Their Surprise Safari Reunion by Ella Hayes

Author:Ella Hayes
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2022-06-08T16:03:26+00:00

* * *

‘Here we are.’ Kaden switched off the engine.

It wasn’t the most inspiring breakfast spot. A flat hardpan, bald save for a few small boulders and sparse tufts of pale green grass. Where the dust ran out, a low monotony of scrubby acacia started, interrupted only by the occasional stricken remains of a dead tree. In the far distance, hazy in the early morning light, low hills rose, similarly clad in low green scrub.

She shot him a glance. If it weren’t for him—hearing him laugh, feeling the warmth coming through his smile—she’d have been feeling a little disappointed, but as it was, she was fine. Simply being with him was enough. A joy. And they were talking, peeling corners off memories, having fun. So much fun. Crazy how simply being herself, her real self, could be so intoxicating. No one watching, no one overhearing, no burdensome sleazeball of a father weighing her down. This was freedom—living—and even if Kaden’s perfect breakfast spot looked a bit like an empty car park, it was still a slice of heaven, a slice of heaven that, for some reason, he was scrutinising with great care.

She caught his eye. ‘What are you looking for?’

‘Buffalo.’ His gaze moved on again, combing the terrain. ‘They’re unpredictable, AKA dangerous.’ He motioned right. ‘About five hundred metres that way there’s a river—more of a trickle right now because the rains are late—but it’s a draw, which means there could be buffalo about. I’m not letting you out of the vehicle until I’m sure we’re alone.’

Now the choice of location made sense. No animal would be able break cover without them seeing it. She felt a little rush of warmth. He was keeping her safe, protecting her, and yes, thinking about it, Jerry had parked in a similar spot yesterday, a dust bowl with clear views all around, so obviously it was standard practice, but still, something about the way Kaden was being so intensely forensic was making her feel special.

‘Right!’ He turned finally. ‘We’re good to get out, but no wandering off, okay?’

‘Like I’d even consider it now that you’ve thumped the buffalo drum.’ And then suddenly, because he was looking so serious, it was impossible to resist a little mischief. She looked at the scrub and frowned a nice deep frown. ‘In fact, actually, I think maybe I’ll stay right here.’

His eyes narrowed momentarily and then he nodded. ‘Okay.’

She pressed her lips together, willing herself not to crack. He was on the hook, settling himself in for the game just like he’d used to, that mirthful spark just visible in his eyes.

He opened his door. ‘Sadly there’s no in-vehicle steward service but obviously it’s up to you. If you’d rather stay here while I sit on the fender stuffing my face, then it’s absolutely your call.’ He dipped his chin, giving her a long look that contained the tangible gleam of victory. ‘After all, at Masoka, what the guest wants the guest gets.’

She felt her belly vibrating, laughter spilling out.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.