was honestly impressed with her ability to not only follow the instructions but the way she took her time. “How’s it feel?”
“My arm is about ready to fall off. I’m using muscles I’ve never used before.”
He reached over, took the gun from her, and rubbed her shoulder tenderly. “That’s probably very true.”
“That feels so good.”
He pressed gently against the knot in her shoulder, then patted it. “We probably have done all we should do today then.”
“I’ve always been so afraid to even pick up a gun. Thank you for taking the time to help me. Knowing how to load and, more importantly, make sure the gun is unloaded has raised my comfort level like you wouldn’t believe.”
“And you’re a pretty good shot.”
“I am, aren’t I? Who knew?” She smiled broadly. “Thank you.”
“It’s been my pleasure. I like a gal who can take care of herself.”
