Authors Note:
Thank you so much to everyone who has taken the time to read my story.
An extra thank you to those who have left comments or feedback. I have always been told "Feedback is a gift", and I do appreciate it.
Quinn dressed quickly, donning a long-sleeved blouse, jacket, and riding culottes. She was very excited to take Misty Dawn for a ride; the morning had dawned fresh and clear and was perfect for exploring on horseback.
Quietly she walked down the stairs, hoping that no one had come in to start breakfast yet; she didn't want to have to make small talk; it felt like an age since she had been able to ride. She entered the kitchen cautiously, then breathed a sigh of relief; Bill hadn't arrived yet. Glad to be making an easy getaway, she used the opportunity to find an apple for Misty. Quinn realised she would need to organise an account with Bill as soon as she got back.
Quinn walked through the deserted town, relishing the quiet to look around; there weren't any prying eyes to wonder where she was going and what she was doing. The peaceful walk to the Livery allowed her to think back on last night at the Café. Smiling, she remembered how Nathan had looked at her when he first spotted her and how she continued to catch him watching her.
They had thoroughly enjoyed dessert, which did turn out to be chocolate cake, much to Allie's delight. Quinn had to admit it was one of the best cakes she had ever tasted and looked forward to eating it many more times. As they ate their cake, they talked, Allie mainly, Gabe and Nathan less often, with Quinn joining in when she could. Quinn had enjoyed observing Nathan in a casual and relaxed setting; while he didn't say much, he was engaging and funny when he did talk. Nathan endured a lot of teasing from Allie and Gabe and suffered through their good-natured banter and retelling of stories. She caught Gabe watching the two of them when he thought they weren't looking, obviously curious.
At one point, during a lull in the conversation, Allie had asked Quinn about her family. Quinn explained that her mother had died many years ago, and her father had raised her until his recent death. Quinn could see the wheels turning in Allie's mind, and her face had an expression Quinn struggled to read; she hoped Allie wasn't upset by her story. That was when she found out about Nathan and Allie's story.
Quinn couldn't believe their stories were so similar, all except the part where Nathan wasn't Allie's father and wasn't married; he had never been. Quinn's face flushed with embarrassment remembering how glad she was to hear that; she wasn't sure Nathan had noticed her pleasure at the news, but Gabe certainly had, gently nudging her shoulder to get her attention, and then waggling his eyebrows at her. Maybe Bill was right; she should never play Poker and try and bluff anyone. If only Gabe could stay; his playful teasing had helped ease the conversation between her and Nathan. Without Gabe, she wondered how the conversation would flow.
When it had been time to say goodnight and goodbye to Gabe, she thanked him for everything he had done for her. Gabe had tried to explain to her how he felt about having to arrest her, but she had stopped him; he had only been doing his job. She also knew he had gone out on a limb for her throughout her ordeal, for example, allowing free access to Sam and not locking the cell door, just closing it; she could have left anytime but didn't, of course, just knowing she could, made a difference.
Arriving at the Livery, she pulled herself back from reminiscing; just because Nathan was single didn't mean he had any interest in her; while she had felt him watching her, that could have just been the Mountie in him trying to get a read on her. She needed to stop thinking about him that way and keep their relationship professional.
After greeting Misty and feeding her the apple, Quinn collected the tack and got her saddled; it didn't take her long; she had done it so many times it was second nature to her. She walked Misty out into the morning sunshine and was preparing to mount her when she heard a shout behind her.
"Quinn, you're up early. I didn't think I would see you again before I left." Gabe called out to her as he walked over to her. Gabe was in civilian clothes while travelling home to Brookfield, and he didn't resume duties until Monday.
Quinn laughed, "I thought we had too, Gabe. I couldn't wait to go for a ride; it feels so long since I had the chance, and it's a great way to explore the town and surrounds."
Gabe frowned slightly, "you aren't planning on riding alone, are you, Quinn? It would be best to organise for someone who knows the area to go with you. Did you even tell anyone your plans?" Gabe looked at Quinn and saw the determination on her face, "I would be happy to delay my trip and show you around quickly until you can organise for someone to take you."
Quinn knew the last thing Gabe wanted to do was delay getting back to Lillian. "Gabe, it's fine. I won't go far, just up the road a little and back again, maybe around the pond near the Schoolhouse; Allie said it's beautiful." Quinn was not going to back down, she was going for a ride, and she didn't need Gabe's permission or a babysitter. To prove she was serious, she put her left foot in Misty's stirrup, grabbed the pommel on the saddle and, pushing off the ground, settled herself into the saddle in one fluid movement.
Gabe watched as Quinn mounted her horse; he could tell she was a competent rider. Even the most experienced rider could meet with something unexpected and get hurt. He thought Quinn would be more careful than most about this, given her father had died in a riding accident. Walking over, he held Misty's reins and said, "Quinn, think about what could happen, look what happened to...".
"Stop talking, Gabe." Quinn interrupted him, she knew what he was going to say, and she couldn't hear that right now. Her eyes filled with tears at the thought of her father's accident; her heart ached with his loss. Her father's death had not been an accident, and she didn't care what anyone said. "I am sorry, I didn't mean to be rude, but" Quinn's words got stuck in her throat; swallowing her tears, she said, "I need to do this, please."
Gabe and Quinn stared at each other, not saying anything.
When Nathan approached the Livery planning on getting an early start to his rounds, he found them there, silently staring at each other. They had been so intent on their conversation they hadn't noticed his approach. "Is everything okay here?" he asked calmly.
Quinn addressed him without removing her gaze from Gabe; she said, "it will be when the Constable lets go of my horse." She would win this argument.
Nathan raised his eyebrows and his eyes found Gabe's. "Care to explain, Gabe?" he asked, trying to keep his voice calm, his body relaxed. Nathan wasn't worried about what was going on but was curious because he could see Quinn was upset. He recognised the stubborn look on Gabe's face, too; it was the look he got around Lillian, Grace, and the children from the Orphanage; he was trying to protect Quinn from something.
Gabe sighed loudly and looked at Nathan, not releasing his grip on the reins in his hand. "I was telling Quinn I didn't think it was a good idea for her to go riding alone in an unfamiliar area; she disagrees with me. I offered to delay my trip to Brookfield and escort her, but she declined. " Looking up at Quinn, who was now squinting at him, he asked sarcastically, "Did I leave anything out?"
Quinn opened her mouth to speak, ready to add her thoughts to Gabe's update, but Nathan cut her off. "I have to say I am going to side with Gabe on this one, Quinn; it is dangerous to ride alone when you don't know the trails." Nathan tried not to laugh as Quinn rolled her eyes at him; Allie was generally the only one who rolled her eyes at him. Gabe saw it too, and he did laugh.
Gabe's laughter broke the tension. Quinn looked down at him and sheepishly said, "I am sorry Gabe, I know you are probably right, but I promise I won't go far, and we will only walk." Quinn was willing to promise anything right now to get him to drop the reins. Turning toward Nathan, she finally took in his appearance. He was dressed in full Mountie uniform, holding his hat in gloved hands. The red serge jacket fitted snugly across his broad shoulders and chest. Quinn had thought him handsome in his civilian clothes, but in uniform, he was breath-taking. Quinn blinked; she had to stop thinking about how he looked; she said snappily, "Well, that's hardly a surprise, is it, Constable? Of course, you two will stick together."
Nathan grinned at Quinn's irritation, "Not always, Quinn; I happen to like disagreeing with Gabe." Nathan continued thoughtfully, "the way I see it, you and Gabe could be here all day, or you could listen to a suggestion from me. Would you like to hear it?" He gazed up at Quinn, hoping she wouldn't be able to detect his ulterior motives.
Quinn sniffed, "go on then." she said haughtily.
"It would seem to me, if someone wanted to explore a new Town, they should go with someone who knows it well. Someone handy in an emergency in case something unexpected was to happen." Nathan spoke his suggestion confidently; At the same time, inside, he was full of nerves, hoping she would say yes to riding with him. The intensity of his feelings surprised and confused Nathan; how could he have such a strong emotional reaction to Quinn if he was still had feelings for Elizabeth.
Her annoyance drained away; she knew Gabe was looking out for her, Nathan's suggestion made perfect sense, and she would love to spend time with him. Quinn wondered how it would be when it was just the two of them; last night at the Cafe, she had been so aware of him, she had sensed his presence, even when chatting to Allie or Gabe, it felt as though he enveloped her. Quinn looked at him and questioned, "do you know anyone who fits that description?"
Nathan laughed, knowing she was teasing him; he felt the tension inside him loosen as he laughed; it felt good. "Well, I guess I could see if Bill is available." he quipped. "Although he is quite busy at the Cafe serving breakfast on the weekend, you may have to delay your ride. Seeing as though we are both here already, I could do it."
Quinn smiled; Nathan had a great laugh. Looking down at Gabe, she asked as he smiled up at her. "What do you think, Constable? Can I rely on Constable Grant in an emergency?" They both knew his answer didn't matter; she would say yes, and not because it was convenient. Gabe surprised her, though, suddenly becoming serious.
"You can rely on Nathan Grant for anything, Quinn, I would trust him with my life, and I have. He is one of the truly good guys," he said, holding her gaze.
Quinn looked at Nathan and could see Gabe's words had affected him deeply. "Well, Nathan, that's certainly a good enough recommendation for me. I would love to accompany you on your rounds this morning, and your generosity is very much appreciated."
Nathan nodded at both and said, "I will go and get Newton ready; I won't take long. Gabe, do you want to come with me and get Apollo ready too?" Looking at Gabe, he saw him give the nod to Quinn and finally release the reins he had been holding. Nathan knew Quinn wasn't going anywhere without him. Nathan waited for Gabe to reach him, and then they both walked inside the Livery to saddle their horses.
As Gabe walked inside, he wondered if Nathan would bring up what was happening with Quinn. He sighed; Gabe knew Nathan wouldn't be the one to start this conversation. Gabe looked at his friend and saw he was smiling; at least, he was looking forward to spending time with Quinn, he thought.
"I know you are dying to ask me about how I acted last night and why I offered to take her with me this morning. Ask away, Gabe," Nathan asked. He sensed Gabe's shock at his being the one to start this discussion, sometimes it was good to surprise people, and besides, Gabe was leaving, and Nathan could use some advice.
"You do seem to be fascinated by Quinn, and it isn't like you to be blatant about something like that. You usually hide your feelings so well only someone who knows you can tell what you think. I have never known you to spend time alone with someone you hardly know; you're usually shy around new people," Gabe finished summing up what he thought and waited for Nathan to respond.
Nathan continued to saddle Newton for his rounds; he said quietly, "There is something about her, Gabe; I can't explain it. I wanted to know more about her from the moment I met her. I can't seem to stop thinking about her; obviously, she is beautiful, but that isn't it. I want to get to know her better, but what if that isn't what she wants? I..." Nathan stopped talking. He looked at Gabe and shrugged.
Gabe shook his head; he felt for his friend and wondered if he should tell him what he thought. Here goes nothing, he thought. "Nathan, I have to say, I am not surprised to see you like this. You have been in an unusual situation with Elizabeth Thornton for several years. You didn't know how she truly felt. She finally told you she loved you but wasn't in love with you, and her choice was Lucas over you. You no longer trust yourself." Gabe watched his friend to see how he was taking the conversation, unsure whether he should stop.
Nathan didn't look upset; hopefully, the look on his face was thoughtful, not angry. Gabe decided to continue; it needed to be said. "You were not wrong, Nathan; those around the two of you believe Elizabeth made the safe choice, not the right one. While I know you have accepted her choice, you must stop believing you were the one who was wrong. I think you should trust the feelings you have for Quinn; take it slow but see where it goes." Gabe exhaled loudly, "I am sorry if I have upset you, Nathan."
Nathan was trying to comprehend everything Gabe had just said; it was true. Elizabeth had made him think she wanted more, and she had made him think he had a chance. Elizabeth had weaved herself into so many aspects of his and Allie's life; how could he have thought differently. It was also true she had made him doubt himself; Reading people and trusting his instincts was essential to him. If he had got it so wrong with her, could he ever trust himself again?
Nathan cleared his throat and decided to put his friend out of his misery. "Wow, that's a lot of information, Kinslow; how long have you been wanting to say all that?" He shook his head and grinned, "Seriously though, thank you, Gabe, for your honesty; I guess I have a lot to think about, but, right now, I have a lady waiting to go for a ride, and I hear you should never keep a lady waiting."
Quinn stroked Misty's mane softly as she waited for Nathan and Gabe, wondering if they were inside talking about her. They were probably saying how silly she had been to want to go riding alone in a strange town. Quinn didn't care what they thought. Well, maybe she did, just not about that. If they were talking about that, at least they couldn't be talking about her conduct last night; remembering her reaction to him last night and again today in his Serge, she hadn't been very discreet. Seriously, could the man be any more handsome? Combining that with his dedication to Allie and the town, Nathan was a fascinating man.
She heard the horses walking out of the livery toward her and turned. Quinn groaned inwardly. Evidently, she was being tested. Nathan Grant, in his uniform, on his horse was divine. Quinn hurriedly looked away, swallowing. She knew the colour was high in her cheeks, and there was nothing she could do about it. Looking over her shoulder, she said, "that was quick, Gentlemen; I am impressed."
Gabe snorted, "we are Mountie's Quinn; I would hope we are quick at saddling horses." He also chose not to mention the blush on her cheeks, but he did grin at her.
Nathan pulled Newton to a stop beside her and looked over Misty, his nose wrinkled. "I have to ask Quinn; did I hear Allie correctly last night? Is your horse's name Frog? That is quite an unusual name for a Horse"
Quinn smiled, "Not Frog or Froggy", she laughed, "Foggy, and that's her nickname. My father thought it was funny to make a play on words calling her Foggy Morning; her real name is Misty Dawn. I thought it suited her colouring and sounded very regal, what did I know. The poor girl is stuck with it now, though." Hearing her name, Misty tossed her head, as if nodding in agreement. Quinn laughed and looked over at Nathan, "she doesn't seem to mind what we call her, as long as she is well fed and gets a lot of apples."
Quinn's smile was like sunshine breaking through a cloudy day, it lit up her face, and Nathan couldn't stop himself smiling back at her. "Newton here is the same; he will do anything for an apple."
"If you two are ready, I wouldn't mind heading out. I have a lot of ground to cover, and I am sure you are keen to get moving as well," said Gabe, not at all sorry for interrupting; seeing the two of them together just made him even more eager to get home to Lillian and Brookfield.