A Man to Trust by Carrie Turansky Page B

Trail. Sunlight rippled across the deep blue water of Bellingham Bay, flashing back at her like sparkling diamonds. A few small boats bobbed on the slight swells as a soft breeze fluttered their sails. Overhead, feathery clouds painted long trails across the sky.
    She hoped running would clear her head. She hadn’t slept well last night. In fact, she’d lain awake long past midnight while conflicting thoughts about Ross tumbled through her mind. She’d never imagined building those scarecrows together could create so much trouble. But as soon as she had let her guard down, he’d misread her playful attitude and come way too close.
    Whose fault was that? If she was honest, she had to admit she’d met each one of his teasing comments and actions with a lighthearted comeback of her own. Why had she let things get so out of hand? What was she going to say the next time she saw him? How could she get things back to the way they were before that heart-racing tickling match?
    Heat flashed into her cheeks at the memory of his warm breath on her neck as he’d pulled her to his chest and tickled her until she was gasping for breath and begging him to stop.
    Reckless and foolish, that’s what she’d been. This was not the right time to get involved with him. Even if she was staying in Fairhaven, he wouldn’t be right for her. Sure he was fun and handsome, but they were so different. She was quiet and reserved—he was friendly and outgoing. She was serious and meticulous—he was lighthearted and free- spirited. She had grown up with missionary parents and had a solid faith, but he was a new believer, and he hadn’t even mentioned his family.
    It would never work. She wouldn’t let it. She couldn’t.
    Soon she’d be packing up her car and moving to a new city where she would make a fresh start with new friends who didn’t know anything about her past. But when would that be? She still hadn’t found any open auditions.
    Lord, You promised to give us the desires of our heart if we delight in You. And You know my heart’s desire has always been to play my flute professionally. I’ve asked You so many times, but I’m asking again. Would You please open up that door for me?
    No sooner had that prayer flown from her lips than she spotted a man standing on the path about fifty yards ahead. He lifted his camera and pointed it toward the bay.
    Recognition flashed through Adrie, and she slowed her steps.
    Ross lowered his camera, looked her way and lifted his hand. She’d have to speak to him now. Maybe this was for the best. At least they’d have more privacy here than at the bookstore.
    He watched her approach with a wary gaze. “Morning, Adrie.”
    Her heart sank as she noted the shadows beneath his eyes and the tired slope of his shoulders. Apparently, he hadn’t slept well, either. “Hi. Are you taking pictures?” She groaned inwardly. What a lame observation.
    “Yeah. Thought I might capture something special this morning since the weather’s so nice.”
    She bit her lip. “I’m just out for a run.” Another brilliant remark.
    He glanced down the trail, then back at her. “I’d offer to tag along, but running with a camera might be a challenge.” He tapped the long camera lens and smiled slightly, but she couldn’t ignore the hint of sadness in his eyes. He seemed to be giving her a graceful exit, but that wouldn’t settle the issues between them.
    She mustered up her courage. “How about a walk then?”
    Surprise flashed in his tired eyes. “Okay.”
    They set off at an easy pace, but Adrie’s heart banged in her chest like she was running a marathon. “About what happened yesterday… I think I owe you an apology.”
    He shook his head, and shot her an embarrassed glance. “No need to apologize.”
    “But I think I may have given you the wrong impression.”
    He frowned but didn’t speak.
    “The way I was playing around probably made you think that I…that I wanted…”
    He held up his hand.