Prologue
You could say that I have most any man’s dream job. I work outside. Fishing, kayaking, hiking, you name it I do it. I like to hunt to but that’s not part of my job, although I suppose I could be a hunting guide as well. I started my company two years after I got my MBA from Harvard. I got my BA from The University of Oklahoma. After I graduated, I found a job as an office manager. It was a nice paying job, complete with steady paychecks and good benefits, but it wasn’t the kind of life I wanted. I was bored all day, the job wasn’t challenging enough for me, and when I got home, I was usually in a bad mood. Sitting at home one night after a very trying day, I was flipping through an outdoors magazine when I saw an ad for a guide service. It gave me an idea. Hey, I thought, I could do that. I grew up in Oklahoma and Kansas, have been fishing, hunting, tracking, kayaking my entire life. It was something that made me happy and I had a good mind for business. My two of my three loves put together: Vanders Outdoors.
I didn’t add on the fishing part of Vanders Outdoors until the second year of my business. Hiking was added just as something else to do besides go kayaking. Being located outside of Tahlequah, there are steep hills and climbs along the river. Hiking through it all is pretty fun. I figure that I’ll add on hunting in Kansas whenever I get the chance to. Or when my wife lets me.
I was twenty-five years old when I met my true love. She drove me crazy half the time and the other half I wasn’t sure how I felt about her. She was twenty-two and I hired her as a favor to one of my old college buddies; she was his sister. No problem, I figured, because it would be just for the summer and she wasn’t the only girl I would have on staff. I had only met her once before and judging by what my buddy said, she could do just about everything I could. I put her on the kayaking crew with two other girls and two guys.
Little did I know that it would be the most interesting summer I’ve ever had. I’d fall in love. I’d grow as a person. Nine months later, I’d be a father.
Chapter One- Boy Meets Girl
Hitting the alarm clock off, Clint Vanders stretched out on the bed with a groan. Every bone and muscle in his body was tired and they protested as he sat up in bed. It had been a long day yesterday, especially after he got banged up after a fall into the river. Clint’s business, Vander’s Outdoors, was in its second year, quite successful, and he was busy setting up guide’s with each group of people that had made reservations for the next six days. The business comprised of one main enterprise for now: kayaking. There was the occasional hike too, but Clint was still clearing out more advanced paths for that. Clint had a crew of twelve, three of whom knew just as much about kayaking as Clint did, if not more. The other seven were there to help and learn. Most of them were in their late teens or early twenties. They were all a good group though and Clint rarely had a problem with any of them.
Last year, Clint started the business with the money he had in his savings, which was a good amount because he was very savvy business wise. Clint’s parents weren’t rich or poor, but they provided well for Clint and his brother and sister. Clint’s father, Joe, taught him about making good, smart investments and it paid off over the years.
Clint started out buying a kayaking business from a man, Johnny Gould, who wanted to retire but wasn’t sure if he wanted to sell. Clint talked him into selling though and Johnny told him to call if he ever needed any help with anything regarding the business. Little did Clint know, he would have a friend and mentor for life through Johnny.
After Clint bought the store, he sold off the canoes, which he didn’t like much in the first place, bought ten brand new kayaks, five two-person and five one-person, and replaced one raft that had a lot of holes in it. Altogether, he had about forty kayaks, five rafts, plenty of life jackets, and the right amount of paddles for it all. He kept the building the same as the old owner, changed the name, and hired on a few of the people who worked for Johnny and some new ones too. Clint found out though that the business needed a few changes here and there to make everything run more efficiently and the building needed an updated look. All in all though, he had a booming first year.
During the off season, which was mid-November through the last day in February, Clint and his brother worked hard remodeling the building, ordering merchandise, and whatever else needed attention. The building sat by the Illinois River along with quite a few similar businesses as well. It was made of sheet metal and cement, which made for a hot summer. So they put up wooden frames to support the roof, took out some of the sheet metal, put up a log exterior, and placed big picture windows on three walls. They placed six ceiling fans around the building and made sure the air would flow well. They extended the deck out back to include five picnic tables complete with a shade that would roll in and out with the touch of a button, a big grill, and cleaned out the pool. Then he fixed up the sound system to go out back too, so music could be heard not only inside but all around the building as well. He hired the same people as the last year, gave them all a new set of rules and a guidebook, and with a smile on his face said, “Let’s get to work.”
Clint could go for hours without needing a break. He felt restless in the shop yesterday, so he went down to the launch point to help the crew. Not paying attention to where he was standing, which was right by a drop off on the concrete slab, he took a step into the air. The water was about two feet deep and it was a hard fall. He stood up to his full six two height and stretched a little more. Feeling a little of the tension ease, Clint let out a deep breath and ran a hand through his dark brown hair. Today is going to be a great day, he thought to himself. He said that every morning, getting his person in a positive mood.
Clint looked down at his yellow lab, Boss, who was running back and forth from where Clint stood to the door, ready to go. Boss knew everybody down by the river; he would run all over the place, staying off the main roads, chasing other dogs, squirrels, or rabbits. “Another day of lazing in the sun for you, huh boy?”
Boss barked a reply and ran towards the door once more.
Letting out a chuckle Clint said, “Alright, I’m going to take a shower and we’ll go.”
Twenty minutes later, after a drive through a fast-food place for breakfast, Boss was happily leaning out of the truck bed of Clint’s black Silverado. They drove from Tahlequah to Vander Outdoors. It was already shaping up to be a hot, muggy May day. There was a slight breeze though and some cloud cover. The hills were covered with trees and everything was either a bright vivid green or a deep forest green. It was beautiful scenery and so much different than Kansas; in Clint’s mind, Oklahoma and Kansas were both nice in their own way but he preferred living in Oklahoma just because of the different things he could do there.
He turned down the road that lead to his shop and heard Boss let out another bark of joy. Clint waved to various people he knew, some he didn’t, as he drove down the curvy road. Businesses similar to his were scattered about. There were campsites filled with tents, bunkhouses, and cabins everywhere. The atmosphere there was amazing. It was like big party sometimes and other times it was just relaxing and fun. Everyone was friendly and there were strict rules in place so nobody would get into trouble, like a sound curfew, drinking rules, and security that patrolled the area. Trees and picnic tables were everywhere. It was filled with all different kinds of people. There were older people with full heads of gray hair who were out looking for adventure. There were families who had toddlers and children playing frisbee or volleyball. The teenagers and college students did this too. Church groups came down a lot, as well as singles groups and the occasional newlyweds.
Clint pulled to a stop by the side of his building. A surge of pride at how well the business was doing filled him. He was making his way in the world and he was happy. That’s what mattered most to him. Clint was generally and easy-going, laid back guy. Rarely did he ever let anything bring him down and rarely did it. His previous job the exception of course. Everyone liked Clint the moment they met him and he could get even the shyest person to speak with him. This job suited him perfectly.
Boss jumped down from the truck bed and went running around. Clint shook his head in amusement, filled up Boss’ food and water bowl, then headed inside to open up. People would start to trickle in about eight o’clock so he had an hour or so until then. He unlocked the doors and stepped inside, shutting off the alarm. The smell of coconuts and sun screen assaulted him as he walked around to make sure everything was in place as he had left in last night. He opened up the long, wide windows and the breeze felt cool coming off of the river. He flipped on the lights and ceiling fans as well and turned on the music, giving the whole place a mellow, relaxed atmosphere.
“Hey bro, how goes it?” Clint’s brother, Jake, asked as he dropped his beat up back pack underneath the long counter.
“Going good. It was rough waking up this morning,” Clint said as he poured a cup of coffee.
“ Not only is your body protesting to a weak fall, you can’t see a foot beside you either. Think you’re getting old.” Jake said with a big grin.
Clint took a sip and said, “Hey, twenty five is not old.”
Jake took a seat across from Clint and asked, “So what’s on the agenda today?”
Clint handed him a printed out plan for the day. “At eight we’ve got a group of ten coming in. They all want two-seaters Then the other group coming in is comprised of eight and they just want a raft. Two more people are joining and they want single kayaks. At ten its open and at one there’s a group of twenty. They want one raft, two one-seaters, and then five two-seaters.”
Jake shook his head in acknowledgment. “Who’s going with them?”
“The first group wants a guide but the rest don’t. We’ll flip to see who drives. Dan will go with the first group. Alexis, K.C., and Tori are on half-way point and Matt, Mason, and Erin are at the finish. Lucas, Emery, and Mary are on at startup. Scott’s in here today and I’ll be here too.”
“I thought you said we were flipping to see who drives. I hate driving that big ol’ bus.”
Clint laughed. “I know I just thought I’d see if you’d catch that. How bout you take the bus this morning and I’ll do the afternoon.”
“Deal.”
The employees showed up at seven forty-five for the daily run through. Clint loved the thrill of getting everyone psyched up for the day. Not that had to do all the much. Besides, who wouldn’t love working outside all day by the water? Everyone loved working for Clint too. He was a great boss and flexible with schedules. Which was why he was very understanding when Lucas showed up with a broken arm, Clint took it in stride.
“What’d you do this time buddy?” Clint asked good-naturedly.
“I was four wheelin’ and flipped the thing. Just a hairline fracture but it’s the third time I’ve broken it.” Lucas said with a shrug of his shoulders, no big deal. Lucas was the dare devil of the group. He was eighteen, had shaggy red hair, and dressed in clothes a size too big, unless he was at work. Then he wore shorts and a shirt like everyone else. He was a good kid though. He was a hard worker and never complained.
Clint shook his head. “You keep breaking it, it’s going to get weaker and weaker. Your mom probably isn’t very happy about that.”
Lucas winced a little at that. “Yeah I know. Mom and Dad are pretty bummed about me not being more careful. Not mad, just disappointed.”
Clint let out a short chuckle. “That’s the worst. Live and learn though right?” Lucas nodded his head in agreement and Clint continued, “Okay well you’ll be inside today with Scott. I’ll take your spot for today. Then for the rest of the week, we’ll see how it goes. You may just be inside.”
“Sweet.” Lucas nodded and took Clint’s vacated seat.
Clint was just about to walk out when the phone rang. He paused while Lucas picked up the phone.
“Vander Outdoors, this is Lucas.” A pause. “Hey man.” Another pause. “Yeah he’s right here.” Lucas hit the hold button and handed it to Clint. “It’s Scott.”
Scott was like a brother to Clint. In college, they were at the top of their classes, competing for first to set the grade curve in their general education classes. It was all in good fun though. They were roommates too. After they graduated, Scott asked Clint to be his best man. Scott went on to be a fire-fighter and during his forty-eight hours off, he worked for Clint.
Clint pushed the hold button and said, “What’s up buddy?” He looked out the window and saw Boss chasing a rabbit.
“Hey I’m running a little late, but I have a big favor to ask.”
“Not another blind date.” Clint barely held back a sigh. Last time Scott said he had a big favor to ask, Mel, Scott’s wife, set him up. Needless to say, the girl turned out to be stuck-up, rude, and had a horrible personality. Clint thought she was very pretty though, but he knew he’d get tired of her attitude real fast.
“Nah, man.” Scott laughed. “Mel said she couldn’t find another woman to go on a date with you even if she looked in Antarctica.”
Clint shrugged his shoulders. “Someone needed to set that girl in her place. Being a snob is not all that attractive.”
“I told Mel you wouldn’t like her. Anyway, my sister is the one who needs a job.”
“Oh yeah, sure. I’ll hire her.” Boss ran by again, this time chasing a squirrel.
“Sweet. We’ll see you in a bit.”
At eight o’clock the groups came in. Lucas got them all registered and the waivers were signed. The crew who had the half way point took extra kayaks, paddles, and life jackets along with the groups’ lunches they brought with them, to the seven mile mark. Jake got the groups loaded onto the bus and took them down the bumpy, sometimes narrow road to the starting point.
Clint was down there helping get everything organized for the next group. He loved being out by the water. The river let out a relaxing swish as it flowed by and the smell was fresh and clean. He looked at his watch and saw that it was nearing nine and said, “Hey guys, I’m going back to the shop. We’re getting a new crew member.”
The group let out a cheer and continued with their work.
Clint smiled to himself and started up the Gator. He wanted to meet Scott and his sister when they pulled up. Clint honestly didn’t remember what the girl looked like, let alone her name. The one time they met at Scott’s wedding, it was brief and she wasn’t very talkative if he remembered right. Not that she made a bad impression or anything. Clint just didn’t remember her.
As Clint parked the Gator, he hoped that Scott would say his sister’s name. Otherwise it was going to be an awkward moment. He supposed he could always come up with a way to find out what her name was. Or simply ask her, but he didn’t want to offend her by thinking she wasn’t memorable. Ah, he was between a rock and a hard place there, as his dad would say. He’d just go with the flow. He saw that Scott’s truck was already there. He felt nervous as he walked inside. Maybe his subconscious remembered more of her than his brain did. He noted Scott and Lucas talking but didn’t hear or see any female.
“Hey buddy what’s goin on?” Scott asked as Clint hopped up on the counter.
“Just got a couple groups going. How’s Mel? I forgot to ask you over the phone.”
Scott ran a hand over his blond hair and said, “Good. She is six weeks pregnant now.”
“We’ll be hearing a baby cry before too long. You excited?” Clint asked absently as his blue eyes scanned around for a girl. More specifically, one that might slightly resemble Scott.
“Yeah.” Scott noticed Clint looking around. “She’s in the bathroom.”
“Who is?”
“You know who. My sister.” Scott looked at Lucas and smiled. Lucas shook his head. They both could tell that Clint was curious about her and definitely knew who Scott was talking about.
“Are you talking about me again?”
Clint, Scott, and Lucas turned to the sound of the female voice. Clint couldn’t see her at first as she walked through the aisles filled with shirts, sweatshirts, and shorts. Then when she came into view Clint couldn’t see a resemblance between Scott and her at all. Whereas Scott had blond hair, she had dark brown, Scott had brown eyes, she had hazel. The only thing that was the same about them maybe was their smile and the shape of their eyes. Other than that everything about Scott’s sister was strictly feminine. She had a slim, graceful build and walked with confidence. She was wearing a peach colored tank top that made her tan glow and dark brown shorts that showed trimmed legs. Her hair was swept up into a ponytail and she wasn’t wearing much makeup. Clint hadn’t seen anyone more beautiful.
“Kind of but not really,” Scott said as she crossed her arms and glared at him in a teasing manner. “You already met Lucas.”
“I’d gladly meet her again,” Lucas said with a wink. Scott hit him lightly on the back of the head.
She laughed and Clint was caught up in its melody.
“You met Clint at my wedding.” Scott nodded towards Clint, who still hadn’t said anything yet. “Clint this is my sister.”
He hopped down and stuck out his hand. “Nice to meet you. Again.”
That came out short and choppy, not exactly unfriendly or friendly. Clint saw the odd look Lucas gave him out of the corner of his eye. This was one of the rare times he was having a hard time thinking what to say.
She shook his hand and said, “Likewise I’m sure.”
“Clint do you remember her name?” Scott asked with a mischievous grin.
“Uh...” Clint stammered for a minute, then just stopped talking altogether. “Yeah, I’m sorry, I forgot your name. Would you mind telling me again?”
She gave him a tight smile. “It’s Heidi.”
He grinned as he remembered hearing it before. “Heidi,” Clint said relishing the feel of saying it. “Where are your braids at?”
“I only wear those when I’m milking the cows,” she shot back, an amused twinkle in her eyes.
Clint and Heidi were standing pretty close by then and Scott stepped in between them, not sure if he liked the way Clint was looking at his sister. “Okay, I’ll go show her around.”
“I thought you said Clint would show me around. Aren’t you in the shop today?” Heidi asked.
“I’ll show her around,” Lucas volunteered as he looked up from a magazine.
“Thanks Lucas, but I’ll show her around. Heidi I’ll meet you out back,” Clint said. As soon as they heard the bell tinkle above the door, signaling Heidi had left, Clint turned back around to face Scott. “Don’t worry about anything bro. You know that I treat all my employees with respect.”
Scott nodded ruefully. “I know, it’s just that’s my baby sister. I don’t want you getting any ideas about her. But,” he dragged the word out, “since I know it’s inevitable, when you do, you have my permission. Since you’re my best man and everything.”
“How do you know that it’s inevitable?”
“Just a feeling I have.” Scott shrugged his shoulders. “God has His hand in it all.”
Clint laughed. “You and your feelings. Such a girl.”
Scott punched him on the shoulder good-naturedly. “Get out of here man. We’ll see you later on.”
Chapter Two-Insights and Water
Cass sat on the launch point, much like a boat launch, except the cement was built like steps. It was just as wide though. He watched the side to make sure he wouldn’t accidentally fall in. When he first sat down, everyone told him to watch out for the “big” drop off. Clint just laughed.
Heidi had been introduced to the crew members who were there and they accepted her easily enough. Emery reacted to her the same way Lucas did, which was with avid appreciation for her looks. Mary was glad to have another female with her because if it had been Lucas at the start-up instead of Clint she would have been thrown in the water at least three times; once for every group, a ritual Jake had started.
Emery and Mary were checking paddles and lining up kayaks while Clint showed Heidi what all went down during start-up.
“Okay first thing we do is make sure we have enough kayaks or rafts and paddles for the groups coming in. We always have extras around too. Then we help them get started.”
Heidi nodded her head once. “What do we do in between groups?”
Clint rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the beginnings of a sunburn start. “We hose down everything. Check for damage on the rafts and kayaks. Check the paddles. That kind of thing.”
“Which only takes about thirty minutes!” Emery hollered as he sprayed down a raft.
“Then what?” Heidi asked.
“Wait for the next group to come in.”
At noon, everyone took a lunch break, with the exception of Jake who would be bringing people back to the shop, as well as the groups’ coolers he brought to the halfway point. Scott, Heidi, and Clint were sitting at the picnic tables eating when Scott brought up the subject of Clint’s birthday.
“You’re going to be the big two-six next month. Any big plans yet?”
Clint finished off his chips and turned to lean against the picnic table, hands crossed behind his head. “I’m not sure yet.”
Jake showed up then, wearing only board shorts and tennis shoes. He didn’t notice Heidi who was over at one of the far picnic tables, laying on her back and sleeping. Clint sure did though, and mainly out of respect for Scott, tried to avoid staring at her. He sneaked a few looks over there though.
“Ya’ll talking about the big birthday bash I have planned?” Jake asked as he sat down opposite of Scott.
“What do you have planned?” Clint asked as he closed his eyes, knowing full well what Jake’s party might entail.
Jake rubbed his hands together in excitement. “We’re going to have a big party here. Food, drinks, cake, a bonfire, and some music. Maybe a ladder golf tourny. It will be awesome though.”
“And how is that any different from any other weekend of yours Jake?” Clint asked, while Scott chuckled.
“It’s your birthday bro. That is what will make it different.” Jake turned his head and caught a glimpse of Heidi. “Whoa who’s the girl?”
“That’s my sister.”
“That’s Heidi.”
Clint and Scott replied at the same time.
“She available?” Jake asked as he shot a glance at her still sleeping form.
Jake was notorious for always having a girlfriend. Clint could safely tell anybody that his brother had only been single for about two weeks in the past three years. Jake would also fall “deeply” in love with a girl then after a few months or a year, he’d fall out of love and drop her like it was no big deal. Much like Jake, Clint liked being in long term relationships. Unlike Jake though, Clint really needed to like a girl, possibly even fall in love with her quickly, as odd as it is to say that or for it to happen, before he could be with her for even a month. Jake and Scott, maybe even Clint’s mother, knew this but to everyone else it looked like Clint liked to go on a lot of dates but avoided commitment.
Needless to say, Clint did not want Jake going on a date with Heidi. Mostly because he was the one who wanted to date her.
“She’s single. I wouldn’t say she’s available though,” Scott said. “She broke up with this miserable excuse for a man a month ago.”
Knowing that he’d eventually be asking Heidi out on a date, Clint wanted to make sure he wouldn’t screw up like her ex did. “What was wrong with him?”
“For starters, he cheated on her several times.”
“On her?” Clint asked, bewildered. He couldn’t figure out why anyone would want to cheat on a beautiful girl like her. Well, he wouldn’t have a problem being in a monogamous relationship with her.
“Yeah,” Scott continued, “and he liked to spend a lot of money, mostly Heidi’s. He had no job, no car, no prospects, no manners.”
“No manners, that’s awful.” Jake chuckled. Clint shot him a look. “I’m kidding. Sounds pretty crappy.”
Scott nodded but didn’t comment further on the guy when he noticed Heidi stir and sit up. “Anyway, I got to go check on Mel. You taking the bus again Jake?”
Before Jake could answer, Lucas came out and told Clint the group that was coming in at one was fifteen minutes early, ready to go, and wanted a guide, because as Lucas said, “The older ladies probably want to stare at a man who still has muscle and not saggy, wrinkly skin.”
Clint laughed and said, “Okay well, any objections to me being their guide?”
“Uh yeah, you’re suppose to drive the bus,” Jake pointed out.
“I’ll drive the bus. Beats sitting in the office,” Scott said.
Lucas went back in, got everything ready to go. Jake followed, Clint and Scott behind them. Heidi had already went into the shop. The group came in and Scott drove the bus with Heidi and Clint riding along with them. The group consisted of mostly ladies in their sixties with a handful of men. All of them were wearing shorts and bright blue t-shirts that read, “Rollin’ Down the River-at 60!”.
Once there, Emery and Mary helped the people who wanted to ride the raft get on, while Clint and Heidi got everyone their kayaks. Everyone was lined up and Clint turned and asked Heidi if she was ready to go.
“What?”
“Want to go down the river with me?”
Heidi tucked a strand of dark brown hair behind her ear. Then she raised her eyebrows once and shrugged as if convincing herself to go. “Sure.”
Clint grabbed two dark green single kayaks. He lined it up against the launch point and told Heidi, “Hop on in.”
“Alright,” Heidi said with a little uncertainty.
“You ever been in kayak before?” Clint asked with a laugh. “You sound a little uneasy.”
Heidi lifted her chin a little. “No, I haven’t been in a kayak before, but I’ll be alright.” She gingerly got in the kayak and wiggled slightly. “This doesn’t rock nearly as much as a canoe.”
Clint handed Heidi a paddle and said, “Yeah I know. That’s why we don’t rent out canoes. They’re unstable and flip too easy. Unless you‘re well seasoned in riding one. Those who would rather canoe usually have their own though. Most people like kayaks though and they‘re great for novices, such as yourself.”
Heidi turned around quickly and the kayak rocked, allowing some water to slosh in.
“Take it easy,” Clint warned. “They can still flip.”
She dipped her head. “Duly noted. Did you learn about canoes being unstable from personal experience?” Heidi slowly turned back around to the front, dimples accenting her smile.
“You could say that.” Clint started to paddle. He yelled behind him, “Let’s move out group.” Then he yelled excitedly. It was going to be a fun run down the river.
They went about three miles down river when a kayak flipped over. Clint was just a few feet in front of the group when it happened. He couldn’t miss the screech that came from the ladies. There was a center island in the river at that point, so he hopped out, pushed his kayak quickly onto the sand bar. The water was only waist-deep so he walked against the easy, smooth current of the river over to the ladies who were standing as well, holding onto the paddles.
“You two okay?” Clint asked as he pulled the kayak from the branches it got stuck in.
Their hair was damp and their clothing was soaked. They looked a little worse for the wear, but they were in good humor.
“Yes we’re fine,” one of the two said. “Idella was just pointing out a fish and when I leaned over too, it just flipped.”
Clint smothered a chuckle. The ladies weren’t exactly tiny. “Alright, well glad you’re both okay. Need a break or anything?”
They both smiled, said yes please and followed Clint over to the island. After a five minute break, Clint helped them in the kayak and launched them back into the water. He got in his kayak and paddled behind Idella and Leana. He just hoped Heidi remembered to stop the group ahead.
Chapter Three- Strawberry Tans
Heidi tampered down her nerves and tried to bring confidence to the front of her jumbled emotions. What she really wanted to be was angry at Clint for not making the entire group stop. It wasn’t like she’s been down this river before. Some guide she would make the first time out. No matter though; she took a deep breath in and yelled, “Stop at this island!”
Earlier Clint told Heidi if they ever get separated and at about mile four, she was to look for a large island with a small shallow stream to the right and a large, deep stream on the left. He usually stopped there to regroup, he could get back in the lead, and everyone could take a short break.
Heidi figured this must be the island, she couldn’t see the other side of it, but she was on the left side of it and it was a deep and wide. She paddled up to the small rocky beach and jauntily got out. Her arms were a little sore and her legs were kind of stiff. This was nothing like the jobs she was used to which were typically in retail. After almost throwing a perfume bottle at an overly rude customer, she quit before she got fired and begged Scott to ask his friend if she could work for him. She remembered Clint from Scott’s wedding. He was good looking, but she didn’t pay much attention to him as she was dating Rance. Heidi huffed at the thought of Rance’s name. What a jerk he turned out to be.
She didn’t miss him exactly but there was a void in her that felt like it needed to be filled. She wasn’t sure what she was suppose to fill it with. Another friend perhaps? Another boyfriend?
“Ma’am,” a man from the group said, interrupting her thoughts, “I don’t think this is the island Clint said we were meeting at.”
Heidi squinted up at the man. “What? Really?” She stood up and brushed off the dirt.
“Yeah, there’s no stream on the right. Not really an island.” The guy scratched his balding head. “What should we do?”
“Get back in the kayaks on the rafts and find the right island,” Heidi said with a cheerful countenance. She was ready to move on anyway. Anything to keep from thinking about Rance.
“Will do. I’ll help spread the word.” The man walked away and Heidi started getting everyone ready to go. Once they were all back in the water, Heidi kept her eyes open for the right island. There were a lot of sand bars, drifts, and rocks spread out through the river. Tree branches hung low on some sides and others had fallen logs that the current, if it was strong enough, could pull the kayaks to it like a magnet. Heidi knew enough to make sure that the group stayed away from those spots and found out as they went along that it wasn’t so hard being a guide. This was by far turning out to be a great day. The weather was hot but being in the kayak she could just splash water on herself if it got unbearable.
They passed by a couple more islands but they didn’t match Clint’s description, though both times Heidi thought they were pretty close. Heidi spotted the island Clint must’ve been talking about and waved everyone over. The group let out a sigh of relief, Heidi included. She thought she was in shape, but apparently she was way out of it. She laid down in the sand, not caring if she got dirty and closed her eyes.
“Heidi?”
Heidi felt someone nudge her shoulder but she couldn’t quite open her eyes yet.
“Heidi?”
She opened up one eye and looked at the person who so rudely awakened her. “Yes?” Her voice was scratchy and she felt hot. Too hot.
“Did you put on some sun screen before you fell asleep?” It was Clint and he sounded like he was holding back a laugh.
“I did before we started down river.” She stood up and after her eyes adjusted she could see why Clint was trying to hold back a laugh. Her skin was pink. Heidi rarely got sunburned, she just tanned. Not this time though.
Clint finally laughed and said, “You look like a strawberry.”
Heidi’s jaw fell slack and her face stung in the process. “A strawberry?” The nerve of that man! See this was why she did not want to date.
He laughed again and Heidi felt a twinge of anger and annoyance. She walked closer to him and put her hands on her hips. “Are you done laughing?”
Clint’s blue eyes were still twinkling but he said, “Yes. I’m sorry.”
“Good,” Heidi said, then abruptly shoved him into the water.
Clint stumbled backwards, lost his footing, and landed hard on his rear. The look on his face made Heidi want to laugh; he stared at her in disbelief. She put a hand on her mouth to keep from laughing, but a giggle escaped.
“You think that was funny?”
Heidi nodded her head, a smirk planted on her face.
Clint stood up and he took off his shirt to wring it out. Tossing it over his shoulder, he sauntered over to her and ran a hand through his thick brown hair. Heidi was struck by how cute he was. Not just cute though, he was handsome. Gorgeous. Muscled, tanned, and broad shouldered, Clint looked like he had stepped out of a commercial for...something. She definitely needed to make sure she didn’t give him the wrong signal. He looked at her with a flirtatious smile and felt butterflies in her stomach. Before she could wrangle her thoughts, Clint picked her up, threw her on his shoulder and tossed her into the river.
“Clint!” Heidi yelled as she staggered to her feet. She found a slippery rock to step on though and with a yelp, she slipped back in. When she got back up, Heidi couldn’t help but laugh. The water felt good on her burn and it wasn’t like she got hurt or anything.
“You okay?” Clint asked as she walked onto the island. He smiled then said, “Looks like you’re okay.”
Heidi pulled the elastic out of her hair and shook it out. “Yes, I’m fine. The water felt great actually.” She frowned for a moment then said, “I hope I don’t blister.”
“I think you’ll be fine. You should definitely put some aloe vera on that though.”
Heidi fell in step beside Clint as they walked to the group. “So were those two ladies alright?”
“Yeah, just looking at a fish. We took a little break so they could settle back down.”
“How long did it take you to get over here? Oh and by the way, we stopped at the wrong island the first time.”
Clint smiled. “So I heard. It took us about twenty minutes to get here. Idella and Leana like to look around a lot. That’s alright though. I just went with the flow.” He paused to look at her. “You were sleepin’ pretty hard when we showed up. You were snoring.”
She smiled sheepishly. “Yeah I know I snore. I’m sorry I fell asleep. I was just so worn out. I’m not exactly in shape and just sitting there and paddling can be a lot of work.”
“I wouldn’t be able to tell.”
“Tell what? That it’s a lot of work?”
“No, uh, I mean you don’t look like you’re out of shape.” Clint scanned her up and down quickly as if to make sure his assessment was correct. Or was he checking her out?
“Thanks.”
“Anytime.”
After a fifteen minute break, they all got back in their kayaks or on the raft and took off. It was still hot and incredibly muggy, though the sun wasn’t shining directly on them through some stretches of the river on account of the gigantic oak trees. When they reached the halfway point, the group was ready to call it a day. After eating, everyone piled into the bus.
Heidi sat in the front behind her brother, enjoying the steady breeze flowing in from the window. While Clint and Scott were talking, she closed her eyes, feeling every muscle in her body tense and then slowly relax. She watched the trees go by in a blur and every now and then she’d see the sunlight filter through the leaves onto some trails. Her curiosity peaked when she saw those; she visioned herself taking her lab Scotch with her on the trails, taking in the moist air, following a stream perhaps, and just observing the various flora and fauna along the way. Taking pictures too. Her house was full of pictures Heidi had taken, from mountain scenes, oceans, lakes, flowers, and then of her family and friends. She was only in a couple herself.
“Heidi, you doing okay? You look a little red. Like a lobster. You’re going to get your freckles back.” Scott snickered.
She glared at him through the mirror above the driver’s seat. Stinkin’ big brothers.
“Aw Scott, leave her alone,” Clint smiled at her. “Though I do think she’d look cute with freckles.”
Heidi felt her face warm and she found herself thankful for the burn; Clint might’ve noticed her blush if it wasn’t there.
Scott mumbled something under his breath that neither Heidi or Clint caught. Laughing to himself, he pulled the brake in front of the shop. All the passengers got out, weary and sun drenched. As Heidi stepped off the bus, Clint touched her shoulder, immediately getting her attention
“Ouch! Yikes that hurt!” Heidi winced.
“I’m sorry I completely forgot,” Clint said with an apologetic look on his face.
“Just make sure it doesn’t happen again.” Heidi grimaced, not meaning to sound so snappy.
“It won’t,” Clint rubbed the back of his neck, something Heidi noticed he did whenever he was thinking about something. “I was wondering if-”
“Hey Clint! Come over here for a minute!” Scott yelled from the back deck.
Clint let out an irritated sigh and said, “I’ll come find you in about five minutes okay?”
“Alright. I’ll stick around the area.”
Heidi watched as Clint walked over to her brother, wondering what it was Clint was about to say. He looked and sounded a little nervous, which Heidi thought was endearing because Scott had told her Clint was always very sure of himself. She couldn’t think it was too endearing though. That might lead to attraction and that’s the last thing she wanted. Clint looked over at her that moment and caught her staring at him, so she hurriedly turned and went inside the shop.
“How’d it go Heidi?” Lucas asked from behind the counter. Heidi thought he sounded kind of like a surfer dude. He was a cute kid.
Jake nodded from the corner of the shop were he was chatting up a co-ed. Heidi thought Jake looked like a twin of Clint, which made sense seeing as how they were brothers. Jake seemed a little immature though. Heidi nodded back and focused her attention on Lucas.
“It went okay. Besides the fact that I got burned.”
She picked up a bottle of aloe vera and said, “I’m going to buy this okay?”
Lucas grabbed the bottle from her, looked at it, put it back and said, “Heidi, Heidi, Heidi. You don’t have to buy anything. Clint keeps a whole stock of stuff for us underneath the counter over here. Come here I’ll show you.”
Heidi walked around and crouched down beside Lucas. Sure enough, there were bottles of sun screen of every SPF, different types of aloe vera, some with lidocaine, chapstick, and anything else a person who worked outside could need.
“Pick out whichever one you want,” Lucas said.
Heidi grabbed a tube of aloe vera with lidocaine in it and stood up. “Thanks, Lucas.”
He wiggled his red-orange eyebrows up and down. “Need some help putting that stuff on?”
Heidi laughed and Lucas’ grin widened. “No thanks. I think I can handle it.”
“Let me know if you change your mind!” Lucas yelled as Heidi went out the door with an amused smile.
Feeling a little gritty, she walked over to a water spout that was about hip high and turned it on. The water was cool, not too cold, and felt silken running over her hot, sunburned skin. Feeling refreshed, she stood up and absently ran her fingers through her hair. To her dismay, her hair felt like it had a pound of sand and dirt in it. She turned the faucet back on and stuck her head underneath it. She scrubbed hard, making sure she got out all of the dirt. Standing up, she felt a little better, but her sunburn still, well, burned.
Heidi glanced up at the sun and dared it to burn her some more. Moving to the shade before the sun took her up on that dare, she shook her head and thought, the sun must be getting to me. Sighing as she rubbed on the cool aloe vera, she wondered where Clint went off to. She wanted to ask him about the trails, like where they went, how long they were. Not to mention, her curiosity was growing by the minute about what he wanted to talk to her about. She didn’t have to look far for him though; when she looked up from rubbing aloe on her shoulder, he was standing a good twenty feet away and looking right at her.
Chapter Four- Revelations on the Lake
Clint swallowed once. Cleared his throat. Swallowed once more. He knew he should’ve looked away the moment Heidi caught him staring at her, but he had a difficult time dragging his eyes away from her curves. The fact that she had drenched herself in water didn’t help at all. She was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.
“Hey, I was just about to come look for you,” Heidi said as she pulled her hair back into a ponytail.
Clint snapped out of his reverie. “Yeah.”
Well, he kind of snapped out of it. Clint was looking straight into her eyes. The sunlight did a weird thing to the color of them. It made them a mixture of green and brown.
The corners of her mouth turned down. “Were you going to ask me something earlier?”
“Yes, uh…” he couldn’t remember.
She smiled, amused. “Well while you think about that. I have a question to ask you. That is if you think you can answer it at the moment.”
“Okay.”
She laughed. “Were those hiking trails I saw on the way back here?”
Safe ground for Clint; he could talk about the trails without even really having to think much about it.
“They sure were. We have at least three different trails for easy, medium, and advanced. Well not really advanced, but it’s longer than the other two. The first is only a couple of miles, the second is 8, and the last is 12.”
“All day then?”
“Depends. The last one definitely is. Some people like to camp on the eight mile trail. A lot of couples do that.”
Aha, Clint thought, I was going to ask her on a date.
“You have a place to camp along the trail then I take it?” Heidi’s ponytail was starting to dry into soft waves. Clint wanted to know if it felt as nice as too.
He shook his head, and Heidi misread him.
“No camping spots?”
“No. I mean, yes there are camping spots. I have cleared out a couple of places with two fire pits built. It’s pretty cool.”
“Sounds like it.”
Clint nodded his head. He was trying to think of the best way to ask her, but he didn’t have a clue how to just bring it up out of nowhere. She might reject him for all he knew. He hadn’t thought that maybe she might not be interested in dating anyone. But how could he not ask her though? There was nothing wrong with just going on one date right? Even as friends maybe? So technically he could ask her if she wanted to hangout, strictly just as friends.
Heidi bit her lower lip, like she was trying to hide a smile and said, “Okay, well I’m going to catch up with Scott. I’ll see you tomorrow right?”
“Definitely. I’ll be here.”
“Okay then. Have a good rest of the day. Bye.” Heidi smiled and walked away.
Clint stood there, looking after her. Well maybe tomorrow he’d get the chance to ask her out. Until he did, he’d scope her out, just to see if she might be interested. Or maybe he’d have Lucas ask her if she was looking to date anyone. Anyone but Jake.
Later on that night as Clint was closing up the shop, Johnny stopped by. He had a long gray ponytail and looked a lot like Willie Nelson. Johnny was taller though and a little bit bigger around the waist. Johnny couldn’t sing either, though he thought he could.
“How’s it goin’ Johnny?” Clint asked as he locked the front door. He moved over to the bench where Johnny sat with a piece of grass sticking out of his mouth.
Johnny sat chewing on the grass for a moment before answering, which was typical Johnny fashion. “Hmm. Goin’ good son. How goes it with you?”
“It’s going alright. Nice night out isn’t?”
“Yeah it is. It’s going to rain though before too long. Makes for good fishing weather tomorrow.”
“Sure thing.”
Johnny folded his hands over his big belly. “I have a question for ya Clint.”
“Alright.”
“What say you be a guide for my buddies and me tomorrow? Think you can do that?”
“Ah, shoot. You know more about fishing than I do Johnny. I’ll do it though. Were there any spots in particular you were wanting to hit?”
“Well, Keystone for sure. Then from there on I’ll let you pick. So how’s business?”
“Good as always.”
“Why you so restless then?”
Clint laughed. “How can you tell I’m restless?”
“Look at you son, you’re fidgeting. I know restless when I see it.”
Clint looked down at his leg and sure enough, he was jiggling it up and down. Now that he thought about it, he was always moving around, never sat still for long either.
Johnny chuckled. “Glenda says you can come over for a fish fry anytime and she can set you up. Don’t worry none though, I told her you’d come for the fish but not the women. She said that was okay though. She also told me you’re going to have a new employee.”
Clint grinned. “Dare I ask how she knew that?”
“That new gal you got goes to the same church as we do. Heidi Greene, right?”
“That’s right.”
Johnny rubbed his chin and squinted one eye, signaling to Clint that he was thinking. “We’ll be here about seven.” Johnny stood up and stretched.
Clint stood up as well, just as soon as the first rain drops started to fall. “I’ll be ready. We’ll see you then. Don’t tell Mrs. Gould to be inviting Heidi and me to a fish fry at the same time.”
Johnny clapped his shoulder and said, “I’ll bring the breakfast. As for Glenda, if you help us catch the fish tomorrow, you’ll have to come to a fry.”
At seven the next morning, it had let up raining a bit and was just a slight mist. It was hot already and the rain was just cool enough to make it steam. Clint was drinking a cup of coffee when Johnny pulled up in his beat up old Ford truck. Johnny got out and two old men followed him. Clint lifted a hand to wave and got off the deck to meet them.
“Hey, Clint. You drinkin’ that hot gunk when it’s warm out like this?” Johnny chuckled. Clint knew that Johnny drank coffee every morning at five thirty with a side of biscuits, bacon, and an orange so he could say he ate healthy.
“It’s my only vice Johnny.” Clint grinned. Clint didn’t drink, chew, smoke, or cuss.
Johnny pointed to the men standing beside him. “This here is Hank and Dan. Fellas this is Clint Vanders, best young man you’ll ever meet.”
“Hear tell you know how to fish, Clint,” the man named Hank stated. He was a big man, built like Johnny but he had short, gray hair and an easy going smile. Dan was shorter than both and slimmer as well. He had a beard too that made him look like a skinny Santa Claus.
“Yes, sir, I do.”
“Good, I like you already.”
“Let’s eat boys, I’m starving,” Johnny said as he handed out some homemade cinnamon rolls Glenda made. They made quick work of eating them.
Johnny started towards Clint’ truck and yelled out behind him, “Let’s load ‘er up boys. Clint got the boat all ready and the fish are wantin’ breakfast.”
They were putting around the lake in the boat when they set anchor in an alcove. The men excitedly, calmly, smoothly cast out their lines. Every one sat drifting in their own thoughts. Clint was lulled by the water and his body relaxed, despite the excitement in his mind. Slowly though, his thoughts calmed with the fresh breeze from the lake. He thought about Heidi and her smile. The way she squinted her eyes when she was thinking about something…
“Hey Clint, your line is a tuggin’ boy! Wake up!” Johnny yelled excitedly.
Clint jumped up as he felt the line pull again and he started to reel the line in as quick as he could. His pole started bend and he had to let out a little extra line to it wouldn’t break his reel. He pulled and reeled as the fish fought him. Finally, Clint got the fish reeled in close enough for Johnny to net it.
“Whoo-ee, Clint look at that beaut!” Johnny said as he pulled the bass out and handed it to Clint.
“That’s a good six pounds I’d say,” Clint replied excitedly as he got out the weight hook. “Yep, six pounds on the dot. What do you think men, should we throw her back or put her in the live well?”
“How we gonna have a fish fry without the fish?” Hank chuckled and opened the live well for Clint.
After they had caught a few more fish, the loaded the boat up and headed over to Clint’ uncle’s pond. Leading the men through the tall grass to the pond took a while, but when they got to the water, they were impressed. Last year it had been re-stocked and this summer it needed some thinning out. It was a large pond with trees scattered about. A corner of it had fallen logs in it and on the opposite side a dock went a third of the way into the water. The water was a little murky from the rain but they could see the cats bitin’.
They fanned out and fished for another three hours. Clint was having the best day of work he’d had in a while. Not that he ever really had a bad day at the shop, but this was a different change a pace. Being a fishing guide was something he never thought about doing before. It made sense though; he owned a kayaking business, why not start up a fishing guide service? He knew all the good places to fish around here and knew quite a few people with ponds they leased. That and he could always ask Johnny or his uncle for new places to go. It was definitely something Clint would think about.
Chapter Five- Transition
“Hey where is Clint at this morning?” Heidi asked as casually as she could as she entered the shop.
All night she tossed and turned, trying to get her mind off Clint. About three in the morning, she finally told herself it wouldn’t be so bad to maybe start thinking about dating again. It’s just that Clint would be the transition guy. She would rather him be after the transition guy. So she would just find another man to date, just to get used to dating again, before she could date Clint. This way she could also find out what kind of man she wanted to be with. What kind of man Clint was.
She could also prove to herself that she was worth dating. Rance made her feel worthless. With all the putdowns he constantly told her, her self esteem was low. It wasn’t until he threatened to hit her that she finally saw him for what he really was. Worthless. God was restoring her though and slowly her confidence in herself was building.
Jake glanced up from replenishing a rack of tee shirts and she noticed how gorgeous his golden brown eyes were. “He left about fifteen minutes ago. He’s going to take a group of men out fishing, try his hand out at being a guide.”
“A guide?”
Jake knitted his brows together and lifted the now empty box. Heidi followed him as he continued to walk through the back door, looking him up and down thankful to see he was taller than she by a few inches. He was leaner than Clint though, not as muscular. Which was okay. “Yeah. He’s going to show them some of the best spots to fish, spots that very few people know about. He should really think about adding that on to the business.”
Heidi was slightly surprised at his last sentence. Maybe Jake had more brains than she thought. Maybe she should date Jake. Just for the sake of him being the transistion man. First though, she had to find out more about Clint’ situation.
“That’s cool. So is Clint seeing anyone?” She followed him back into the shop and he sat on a stool behind the counter while she went around to face him.
She had his full attention now. “No,” he chuckled.
“What’s funny about that?”
“Clint doesn’t ‘see’ anyone. He takes a girl on just one date. If they’re lucky, he’ll take them out again. If not, he won’t repeat the same mistake twice.”
She wasn’t quite sure how to take that. Either Clint was a player or he wasn’t. She wasn’t about to date a loser again. She would have to dig further about Clint’ dating style.
This was about Jake though.
Time to turn on the charm. “Are you seeing anyone?”
His eyes widened and in the next instant he smiled at her. “Just you.”
She immediately felt flattered. What was wrong with her? Who would fall for that line? He’s probably used it before. But…He was an attractive guy, after all. Who wouldn’t feel flattered?
Heidi took a moment to study him without it being overly obvious. He had the same facial structure as Clint, he just looked younger. Strong jaw, great smile, golden brown eyes fringed with dark lashes. As opposed to Clint’ cobalt blue ones. Jake’s hair was buzzed. Clint’ hair was trimmed shorter on the sides and longer on top, just a tad unruly.
This was about Jake though.
“Funny,” Heidi dismissed his previous remark. “Are you dating anyone?”
He leaned on both arms, inching closer to her. “No, I’m not at the moment.”
“Who was that girl you were talking to yesterday? You looked pretty interested in her.”
He shrugged his shoulders. “Just a friend.”
Just then the crew came in for the morning rundown, which Jake handled like a pro. Nobody seemed to mind that Jake filled in for Clint’ shoes although he was a scant couple years older than most of them. He was only a year younger than Heidi.
She was in shop with Lucas and Jake today. The crew dispersed and Heidi went outside to scrub down the back deck and bathrooms on account of all the mud that had been tracked in from last night’s and early this morning’s rain. As she swabbed the deck, she made a list of the good qualities Jake seemed to possess right off the bat.
1. He was friendly.
2. He was talkative. (She always worried about having to fill in awkward silences.)
3. He was a take charge kind of guy. (Perhaps because he had to be…at least today)
4. He was attractive.
5. He was her age.
6. He didn’t seem too serious about some things. (Which translates to he would be the PERFECT transition guy. He wouldn’t get too serious about her.)
So six things so far. She was sure she could add to the list, but Jake was calling her name.
“I’m out here!” She yelled back. She leaned the mop against the bathroom door and wiped the sweat off her brow.
He sauntered over to the pool and plopped down to put his feet in the water. The water itself was calling her name, it’s gleaming clear light blue ripples, looking cool and refreshing in the muggy, sunny atmosphere.
“Why don’t you come sit by me?” Jake patted the spot next to him.
“Don’t mind if I do,” she said as she walked over and sat down, placing her feet in the instantly refreshing water. “Ahhhhh.”
“Word up,” Jake said as he leaned back onto his hands. “So you doing anything this Friday?”
“Not at the moment. Why do you ask?”
“Do you want to go to dinner with me?”
Heidi hoped that the surprise she felt didn’t show on her face. Getting him to ask her on a date was easier than she expected. She didn’t want to seem overly eager though about answering.
“Where to?” She stated as if asking if it was sunny out.
“I was thinking about taking you to Bone Fish,” he replied just as calmly. “Have you ever been there before?”
Was he serious with that question?
“No.” She could only wish that some man would take her there. Her last boyfriend wouldn’t have even suggested such a place and if he did, and they went, it would’ve been on her dime anyway.
Aha! Rule number one in things a man must do in order to date her. He must pay for dinner when he does the asking. No exceptions.
“You’re going to love it. What time should I pick you up?”
“Seven?”
He grinned at her. “Seven it is. I won’t be late.”
Hot and sweaty but in a great mood Clint walked into the cool shop to find Heidi closing out the cash register. She looked up at him and smiled, dimples showing. His heart skipped a few beats and he wanted to do anything to keep that smile there.
“Hi there pretty lady,” he said in a smooth, deep voice, letting his twang come out a little bit. He leaned over the counter, resting on his forearms.
The smile stayed, maybe even got a bit brighter. “Hi. How was your fishing thingy?”
A chuckle. “Fishing thingy? You mean my bit at trying to be a fishing guide?”
She nodded, the smile disappearing as she went back over the numbers on the worksheet.
“It went great actually.” Clint watched her as her delicate eyebrows knitted and she frowned slightly. “Something wrong?”
She huffed. “The numbers state that we are over.”
“How much?”
“Two cents.” She sounded annoyed.
A breeze came through the window, blowing a citrusy scent towards him. Must be Heidi‘s. So much better than that floral stuff other girls tended to wear. It made him sneeze and sometimes it was a little too much. “Well that’s not that big of a deal. Sometimes customers don’t want a penny or two back.”
“Yeah right.”
He shrugged his shoulders. “I’m serious. It happens more than you think. If you’re that worried about it, you can take the two pennies.”
She laughed and flipped her long hair behind her shoulders. “I’ll pass.”
Now would be the perfect time to ask her out. “Hey, are you doing anything this Friday?”
Her smile faded. She seemed to be concentrating hard on the worksheet as she answered. “Yeah, I am. I’ve already made plans. I’m sorry.”
The words came out short and choppy. He wasn’t sure how to take that. Was she unhappy she had plans or did she just not want to talk about it? Maybe it was a combination of both.
“Okay well that’s cool.” He glanced at the clock on the wall. It was time for her to go home and he was ready to check with Jake about how the day went. He wasn’t ready to stop talking to beautiful Heidi though and he sure didn’t want her to leave. He didn’t know how to make that happen however.
Heidi clipped the worksheet to the board hanging on the wall and gave him a small smile. “Guess I’ll be going now.“
Bummer.
She turned back around and asked, “Did Scott remind you that I won’t be in tomorrow?”
Clint gave her one short nod. “Sure did. You have a good weekend. I’ll see you Monday.”
Clint busied himself restocking the shelves and sweeping the floors. From the hours seven to nine the shop wasn’t too busy so he had time to relax or catch up on things. Before long, Jake would be coming in to take over until eleven, when the shop closed. He was drawing up plans to expand the Vander Outdoors to include guided fishing. He would have to call one or two of his old buddies, who were actual fishing guides, to see what all that would entail including expenses. Right now the shop was doing very well and if he needed a small loan to get the fishing part up and going that wouldn’t be too bad. Except he despised being in debt. Oh he had a credit card when he was younger but he only used it to pay for gas to help build up his credit. After a few years he cancelled it. He never bought anything if he didn’t have enough money in his savings for it and did not take out loans for anything. For this fishing guide though, he might have to.
“Alright bro, you can go home and get some shut-eye. I hear old people like to go to bed early anyway,” Jake said as he walked behind the counter to sit on the stool beside Clint.
Clint stood up and stretched. “Ah man, I feel old sometimes. Especially sitting on something without a back support.” He twisted his torso around. “So how’d today go?”
Jake scratched the back of his head. “It, uh, went good. You know, same old same old.”
“What does ‘it, uh, went good’ mean?”
“Oh nothing. Sorry. It went smoothly. No problems except for a lady was worried about a guide not knowing where he was going. The river moves one direction and we end up at one spot you know. Anyway, I was thinking about the date I have on Friday,” Jake’s face lit up and it looked as if he was going to say something but a shadow crossed his face, changing it to pensive and quiet.
He almost looked guilty.
Maybe Clint had been out in the heat for too long. “Well have fun on your date. I’m sure it’ll go just as you expect it to. See you later bro.”
“Hey,” Jake hollered before Clint went through the door. “I almost forgot. Johnny called. Wants you to give him a call back. Have a good night. Get some rest ol’ man!”
Chapter Six- Fish fry
Heidi flipped her wavy locks behind her shoulder and climbed out of her jeep, as gracefully as she could in her flower-patterned sundress. She looked around, taking in her surroundings. She’d never been to the Gould’s place before. It was out in the country and the Ranch-style home sat on a good forty acres. There was a big old red barn that was a distance away. Under several large oak trees, long, plastic tables were set up with blue/white and red/white checked table clothes on top. Both tables were filled with food and one table alone was solely desserts. Two large, orange containers sat on a cardboard table; one was water and one was sweet tea. People milled about laughing and talking.
After looking around she felt comfortable walking towards the gathering. She had told Glenda that she would make a quick stop at the fish fry and here she was. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to be here, she really did, it was just that she knew that the Goulds knew the Vanders. She was worried about seeing Jake again so soon after their extremely awkward date. She didn’t have much time to ponder on that much longer though because Glenda, round and plump and cheery, came up and gave her a motherbear hug.
She smelled of lilacs and well…fish and hushpuppies. Her big smile though reflected the heart of gold that was inside. “So glad you made it darling. Aren’t you just the cutest thing in that dress? Come on over and fill your plate up. Johnny done said the blessing about ten minutes ago but that don’t matter. People come and go as they please and we wouldn’t have it anyother way.” She took Heidi by the elbow and dragged her towards a table laden with food. Heidi’s stomach grumbled as the breeze blew the aroma her way.
“Now I know you told me you don’t like fish and John said he’d fry up some chicken for you.”
Heidi rarely ate anything that was fried. Not that she didn’t mind it, it’s just it was easier for her to bake things than to fry things because she didn’t know how to fry, well, anything. It didn’t hurt that it was healthier too. She must’ve made a face because Miss Glenda laughed and added, “I made sure though that he didn’t so I baked up some chicken strips for you. Is that okay?”
Heidi smiled at the thought of Glenda going out of her way for her. “Miss Glenda, I would’ve eaten it even if it was fried. Thank you very much though. I owe you.”
Glenda winked. “Don’t I know it. I’ll be coming to collect on that debt soon enough. Go on and fill your plate. I believe you know most everyone here so go on and find a seat wherever. Thanks for coming dear.”
Heidi smiled as Glenda bustled away. She grabbed a large white paper plate, a napkin or two because she was a little messy sometimes, and eating utensils. Looking at each dish one by one, she selected what appealed to her most which was pasta salad, a little potato salad, corn on the cob, and finally chicken strips.
Glancing around the expansive yard, she went to sit in a lone chair, well actually it was only a few feet away from a group of teenagers, underneath a tree. Any type of shade would be welcome as the setting sun was giving one final burst of heat before it finally set. A gentle breeze was coming up and as she sat down in the shade it provided a welcome respite.
As she ate she watched the people at the party interact. Heidi didn’t mind being alone under the tree. It gave her a chance to watch people. The older men were clustered around the grill or tables, telling jokes and stories. Their wives were bustling to and from the kitchen and tables, arms filled with empty or full platters of food. Some were hollering at the children. The kids were playing Frisbee or throwing a football around or sitting in groups talking about who knows what. There weren’t many people her age at this little get together and the ones who were, well they were all in couples.
Heidi bent down to grab her sweet tea.
“Hi there pretty lady.”
She jumped, sloshing tea over her hand. Looking up she saw that it was Clint, handsome as ever in a blue polo shirt and khaki cargo shorts. “Hi.” To say she was surprised to see him there was putting it mildly. How did he know the Goulds?
“I didn’t know you were going to be here. Sorry about making you jump,” he said. He gave her a smile and turned to the table of teenage girls next to them, charming them out of chair that he placed right next to Heidi. She tried to ignore the jealous looks the girls were sending her way. She smiled when he looked at her.
“How do you know the Goulds?” She wiped her hand off with her napkin.
He stretched out in the chair and laced his fingers together on top of his stomach. “It just so happens that I bought the business from Johnny. I’ve known him for a while though. I take it you didn’t expect to run into me here.”
“No I didn’t. I go to church with them and Miss Glenda invited me. You know how she is, never takes no for an answer. She’s the sweetest lady I know and I’d feel bad for going back on my word.”
Clint smiled and she felt her stomach do a little flip. “You know, I’d call that just being plain pushy. She can get away with it though.”
A comfortable silence settled on them and Heidi enjoyed the moment. When she looked back at Clint, she found him looking at her. “Don’t tell me I have something on my face.”
He lightly chuckled and replied, “No I was just thinking how pretty you are.”
Her face flooded with heat. “Thank you.”
“Well there you two are,” Glenda said as she placed her hands on her ample hips. “Clint you snuck in without me noticing you but John said he saw your truck out back so you must be here. And here you are. I’m glad you two met up. John told me that you’d hired Heidi.” She gave him quick wink and smile. “Good move on your part.”
Someone yelled for Glenda. “Looks like they need me back in there. You two enjoy each other’s company. If I don’t see y’all leave, I’ll see you when I see you.”
Heidi smiled as Glenda marched back into the kitchen. “So how has your weekend been?”
“It’s been good. What about yours?”
Heidi thought for a moment. “It’s been good. I’m ready for next week.” She smiled. “That’s the first time I’ve ever said that about any job I’ve had.”
A corner of Clint’ mouth tipped up. “Could be because you have the most awesome boss in the world.”
At that she laughed. It was very true. Of all the people she’d ever worked for, so far he was one of the best. He wasn’t afraid to pull his weight and he did. She liked that. It showed he had a good work ethic.
“Hey do you want to go get some more equipment with me tomorrow?”
“What time?”
“Does the morning work for you?”
She shook her head. “I have church in the morning.”
At his downcast expression she added, “Hey why don’t you come with me?”
He looked away, an expression in his eyes she couldn’t decipher, and said, “Maybe next time. You free in the afternoon?”
Not sure what he was thinking or what caused his sudden lack of interest, she replied, “I think so. How about I meet you wherever it is your going?”
Finally he turned his attention back to her. “That sounds good.”
He told her the time and place to meet up at. After that, things got a little awkward. She wasn’t sure what turned his mood but she was sure that he wasn’t normally so down. She could tell he was trying to change his mood but never could quite get out of it. He talked about neutral subjects like the weather. She continued to be cheery and pleasant, telling little jokes and making dopey puns, hoping that would help. About that time though the party was starting to die down. Her phone rang and it gave her the perfect excuse to leave. During the drive home, she replayed their conversation in her head.
Was it something she had said about church?
Sunday morning dawned rainy and gloomy. It matched Clint’s mood. He didn’t like feeling that way, it was unnatural to him. It all started when Heidi invited him to church. He’d been invited to church before. He even used to go to church. He grew up in one for crying out loud. Heaving a sigh, he threw the covers off and got out of bed. Boss was thumping his tail against the door, ready to go outside. Clint made a mental note to get the doggy door installed soon.
When they made it downstairs, Clint opened the backdoor and Boss raced outside. Clint poured himself a cup of coffee, thankful he rememberd to set the timer the night before. As he sat down at the island to eat his cereal, he thought again on what it was about Heidi asking him to church that put him in a mood. The last time he set foot in church was when he was a junior in high school. His parents had made him go every single Sunday since the day he was born until the day he turned eighteen. They told him that there was only so much they could do regarding his relationship with God and that the rest was up to him. So he put up with going until then.
He was saved when he was eight years old and he still rememberd it clearly. The pastor of the church, Pastor Donaghue, the same one who lead him to Christ, was retired now. He still saw him around town though. Clint remembered how excited he was to walk down the aisle, knowing he wanted to be saved, how important and vital it felt to make that decision. As he grew older though, he saw some of the people who proclaimed to be Christians do very un-Christian things. It made him lose faith. He stopped talking to God. He stopped going to church as soon as he turned eighteen, much to the disappointment of his parents and family. They never said anything though but he could sure tell they were.
Getting up to put his bowl and spoon in the dishwasher, the answer hit him. He really liked this girl. So the fact of the matter was if he liked her, he’d have to go to church with her. She didn’t seem the type to go just so she could say she went. It seemed…well, honest. It was refreshing. Like she wasn’t putting on a show of it.
He’d have to do some thinking about this.
Throughout the morning he did various chores around the house that he didn’t have time to do during the week. He mowed the expansive yard, preferring to use a push mower instead of a riding one, giving him a little more exercise. Boss ran along side the mower as usual, barking at it until a rabbit or squirrel grabbed his attention. It was starting to get pretty humid outside as the sun rose higher in the blue sky causing him to go in and do some chores. Weed-eating would have to wait for another day.
Around one o’clock, his phone rang. He had just hopped out of the shower and his hair was still wet. He continued to scrub it with a towel as he answered his cell.
“Hello?”
“Yo brosef, how’s it goin’?” Jake’s voice sounded on the line.
“It’s going. Just got done mowing the lawn not too long ago and fixed some stuff around the house. What are you up to today?”
“Nothing. Just thought I’d call to let you know that I have to go get my eyes checked tomorrow so I’m going to take off a little early if that’s alright.”
“Yeah that’s fine,” Clint absently replied as he ran through who would take over Jake’s spot in his mind.
“So what are you doin’ today?”
He heard Boss barking in the background. “I’m going to go look at lifejackets.” He glanced at the time. He had to leave soon if he was going to meet Heidi on time.
“Want some company?”
He tugged a ball cap on and let a worn-out Boss back inside. “Nah, man. I’m good. See ya tomorrow.”
An hour later, he was leaning against one of the beams to the entrance of the store when Heidi walked up. Somehow even though she was wearing an old high school track tee shirt and jean shorts, she still took his breath away. There was no possible way he would ever get tired of looking at her.
“Hey pretty lady. You here to meet someone?” He gave her his most charming smile, hoping that she felt the same way as he did on the inside.
She smiled back, then tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Yes I am. He’s wearing a green tee shirt and black athletic shorts. You’ve seen him around?”
“I think you may be in luck.”
She laughed and started to walk to the entryway.
He caught up and walked alongside her as they entered the store. “So how was your morning?”
She breathed in deeply, contently. “It was wonderful.” She closed her eyes and lifted her face up, only for a moment, then she asked, “How was yours?”
“It was good.” Not nearly as good as yours apparently. He was a little jealous. Was it a man who put the contented look on her face?
“That’s great.” Her eyes widened as she glanced around the store. “Wow, there is a lot of stuff here. I hope you know exactly what we’re looking for or you have a list made up because it would be easy to go off on a whim in this place.”
He nodded his head. “We’re looking for new lifejackets. Some of the ones we inherited from Johnny have gotten pretty worn but still usable until now. I think that the one Leana was wearing had a strap broken after the trip was over. We’re lucky it happened after she took it off.”
“Should we split up and you go look at the mens and I’ll look at the womens?” Heidi suggested.
“Meet you back her in thirty or less?”
Heidi nodded and they went their separate ways.
