And how well did she know this man who was leading her deeper into the forest?
CHAPTER 7
“What’s on your mind?” Jack met her gaze.
Audra swallowed a lump of sudden panic. “I was wondering why you aren’t talking.” And where you’re leading me?
“I’m imagining how you’ll react when you see where I’m taking you.”
“Where are we going?” She leaned into the path as it grew steeper.
“You’ll see.”
Audra stopped abruptly, forcing Jack to wait with her. “How do I know you’re not some sort of psycho killer?”
Jack’s expression was somber. “If I were, would I wait six days to kill you? You’ve met other people who know you’re here.”
That made sense in a creepy way. “I guess not.”
“Trust me. I won’t hurt you. And you’ll like where we’re going.” He tossed her a smile that made her heart jump and shout.
“When we first met, you wouldn’t give me five words. Now you’ve taught me how to fish. You’re taking me hiking, and you’ve smiled at me twice today. That’s three miracles. Call the pope.”
Jack wrapped his right hand around her bare upper arm to get her moving again. His skin was warm and just a little rough. “And the Oscar for Best Dramatic Performance goes to Audra Lane.”
“You see? That’s what I’m talking about.” She allowed him to draw her forward. “What’s behind these changes in you?”
“Not what, who.” Jack stopped again, holding her with his gaze. “I’ve been changing since you walked into my cabin, wearing your fancy little dress.”
Audra’s heart skipped. Why would he say that? What had she done to change him? Although, after Wendell, she didn’t trust herself to examine his words too closely. “You mean the trash bag? So you were laughing at me.”
“On the inside. I’m only human.” He released her arm, letting his fingers trail along her sensitive skin.
Audra shivered at his touch. “I appreciate that you didn’t laugh on the outside. I was embarrassed enough.”
Jack used his hand on the small of her back to nudge her forward again. “That’s me, Mr. Sensitivity.”
“More jokes. Amazing.” Audra tilted her head. “How have I changed you?”
Jack started to walk again. “I’d been alone for a long time. Then you arrived. You make me want to be around people again. Part of me is relieved. I like this change. Although another part of me isn’t ready.”
“What made you close yourself away in the first place?”
Jack didn’t respond for a long time. “Maybe I’ll tell you one day.”
They continued in silence. Audra was shaken by Jack’s claim that she’d had such a strong effect on him. What had she done that had been so special? Convinced him to teach her how to fish?
An unfamiliar rushing noise sounded in the distance. Audra looked around. “What’s that?”
“You’ll see.”
She slid him a look. “A man of mystery, as well a
s sensitivity.”
Jack just smiled.
They hiked a little farther up the path until it leveled off and they stepped into a clearing. Audra gasped.