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“Not at all. I was just thinking ofToy Story.” The melody continued to play in my head as I gathered the garbage onto the tray.
Holden stood in front of me, a soft yet warm expression on his face as he took the tray from my hands and set it back on the table. “Thank you.”
I stared up at him, a million thoughts racing through my head. “For what?”
“For sharing. It’s a tough thing to do, and I’m really glad you opened up to me.”
Air whooshed out of my lungs and for a heartbeat I forgot how to breath. Inhaling a steady breath, I focused on his full lips, wondering – hoping – for another moment like we had at the treehouse. “You’re welcome.”
His gaze danced between my eyes as if he wasn’t sure which eye he should focus on as he inched a little closer. His lips parted, just enough.
I was going to let him take the lead; to see if there was something brewing between us or if I’d read too much back at the treehouse.
His phone buzzed. “It’s Grandma.” He waved it in the air. “I need to take this.”
I stared at his back as he walked a few steps away. Rather than dwell on it, I dumped the garbage in the trash and dropped off the tray at the walkup window. “Food was great, thank you.”
Holden met me near the little building. “We should get a move on. Still a few hours to Vancouver, and we haven’t figured out yet if we’ll ferry it over or fly.”
“You’re okay to drive?” I asked Holden.
A week ago, driving drunk, or even getting into a vehicle with someone who was intoxicated, wouldn’t have been a thought I’d hesitate to entertain, and yet, now there was this desire to… I shook my head, unable to complete the idea. Why did I suddenly care if we were safe or not?
He stopped walking and gave me his full attention. “I promise I’m good to drive. This little bit of wine will not affect me, not with all this food I just ate.”
“Okay.” The word limped out.
“Iris, I promise, you’re safe with me.” He stepped closer and unexpectedly, dropped a kiss on my forehead.
It was too intimate, and quite unusual for him to have been so forward, although it warmed my heart with his sweet, casual gesture, like we were truly old friends.
I stepped back, catching my breath. “How about while you drive, I’ll look into what’s available, flight versus ferry, what the prices are, and all that fun stuff? But I’ll need a phone cord. My battery is draining.”
“I have one you can use.”
“Thanks.”
After a quick bathroom break, we walked to the car, and I stole another glance at the valley. I took a variety of pictures.
“What about me?” Holden jumped into the shot.
“The light’s hitting your back so you’re all in shadow. Turn around.” I walked in front and snapped a pic of him with the chicken wrap sign in the background.
“Now together.”
We posed side by side, the golden hues of the setting sun casting a warm glow over both of us. He smiled brightly, and I couldn’t help but echo his expression. Framing us perfectly, I clicked a few times. My heart beat a little faster, and although I hadn’t touched the alcohol, I felt a tad tipsy with his arm around my waist.
“Thank you for that.” Regardless of what would happen, I knew I’d treasure that picture always.
Holden snatched a rock from beside his foot. “For what?”
“For letting me join you on this trans-Canada trip. In case I forget to tell you later, I’m having a really good time.” Before I had a chance to rescind, I planted a kiss on his cheek.
He turned into it.
For a heartbeat we were sealed together in a knee-weakening embrace.
In the glow of the setting sun.
