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Sometimes, small talk is the best way to deal with uncomfortable situations. Now is my chance to ease the tension between us by taking over the conversation."I'm so excited! At the moment, I photograph weddings for a living, but I went to art school, so I'd love to do something artistic."
"It sounds interesting," he says, nodding thoughtfully.
"It's a chance to carve out something for myself, but there's only so much I can learn on my own. That's why I jumped at the chance to work with an experienced mentor."
"You need to grab those opportunities when they come." His lips curve into a smile. "I remember my first deployment. I felt the same excitement."
"How long were you in the military?"
"Fifteen years until…" He glances out of the driver's window briefly. "Well, let's say the shine wore off."
I know Easton may not be good at expressing himself and has a temper, but he is honorable. He's responsible but also a little too secretive, which makes me wonder what he's keeping from me.
"You mentioned your job, but I don't know what it is. What kind of work do you do?" I reach across the car and rest my hand on his thigh. He places his hand briefly over mine and squeezes my fingers. Then he grabs the wheel again and keeps his eyes on the road.
"I can't talk about the details, but it's private security."
"Where is it?"
"A place called Thunder Mountain. It's a couple of hours from Lawton."
"So you have a special, secret job. Does that mean you are a spy?"
"It's not like that, but I can't tell you anymore. I signed a contract."
"I get it.” I don’t know the specifics of his industry, but it sounds like a non-disclosure agreement, or something equally binding.
Now that I know we are dealing with job restrictions, I feel light-hearted and keep my tone playful. Surely, we can figure out a way to see each other.
"I wish it were that simple. Because of the nature of the job and the remote location, I signed a contract preventing me from taking a dependant with me."
I’m stunned. I don't feel he’s playing games, which is why his actions are confusing. I need clarification, but surely if it's a work issue, there must be a workaround.
"What are you saying? You want to see me, but your job won't allow it?"
He grits his teeth and dips his chin to his chest. His hand covers mine, and his eyes flicker with emotion.
I sense he has more to say, and it isn't easy for him, so I remain quiet.
"Ivy, you are a rare and precious woman," he says, glancing at me before returning his gaze to the windshield. "I want something more with you, but I can't do casual. It's not in my nature."
Warm, soft feelings curl around my heart as a spark of something more profound than lust kindles in the air.
I don't know the answer, but if it's meant to be, we’ll figure out a way to be together, even if it seems unlikely now.
* * *
We drive all day, making small talk and sneaking glances at each other at every opportunity. Late in the day, the airline sends a message telling me they’ll ship my luggage via a courier to my apartment in Lawton.
"That's good. At least you don't need to drive to the airport to collect it," Easton says when I fill him in.
"I love your positive spin, but it will be within five to seven business days."
"It's okay. My sister-in-law said you can borrow anything you need and keep it for as long as you need."
"It's so generous, but with a wedding coming up in a few days, I'm sure she has better things to do. I can buy my own clothes."
"Please stop fretting, and don't forget the offer still stands to stay at their place instead of a hotel."
