Bump in The Night

One

„Just one more shot, Josh.“

„Josh. Over here.“

The crush of photographers stood elbow to elbow, vying for that one special shot of this amazing athlete who had caught the attention of the world’s media.

A reporter’s voice could be heard speaking into his microphone. „Josh Cramer isn’t your typical athlete. A free spirit, he doesn’t fit into any mold. Having already set a new world’s record for sailing the Atlantic solo, and taking an around-the-world hot air balloon trip, he has now completed his latest adventure, extreme skiing in the Alps. This isn’t for the faint of heart. As our viewing audience can see by the footage that has been released, Josh was launched from a helicopter, skiing through narrow passageways that looked for all the world like ice chambers. Josh Cramer’s fearlessness, as well as his rugged good looks and charm, have brought him international acclaim.“

One of the photographers shouted, „Flash me that winner’s smile, Josh.“

„No problem.“ Josh leaned a hip against the skis propped up against the Swiss chalet and tipped down his sunglasses.

Though this session had run hours longer than anticipated, he managed, through discipline, to keep his smile intact.

A photographer leaned in and adjusted his lens. „Show us the gloves, Josh. The ones you always wear for luck.“

It was a familiar request, and one Josh had fielded a hundred times or more. Still, each time someone mentioned the gloves, he felt the familiar jolt to his heart.

He reached into his back pocket and held them up.

„Is it true that they belonged to your father?“

„Yeah.“ His eyes narrowed as he slipped them on. „That’s right.“

„Now that’s the look I wanted. Dark. Dangerous. A little bit introspective.“ The photographer grinned as he snapped off several quick shots before lowering his camera. „Thanks, Josh.“

A short time later, while the photographers hurried away to file their reports and meet their deadlines, Josh made his way inside the lodge and up the lift to his suite, where yet another crowd had assembled.

His agent, Martin Phillips, was holding court before a cluster of reporters and publicity people who were peppering him with questions.

„What’s next for Fearless Josh Cramer?“

Josh looked over the crowd, recognized the speaker as a reporter from World Sports, and promptly closed himself in his bedroom. Once there he ripped off his ski gear and pulled on comfortable jeans and a T-shirt before sinking onto the edge of the bed.

His head came up sharply when the door was opened. Martin Phillips paused on the threshold. „Good news. World Sports is calling the article ‘Man on the Run.’ They assured me that you’ll be their lead story and have the cover of their October issue.“

„That’s great.“ Josh lowered his voice. „Can we talk, Marty?“

„Yeah. In a minute. There’re some people out here you need to meet.“ His agent caught him by the arm and hauled him to the parlor while calling out to a reporter, „The timing of this photo spread couldn’t be better. You’ll want to end the article by mentioning Josh’s next adventure, which he doesn’t even know about yet.“

At his words, Josh arched a brow.

„How could he possibly top what he’s already done? Don’t tell me he’s about to leap tall buildings and catch bullets in his teeth before spitting them out.“

The reporter’s remarks had the entire room full of people laughing.

Martin Phillips joined in the laughter. „You’ve just described Josh perfectly. He’s always up for something different and challenging. Tomorrow he’s leaving for the ultimate wilderness trek. No electronics gear. No space-age gadgets. He’ll carry a mini-cam and a few basic necessities, but he’ll have to survive on what he can catch or kill along the way, until he joins a camera crew at the end of his journey.“

Suddenly all business, the reporter’s smile faded. „Sounds like something out of a reality television show, without the lifeline of a safety net.“

„Exactly.“ Martin nodded. „I’ve just finalized the last of the details with SNN, the all-sports news network. If the public likes it, they’re hoping to make it a regular series, with Josh in a different dangerous location every month.“

One of the photographers turned to Josh. „You don’t give yourself much time to relax, do you?“

Josh remained mute while his agent answered for him. „Got to make hay while the sun shines. You didn’t call Josh the Man on the Run for nothing. Besides, they made an offer he couldn’t refuse. Now gentlemen, if you don’t mind, it’s been a long day, requiring some superhuman activity. I think it’s time we give Josh some space.“

As the others set down their empty glasses and began filing from the room, one of them paused to ask, „Want to meet us in the bar, Marty? Maybe you could fill in a few more details about this latest adventure.“

„Sure thing. Publicity is my middle name.“ While the others chuckled, he glanced at his watch. „I’ll see you in an hour.“

When the room had emptied, Martin picked up a chilled bottle of water and twisted the cap, draining it in one long swallow before turning to his client.

Josh was sitting on the sofa, staring broodingly into the flames of the fire.

„Okay.“ Martin sat on the opposite end of the sofa. „Tell me what’s wrong.“

„A trek through the wilderness?“

Martin grinned. „Look, I know it’s not as glamorous as skiing the Alps, but the offer was too good to pass up.“ He studied Josh’s face. „I don’t think that’s what’s bothering you. What is it?“

„I told you not to book anything more. I said I needed some time.“

„Time for what?“

„Time for me. Just for me.“

„You see? That’s the whole idea. That’s why I fought so hard to get this for you. After you land in the wilderness tomorrow, you’ll have all the time in the world to yourself.“

„Yeah. With a camera recording my every move. You know what I mean, Marty. I’ve been at this for years now, without a break. I’m losing my edge. I need to recharge my batteries.“

„Recharge your batteries? Josh, these people are throwing millions of dollars at you for doing what you love.“

„I know but…“

His agent held up a hand. „If you’d like, stay in your room for the rest of the day. I’ll handle the press. Here we are in one of the most luxurious ski resorts in the world. Pamper yourself with room service in front of the fire while you watch the skiers coming down those glorious slopes. Will that give you enough time to get back your edge?“

„You’re talking hours.“ Josh ran a hand through his hair in frustration. „Get serious, Marty. You know what I mean. I need some real time off. I’d like enough time to just be lazy. You know. Doing fun, relaxing things like real people.“

„Real people.“ Martin stood and began to pace. „Listen to me, Josh. The reason you’re such a hot property is because you don’t live like real people. I don’t know anybody else who could take on your adventures and make them look like a walk in the park.“ He paused, his voice lowering for emphasis. „Don’t you get it? People love seeing you sailing solo across the Atlantic, or watching you drop from a helicopter to ski down the Alps, because it’s something they couldn’t possibly do on their best day. That’s the basis of this planned television special. The director is hoping to turn it into a series that will make us both more money than we ever dreamed of. And do you know why? It’s because you’re what the average Joe will never be. Absolutely fearless.“

Josh gave a dry laugh. „Yeah, that’s me. Fearless Josh Cramer.“

Martin’s eyes narrowed. „Are you telling me you’re not? That somehow, between yesterday and today you’ve lost your confidence?“

„Of course not.“ Josh gave a shake of his head. „It’s not fear, Marty.“ In truth, he couldn’t recall the last time he’d experienced real, gut-wrenching fear. He’d always lived for the adrenaline rush that came from placing himself in danger. „I’m just tired. I need a break. Think about it. When was the last time I went out on a date?“

„You want women?“ Martin started toward the door. „I can go down to the bar right now and bring you half a dozen gorgeous models who’d like nothing better than to spend the night with Josh Cramer.“

„Thanks.“ His frown was back. „That’s not what I mean and you know it.“

„Listen.“ Martin started back to the sofa, using his most persuasive tone. „You just get through this next adventure, and I promise you, I’ll pencil in a nice long break.“

„Pencil in?“

Martin grinned. „Okay. It’ll be written in stone. For as long as you want. How’s that?“

„What if they want me to do a series?“

„Then we’ll negotiate a contract that allows you some time off between adventures.“

„Don’t say that unless you mean it.“

„I mean it.“

For the first time Josh managed a smile. „I intend to hold you to that, buddy boy.“

Martin relaxed. „Get some rest, buddy boy.“ It was their favorite nickname for one another and was a signal to him that Josh’s temper was evaporating. „We’ll be meeting with the director of the television crew first thing in the morning. You’ll need to acquaint yourself with the seaplane you’ll be piloting. This is raw wilderness. The only way in or out is by landing on Spirit Lake.“

„Is that a problem?“

His agent hesitated for a fraction. „A lot of strange things have happened on that lake through the years.“

„What sort of strange things?“

„Boats and planes disappearing, without a trace. Drownings, but no bodies.“

Josh sighed. „I’m suddenly starting to like this.“

„If you believe in this sort of rubbish, the Native Americans believed the lake to be inhabited by spirits.“ Marty grinned. „Or it could be just a strong undertow. Either way, I’ll admit that when I first heard it, it creeped me out. It still does, if you want to know the truth. But this isn’t about me. It’s about you. Sounds like you’re okay with it.“

„Instead of being afraid.“ Josh chuckled. „I kind of like the added challenge.“

„Great. I think seeing Fearless Josh Cramer tame the demons of Spirit Lake will be a good career move.“

„Gee, thanks.“

At Josh’s wry tone, Marty grinned. „Just doing what you pay me for. Can you master the seaplane by morning?“

„Piece of cake.“

„That’s what I like to hear.“ Martin walked out, humming a little tune. He’d been managing Josh ever since his meteoric rise to fame ten years ago. When they’d met, Josh had been a cocky college kid who couldn’t resist taking on a challenge that most sane athletes wouldn’t even consider. Marty had been a brash young lawyer who was already handling some of the biggest names in sports. In the years since, he’d had plenty of time to learn just how to play Josh’s many moods.

Time off. He chuckled as he stepped into the lift that would take him to the main floor and his cronies. He had no doubt that one day the public would lose interest and move on to the next media celebrity, though he fervently hoped it wouldn’t be for many years. He’d acquired a fondness for the things money could buy. But when that day came, Josh Cramer would find himself with all the time in the world. Until then, Martin would do the job he was being paid to do, and see that he kept Josh too busy to think about the things that he might be missing in his high-profile, celebrity lifestyle. Besides, though Josh would never admit it, he thrived on activity. He’d go stark raving mad if he had to stay in one place with nothing to challenge him. Marty was just doing what his client wanted done. And making a pile of money in the process.

Marty was beaming with pleasure. „Josh, this is Wayne Thompson, who’ll be directing the television special.“

The director, wearing baggy fatigues and a baseball cap, stepped away from the cluster of sound technicians and camera crew loading their equipment aboard the larger of the two planes parked on the runway, and offered his handshake.

„And this is Brady Stewart.“ Marty dropped his arm around the shoulders of a tall, white-haired man with a military bearing. „Brady will be piloting the second plane which will trail yours. That way they’ll be able to snap some shots of you from the air, and get some aerial shots of the rugged terrain.“

Josh arched a brow. „Don’t trust me with a camera?“

The director shrugged and glanced at Josh’s agent. „I’m aware of your athletic prowess, but I’m not so sure about your photography skills. I want to be certain we have good, clean shots of everything. Later we can splice your photos and theirs together, to make a continuous narrative of your adventure. We’ll land with you at your base camp and get as much of the local color as we can while you set off on foot, then we’ll fly on to the final destination where you’ll meet up with us at the end of your trek.“

Marty chuckled. „Since there’s room for me, I’ve decided to go along on the first leg of the trip, too. After that, I’ll head to New York.“

„Sounds good to me.“ Josh looked up when one of the assistants approached carrying a clipboard. „Looks like it’s time to get aboard and do a final flight check.“

He shook hands all around before walking away.

Within the hour he was airborne, with the second plane trailing.

He pressed a hand to the knot of tension at the back of his neck. Though a night at the ski lodge hadn’t been nearly enough time to recharge his batteries, it would have to do until this latest assignment was completed. Then he intended to hold Marty’s feet to the fire and take some quality time alone.

„Below me is Spirit Lake.“ Josh flipped the switch that triggered the camera mounted below the belly of the plane and watched the view on a monitor mounted just above his instruments. He’d spent the previous night on the Internet, learning as much as he could about his destination. „Native Americans named it, believing that great spirits dwelled in those depths. It’s said to be one of the coldest and deepest glacial lakes in the country. Even the most sophisticated sonar equipment hasn’t been able to locate a bottom. What makes this area so exciting is the fact that there are a thousand miles of wilderness without any of the amenities of modern civilization. You see below me no power lines. Although there are a few cabins along the shoreline, most are occupied by rugged individuals strictly in the summertime, since the only way in or out is by boat or seaplane. Winter in this isolation would be pretty brutal.“

While circling the lake he switched off the outside camera and turned on the one mounted on the instrument panel. „I’ll be taking my seaplane down in just a few minutes, and you, my viewing audience, will be going with me for the ride. I’m looking forward to taking you along on my journey through this forest. I’m told it’s so primitive, I might be able to make the entire trek without seeing another human being.“

Out of the corner of his eye he caught a flash of shimmering light and turned his head, assuming it was sunlight bouncing off the water far below. Instead he was stunned to see a woman dressed all in white, just settling into the copilot seat beside him.

He had a quick impression of fiery hair and intense blue eyes as he let loose with a string of curses. A stowaway? Some stalker hoping to make a name for herself? Hadn’t security checked out this plane before he boarded?

His tone was pure ice. „All right. Who are you and what’s your game?“

Her voice, soft, breathy, was little more than a whisper. „Don’t worry, Josh, I won’t let anything bad happen to you.“

„You won’t let…?“ He swore as turned to the camera. „Brady, as you can see on your monitor, there’s a stowaway here in my plane. A lunatic female. When you follow me down, I’ll leave it up to you to deal with this nutcase.“

Josh’s head snapped toward the woman. „Lady, when my companions get through with you, you’ll wish you’d never been…“

There was a series of beeps before a siren started blaring throughout the cabin. The instruments went crazy, as did the plane, which began spinning wildly out of control.

„Mayday. Mayday.“ Josh automatically called out the words while he struggled to maintain control of his craft.

The seaplane continued spinning, and as Josh fought to remain focused, he realized that they were too far from shore for a soft landing. Instead, they were about to crash into the forest.

He turned to the woman beside him. „Brace yourself. Make sure your seat belt is secure, and keep your head down.“

He saw no fear in her eyes. In fact, the word that came to mind was serene, but he was too busy fighting the controls to risk looking at her again.

Since Brady and his crew were right behind, Josh had no doubt they were witnessing his trouble. They could be down behind him within minutes, ready to help. All he had to do was survive the crash.

Adrenaline pumping, he braced himself for impact. Was this how his father had felt when his plane crashed?

His father.

He reached into his pocket and withdrew the tattered gloves, drawing them on. As always, the mere touch of them against his skin brought a sense of calm.

His passenger reached over and took hold of his gloved hand. Along with the sense of peace, he felt a wave of compassion for this stranger. However foolish she might have been to hide aboard his plane, she didn’t deserve this fate.

Too late for recriminations, he realized. Whatever would happen now was meant to happen.

That was his last conscious thought as his plane slammed to the ground and burst into a ball of fire.

Two

Grace Marin stowed her gear on the scarred wooden table in a corner of the cabin before straightening to take a look around. Rustic was too kind a description. This cabin was downright primitive. Log walls, stone fireplace soaring to a loft above, which presumably would offer a place to bunk. The small galley kitchen didn’t even have a sink, which meant no running water.

With a shrug she snatched up her camera and made her way outside. She’d stayed in worse places. Her work as a photojournalist for the World, an international pictorial magazine, had taken her to mud huts in Africa and tarpaper shacks in South America. She’d learned to survive on a few hours of sleep a night. As for food, her coworkers accused her of having a cast-iron stomach. She could probably eat worms if they were the only food available.

Moving to the end of a long, wooden dock, she sat with her back to one of the piers, staring at the endless stretch of water, and tried to stay focused on the photos she intended to shoot. It wasn’t easy, especially since that scene with Richard was still on her mind.

He’d been so angry when he’d learned that she’d accepted this assignment, proving, he said, that her career meant more to her than he did.

He’d been right, of course. Grace had never denied it. But until the words had been spoken aloud, she’d been able to pretend otherwise. Now she needed to face some cold, hard facts about herself. She was a loner. Always had been, and probably always would be. It’s what made her so successful in her career, and such a mess when it came to relationships.

With a sigh she returned her attention to the job at hand. She’d fully anticipated spectacular autumn scenery. Aboard the small supply plane that brought her to this isolated spot, she’d been expecting to see a ring of fiery trees reflected in the waters of a clear crystal lake. What she’d found was this dull, almost muddy landscape of colorless trees, a bleak, biting wind whipping the waves into foam, and a sense of foreboding that had her glancing heavenward to check for storm clouds. There were none. The sky was a gray, blank canvas.

This assignment had initially been offered to one of her fiercest competitors, who was beginning to make a name for himself with the readers of the World. That fact hadn’t been lost on Grace, whose ambition had carried her to the top of her profession. When he’d discovered a conflict of dates, Grace had generously stepped up, even though she’d just returned from an exhausting assignment in the Middle East.

„You need some time off, Grace.“ Her editor, Mark Wellington, though grateful for her offer, sat flipping through his file of photographers, looking for a replacement.

„Time off for what?“ Grace shoved aside a mountain of papers from the chair beside his desk and took a seat.

He glanced over. „Visiting family. Shopping. Going to the spa. Isn’t that what women usually do when they have some time?“

„I have no family. I’m more comfortable in torn denims and hiking boots than designer dresses and stiletto heels. And having my chipped nails filled with gel and my sunbaked skin oiled would bore me silly.“

Mark spared her a quick glance. „And then there’s Richard.“

„Richard is old news.“ She never even paused before adding, „Now about this assignment…“

Her editor heard the finality in her tone. This wasn’t the first time Grace had chosen career over romance.

He held out a two-page document. „Here it is. Pilots and fishermen swear they see a light dancing across the water of Spirit Lake. Dozens of them have responded, thinking it was a boater in trouble. The closer they get, the more the light begins to take on the shape of a woman. By the time they guide their plane or boat to the spot, the light, or whatever, is gone. Now I figure it’s the play of moonlight or starlight on the water, but you know how these things turn into folklore.“

Grace met his smile with one of her own.

„I see you agree with me. If you’re up for it, you’ll leave tomorrow. You’ll go in by supply seaplane and be picked up in three days, weather permitting. In, out, and a four-page spread in the next issue, depending on what you find. Even without solving the mystery, you ought to get some fabulous autumn shots of a lake that has all the curiosity factor of the Bermuda Triangle. Maybe you can play up the dark spirits angle.“

„Done.“ She took the information from his hand and sauntered to the door of his office. „I’m betting this mystery light-woman is the long-suffering wife of one of the fishermen, who just got tired of staying home while he was off having all the fun.“

Her editor chuckled. „You get a picture of that, we’ll have her on all the talk shows. See you the end of the week. And Grace, thanks for volunteering.“

„No problem. This one’s easy. No fuss, no bother, just me and my trusty camera.“

Her words came back to haunt her as she sat, deep in thought. If the mystery light never appeared, what was she going to use to fill four pages of one of the most popular news magazines in the world?

She gave a soft laugh. What did it matter? She would have the next few days to spend all by herself.

All by herself.

Didn’t that define her life? If she felt a little twinge at the realization that her future was looking as empty as her past, she shrugged it aside. She was very good at being alone. She’d had plenty of practice.

With her feet dangling inches above the water, she stared at the endless stretch of water. What would it feel like to slip beneath the waves? Was it possible to embrace death without a fight? Or would her subconscious take over and force her to swim? Not that she was actually contemplating doing such a thing. But the sight of all that dark water, the ancient trees surrounding it like a fiery fortress, was hypnotic. She couldn’t ignore the nagging little thought inside her head that kept asking if anybody would miss her. Oh, there were a few friends and acquaintances, but for the most part, she’d lived her entire life isolated from the world, trying to please just one person – her stern, unyielding father. When she’d chosen a career that would take her far from him, they’d had a terrible row. And now, like everyone else in her life, he was gone, and there was no chance to make it up to him.

At first Grace was so deep in thought, she wasn’t aware of the drone of the plane’s engines overhead. When the sound finally penetrated her consciousness, she looked up absently, wondering if the supply plane had doubled back on its route.

The drone of the engines grew louder, and she lifted a hand to her forehead to shield the sun from her eyes. What she saw had her leaping to her feet. It wasn’t the supply plane that had brought her here. It was another plane, smaller and flying much too low. If the pilot wasn’t careful, his craft was going to clip the tops of those trees. Even as the thought formed, the plane began spinning end over end. Just as it disappeared from view there was a tremendous explosion, followed by a fireball of smoke and flame that billowed up from the forest.

Heart pounding, Grace started running toward the site. It would be impossible for anyone to survive such a crash.

The acrid smell of smoke assaulted Grace as she picked her way through the woods. She could feel the waves of heat even before she pushed through the brush and into the very heart of the crash site. Small trees had been leveled, deep grooves cut into the earth where the plane had skidded before coming to rest against a solid wall of forest. All that was left of the airplane was twisted metal and charred rubble. If there were any bodies inside, they were beyond rescuing now.

With a sigh she backed away from the intense heat of the fire. As she turned she saw a blur of color against the drab landscape. Stepping closer she caught sight of a man’s body.

Was he dead?

Grace knelt and touched a hand to his throat, searching for a pulse. There it was. Faint. Thready.

Alive. Relief poured through her. But there was blood. So much of it. Grace reached into her pockets. Where was a clean tissue when she needed one? Whipping off her hooded sweatshirt, she unbuttoned her cotton shirt underneath and used it to mop at the blood that spilled from a cut on his arm, and another on his leg that had soaked through his pants.

She tore away his shirtsleeve and pants leg and examined the wounds. Despite the amount of blood, the cuts appeared to be fairly superficial. With a sigh of resignation, she tore her shirt from top to bottom, tying the torn fabric firmly around each cut to stem any further flow.

The fact that the stranger remained unconscious led her to probe the back of his head, but she could find no evidence of swelling or trauma. While she examined him, she thought he stirred. But when she looked down, his eyes were closed.

She debated the wisdom of moving him. If there were internal injuries, any movement could make matters worse.

Coming to a decision she wrapped her hooded sweatshirt around him for warmth. „You may be in shock. If so, you’ll need blankets and…“ She knew she was babbling to someone who couldn’t possibly hear her, but she felt the need to say something comforting. „Don’t worry. You’re not alone now. I’ll be back soon with some supplies. Just… hang in there.“

She patted his arm before turning away and racing back to the cabin.

Josh felt gentle hands probing, and the warmth of breath against his temple. Angels, he concluded. After what he’d gone through, there was no other logical explanation.

He’d always known, of course, that the risks he took in the lifestyle he’d chosen carried the strong possibility of an early death.

Like his father.

He took in a long, deep breath, expecting it to be his last. Now, finally, he would see the face of the man who, though he had died far too young, had left an indelible imprint on his son’s life.

Ignoring the occasional twinges of pain, he gave himself up to whatever fate awaited him in the afterlife.

Grace struggled to wheel the heavy cart over roots and rocks and mounds of earth. The forest was not only dense, but unforgiving. A backpack would have been more efficient, but since she had no idea how long she might have to survive without shelter, she’d brought all she could pack into the cart, and had replaced her bloody shirt wim a warm sweater, and over that a heavy parka.

At the crash site she worked as efficiently as possible unzipping a down sleeping bag and struggling to get the unconscious man into it.

Draping his arm around her shoulder she gently eased him into a sitting position. „Come on now, work with me.“

Though she coaxed and cajoled, the unresponsive man was a dead weight. Finally, through sheer effort, she managed to roll him into the sleeping bag and zip it closed.

Then she set about collecting wood for a bonfire. Getting the fire started was simple, since the remains of the plane were still smoldering. Holding a stick to the rubble until it flamed, she crossed to the logs and waited for the kindling to catch fire.

Draping a blanket around her shoulders, Grace sat cross-legged beside the unconscious man and touched a hand to his forehead. There seemed to be no fever. He made not a sound, so she couldn’t determine whether or not he was suffering.

As the sun slowly made its arc across the sky, she drew the blanket more closely around her and studied the man in the sleeping bag. His chest rose and fell in a steady, silent rhythm. He looked warm and peaceful. If she hadn’t witnessed his plane crash, she could easily believe he was just asleep.

Praying that he was in no immediate danger, she stretched out beside him and, for the first time in weeks, slept soundly.

Three

Josh lay very still, eyes closed, and listened to the soothing sounds around him. Water lapping somewhere nearby. A breeze whispering through the branches of a tree. A chorus of birdsong.

He seemed imprisoned in a cocoon of warmth that rendered him unable to move. That fact, and the absence of pain, had him convinced that he was indeed dead. His last conscious memory had been the moment of impact, when his plane had hit the ground and skidded several hundred yards before slamming into an impenetrable wall of forest.

He’d watched the windshield of his plane shatter inward. Had heard the terrible screeching sounds of metal twisting. Had felt the plane shudder beneath him. And then a feeling of weightlessness, as though he’d been lifted in the arms of angels and carried ever-so-gently to earth.

Another memory returned. A woman, wearing nothing but a lacy bra and snug denims, holding him close. Tying something around his arm.

An angel? In bra and denims?

The thought had him grinning as he opened his eyes and saw her asleep beside him. He couldn’t see her face, but her hair was a glorious tangle of red-gold curls.

His mysterious passenger.

She’d shed her blanket and parka, and what he could see of her slender figure in the faded jeans and sweater was model-perfect. Too bad she’d pulled on that sweater. Still, the sight of her snug backside had his smile deepening.

He looked up at rays of golden light filtering through the leaves of the forest. Like a benediction from heaven.

The woman stirred and brushed hair from her eyes before sitting up and turning. He realized in that instant that she wasn’t his passenger. This stranger’s hair was more red than gold, and her eyes were a startling shade of green, with little gold flecks. The kind a man could happily drown in.

When she realized that he was looking at her she scrambled to her feet.

„You’re awake.“

He’d heard that same voice before. Soft. Breathy. Calming. It had penetrated deep into his subconscious and had given him the most amazing sense of peace. He’d been given the assurance that he wasn’t alone. That someone was nearby, looking out for him.

„Yeah. I’m awake. Or whatever they call it here.“

„Here?“

„Heaven. That’s where I am, right?“

She gave a quick laugh. „I’ve never heard the Spirit Lake Wilderness Refuge called heaven before. But I suppose to some hardy souls it might be.“

„ Spirit Lake?“ He blinked. „I’m alive?“

„You are, though I don’t know how. There’s nothing left of your plane but ash and twisted metal.“ She pointed, and he could see wisps of smoke still rising from the rubble.

„If I’m alive, why can’t I move?“

„Oh.“ She knelt and reached for the zipper on his sleeping bag. „Sorry. I was worried that you might go into shock from the accident, so I did my best to keep you warm through the night.“

„I’ve been here all night?“

„And most of today.“ She pointed to the sun slanting low on the horizon. „It’ll be evening soon.“

„Are you telling me I slept all night and half the day?“

She nodded. „I checked on you a dozen times or more, and each time you were sound asleep. I tried waking you, but when I couldn’t, there didn’t seem to be much I could do except wait for you to wake on your own.“ She looked embarrassed. „I don’t know if it was seeing you sleeping, or the fact that I couldn’t go anywhere or do anything until I knew you were going to be all right, but whatever the reason, I slept, too. Not as many hours as you, but a lot more than I’ve slept in a very long time.“

He was watching her closely. „Am I dreaming this, or are you real?“

„I’m real enough.“

„Who are you, and how did you find me?“

„Finding you was easy enough. I just followed the smoke through the forest.“ She wiped her hand on her jeans before extending it. „My name is Grace. Grace Marin. And you are…?“

„Josh. Josh Cramer.“ He stuck out his hand, then, spying his gloves, he grinned before slipping them off.

At her arched question he felt the need to explain. „My good luck charms.“

„They seem to have worked.“

„They do the job every time.“

„Every time? Are you telling me you’ve been through something like this before?“

„Not a plane crash. But close.“

„Are you feeling all right? No fever?“ She tentatively touched a hand to his forehead.

He experienced a rush of heat so intense he could feel it in every part of his body. How could there be such heat from one soft, cool hand? He found himself hoping she would keep it there, just so, against his flesh. He felt a wave of disappointment when she lowered her hand and sat back on her heels.

He struggled to sit up. Instinctively she placed a restraining hand on his chest. „I don’t think you should move. There may be some internal injuries.“

„I don’t feel any pain.“

„None?“ She seemed stunned by his admission.

„Except for a little twinge in my arm.“ He wiggled a foot. „And some in my leg.“ He sat up and looked around. „Where’re my friends?“

„Friends?“

This wasn’t the response he’d been expecting. „There was a second plane following me. I figured they’d put down on the lake as soon as they saw the crash.“

Grace shook her head. „Sorry. I never saw a second plane.“

„That doesn’t make any sense.“ He frowned. „What about my passenger?“

Her eyes widened before she looked away quickly. „I’m sorry. You’re the only survivor I was able to find. I just assumed you were alone, especially since I searched every inch of this area, and there was no trace of anyone else, or any remains.“

As the enormity of these events began to sink in, his demeanor became brisk and businesslike. „I need a phone. Right away.“

Grace shook her head. „There’s no power out here. Even cell phones won’t work, since there are no relay towers.“

He’d known, of course. Still, there had to be some emergency measure. „How do you summon help if you’re in trouble?“

„I was told to use the ham radio at the cabin. While you were asleep, I tried to power up the generator to report the accident, but I must have done something wrong. I couldn’t get it to work.“ Seeing his look of disgust she added, „When you’re strong enough to walk to the cabin, you can give it a try. Do you know anything about generators?“

He shrugged. „I wouldn’t call electronics my strong point, but I’m pretty good with my hands. I’ll take a look at it. I’m sure I can figure it out.“

When he started to stand Grace reached out to steady him. „Are you sure you’re strong enough?“

„I’ve got to get up and start moving. I need to get a message out to my friends right away.“

„Then let me help.“ She got to her feet and offered her arm.

He leaned on her and absorbed a quick jolt as he stared into her eyes. A trickle of sweat worked its way between his shoulders and down his back. Instinctively he pushed free and took a step away. What was the matter with him? Like any man, he enjoyed being close to a woman. Especially a beautiful woman. But he’d never had a reaction to a woman like this before. The thought of tasting those lips was almost overwhelming.

Having his emotions so close to the surface was probably a result of the crash.

„Thanks. I’m fine now.“

And he was, he realized. After a few tentative steps, he was aware that, despite a crash that had left his plane mangled and burned, he seemed to have suffered no serious injuries at all. What were the odds of such a thing? For anyone else, he supposed, a million to one.

He glanced at his watch. The crystal had shattered, the time stopped at the moment of impact. Four p.m.

He shook off the dozens of questions whirling around in his mind. Hadn’t he always accepted his extraordinary luck as his right? What he needed to concentrate on now was the fact that his mysterious passenger was missing and probably dead. As for the plane carrying Marty and the crew, they must have landed somewhere nearby, perhaps to pick up emergency provisions and medical personnel before coming to his rescue.

For now, he consoled himself, his string of luck was holding. He was alive and well. And in the care of the very beautiful and apparently very capable Grace Marin.

On the trek of the cottage, Grace paused beside a fallen log. „Would you like to rest?“

Josh shook his head. „I’m doing fine. It’s hard to believe I went through a crash.“

„No fatigue? No weakness?“

„None. I’m feeling better than I have in a long time. Probably all those hours of sleep,“ he added with a laugh. Or maybe, he thought, it was the company of this intriguing woman. He glanced over. „What are you doing in the middle of nowhere?“

„I’m a photographer witfi the World. My editor sent me out here to get some pictures of a ghost light.“

„Ghost light?“

Grace chuckled. „That’s what I’m calling it. Pilots and fishermen in the area reported seeing a light dancing across the water. Thinking it’s a boater in trouble, they follow it. But when they get close, it looks like a woman.“

„A woman? You mean a ghost that walks on water?“

Grace shrugged. „I know. It sounds crazy. The latest urban legend. Still, my editor thought it would make an interesting report.“

„So? Have you seen her?“

„No. I just got here a short time before your plane went down.“

„Sorry to mess up your plans.“

„Yeah. You had a lot of nerve crashing your plane at such an inconvenient time.“

They were both grinning as they stepped from the tangle of forest to the clearing around the cabin.

Josh looked around with avid interest. The structure was built of sturdy weathered logs, with a high-pitched roof to dispel snow. Behind the cottage was a small storage shed almost completely hidden by the vines and shrubs that had taken over. Beneath a gnarled oak sat a scarred wooden picnic table that seemed to be an extension of the tree itself. A short distance from the cabin, a long wooden dock jutted out like a bony finger into the rough waters of the lake.

„Whose place is this?“

Grace shrugged. „I never asked. I figure the World contacted the owner and rented it for the week. I just wish they’d sent someone out to check on it before sending me here. It’s a bit… primitive.“

He shot her a grin. „As long as it’s shelter, I’m not about to complain. Besides, it looks solid enough.“

„It does.“ She looked around, before nodding toward the vine-covered outbuilding. „The gas-powered generator is in there.“

Josh followed her to the little shed. While she stowed the cart, he studied the rusted parts to the ancient equipment with a frown. „No wonder you weren’t able to get it started. I wonder how long it’s been since anyone used this.“

„I can’t even guess.“ She paused beside him. „Think you can make it work?“

„I’m going to do my best.“ He looked around. „I’ll need time to take it apart and see if I can remove some of this corrosion.“

Grace nodded. „I’d like to help.“ She lay a hand on his arm. „After all that rest, I’d welcome some hard, physical work.“

He studied her hand on his arm before looking up into her face and her heart-stopping smile. „Thanks. I’ll take all the help I can get. And if you’re looking for physical, I’m your man.“

Grace’s heart took an odd little dip. To steady herself she bent to the pile of supplies she’d unloaded from the cart.

Josh held out his hands. „I’ll get back to the generator later. First, I’ll help you carry some of this to the cabin.“

„All right.“ She filled his arms with the folded sleeping bag and blanket and held the door before leading the way to the cabin.

When Josh stepped inside the cottage, he was pleased to discover that it was as snug and comfortable inside as it had appeared from the outside. A staircase led to a loft tucked beneath the high-pitched ceiling of rough-hewn beams. The main cabin was one large room dominated by a floor-to-ceiling fireplace made of stone, with a wide mantel made of the same wood as the beams overhead. Flanking the fireplace were two weathered wooden rockers that appeared to be as old as the cabin. Facing the fireplace was a comfortable sofa draped with a faded hand-made afghan. In front of the sofa was a weathered coffee table fashioned from scarred wood. A second table and chairs formed a kitchen area, beneath several pine cupboards.

„I’ll take those.“ Grace took the blankets from his hands and deposited them in a cedar storage box.

Josh turned toward the hearth. „Want me to get a fire started?“

„That’d be nice.“ She pointed. „I see some logs and kindling in that basket.“

Crossing the room Josh tossed several logs on the grate before holding a match to the kindling. „How about some coffee?“

„I brought some with me, along with bottled water.“ Grace turned toward the cupboards. „I’ll rummage around and see if there’s anything I can use for making coffee.“

Josh pointed to a blackened pot on a warming shelf over the fire. „You mean you didn’t notice this little treasure?“

She gave a laugh. „What an antique. I’ve only seen one of these in pictures.“

Josh found an empty bucket and headed toward the door. „I’ll get some water from the lake, and while I’m there I’ll wash this.“

By the time he returned, Grace had retrieved a can of coffee from her supplies.

Soon the little cabin was perfumed with the rich fragrance of wood smoke and coffee.

Filling two mugs, Josh handed one to Grace before taking a long drink. „Now that we’ve taken care of what to drink, I hope you have some food hidden somewhere. I’m famished.“

Grace shrugged. „I’m afraid food isn’t much of a priority for me.“ She flushed when she caught Josh studying her more closely. „But I did bring some milk and eggs and bread and some peanut butter.“

„Sorry. Man wasn’t meant to live on bread and peanut butter alone.“ He paused a moment in thought. „I noticed some fishing poles in that shed out back. Come on.“ He started toward the door, with Grace following. „Let’s just see what other treasures we’ll find.“

Half an hour later the two were seated at the end of the dock, fishing poles in hand, lines in the water, contentedly sipping their coffee.

Josh leaned his back against one of the wooden posts that had been sunk deep into the river bottom to support the dock. He watched with amusement as Grace kept yanking her line out of the water. „What’re you doing?“

„Seeing if I’ve caught a fish yet.“

„Don’t worry. You’ll know when you’ve hooked one. You’ll feel a quick tug…“

Just then Grace let out a squeal of excitement and jumped to her feet, lifting her pole high in the air. Wriggling on the end of the line was a fish as long as her arm.

„Look! Look! I’ve caught one. Oh, my gosh, it’s a whale.“

Josh was laughing as he took hold of her arm and guided the fish into a net. „Not quite a whale, but a good-sized trout. He’ll make a great dinner tonight.“

„This is going to be so much better than P, B, and J sandwiches.“

„You’ve got mat right.“ He worked out the hook and dropped the trout into a bucket of water.

Minutes later he felt a tug on his own pole and lifted it in the air to reveal another catch. „The way these fish are biting, it looks like we won’t have to worry about starving any time soon.“

Within the hour they’d carried the bucket with their catch to the picnic table, where Josh showed Grace the proper way to bone and fillet the fish for cooking.

She watched with interest. „Is this what you do for a living?“

He chuckled. „I do this just for the pure pleasure of it.“ He arranged the fillets in a blackened skillet before heading toward the cabin. „Come on. Let’s stoke the fire and see if we can’t get this feast started. By the time you’re finished, you’re going to think you were dining in one of New York City ’s finest gourmet restaurants.“

„Promise?“

He was still laughing as he held the door and followed her inside. „You aren’t going to believe your taste buds.“

Four

Grace set out plates and flatware on the rustic wooden coffee table positioned in front of the sofa.

She studied Josh, cooking the fish in a blackened skillet over the flames of the fireplace. He’d rolled the sleeves of his denim shirt to his elbows. Despite the plane crash, he was the picture of robust health, his body trim, his back and arms corded with muscles. Every once in a while he paused to sip his coffee before flipping the fish. He looked at ease, natural, as though he did this every day of his life.

„What do you do? That is, when you’re not crashing a plane into the wilderness?“

He shot her a grin. „Extreme sports.“

„Extreme?“

„Instead of just taking a hot air balloon up, I take it around the world and beat the old world record in the process. If I decide to surf, I choose to do it where I’ll be the most physically and emotionally challenged.“

Her hands paused in midair. „Why?“

He grinned. „It beats working for a living. And it gets the adrenaline pumping.“

Grace gave a quick shake of her head. „I once told my father the same thing when he asked me why I had to go gallivanting around the world taking pictures. He couldn’t understand why I wasn’t content to just work at a local newspaper.“

„Hmmm.“ He shot her a grin. „Does that mean we’re kindred souls?“

„I don’t know about that. I doubt I’d volunteer to circle the world in a hot air balloon.“

„I only did it once.“

That had her laughing. „How do you hope to top that?“

His smile grew and he made a formal bow. „For my next trick, ladies and gentlemen, I’m going to explore the wilderness.“

Grace couldn’t help grinning at his imitation of a carnival barker. „Were you planning on staying in one of the cottages here?“

„Not really. I’d planned on camping in the open. Along the trail.“ He wrapped a towel around the handle of the skillet and removed it from the fire. „I was about to film my journey for a television special.“

„You’re a TV producer, too?“

He gave a quick shake of his head. „Just a guy who loves nature.“

„How many people are going with you?“

„Just me. The rest of the crew planned on filming me here at the beginning, and then waiting for me at the end of the journey to wrap things up.“

She flushed. „I’m afraid I don’t watch much television. I’m out of the country more often than I’m home. I’m not familiar with your show.“

„It isn’t a TV show yet. The producer was hoping this special might create enough interest to make it into a regular feature on the Sports News Network.“

„Now that’s something I’m familiar with. SNN is seen everywhere.“

The fish were still sizzling as Josh turned them onto a plate. He removed a packet of leaves from the fire and opened them to reveal a mixture of steaming roots that he’d collected from the wild vegetation growing in the woods around the cabin.

When he carried the platter to the table, Grace eyed it with naked hunger.

Josh shot her a wicked grin. „Wouldn’t you like to know what you’re about to eat?“

„I don’t need the scientific names, if that’s what you mean. As long as you assure me that they’re edible.“

„A girl after my own heart.“ He settled down beside her and began to fill both their plates. „But just so you know the food is safe to eat, I’ll tell you the name of everything here.“

She chuckled. „A lot of good that’ll do. How will I know whether you’ve given me their real name, or something you just made up?“

„You won’t.“ He popped a steaming green leaf into his mouth and gave a sigh of pleasure before swallowing. „Now this is what I call fresh.“

Following his lead, Grace tasted the fish and couldn’t stop the little sigh that escaped her lips. „You’re right. It’s wonderful.“ She speared a green leaf. „All right. Just to play along, what’s this called?“

„Lamb’s-quarter. It’ll taste a lot like spinach.“

She bit into it and gave a quick nod. „It does.“ She lifted a steaming tuber. „And this?“

„Wild yam. The Native Americans who lived here probably considered it a delicacy. It’ll stay fresh all winter if left in the ground.“

„It’s delicious.“ Grace tasted yet another green. „And this?“

„Wild asparagus.“

„Tasty.“ She found herself wondering if he actually knew all these plants, or was having fun with her. Testing him, she pointed with her fork. „This?“

„That’s wild mint. And that one is thyme.“

She started to laugh. „Honestly?“

„Would I lie to the woman who saved my life?“ He speared a tuber. „This is orris root. And this is verbena. I’ll use some later to make you tea.“

„You’re trying to impress me with all this knowledge, aren’t you?“

„Guilty.“ He grinned. „Is it working?“

„Yeah.“ She shot him a sideways glance. „How do you learn all this?“

He shrugged. „The same way a city girl quickly learns which restaurant has the best carryout. I’ve spent so much time in the wild, eating from the land has become second nature to me.“

„Is this when you tell me your amazing tale of having been raised in the wilderness by wolves, and that you’re actually an untamed mountain man?“

That had them both laughing.

It occurred to Josh that he was having a grand time, feeling more relaxed and carefree than he had in years. „I spent a lot of time with my grandmother. She used to tell me stories about my dad, and I wanted to be just like him. I was keen for any adventure. I was on skis as soon as I could walk. Climbing mountains when other kids were riding their bikes.“ His tone lowered. Softened. „Gram told me that there wasn’t anything my father wouldn’t attempt. When I was a kid, I thought he could walk on water.“

Grace heard the affection in his tone and felt a sudden ache around her heart at the thought of all she’d missed with her own father. „No wonder you need to get the generator up and running. He’ll be worried sick until he hears that you’re safe.“

„My father died when I was ten. Until then, I was a military brat, moving all around the world. Though my mother hated it, I was having the time of my life.“ He crossed to the fire, retrieving the coffeepot. „I think, if my father had lived, my parents would have gone their separate ways.“ When he’d topped off both their cups, he set the coffeepot aside before returning to the sofa and stretching out his legs toward the heat. „Within a year of my dad’s death my mother remarried, and I was allowed to move in with my grandmother. It was a good move for all of us. My grandmother was an amazing woman.“

Intrigued, Grace turned to him. „In what way?“

He shrugged. „She’d buried a husband, a son. Since I was the only family member she had left, it would have been natural for her to lock the doors and cling to me as tightly as possible.“

He saw Grace’s sudden frown and wondered where she’d just gone in her mind. „Instead of holding on too tightly, she seemed perfectly content to allow me to follow my heart, no matter where it took me. When I was fourteen I told her I wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail the way my dad had. She offered to come along, but I told her I wanted to do it alone. And I did.“

„But you were only a kid.“

„I grew up fast. I found out a lot about myself that summer. After that, I spent every summer doing the things my father had done. Hiking in Wyoming. Snowboarding in Colorado. Fishing in Montana.“

„So young. Weren’t you afraid and awfully lonely?“

He smiled, remembering. „There were times when I thought I’d taken on a challenge that was bigger than my talent. But I can’t say I was ever afraid. As for feeling lonely…“ He stared into the fire. „I’ve always felt the presence of my dad in my life.“

Again that quick tug at her heart before Grace nodded toward the gloves in his breast pocket. „Your good luck charms.“

„Yeah.“ His grin was quick and easy as he removed them and set them on the table. „These were the only things left. They arrived in a box with a typewritten note saying my father had been wearing them when his plane went down.“

„A plane crash?“ She was so startled, she sat up straighter.

„Didn’t I mention it? He was a soldier in Special Forces.“

Grace went very still, wondering how he could speak of such a thing without emotion.

„You’re quiet.“ He reached over and caught her hand in his. „I’m sorry if I upset you. But if you’re thinking I was trying to emulate him by crashing my plane, you’re wrong.“

She absorbed a jolt, but when she tried to pull away, she found herself held firmly. She stared at their joined hands, then up into his face. „I wonder how your grandmother found the courage to allow you such freedom after dealing with something so violent and unexpected?“

He moved his thumb along her wrist and felt the way her pulse jumped. Was she feeling it, too? The heat? The adrenaline from this simple touch? „Gram told me that whenever we give in to our fears, the bad guys win. It’s become my mantra. Never let fear rule.“

„I like that. Though I never heard it put into words, it’s pretty much my motto, too.“

„Really?“ He looked at her with new interest. „Most people I know prefer to avoid risks and live their lives quietly.“

„It’s what my father wanted for me.“ Grace’s tone grew pensive. „I was always sorry that I couldn’t be what he wanted.“

„We can’t always be what other people want us to be.“ Josh continued holding her hand. It felt good, he realized, to be connected with someone, if only for the moment.

Was that part of the reason for his wanderlust? Was it because he’d never felt as connected to the living as he was to the dead?

Uncomfortable with the silence, Grace withdrew her hand and got to her feet. „I’d better tackle the dishes.“ As she gathered the plates she smiled. „You were right.“

„About what?“

„That was every bit as good as any big city restaurant. Maybe even better. Especially the weeds.“

„Thanks.“ With a grin, Josh drained his cup and leaned his head back, enjoying the warmth of the fire and puzzling over the fact that he wasn’t feeling any stress over this abrupt change in plans.

Seeing his sudden stillness, Grace called, „I’m sorry about your friend.“

He lifted a brow and turned to her.

„Your passenger.“

„Oh. She wasn’t a friend.“

She. For some strange reason, that simple word had Grace’s full attention.

Before she could ask more his tone became brisk. „In fact, I didn’t even know her name.“

Grace struggled to mentally shift gears. One moment she was thinking that his traveling companion had been someone important in his life, and the next he was telling her his passenger was a stranger. „That doesn’t make any sense.“

„It didn’t make sense to me, either. I was busy flying the plane, and the next thing I knew, she was there beside me.“

„A stowaway?“

He nodded. „Apparently. I certainly didn’t invite her along for the flight. Still, I can’t help but feel responsible. How could she vanish without a trace?“

„There was an explosion on impact. If she couldn’t get out of the plane, she would have been incinerated. Maybe when the ashes cool, you’ll find some clue.“

„Maybe.“

She saw the puzzled frown and decided to pursue an-otiier topic. „You say your friends were right behind you?“

„Yeah.“ Josh ran a hand through his hair. „We were in communication until just before I went down. But even after my systems failed, they had to be close enough to see everything.“

„Maybe there were clouds shielding your plane from view.“

He shrugged. „Maybe.“ But he could remember nothing except a clear, cloudless blue sky before all hell broke loose.

„If they saw the crash, they may have decided to fly back to civilization and bring help.“

„That’s what I’m thinking, too.“ He fell silent, mentally willing his friends to be unharmed. He couldn’t stand to think that if their plane went down, too, they may have suffered a very different fate from his.

Her voice interrupted his thoughts. „You have to be exhausted from your ordeal. Would you like to lie down?“

Josh shook his head. „It just occurred to me that for the first time in years I have nowhere to go and nothing to do but wait until my backup crew arrives.“

It had to be the result of the crash. It was the only explanation for this strange euphoria. Ordinarily he’d be pacing like a caged tiger at the thought of all the unanswered questions. But for tonight, for whatever reason, he intended to put aside all the troubling questions and simply enjoy this unplanned freedom from his relentless schedule.

Without a word Josh tore himself from the comforting fire and got to his feet. „I’ll give you a hand.“

„You’ve done enough.“ Grace removed a kettle of water from the fireplace and poured it into a basin. „I think it’s only fair, since you did the cooking, that I wash the dishes.“

„Just to satisfy your sense of fairness…“ He crossed to her. „We’ll do them together.“ He picked up a towel and began to dry. „This way, we’ll have them done in half the time.“

„Don’t you want to tackle the generator tonight?“

„I wish I could.“ He glanced out the window. „But it’s already dark outside.“

„I brought along a battery-operated lantern. Feel free to use it.“

„I appreciate the offer.“ He dried the first plate and set it down before reaching for the next. „But I’d hate to use up all your batteries on something that can be tackled just as easily tomorrow.“

„What about the people who are worried about you?“

„I’m sure they’ll be here by morning.“ He was rewarded with a rare sense of peace. He couldn’t work up any anger at these odd circumstances. He was alive, unharmed, and in the company of a beautiful woman. Life didn’t get much better than this. And in die morning, when Marty and the others got here, he’d have a great tale to tell them.

He set aside the towel and lifted the plates. „Where did you find these?“

Grace gave a nod toward the cupboard above her. Josh reached up and opened the door before stowing them on a shelf. As he did, their bodies brushed. He glanced down at the same instant that Grace’s head came up and he knew, by the look in her eyes, that she was feeling exactly the same quick sexual tug that he’d just experienced.

He lowered his hand to her hair and trailed his fingers through the tangles. „Soft.“ He didn’t even realize he was speaking aloud. „I knew it would be as soft as an angel’s wings.“

„Josh…“ She lifted soapy hands from the basin. Before she could resist he dipped his head and his mouth covered hers.

The jolt to his system was instantaneous. At the first touch of his lips to hers, he felt his mind empty of all thought but one. He’d wanted this more than anything. Just the chance to taste her. Touch her. Hold her.

Though he hadn’t planned it, there was no way he could back off now. The feelings rocketing through him were more shattering than his plane crash.

He felt the slight trembling of her lips and swallowed her little gasp of surprise. As she started to back away his arms came around her, molding her to the length of him. The thought of devouring her was nearly overpowering.

The need to kiss her until she surrendered was so strong, so compelling, he wondered how he could resist. It took all his willpower to go slowly, nibbling her lips until they softened beneath his and opened. Then he was feasting on her mouth. There was such sweetness here. Such goodness.

Grace couldn’t think. Couldn’t move. Could hardly breathe. As he took the kiss deeper, she brought her wet hands to his chest. She could feel the strength in him, and she had a desperate need to cling, at least for a moment. Instead of pushing away as she’d intended, she found herself giving a shaky sigh before wrapping her arms around his waist. With his mouth on hers, there was no thought of holding back. For this one moment, she would give him everything, if he but asked.

Her simple act of surrender rocked Josh as nothing else could. He’d never known anything to compare to the feelings that spiraled through him as she offered her lips. He took them with a raw, deep hunger that startled them both. He could feel his blood heating, his heartbeat racing, as his mouth moved over hers, kissing her with a thoroughness that had them both trembling.

Grace had no defense against these strange new emotions. She could feel her body burning for his touch, her bones beginning to melt like wax. She’d never known a man’s kiss to have such a devastating effect. The floor beneath her feet seemed to shift and tilt as his mouth moved over hers. When he drew her closer, she could feel his heartbeat thundering inside her chest, its wild rhythm matching her own.

In some small corner of Josh’s mind a warning bell sounded. He knew he was very close to crossing a line. Who would have expected one simple kiss to take him to the very edge of reason? But this was far from simple. The woman in his arms had awakened a hunger, a craving that was direatening to take them both down a dark and dangerous path.

One of them had to be sensible.

Head spinning, chest heaving, he drew on every last ounce of willpower and managed to lift his head.

Unwilling to completely break contact, he kept his hands at her shoulders and looked down into her eyes while he waited for his heartbeat to settle. „I hope you’re not expecting an apology. The truth is, I’ve been wanting to kiss you like that since I woke earlier and saw you lying beside me.“

„I suppose I should at least thank you for your honesty.“ She gave a shaky laugh, wondering if her heart would ever return to its normal rhythm. Just standing this close, his hands touching her, had her pulse thundering out of control.

„All right. Time for true confessions.“ He was studying her through narrowed eyes. „I wanted to act on that impulse sooner, but I was afraid.“

„You?“ She tossed her head. „Fearless world athlete? I find that hard to believe.“

„Maybe I was afraid you weren’t real. That you were a figment of my overwrought imagination. Or that you’d run away before I had a chance to know you better.“

With that glint of humor in his eyes, she couldn’t tell if he was serious or having fun with her. Either way, his smile was contagious. He was far too tempting. And too close for comfort.

She took a step back and picked up the dish towel before drying her hands. „Sorry I got your shirt wet.“

She tried to appear casual as she picked up the basin of hot water and crossed to the door before tossing the contents outside. When she returned it to the kitchen table she was aware of the way he was watching her. His gaze swept her, lingering on her lips. It was as tempting as any kiss. And had the same strange effect on her, leaving her feeling more aroused than she cared to admit.

He turned away abruptly. „I think I’d better take you up on that offer of a lantern and work on the generator.“

„Why the sudden change of heart?“

His tone was gruff. „I don’t think it’s safe for us to be together just now.“

She felt a quick flutter around her heart and realized that she’d been thinking the same thing. „No need to go on my account. Now that it’s growing dark outside, it’s time to earn my keep. I’m taking my camera to the end of the dock to watch for spirit lights.“

„Better dress in layers. I have a feeling that once the sun goes down, it’ll feel more like winter than autumn out there.“

As Grace watched Josh pick up the lantern, she struggled to keep things light. „While you wrap your mind around rusted machinery, I’ll wrap mine around my assignment.“

He paused and shot her a wicked grin as he turned toward the shed. „I’d rather just have your arms wrapped around me the way they were a minute ago.“

She managed a laugh. „It’s a good thing we both have something important to do. Too much spare time on our hands is definitely dangerous.“

As she made her way by moonlight to the end of the dock, she stared out across the darkened water and found herself desperately hoping to see a light. That was the one thing that would keep her mind off what had just happened.

But what about later tonight? How could she and Josh possibly get through the night in such close quarters?

This cabin was beginning to feel much too small for the two of them.

Five

Josh set the lantern on the floor beside the generator and switched it on. A wide beam of light illuminated the rusted machine. Spying an old army blanket folded on the end of a workbench, he shook it open, intending to spread it out on the floor. But the moment he touched it, he felt an amazing warmth flowing through his veins.

He studied the threadbare fabric. There were no markings on it. Nothing to distinguish it from any other army blanket. Still, he decided that it was too fine to be used in such a cavalier manner. Carefully folding it up, he retrieved an old drop cloth spattered with paint to use instead.

Using a wire brush, he began scrubbing years of rust and corrosion from the first metal part. When it was clean he set it on the cloth before reaching for another.

He’d always enjoyed the challenge of taking machinery apart and putting it back together. There was something so satisfying about finding that one tiny piece, that one overlooked part that would make the entire system hum. Even as a small boy he’d loved fitting pieces of a puzzle together. This chore was much the same, except that the pieces were bigger and more complex.

From his father he’d inherited a sense of curiosity; from his mother, patience. The two traits had held him in good stead through the years.

It was one thing to take things apart and see what made them tick. But as the minutes turned into hours, and the work showed no end in sight, though his persistence never wavered, his concentration shifted and he found his thoughts drifting to Grace Marin and that kiss.

He couldn’t recall the last time he’d been so rocked by a simple kiss. Of course, there’d been nothing simple about it. The moment his mouth touched hers, he’d felt as if some unseen force had taken over his control.

He supposed, if he had to fall this hard, it may as well be with someone not only easy to look at, but easy to be with, as well.

She was a puzzle. A fascinating, complex woman. But there was a sadness he could see in her eyes in unguarded moments. Who was she? What had happened in her past to make her so sad? Looking back over their meal, he realized that, though she’d been a good listener, she’d revealed almost nothing about herself. He figured he would patiently work out the puzzle of Grace, just as he did everything else, given enough time.

Time. There’d been so little of it in recent years. Now he seemed to have more than he needed. Funny how life could change in the space of a minute.

Sitting back on his heels, he studied the generator. As far as he could determine, once it was properly cleaned and oiled, it ought to work. He unscrewed a protective plate and set it aside before tackling the rusted parts underneath. He was looking forward to communicating with the outside world by morning. Not that he expected to need this outdated piece of equipment for that. He had no doubt that the plane carrying the crew would arrive long before he could get this generator up and running. Still, he needed to be prepared in case they were delayed further.

What was keeping them? Had the same sudden atmospheric change that had caused his crash, forced them to land somewhere nearby? He refused to blame the crash on anything else. He knew it hadn’t been pilot error. Though he’d been distracted by his unexpected passenger, he hadn’t done anything to bring about the accident.

He thought about the debris that had once been his plane. If the crew following him had suffered a similar crash, would any of them have survived? He wouldn’t allow himself to think about that. It was simply unimaginable.

And what about his mysterious passenger? Why had there been no sign of her after the crash? He shuddered at the thought that she had perished, her body incinerated beyond recognition. What a cruel injustice, when she’d probably stowed away as a lark. Or maybe, having learned about the proposed television special, had hoped to find a measure of fame.

And then there was Marty’s unease about this place and its reputation. Were there really planes and boats that vanished forever, without a trace?

Unhappy with the direction of his thoughts, he returned his full attention to the generator.

Grace sat at the end of the dock, staring across the darkened water. In a tree by the water’s edge an owl hooted, and nearby, its mate answered. Waves lapped gently against the shore in a steady drumbeat. Wind stirred the leaves of the trees, causing them to rustle softly.

She loved the nighttime best. She’d always considered it her special time. As a child, she’d used that time to forget, at least for a little while, the need to please her stern, unyielding father. For that brief period before sleep overtook her, she could stop pushing herself to be perfect. For a little while she could simply allow her mind to drift. To wonder where her mother had gone and why. To allow herself to hope that her mother might give a thought to the daughter she’d abandoned, and wonder what Grace had made of her life. It had been pleasant to imagine what her modier looked like. Throughout the years, her curiosity about the woman who had given her life had never dimmed. If anything, her unanswered questions nagged the edges of her mind at the strangest times. They were especially strong when daylight faded, and darkness covered the land.

Was that why, even now that she was an adult, the night remained her special time? Night was the time to rid herself of any unpleasant thoughts. Anything that might rob her of precious sleep.

Sleep. Grace yawned and stretched and realized that her muscles were stiff and cramped. She’d been sitting on the cold dock for hours without seeing a trace of light anywhere on the water. If the so-called spirit was going to stir, it would have done so by now.

The thought of a warm cabin and a soft bed were far too tempting.

Getting to her feet Grace gathered up her camera equipment, stowing them in her backpack, and made her way along the dock. The grass brushing her ankles was cold and damp with dew as she took the distance to the cabin at a run.

Inside, the rush of air caused a glowing ember on the hearth to pop, sending up a spray of neon red sparks. Grace crossed the room and added a log and kindling. In no time a fire blazed, and she eagerly held out her hands to the warmth.

Too tired to do more than kick off her boots, she draped the afghan around her shoulders, stretched out on the sofa, and was soon asleep.

Josh paused in his work and stared at the generator parts that he’d managed to clean so far, neatly arranged on the drop cloth, and ready for assembly. He decided to finish the rest in the morning. For now, hot, sweaty and covered with grime, he decided to take a quick dip in the lake to wash away the residue of this project. He wondered if Grace would still be watching for her spirit light, camera in hand. Without his watch to tell him the time, he calculated that it was well past midnight.

After carefully closing the door of the shed, Josh dashed through the darkness, following the trail of moonlight that illuminated the dock. Seeing that it was deserted, he paused only long enough to strip off his clothes and boots and set them atop the folded army blanket before diving into the gold-tipped waves. After the initial shock of cold water against heated flesh, he dove deep before rising to the surface and, like a great shaggy dog, shook droplets from his hair.

He swam in lazy circles around and around, grateful for the chance to work out the kinks in his muscles caused by the long hours in the shed.

Far out on the lake he spotted a sudden flash of light. His first thought was that it was a ribbon of moonlight trailing across the water. But the shape of it was all wrong. This was a single light that shimmered like a spotlight and appeared to be dancing atop the waves.

His heart gave a quick, hard bounce. This wasn’t merely the reflection of the moon or stars on water. This was a steady, shimmering light that seemed to be moving toward him. There was no doubt that this was Grace’s mysterious spirit light.

Knowing that Grace was missing the opportunity of a lifetime, he cupped his hands to his mouth and shouted her name. In the darkness he could hear the echo of his voice bouncing across the water and echoing in the nearby forest. Several more times he shouted, keeping watch on the door of the cabin, hoping to see Grace.

Pulling himself onto the dock he shouted again at the top of his lungs, but there was no sign of her.

The mysterious light was closer now, and moving directly toward him.

He slipped into his jeans and stood watching as the light continued drawing near. While he watched, the light began to glimmer brightly before it gradually took on the unmistakable shape of a woman.

She was too far away to see clearly. Her hair was covered by some sort of hooded cape that left her face in shadow. The cape, long and flowing, swirled about her ankles and shimmered with golden light as she appeared to glide effortlessly across the silvery waves.

Josh knew his jaw had dropped. Though he thought briefly of fleeing, he stood riveted to the spot.

While he stared in amazement, she paused and extended her arms, palms uplifted toward the sky. At her movement, a gust of bitter wind whipped the waves to foam and sent the trees along the shore dipping and swaying. The wind ruffled his hair and bit into his flesh, leaving him shivering.

Through it all he experienced no fear, only a sense of wonder at what he was witnessing. The light around her grew brighter until it was nearly blinding in its intensity.

While he watched, the image of the woman began to shimmer and fade until it was gone. In its place there was only darkness.

Josh shuddered and realized that the air had grown frigid. Chilled to the bone, he snatched up the blanket and shirt and boots and made a mad dash toward the warmth of the cabin.

„Ummm.“ Hearing the sound of the cabin door, Grace was abruptly yanked from the most pleasant dream. She’d been a little girl again, warm and snug in the embrace of her mother. Though she couldn’t see the woman’s face, she’d known instinctively who she was.

Struggling to hold onto the memory, she sat up, shoving tangles of hair from her eyes. „Guess I fell asleep.“

She turned and, seeing the look on Josh’s face, was suddenly wide awake. „You look like you’’ve just seen a ghost.“

„Yeah. That’s exactly what I’d call her.“ Too agitated to think about sleep, Josh set the coffeepot over the coals before pulling on his shirt.

„Her?“

He turned and gave a solemn nod. „Your spirit. She was out there.“

„You saw her?“ Grace was on her feet and across the room in an instant, clutching his hands. „What did she look like? What did she do?“

At her touch, he experienced again the quick flare of heat and blamed it on the fact that he was still wired from what he’d just experienced. „I never really saw her face, but she looked the way I’d expect a ghost to look.“

„How?“

He shrugged. „Shimmering light, a kind of ethereal form that suggested a woman.“

He was already questioning what he’d seen. Had it really been a spirit? Or had that icy swim after so many hours of hot, sweaty work affected his mind?

Grace squeezed his hands. „Did she say anything?“

„Not a word. But I had the feeling that she’d been expecting someone else.“ Or had he imagined that, as well? „Anyway, she lifted her arms and there was this sudden rush of cold air, almost as if she’d summoned it.“ He shivered, remembering. „The trees along the shore were bent low from it, and the waves turned to angry foam. And then, as quickly as she’d come, she was gone.“

„And I missed it.“ She released his hands and turned away on a moan of disgust.

„If it’s any consolation, I did my best to wake you.“

She glanced over her shoulder. „You did?“

He nodded. „I shouted your name at the top of my voice. Actually, I called you a couple of times, but got no response.“

„That doesn’t make any sense. I’m the lightest sleeper in the world. The so«nd of aipin dropping can have me awake and pacing for hours. I can’t believe I missed the reason I’m here.“ Grace gave a long, deep sigh of annoyance.

„Hey, you’re only human. You’ve been through a lot since yesterday. We both have.“ He moved up behind her and closed his hands around her upper arms, rubbing gently. „Who knows? Maybe she’ll visit again tomorrow night.“

„You don’t really believe that, do you?“

„Maybe I’m just trying to convince myself as well as you.“ His voice, so close to her ear, sent shivers along her spine.

She turned and found his face inches from hers. „You still look pale.“ She touched a hand to his cheek. „You sure you’re all right?“

„I’m fine.“ His voice sounded husky to his own ears. „But I wouldn’t object if you wanted to hold me.“ He gave her a heart-stopping grin. „Just for a minute, of course.“

She couldn’t stop the smile that curved her lips. „Oh, sure. Of course. Hold you.“

„Hey, it’s not every day I encounter a ghost.“

„Well, at least you saw her. That’s more than I can claim.“ Still smiling she wrapped her arms around his neck.

„Mmmm. That’s helping a lot. I feel better already.“ With a sigh he drew her close and pressed his mouth to the tangle of hair at her temple. „But if you feel like kissing me, just until my heart settles down, you understand, I won’t object to that, either.“

Now she was laughing. A soft, rumbling laugh that welled up and spilled over. „That’s a good line, Josh. I bet you’ve had a lot of luck with it.“

His smile went straight to her heart. „Actually, this is the first time I’ve tried it. Is it working?“

„I’d say so. I am holding you. And I’m halfway tempted to kiss you.“

„You are?“

Her laughter grew. „Just to see if I can soothe your poor, overworked heart.“

„I knew, the first time I saw you, that you were an angel of mercy.“ His mouth covered hers in the softest of kisses before he drew back.

The laughter died on her lips.

Seeing it, he dragged her close, keeping his gaze steady on hers. „But the thoughts I’m having about you right now are far from heavenly.“ This time his kiss was neither soft nor gentle. The arms that held her were almost bruising as he savaged her mouth.

For the space of a heartbeat she pulled back, caught by surprise. Then, as his lips claimed hers again, she sighed and leaned into him, giving herself up to the moment.

His lips moved over hers until she opened to him, urging him to take more. And he did, holding her so close, she could feel every beat of his heart inside her own chest. The taste of him, wild and just a bit dangerous, excited her. The press of that hard, muscled body to hers had her brain scrambling until she couldn’t seem to hold a single, coherent thought.

What would it be like to lie with him? To have those strong arms around her all night? To give in to the pleasure he offered, until they were both sated?

„Josh. Wait.“ Struggling for breath, she pushed free of his arms. „I’m… no good at this.“

He caught her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. „I’d say you’re very good.“

„I don’t mean kissing. It’s this… man-woman thing. Relationships. I’m just no good at it.“

He started to draw her close. „Then we’ll forget about relationships and just go back to kissing.“

She started to laugh, but it came out on a sigh. „Sorry. I really enjoy kissing you. But sooner or later it would lead to more. And that just never works for me.“

His eyes narrowed slightly. „Maybe you’ve just never tried it with the right one.“

„Maybe.“ She shrugged and backed away.

Picking up her jacket she slung her backpack over her arm and headed for the door.

„Where are you going?“

„Outside.“

„It’s cold and dark out there.“

„Yeah. That ought to help me cool off. And who knows? Maybe the spirit will make another appearance. If she does, this time I’ll be there to record her visit.“

On a sigh of frustration Josh stood in the middle of the room, staring at the closed door. Finally he poured himself a cup of coffee and dropped onto a chair, staring into the flames of the fire. Unfolding the army blanket, he wrapped it around himself and felt the warmth envelop him.

He’d experienced so many things in his adventures, but this was a first. There was the ghost, of course. But that didn’t even come close to what he’d just experienced in Grace’s arms.

In his entire life, he’d never been so affected by a woman. What he was experiencing had to be full-blown lust. It wasn’t possible to fall head-over-heels in love with someone he didn’t even know.

Love or lust, he’d give just about everything he had right now to satisfy this gut-wrenching need.

Six

Josh woke with a start and stared around.

A fire blazed on the grate. The wonderful fragrance of coffee permeated the little cabin. Grace was kneeling on the hearth, filling a mug.

Without a word he stood and made his way to her. Dropping to his knees he touched a hand to her cheek. „You all right?“

Her head came up with a snap. „I’m fine.“

„Yes, you are.“ His eyes were grave. „About last night…“

„No.“ She scrambled to her feet a little too quickly. „Nothing happened last night. I’m sorry I made such a fuss over a simple kiss.“

„Grace, we both know there was nothing simple about that kiss.“ Because she was determined to keep her distance, he tucked his hands into his pockets, to keep from reaching out to her.

„It doesn’t matter. It won’t happen again.“

He was watching her closely. „Want to bet? It will if I have anything to say about it.“

„Josh, I…“ At the barking of a dog, she turned to stare out the window.

A big yellow dog was heading toward the cabin, dancing along beside an old man.

„Who in the world…?“ Grace crossed the room and tore open the door. „Hello.“

The old man smiled and touched a hand to the dog’s head. At once the dog sat, tail mumping the ground in a steady rhythm. „I saw the smoke and realized that someone was staying in the old lodge.“

„Lodge?“

He stepped closer. He wore a heavy parka and a felt hat with an eagle feather tucked into the brim. His face was the texture of aged leather, with deep creases around his eyes and mouth. „Many years ago, when I was a boy, the lodge of my people stood on this very spot.“

Grace held the door wide. „Would you and your dog like to come in? I’ve made coffee.“

„Thank you.“ The old man stepped inside, and the dog followed.

Grace extended her hand. „My name is Grace Marin.“

The old man took her hand in his. „Grace. The name suits you.“ His eyes, dark as midnight, stared into hers. „Do you know what it means?“

„I’m afraid not.“

„It means ‘one who is blessed with beauty and grace.’“

From the way he was studying her, Grace had the strangest feeling that he could see clear into her soul. Flushing under his scrutiny, she turned away. „This is Josh Cramer.“

„Josh means ‘warrior on whom the spirits smile.’“ The stranger extended his hand, and Josh accepted his handshake. „Forgive an old man. I have always been fascinated with the meaning of names. I am Wyatt Eagle.“

Despite the man’s age, Josh could feel the power in his grasp. „And what does Wyatt mean?“

„ ‘Guide.’ And my dog is Barnaby.“

Josh ruffled the dog’s fur. „Does his name have meaning as well?“

Wyatt nodded. „His name means ‘consolation.’ He has brought me much comfort since we first met. He seems to have that effect on all who meet him.“

Josh knelt down and studied the dog’s sleek coat. „He looks healthy. Have you had him since he was a pup?“

„He belonged to a woman who spent her last days here at Spirit Lake. When she knew the end of her life was near, she asked me to keep him safe until I found him the perfect home.“

„I’d say you already have. He’s lucky to have you.“

„We are both fortunate.“ When Grace handed him a mug of steaming coffee, Wyatt gave her a smile. „Thank you.“

Grace indicated the sofa. „Why don’t you sit here by the fire? We were just thinking about some breakfast. Would you join us?“

„Thank you. I will.“ He sank down gratefully and sipped his coffee.

„So.“ Josh poured himself coffee and stood with his back to the fire. „You stay here all year round?“

The old man nodded. „I am surprised to find anyone else here. What brings you to Spirit Lake so late in the season?“

Grace poured water into a bowl and set it on the floor, watching as Barnaby began to drink. „Josh is here to film a journey through the wilderness for a television producer.“ She began breaking eggs into a bowl before stirring them. „And I work for a newsmagazine that wants me to photograph the light that dances across the lake.“ She paused before asking, „Have you ever seen it?“

„Not many have had that privilege. But in my youth some of the old ones in our village claimed to have seen her.“

„Her? You know for certain it’s a woman?“ The egg mixture was forgotten. Too excited to think about food, Grace sat beside him. „What can you tell me about her?“

Without a word Josh moved to the small kitchen counter to take up the chore that Grace had abandoned.

The old man turned to Grace, who was twitching with excitement. „What would you like to know?“

„For openers, who she is and why she’s here.“

The old man sipped his coffee before setting it aside. „Her name has been lost through the ages. She was accused by her husband, elderly chief of an ancient people, of lying with another man. She did not deny it, but said that the man was a warrior, who had left to fight the intruders on the border. Among the ancient people warriors were considered more worthy of esteem than even the chief, for without brave warriors to see to their safety, their small nation would surely disappear as so many others had before them. The council decreed that if the warrior claimed the woman upon his return, it would be his right, and the old chief must step aside for the good of the people. The chief had no choice but to agree, but he stipulated that, whatever the outcome, their young daughter would remain with him. Though the young wife wept bitter tears over the loss of her daughter, she was shut out of the chief’s lodge and sent away to await her warrior lover.“

As he crossed the room to place the egg mixture in a skillet over the fire, Josh glanced at Grace’s face. She was clearly as fascinated by this old man’s tale as he was. While he slowly heated the eggs and set bread on the grate to brown, he listened carefully to the old man’s voice.

„The woman had been married to the old chief when she was but ten and three years, and now she was confined to a cold, tiny shelter outside the circle of the others.“

Grace broke into his narrative. „She was only thirteen when they were married?“

The old man nodded. „The ancient ones married young, and often died young. And because he was chief, when his old wife joined the spirit world, he chose a young, strong maiden to see him through his old age. As you can imagine, this handsome young warrior, so brave, so full of passion and love and laughter, had brought spring into the young woman’s life. She could no more resist him than she could refuse to breathe. But the excitement she felt for him was overshadowed by the loss of the daughter she loved above all things.“

Josh filled three plates and carried them to the scarred coffee table, before pulling up a chair for himself. Besides the scrambled eggs, Josh had added fresh, pan-fried trout from the bucket of fish.

Wyatt Eagle studied the meal. „This is a rare treat. I have not tasted such as this for a very long time.“

„Then I’m glad we had some to share with you.“ Grace glanced over at Josh. „I’m so glad you finished what I started. This is really good.“

He winked at her, causing her heart to do an odd little dance. „Happy to oblige, ma’am.“

They both fell silent as they savored their meal, but it was obvious that Grace wanted to know more about the legend.

When at last Wyatt Eagle sat back, sipping strong black coffee, she could wait no longer. „Did the maiden’s warrior return?“

Wyatt watched as both she and Josh shared their food with Barnaby. The dog ate his fill, before stretching out in front of the fire. Only then did the old man return to his tale.

„One day, as the bleak winter days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, the woman heard voices raised in celebration. Racing from her shelter she hurried to the cluster of people, searching for the face of her warrior. One of the young braves stepped forward to tell her that her beloved had died in battle. Dropping to the ground, she buried her face in her hands and wept bitter tears. As the hours passed, she realized how desperate her situation had become. A lone female, without the protection of a warrior, couldn’t possibly survive in this harsh land. Swallowing her pride, she made her way to the chief’s shelter. When she entered, the voices of the others fell silent. The chief stood, pushing his little daughter behind him. From the corner of her father’s robe, the child peered at the mother who was now a stranger. The woman bowed before the chief and admitted the shame she had brought to him, asking him to find it in his heart to forgive her. She promised from that day forward to lie with him and cook for him, so that together they could raise up their child to take her proper place among their people. The chief’s face became as dark as a thundercloud, and his voice roared like that of the black bear as he told her that because she had shamed him, he would never take her back. If she wished to survive, she must uncover the warrior within herself. Then he turned her fate over to the council, who ordered her to be tossed into the frigid waters of the lake.“

Grace put a hand to her mouth. „In the dead of winter? What a cruel death.“

Wyatt nodded. „Not so cruel. The woman was prepared to pay the price of her infidelity. The people knew that the Great Spirits lived in their kingdom beneath the water. Even now, the woman’s warrior lover was dwelling there with them. Now would she go to him. When the tribal elders tossed her into the icy water, moonlight glinted off the waves, like a beacon. At once her body went numb with cold. Within minutes she could no longer feel her hands or feet. Her body sank below the water and she gave herself up to the fate awaiting her. Suddenly, with a great rush of sound, the lake came alive. Waves rose up taller than the trees that ringed the shore. Fish that had been sleeping in the deep awoke and swam in wild profusion around her.

Water that had been laced with ice floes was now as warm as if it had been heated over a fire. A mighty wave lifted the woman on its crest, sweeping her above the waves. Her body began to take on a new form, and the form became that of a beautiful but fierce warrior woman in flowing robes, her hair golden, skin luminous as freshwater pearls. It is said that even now she waits out there in the lake, hoping for a glimpse of the daughter she loved more than her own life. Thus was born the legend of the warrior woman of the lake, for there is no warrior more ferocious than a mother denied the love of her child. Like a she-bear, she will wait and watch and do whatever is necessary to reclaim the love that was lost.“

Grace’s tone grew hushed. „Do you think she was able to make peace with her child?“

He fixed her with a dark, knowing stare. „What do you think, Grace?“

She was silent for a long time. When at last she spoke, her voice was troubled. „I can’t imagine any daughter who would be so hard-hearted that she could ignore her own mother’s anguish and refuse to forgive a solitary mistake.“

„Even if that mistake caused great pain to the girl’s father?“

„I wonder. Was it pain that drove the chief to punish her? Or his wounded pride?“

The old man shrugged. „Perhaps a little of both.“

Josh asked the question that was uppermost in his mind. „You said few had seen her, except for some of the old ones. Why do you think the warrior woman has begun showing herself again after all these years?“

Wyatt Eagle turned to him. „That is indeed a mystery. Perhaps it is she. Or perhaps a kindred spirit who must find some resolution to the pain of this life, before entering the Great Beyond.“

Grace mused aloud, „Why have I never read of this legend in any of my research?“

Wyatt smiled. „Much of my people’s lore has never been recorded, but rather passed from father to son. It is, after all, an ancient tale, and there are none of my people left.“ He set aside his empty mug. „I thank you for that fine meal. And for your pleasant company. But now I must leave you.“

As he stood, Barnaby looked up from the fire. At a soft command, the dog trotted over to stand beside the old man and looked up into his eyes as though sharing his innermost thoughts.

Touching a hand to the dog’s head, Wyatt glanced from Grace to Josh. „It would seem that my companion feels at home here.“ He turned to Grace. „You remind me of the woman who left Barnaby in my care. She entrusted me with something else and told me I would recognize the one for whom it was meant.“ He reached into the pocket of his parka and handed Grace a manila envelope.

She stared at it, then up at him. „I don’t understand.“

„So much of life is a mystery.“ He bent forward and brushed a kiss on her cheek. „Good-bye, Grace Marin. I am honored that we met.“ He turned to Josh. „Barnaby loves the land. He would make a boon companion to one who enjoys exploring the wilderness.“

Josh chuckled. „I’m sure he would. But I travel alone.“

The old man opened the door and stepped outside, with the dog at his heels.

Grace and Josh stood in the doorway watching as Wyatt and Barnaby started toward the woods. Suddenly the wind picked up, yanking the door from Josh’s hands and slamming it shut.

„Getting colder,“ he muttered.

When he’d finally managed to shove open the door again, both man and dog were out of sight. Though Josh and Grace strained to see their figures moving in the woods, there was no sign of them.

„Odd. For an old man, he moves like lightning.“ Josh glanced at the envelope in Grace’s hand. „Going to open it?“

„Of course.“ But instead of tearing it open, she simply stared at it.

„You’re looking at it as though it’s some kind of magic bottle, and you’re afraid of the genie inside.“

„Maybe I am.“

He started out the door. „You can open that envelope, or just stare at it for the next hour. While you decide, I’m going to the shed and see if I can get that generator started.“

He sauntered away, leaving Grace alone in the cabin, her pulse racing, her throat as dry as dust.

Seven

Josh breezed into the cabin on a rush of cold air. Bracing a hip against the door, he closed and latched it before starting across the room toward the warmth of the fireplace.

He passed Grace, seated on die sofa, surrounded by a stack of letters and photographs.

„Getting cold out there. I didn’t realize just how cold until I stepped out of the shed and decided to wash up in the lake. I must be losing my touch. Even though I cleaned every single part, I couldn’t get that generator to…“ His words died in midsentence when he caught sight of Grace’s tear-streaked face. „Hey, I’m really sorry.“ His voice lowered. „I see you decided to free the genie. Is it something you can talk about?“

Before she could say a word, the tears started fresh.

„Here.“ He was beside her in an instant, his arms outstretched. „Let me help.“

Grace stiffened. It simply wasn’t her style to give in to any weakness, especially one involving something so private and painful. But his offer was too tempting. Right now, this minute, she was feeling so alone and so wounded. Where was the harm in allowing someone else to be strong for her, just for a little while? The moment the thought formed in her mind, it seemed the most natural thing in the world to accept the comfort he was offering.

On trembling legs she stood and nearly fell into his arms. „Oh, Josh.“

„Oh, baby, whatever it is, you’ll get through it.“ He gathered her close. Against her hair he whispered, „Hold on, Grace.“

The instant his strong arms closed around her, she felt a measure of peace and safety. Comfort. As though, simply by being held, she would, as he’d promised, get through this terrible pain that had shattered her poor heart.

The tears started again, and this time she allowed them to fall until there were none left.

At last she sniffed and lifted her head. „Sorry. I don’t usually blubber like a baby. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I had a good cry. Now I’ve got the front of your shirt all wet again. I seem to do that a lot.“

„I don’t mind.“ He lowered his head to smile down into her eyes. „It was wet anyway, after my dip in the lake. Feeling better?“

„Yeah. Thanks.“

„My pleasure.“ Despite his smile, there was a huskiness to his tone that had her heart speeding up. He made no move to release her. „You feel good here.“

She blinked the moisture from her lashes. „I was thinking the same thing.“

„Great minds.“ His gaze burned over her face before settling on her mouth. „If you’d like, we could try that again, only closer.“

Why wasn’t she drawing away now that her tears had run their course? What power did this man have that he could hold her with nothing more than an inviting look, a charming smile?

Her voice was a whisper. „If you don’t mind, I’d like that.“

„Mind?“ On a sigh he drew her close and tipped up her chin. She felt the heat of his kiss even before his lips found hers.

He kept the kiss as light as air. As soft as the brush of butterfly wings against her mouth.

When she didn’t draw back, he took the kiss deeper.

With a little hum of pleasure she breathed him in. He tasted so good. So right. As cool as the night. As fresh as the evening breeze. With just a tang of the mysterious.

Grace sighed and gave herself up to the moment. If she could, she would stay here, just this way, being held in these strong arms, kissed by this wonderful, clever mouth, all through the night. In some dark corner of her mind she knew that she was playing with fire, in order to hold back the rush of emotions that had left her bruised and battered.

When Josh lifted his head, he touched a hand to her cheek. Just a touch, but she could feel the genuine warmth of him and was moved by it.

Now that her tears had begun to dry, he sensed her need to take her grief a step further and talk about whatever it was that had caused her so much pain.

Catching her hand he dropped down beside her on the sofa. „Want to share?“

She lifted a handful of letters. „These belonged to my mother.“

„Your mother? She was the woman who gave them to Wyatt Eagle?“

She nodded. „All of them were written to me.“

„Why go to all this trouble and mystery? Why didn’t she just mail them?“

„She did.“ Grace pointed to the envelopes. „Apparently they were all returned to her unopened.“

„You never got any of them?“

„I never even knew about them. Or about my mother’s attempts to contact me.“ Grace took a deep breath. „There are things about me… about my past…“ She was silent for so long, Josh thought she might be having second thoughts about opening up to him. Suddenly the words just tumbled out. „My mother left when I was three. I don’t even remember her. After she left, I was raised by my father.“

„Any brothers or sisters?“

She shook her head. „Just me and my dad. We moved a lot. From small town to small town. To say my life was sheltered would be an exaggeration.“

He chuckled. „There’s nothing wrong with small towns or living a sheltered life.“

„I wasn’t just sheltered.“ She paused a moment, deep in thought, before going on. „Looking back, I realize that I lived in total isolation. I can’t recall a single childhood friend.“

„What about the kids at school?“

„I was homeschooled. My father was a poet. A very successful one. That made it possible for him to be home with me, seeing to my education without the benefit of tutors. By the time I was ready for college, he took a job teaching creative writing at the local university. At the time, I thought he did it to make the transition easier for me. Now I realize that he had other reasons, as well.“

„What reasons?“

She shrugged and avoided looking at Josh. „Now that I know how desperate my mother was to find me, I suspect he wanted to see to it that she didn’t succeed.“

„And you never searched for her?“

„I had no reason to. My father raised me to believe that she wanted no part of our lives.“

„Now that’s some kind of anger. Did you make friends in college?“

„I guess it was too late to change. By then I’d become so comfortable being alone, I found it hard to reach out to the other students. So I continued to be pretty much alone, except for my father. But when I couldn’t stand being smothered by his need to control me any longer, I chose a career that would take me as far away from him as possible. We had a terrible fight.“

„He’ll get over it. You have a right to your own life.“

„My father passed away while I was photographing the people of a small village in the Sahara. We were still estranged and never got a chance to make peace.“ She gave a dry laugh. „I’m not only as obstinate as my father, but as unforgiving.“

Josh closed a hand over hers. „You can’t stay locked in guilt, Grace. What happened in die past doesn’t have to affect your future.“

„But don’t you see? Whether I like it or not, the past has shaped me. Having read these letters, I realize that there was another half of my life. A piece of me had been missing, and I didn’t even know about it.“

He could feel her pain in every word and wished with all his heart that he knew how to ease it. „What do the letters say?“

Grace’s fingers traced the edge of an envelope. „They’re all the same. An outpouring of love from a woman whose heart is broken by the separation from her only child. In every letter my mother asks how I’m doing, and what sort of person I’ve become. And she begs me to forgive her for not being a part of her life.“

„Does she say why she chose to leave?“

Grace shook her head. „She gave little explanation, except to say that she’d met a man who had been her soul mate. When my father learned of it he told her she would never see her daughter again. In one letter she claims to have obtained court-mandated visitation rights, but by then we’d left the state, and for years her efforts to find us were thwarted.“

When she looked over at him, Josh could read in her eyes the shock that was beginning to set in. „It’s going to take some time for you to process all this information, Grace. You shouldn’t try to digest it all in one big gulp.“

She looked down. „I feel as if I’ve been.in some horrible train wreck that took the lives of both my parents. And somehow, I was the cause of it.“

„That’s not fair. You didn’t cause this, Grace. You were just a kid. Your parents were two consenting adults. Whatever they did to one another, it was their choice, not yours.“

„I know. But there’s more. I didn’t just spend my life missing my mother. I was all too happy to mirror my father’s hatred of her. I nurtured it. Embraced it. And now that I’ve learned the truth, it’s too late. In her last letter to me, my mother writes of her impending death. Now there’s no way to make things right between us. All because of my father’s bitterness, and my willingness, in fact my eagerness, to share it. That’s what makes this all so crushing. Not just knowing that my mother spent a lifetime trying to reconnect with me, but the fact that I swallowed my father’s story without question.“

„Don’t do this to yourself, Grace. Don’t let this new information make you angry and bitter.“

„I have a right to be bitter.“ Her tone was harsh, brittle. „Looking back, it seems I spent my entire childhood trying to be the kind of person I thought my mother incapable of being, in order to placate a father who reveled in his darkness. And he’d been playing with my emotions.“ Her voice was a cry of pain. „I’ve been regretting the choices I made that caused our separation, believing that he was the only one capable of loving me. And now I find I’ve been grieving the loss of an unforgiving man who did everything he could to make me into his own image. And for that unforgiving man, I conteYnplated taking my own life.“

Josh was staring at her with a puzzled look. „What do you mean by that?“

For a moment she fell silent. The only sound in the cabin was the hiss and snap of the logs on the fireplace.

Now that the words had been spoken, there was no way of taking them back.

Grace took a deep breath. „Just before your plane crashed, I was sitting on the end of the dock wondering what it would feel like to just slip into the water and let the lake take me.“

Her words sent Shockwaves through him. He treasured life so deeply. Lived his life every day to the fullest. Though many would accuse him of taking foolish, dangerous risks, he harbored no death wish, but only the desire to live in the moment.

He latched on to the only thing he could. „You didn’t follow through on your impulse.“

„I didn’t.“ For the longest time she sat quietly, staring at the clutter of letters and photos. „But who knows what I might have done if your plane hadn’t crashed at that very moment?“

„Then I’m grateful for my accident.“

She glanced over. „Do you believe it was an accident?“

He shrugged. „Do you have a better explanation?“

„I don’t know. I’m thinking about the legend, and the fact that the warrior woman’s story mirrors my mother’s so closely. Is it all a coincidence? Or is there something more here? How did Wyatt know I was here? What was he to my mother?“ She sighed and rubbed at her temples. „Oh, Josh. I’m so tired of thinking.“

He reached a hand to her shoulder and could feel the knots of tension. „Here. Let me help.“

Turning her slightly away, he brought both hands to the back of her neck and began kneading. With a sigh of contentment she leaned her head to one side, then the other, while he continued working the tightly-coiled muscles of her neck and shoulders.

She gave a deep sigh of pleasure. „Oh, that feels heavenly.“

„I’ve been told I have very talented hands.“

Beneath the warmth of humor in his tone was something darker, deeper. She experienced a quick rush of heat and decided to throw caution to the wind. She’d been alone too long. And what better way to forget, at least for a little while, the sudden, wrenching pain that had been thrust on her?

Her voice grew sultry. „Maybe you’d like to show me just how talented those hands are.“

For the space of a heartbeat he stilled his movements. She could feel the warmth of his breath on the back of her neck. Could sense the way he was watching her while weighing her words.

When he finally spoke his words were clipped. „That’s a very tempting invitation, and one that’s hard to resist. But you’re exhausted. And you’ve just suffered a shock to the mind and soul. What you really need is sleep.“

She turned toward him. „I don’t sleep well alone. Maybe if I had company…“

„Lie here and I’ll cover you.“ He lifted the army blanket from the back of the sofa and unfolded it.

His rejection was more shocking than a slap. „You want me to sleep alone?“

He winked. „Doctor’s orders.“

With a sigh of annoyance she turned away, but not before he saw the look of pain in her eyes.

Very deliberately he drew the cover over her, allowing his hands to linger a fraction. Then he stood and crossed to the fireplace, where he set another log in place.

Wiping his hands on his pants, Josh stared into the fire and watched as flames began to lick along the bark until it erupted into a blaze.

He turned to glance at the figure on the sofa. Grace’s eyes were already closed; her breathing slow and easy.

It hadn’t been easy to refuse what she was offering. But it had been necessary. He’d recognized her need and would have been only too happy to pleasure her and himself. But he’d also sensed her vulnerability. Right now she was too devastated to think clearly. Quick, mindless sex might be enough to hold the pain at bay through the night, but in the morning, her heart would still be broken, her soul still shattered.

The heart and soul of Grace Marin didn’t need a bandage. What they needed was a miracle. And though he was beginning to care deeply about this haunted, lonely woman, he was fresh out of miracles.

Eight

Josh stood at the end of the dock, staring at the sky. It seemed almost colorless, neither blue nor gray, a total absence of clouds, as though an artist had stopped painting before the picture could be completed. Though the sun wouldn’t set for hours, the horizon was already beginning to pale and blur into the surrounding forest.

He studied the lake for any sign of a dancing light, but all he could see under the leaden sky was dark water.

What secrets did it hide?

In some small corner of his mind, the question nagged. What was happening here? Had he really seen a ghost, or had he allowed his imagination to make a fool of him? And what about Marty and the crew in the second plane? What could possibly take them this long to bring help? What of his mysterious passenger? Why had she chosen his plane? Why was there no sign of her remains? And now Wyatt Eagle and those letters from Grace’s mother. There were too many events to be considered mere coincidence. There was something eerie going on here, and he couldn’t seem to unravel the mystery. Still, he had to admit that he didn’t feel threatened in any way. In fact, he’d never felt so peaceful. In this place, in this simple, almost primitive cabin, he had the strangest sense that he’d come home.

Hearing a sound behind him he turned to see the big yellow dog trotting along the dock. Josh looked beyond him, but there was no trace of Wyatt.

He knelt down and scratched behind the dog’s ears. „Hello, Barnaby. Where’s your master?“

The dog’s tail thumped against the wooden dock.

„Don’t tell me you ran away.“ Standing, Josh peered across the space separating the cabin from the forest, expecting at any moment to see the old man stepping into the clearing.

When Wyatt didn’t appear, Josh turned toward the cabin. „Okay. I guess you just went for a stroll through the woods. Come on. Let’s see what there is to eat. You hungry, boy?“

As if in understanding the dog bounded ahead and stood waiting until Josh opened the door. Once inside Barnaby trotted over to the sofa and began licking Grace’s hand.

She awoke slowly. When she spied the dog, she wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face in his neck. „Hello. You’re back.“ She sat up, shoving hair from her eyes. „I’m so glad, because I have so many questions…“

When she realized that Wyatt wasn’t there, her words trailed off.

She glanced at Josh. „I don’t understand. Why is Barnaby here without Wyatt?“

„My guess is that his dog just wanted a little adventure. I’m sure, after so much time in this forest, Wyatt doesn’t have any problem with Barnaby wandering off. He knows how to find his way home.“

She nodded. „I’m sure you’re right.“ She got to her feet. „I can’t believe I slept so soundly. I haven’t had this much sleep in a year.“ Seeing the way he was searching the cupboards she grinned. „Hungry? Again?“

„Yeah. But I thought I’d feed Barnaby first. I figure he must have worked up quite an appetite.“

„Why not give him the last of the fish, and then we’ll catch more for our supper.“

„Great idea.“ He heaped a bowl with the remains of their breakfast and set it on the floor.

At once the dog pounced on the food and devoured it. When he’d had his fill, Josh started toward the door. „Guess it’s time to drop our lines in the lake and see what we’ll catch for our own supper.“

„I’ll help.“ Grace pulled on a jacket and followed him.

When they stepped outside, the first thing they noticed was the change in temperature.

Josh grinned. „A few minutes ago, it was freezing out here. Now it’s positively balmy.“

„Another good thing about this place. If you don’t like the weather, stick around. It’s bound to change.“ Grace tossed aside her jacket and kicked off her boots before picking up one of the poles. For some unexplained reason, she felt as happy-go-lucky as a kid when school was out. It had to be that nap. She couldn’t recall the last time she’d felt this rested and relaxed. Whatever pain and humiliation she’d been feeling before was pushed aside. „Race you to the dock.“

Laughing, Josh hopped on one foot, then the other, disposing of his boots before snatching up the second pole and chasing after her. Barnaby joined in the fun, barking and running around them in circles. When they reached the end of the dock and cast their lines, the dog trotted up holding a stick in his mouth. He dropped it beside Josh.

„Oh, you want to play, do you?“ Josh picked up the stick and tossed it into the lake. At once Barnaby dove in and paddled furiously until he managed to retrieve the stick. Then he scrambled to shore, shook himself, and trotted the length of the dock to drop the stick beside Josh.

For nearly an hour they played the game. Each time, Josh would toss the stick as far as he could manage. Each time, Bamaby retrieved it and raced along the dock to play again. Finally, panting from his efforts, the dog lay beside Grace and began chewing on the stick.

Sweating, Josh tossed aside his shirt. „When I was a kid, I always wanted a dog like Barnaby. In my mind, I could see myself playing just that way.“

Trying not to stare at the ripple of muscle that sculpted his arms and shoulders, Grace nodded toward the bucket of water, where several fish were swimming. „At least one of us managed to bring home the bacon, or at least the fish, while you two were having all that fun.“

„Barnaby and I are in your debt. Now about all that work you’ve been doing…“ Without warning Josh scooped her up and strode to the very end of the dock. „What do you think, Barnaby? Should we let our lady have a turn at all that fun?“

In reply the dog’s tail thumped a steady tattoo on the dock.

Wriggling and kicking, Grace let out a shriek. „Don’t you dare.“

„Did I hear the word dare?“ Josh gave an imitation of an evil laugh. „Woman, never dare Fearless Josh Cramer. It’s the one thing I simply can’t resist.“

„Josh. These are the only clothes I have.“

„Hmm. Another reason to toss you in the lake. I have an idea you’d look cute in nothing but your birthday suit.“

„Josh, I’m warning you. Put me down.“

„Yes, ma’am.“ With another laugh he did just that, and watched as Grace landed in the water with a grand and glorious splash.

She came up sputtering, wiping hair from her eyes. „I can’t believe you did that.“

Josh was laughing so hard he could barely speak. „Just following orders, ma’am. You did tell me to put you down.“

While he was distracted laughing Grace reached out and snagged his ankle. Before he realized what she was planning, she gave a fierce tug and he landed in the water almost on top of her.

His hand snaked out to reach for her, but she managed to evade him and ducked under the water. He followed, and this time, when he surfaced, he had hold of her.

She felt the heat where his hands were touching her.

„You’re very quick, Ms. Marin.“ He arched one brow like a villain. „But not quite quick enough. Now, how will I make you atone for that crime you just committed?“

She couldn’t help laughing as she batted her eyelashes and gave him a demure smile. „It’s my nature to share. I figured it wouldn’t be fair of me to hog all this warm water for myself.“

He was grinning. „Sorry, kid. You’ll never make it on the stage.“

„And I thought I was such a good actress.“ She sighed and wiggled her toes. „This water really is warm. I expected to come up shivering when you tossed me. But it’s as warm as a bath.“

„Now that you mention it…“ He drew her fractionally closer. „And here I was hoping you’d need me to warm you.“

She was laughing, her face turned up to his. „Sorry to thwart your plans.“

„Not a problem. I’m very good at changing tactics in midstream.“ He pressed his lips to the corner of her mouth and nibbled a droplet of water.

She sucked in a quick breath. „Oh, yes. That was a very good change of tactic.“

„Thanks. But it was clumsy. Give me a second chance. I can do better.“ He dipped his head and covered her mouth fully with his.

Grace gave herself up to the pure pleasure of the moment. It was the most delicious feeling to be held suspended in the water by those strong arms while that clever mouth moved over hers, weaving its magic. Slivers of fire and ice curled along her spine. With every touch of his lips, she could feel her body growing soft and pliant against his.

„Umm. That’s much better.“ She wrapped her arms around his waist and held on as he took the kiss deeper.

They stayed locked together, mouths mating, breath mingling, until the world around mem seemed to fade away. When at last they came up for air, their hearts were racing.

„Grace.“ The way Josh spoke her name on a fervent whisper had her going still. „We both know a kiss isn’t enough this time.“

„I know.“ Her throat felt too tight.

„You know what I want.“ He tipped up her chin to stare down into her eyes. „But I need to know if it’s what you want, too.“

While he waited for her answer, he felt his heart stop. She’d become a hunger. A need that could no longer be ignored.

„I want the same thing you want, Josh.“ She touched her mouth to his in the softest of butterfly kisses.

His movements stilled. With his hands framing her face, he studied her. His voice, when he finally spoke, was gruff. „You’re sure?“

She was afraid to speak over the lump in her throat, so she merely nodded before leaning into him and offering her mouth.

She could feel him fighting to keep the kiss soft as his lips claimed hers, alternately draining her, then filling her, until all she could taste was him. She was so caught up in the kiss, she wasn’t even aware that he’d begun moving toward shore. When they reached the shallows he lifted her easily in his arms and strode toward the cabin.

Her heart was pounding so loudly in her chest, she wondered that he couldn’t hear it. But when she wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her mouth to his throat, she heard his quick intake of breath and knew that he was as caught up in the moment as she was.

He paused to kick in the door, then strode across the room and set her on her feet. Water sheeted from their bodies, forming puddles on the floor. Neither of them took any notice.

His hands were greedy as he fumbled with the buttons of her wet shirt, nearly shredding it in his haste to remove it. Beneath it was nude lace, clinging to her like a second skin. He disposed of it just as quickly, revealing a body so perfect it had him sucking in a breath.

„You’re beautiful, Grace.“

Seeing the desire in his eyes, hearing the husky quality of his voice, had her experiencing the familiar trickle of fear. Fear of what they were about to share. Not because she feared the act itself, but because the feelings she had for this man were too strong, too intense. He was the one she’d been waiting a lifetime to find. For that reason, she knew she was leaving herself open to heartbreak. If he didn’t share these feelings, she would have only herself to blame.

His hands stilled. „Having second thoughts?“

She lifted her chin like a prizefighter. „Of course not.“

He merely grinned. „I told you, Grace, you’re not a very good actress. And a really lousy liar.“

„I’m not afraid.“ But her voice wavered as he lowered his mouth to her breast.

Heat poured between them and she wondered that her trembling legs could still hold her. To anchor herself she wrapped her arms around his waist as his clever mouth slowly drove her closer and closer to the edge of madness.

Desperate to touch him as he was touching her, she reached blindly for the fasteners at his waist and tugged at his wet denims until they joined hers at their feet. As her hands moved over him, she was rewarded by his low hum of pleasure.

He’d been content to move slowly, to taste and touch and explore. But now, with her hands on him, the need was so sharp, there was no way of slowing the passion that was raging. Though he fought to bank the flame of desire, he could feel it burning out of control.

He cupped her hips and dragged her roughly against him, all the while lingering over her mouth. With lips and teeth and tongue he took her on a wild ride. One minute she was holding on tightly, the next she felt herself stepping over the edge of a high, sheer cliff and falling, until the next touch had her soaring.

„Afraid now?“ The word was whispered inside her mouth.

„Should I be?“ She spoke the words on a shudder of pleasure.

„I’ll never hurt you, Grace.“

„I know.“ But she knew, in some small corner of her mind, that he was the only man who could. When she left this place, she would be leaving her heart with him.

While he explored the wonders of her mouth, she drank him in. Dark. Exciting. When he dipped his mouth lower, to the sensitive hollow of her throat, she arched her neck and actually purred with pleasure. Encouraged, he pressed soft, feathery kisses along her shoulder, over her collarbone. When he dipped his mouth lower, to take her breast, she felt her legs buckle.

At once his arms were there to catch her. He lowered her to the rug in front of the fireplace. His mouth covered hers in a kiss so hot, so fierce, it had her breath backing up in her throat. There was an urgency now that had their hearts racing, their lungs straining.

„Come with me, Grace. Let me show you places you’ve never seen.“

He found her, hot and moist, and took her to the first glorious peak. Stunned, she could only clutch at him as he gave her no time to recover before taking her up and over again. Her trembling body hummed with needs she hadn’t even known she’d possessed.

„Josh.“ She struggled to see him through the haze of passion that clouded her vision. All she could see were his eyes, so fierce, fixed on hers with an intensity that had her heart stuttering.

There was no hesitation now, only a wild exhilaration at this passion they were sharing.

She lifted a hand to his mouth and traced the shape of his lips. „Show me, Josh. Take me with you.“

„We’ll take each other.“

They came together in a kiss that spoke of all the loneliness, all the hunger, all the need. Their lives beyond this cabin no longer mattered. The world had slipped away. Outside a night bird cried, and its mate answered. Neither of them heard. The steady sound of waves slapping the shore matched the beating of two hearts. Their breathing grew shallow, and the air between them grew heated, until their bodies were slick with sweat.

As he entered her, she wrapped herself around him, taking him deep.

They came together in a firestorm of passion and began to climb, to soar. They were beyond thought, beyond words, beyond anything of this world as they felt themselves reach the very summit. For an instant they hovered there, staring into one another’s eyes. In the next moment they felt themselves slipping over the edge, and flying among the stars.

It was the most amazing journey of their lives.

„You okay?“ Too dazed to move, Josh whispered the words against her temple.

„I’m…“ She couldn’t speak over the lump in her throat. Instead, she merely brushed a finger across his lips until they curved into a smile.

„That was…“ He gave a shake of his head. Words couldn’t describe what he was feeling. So alive. As though everything he’d achieved until now was a mere rehearsal for this moment. As though everything that would come after would seem dull by comparison. „That was incredible.“

He leaned up on his elbows to stare into her eyes. „You’re incredible, Grace.“

She managed a smile. „You’re not bad yourself.“

He rolled to one side and drew her into the circle of his arms, nibbling her ear. „That was definitely worth waiting for.“

„I was thinking the same thing.“ She shivered at the delicious curls of pleasure spiraling through her.

He brushed her mouth with his. „Want me to get up and cook the fish?“

„Not especially. Are you hungry?“

He gave an impish grin. „I was. But a very beautiful woman just fed my hunger.“

„Happy to oblige, stranger.“

„Now I know what it means to live on love. Who needs food?“

„I’ll remind you about this in the morning, when there’s nothing to eat but those fish swimming around in a bucket.“

They were both laughing. But moments later their laughter died as they came together in a long, slow kiss.

Inside her mouth he whispered, „Want to go for seconds?“

„Umm.“ It was all the invitation she needed. She wrapped herself around him.

With soft sighs and languid kisses they took each other once more to that place that only lovers know.

Nine

Josh pressed kisses over Grace’s eyelids. „Think Barnaby gave up on us and went back home?“

They’d lost track of the time, but earlier he’d carried her to the sofa, where they now lay in a tangle of arms and legs, with only the army blanket for cover.

Grace sighed, too content to move. „I hope so. It must be dark by now.“

Josh lifted his head to gaze at the window. „Not quite. The sun is just sinking. Want to go watch the sunset?“

She nodded, and he helped her up before slipping into his denims, drying in front of the fire.

Grace ignored her own clothes and merely wrapped the blanket around her shoulders for cover.

Hand in hand they walked outside. At once Barnaby came trotting over, looking happy to see them.

„Oh, look at you. You’ve been swimming in the lake.“ Grace paused to scratch behind the dog’s ears. She was rewarded with a few quick licks of his tongue.

„And look at this.“ Josh pointed toward the trees that ringed the lake. The countryside was alive with the most amazing palette. Deep red maples and bright yellow cot-tonwoods. Flaming orange oaks and gold willows, and purple sumac so rich they looked like velvet.

As they made meir way along the dock, they lifted their heads to the sky, painted with waving ribbons of pink and mauve and purple. To the west, the sun was a fiery globe just beginning to sink below the waves. The placid water was no longer dark, but like a looking glass, alive with a reflection of all the magnificent autumn colors.

Grace turned to Josh with a puzzled expression. „Is it possible that this was here all along, and I never noticed?“

Josh’s voice was hushed. „If it was, I was as blind to it as you. But then, ever since I had my first glimpse of you, I’ve been blind to everything else.“ He brushed a kiss to her cheek. „Maybe it takes the two of us, looking through the rosy glow of love, to see what’s really here.“

His words had her going very still. Was that it? Had love cast some sort of spell over everything around them?

They stood together on the end of the dock, watching the spectacular sunset. For the longest time after the sun disappeared, leaving a sky washed with unbelievable color, they remained there, arms around each other, savoring the beauty of the moment. Neither of mem seemed willing to break the spell.

It was the dog’s barking that finally roused them. Barn-aby brushed past them and raced to the door of the cabin, where he stood waiting for them to catch up.

Josh gave a laugh. „I’d say that’s a very broad hint mat one of us is hungry.“

They were still laughing as they opened the door. Barn-aby was the first one inside. He moved about the room, sniffing, pausing, then standing patiently by the fire, watching as Josh tossed a log on the hot coals. Within minutes a cozy fire was burning.

„Make yourself at home.“ Josh knelt to run a hand along the dog’s coat before walking across the room. He picked up a knife and began to fillet the fish.

„Let’s see what I can find to go with that.“ Grace began rummaging through the cupboard.

Josh winked. „We could always eat a salad made of weeds, as you called them.“

„Very tasty weeds, by the way. Or we could drink this.“ Grace held up a dusty bottle of pale amber wine.

„Good thing it’s white wine.“ At her arched brow, Josh added dryly, „I figured a city girl like you would realize that red wine just doesn’t go with fish.“

„Well then, the one who left this here had very good taste.“ While Josh set the fish over the fire, Grace washed out two old, elegant stem glasses that had been hidden in the back of the cupboard. When they were sparkling, she filled them with wine and crossed the room to hand one to Josh.

He touched his glass to hers. „What will we drink to?“

Grace thought a moment before saying softly, „To strangers meeting in the most unlikely places.“

„And to lucky plane crashes.“ Josh’s gaze locked on hers as he sipped.

When the fish was perfectly browned, Josh divided it into three portions. While he and Grace settled themselves at the scarred old coffee table, Barnaby noisily polished off his food in several quick bites before flopping down in front of the fire.

Josh nodded toward the dog. „Looks like he’s ready to stay the night.“

Grace chuckled. „I was thinking the same thing. I hope Wyatt won’t mind.“

„We’ll take him back first thing in the morning.“ He continued to study the dog before turning to Grace with a strange look.

She placed a hand over his. „What were you just thinking?“

„How right everything is. Us. This cabin. A cozy fire. Even a dog. This is the exact homecoming I’ve been picturing in my mind for years. It’s been my secret wish.“

His words had Grace’s eyes widening. „Now that you mention it, that’s true for me, too. Except that in my secret wish, along with love I’d find my mother.“

„You have.“ He motioned toward the packet of letters. „In a manner of speaking.“

She sighed. „I hadn’t thought of it that way, but you’re right. I guess I’ll have to be satisfied with her letters to tell me what she was like, until I can ask Wyatt for more information. And at least now I know what she looked like.“

Josh seemed startled. „You didn’t know what your own mother looked like?“

Grace shook her head. „My father was so furious when she left, he tore every picture of her from his albums. There were no photos of my mother holding me or feeding me. My father destroyed all of them. He even tore their wedding picture in two. All I ever saw was my famer in a tuxedo, gazing solemnly at an empty space beside him.“

„Now that’s what I call bitter.“ Josh rounded the table and drew her close to press kisses to her eyes, her cheeks, the tip of her nose. Against her mouth he whispered, „That’s a lot of pain to carry around for a lifetime. I wish I could do something to erase it.“

„You have, Josh. Just being here with you has brought me so much peace.“ She wrapped her arms around his neck.

He trailed nibbling kisses along her jaw until he heard her sigh. It pleased him to pleasure her. He loved the expressive look on her face, as the shadows in her eyes lifted and her little frown turned into the languid look of a lover. Her eyes were open, and focused on him. Only him. It was as erotic as anything he could have imagined. Far more exciting than the thrill of adventure. And so much more rewarding than hearing the cheers from his adoring fans. With Grace this adventure had become deeply personal and intimate. There was something about this quiet woman that touched his very soul.

Forcing aside the need to take her quickly, he ran soft, feathery kisses across her shoulder, down her throat, burying his lips in the sensitive little hollow. When he moved lower still, her sigh became a moan. Still, he kept his touch light, his kisses soft as butterfly wings, as he ever-so-slowly took her.

„What’s this?“ Grace sat up, shoving hair out of her eyes.

„Nourishment. After the amount of energy we’ve consumed, I thought we needed sustenance.“

„Very thoughtful of you.“ She eyed the sandwich, cut into quarters. „Peanut butter and jelly?“

„And the last of the wine. Can’t have P, B, and J without wine.“

„Of course not.“ She laughed. „Makes perfect sense to me.“

„I’ve been waiting a lifetime to hear a woman say that. Now I know we’re compatible. Will you marry me?“ He settled himself beside her on the sofa, completely unconcerned about his nakedness.

„Only if you promise to make me this for a midnight snack at least once a month for the rest of my life.“ She bit into the sandwich and made little humming sounds as she devoured it.

„That will depend on just how you plan to express your… gratitude for this extravagance.“

„I intend to be… extremely grateful.“

„I love it when you purr like that.“ He set down his glass of wine and leaned over for a quick kiss. „I wasn’t joking when I asked if you’d marry me.“

She pulled away and sucked in a breath. „Josh…“

„I know. You told me you’re no good at relationships. Neither am I. But it’s different with us, Grace. There’s something special here that I don’t want to lose.“

„I feel it, too. But…“ The question she was about to ask died abruptly on her lips when she saw the fierce look in his eyes. „Oh, hold me, Josh.“

Suddenly the midnight snack was forgotten as they took each other with all the force of a hurricane.

Grace’s head was pillowed on Josh’s chest. She awoke to the strong, steady beat of his heart and thought it the most wonderful music in the world. When she opened her eyes, she found him watching her with a look of such intensity, it had her breath hitching in her throat.

„Good morning.“

He brushed a hand over her cheek. „Morning, sleepyhead.“

She actually felt herself blushing. „Have you been watching me sleep?“

„Yeah. Did you know that you wiggle your nose while you’re sleeping?“

„I do not.“ She started to sit up but his arm was around her, holding her close.

„I know what I saw. Don’t worry. You looked sweet while you were doing it. And I promise to tell no one. It’ll be our little secret.“ He kissed the tip of her nose. „In fact, I consider it a real turn-on.“

„After the night we’ve put in, you probably consider breathing a turn-on.“

„Depends on who’s doing the breathing.“ There was mat grin again, sending her heart into a series of somersaults. „There’s a fantastic sunrise outside our window. Want to walk to the dock and watch it?“

Even before she could respond, Barnaby walked to the door and stood waiting.

„Is he a mind reader?“ Josh held out his hand and helped Grace to her feet.

Within minutes they’d dressed and were padding barefoot along the dock, with Barnaby racing ahead.

„Oh, look at that.“ Grace pointed to the bright orange ball of sun on the horizon that seemed to be rising directly out of the lake.

„I wonder what the ancient people thought of that?“ Josh kept her hand tucked firmly in his.

„It would be easy to believe the sun slept in me lake after dark.“

He nodded. „Along with the spirits.“

Her head swiveled to study him closely. „Does this mean you’ve decided not to believe Wyatt Eagle’s tale?“

He shrugged. „I’m sure he believes it. But now that I’ve had some time to think it through, I’m not so sure.“

„What about the ghost you saw?“

He grinned. „Ghost? You mean that wisp of fog that blew in and spooked me?“

„Do you honestly believe it was fog?“

„I don’t know what I believe anymore. Not that it matters.“

„It matters to me. What about my photo shoot of the dancing light?“

„You came here hoping to find something mystical. I think what we’ve found together is mystical enough. No harm in getting some shots of starlight on the water though. Now that the countryside is alive with color, at least you’ll have some breathtaking pictures.“

While Grace mulled his words, they stood watching until the sun had completely risen above the water. Then, almost reluctantly they turned toward the cabin.

„Time to return Bamaby to his owner.“ Josh pointed toward their jackets. „We’d better bring those along, just in case there’s another sudden change in the weather.“

„Good idea.“ Grace picked up her jacket and followed him out the door.

Once outside, the big yellow dog trotted eagerly ahead of them, leading the way along a well-worn path through the forest.

They traveled for more than a mile before spotting a rustic cabin up ahead, almost hidden under a canopy of lush forest.

„There it is.“ Grace pointed, and they hurried to catch up with the dog, bounding ahead of them.

Josh caught her hand and helped her over a fallen log. „Looks like Barnaby is aware that he’s almost home.“

As they stepped into a clearing, they stared in surprise. Instead of the snug retreat they’d been expecting to see, this cabin looked deserted. The door was hanging by one rusted hinge. As they climbed the steps, Josh held up a hand.

„Watch out, or you could fall through that hole in the wood.“

Stepping gingerly around the crumbling step, Grace trailed him inside, only to stare around in dismay. The interior was even worse than what they’d already seen. Cobwebs hung from rotting beams. The sparse furnishings appeared to have been chewed by creatures from the wild; the stuffing tossed about, the cushions of an ancient mattress damp and moldy from the elements.

„This can’t belong to Wyatt.“ Grace couldn’t control a shudder.

When the dog trotted out the open back door, they followed, then stopped in midstride at the sight of a grave marker.

Josh knelt to read the inscription before looking up at Grace. „It has Wyatt’s name. But the date is all wrong. According to this, he’s been dead for years.“

Grace dropped down beside him to trace the name and date that had been carved into the marker. The color drained from her face. „What’s going on here, Josh?“

His eyes narrowed. „That’s what I’d like to know. If someone’s trying to play a trick on us, they’ve got a really warped sense of humor.“

„The grave certainly looks old.“ Grace studied the earth, overgrown with vegetation. „I don’t think anybody could fake the condition of that cabin.“

Josh looked around, then got to his feet and helped her to stand. Drawing an arm protectively around her shoulders, he whistled to the dog.

She looked alarmed. „Where are we going?“

„Back to our cabin. Whatever’s going on here, I’d feel a lot safer in familiar surroundings.“

They started back along the path toward their own cabin, with Barnaby happily running ahead. Once there the dog flopped down in front of the fireplace and was soon dozing.

For the first time since his arrival, Josh made certain that the cabin door was secured before tossing a log on the fire. Seeing it, Grace was grateful that she wasn’t alone.

She touched a hand to his. „The supply plane will be here in a couple of days.“

He looked at their joined hands, then up into her eyes. „We’re not waiting for the supply plane. First thing in the morning, we’re leaving.“

„How?“

„The way I’d planned to leave in the first place. We’ll hike out. That is, if you’re willing to trust me to lead us both to safety.“

She lifted a hand to his cheek. „I trust you completely, Josh.“

He drew her close and pressed a kiss to her temple. „Whatever’s going on here, we’ll get through it together.“

„Together.“ She drew a little away and smiled. „I can’t think of a nicer word than that.“

„Neither can I.“ He gathered her close and covered her mouth with his. „Come to think of it, it’s a word neither of us has ever been able to say before. Together.“ He spoke the word inside her mouth as he took the kiss deeper.

And then there was no time for words as they came together to offer comfort in the only way they could.

Ten

„Listen to this.“ Darkness had settled over the land, but inside the cabin, with a cozy fire burning, Josh and Grace sipped coffee while she shared with him some words from one of her mother’s letters. „My darling Grace, one of my greatest fears is that, without a mother’s love, you will spend a lifetime just passing through…“

She sucked in a breath. „It’s what I’ve been doing, Josh. Don’t you see? All this time, I’ve just been passing through.“ She lowered her head and continued reading: „… instead of living your life to the fullest. Remember this, my darling. Each moment should be savored, for each moment we’re on this earth is a treasure. And the richest treasure of all is having someone to share the moments.“

„A wise woman, your mother.“ Josh topped off Grace’s cup and his own, before settling on the sofa beside her.

Grace reached into the manila envelope and withdrew a stack of photos. „It’s such a thrill to finally be able to see what my mother looked like.“

As she sorted through them, Josh had quick glimpses of baby Grace in a young woman’s arms, of a laughing baby in a bathing suit at the beach, of a happy baby clapping her hands and reaching out for the string of a balloon.

Finally Grace came to the one she’d been looking for. „This is my favorite. The one in my father’s album had been torn in half. Always, I’d only been able to see him looking at an empty space. But now I can understand the intense look on his face. Isn’t she beautiful?“

Josh stared at the photograph of the gorgeous golden-haired woman in a fairy-tale wedding gown, standing beside a stern-looking man in a morning coat and tails. But it wasn’t the scene that captured his interest; it was the woman.

„This is your mother?“

At the sharp edge of his tone, Grace glanced over. „What’s wrong?“

He tapped a finger on the photo. „That’s my passenger.“

She couldn’t seem to absorb his meaning. „I don’t understand.“

„That’s the woman who mysteriously showed up just before my plane went down.“

„You mean she resembles the woman in this photo.“

„I know what I saw, Grace.“ He snatched the photograph from her hand to study it more carefully. „It doesn’t just look like her. It was this woman. This hair. Even this dress. She was all in white. Dazzling as the sun.“

Grace was instantly on her feet, backing away from him. „Why are you saying this?“

„Do you think I’m making it up? I’d never do that. I’m telling you that my passenger was this woman.“

Though Grace tried to reject it, her heart knew. She felt it give a sudden hard bounce as her eyes filled with tears. „Did she say anything?“

He struggled to recall the words. „She said don’t worry, Josh. I won’t let anything bad happen to you.“

„You said you’d never seen her before. How did she know your name?“

He shook his head. „I figured she was a groupie, hoping to get her fifteen minutes of fame by stowing aboard a celebrity’s plane.“ His voice lowered. „I never dreamed…“ His voice took on a more practical tone as he began to wrap his mind around the reality of it all. „Now we know why her remains were never found.“

„I don’t under…“

„She was already dead, Grace. Like Wyatt. And for some reason, they both made themselves known to us.“

Grace turned away and buried her face in her hands. „None of this makes any sense.“

He went to her and gathered her close. „I know what you’re thinking. I’m thinking it, too. But we’re not crazy, Grace. And it’s not some sort of contagious mass hysteria. We’re sane, sensible people. But we both know what we saw and heard. Wyatt was here. We both saw him and listened to his tale.“

„But why? What possible reason could he have for… coming back?“

„I don’t know. Maybe to explain about the legend of the lake.“ Josh began to pace. He turned suddenly. „Didn’t Wyatt say his name meant ‘guide’? Was he guiding us toward something?“

Grace sighed. „I have to admit that hearing about the legend gave me insight into what my mother and father may have gone through. But what about Barnaby?“ She glanced over at the dog, whose head came up at the very mention of his name. „How do you explain him?“

„I can’t. Maybe he’s been surviving alone in these woods and needed a home.“

Grace mulled that. „Wyatt said that Barnaby loved the forest and that he’d make a fine companion.“

„And he seemed pleased when we both took to the dog.“ Josh knelt and Barnaby hurried over to lick his hand. In a softer tone he added, „He’s the very dog I wanted as a kid. Right down to his color. Maybe that has something to do with his being here.“

„All right. So we found some things we’ve both been searching for. You’ve got your dog, and I’ve got my mother, but that still doesn’t explain…“

He stood and framed her face with his hands. „You’re forgetting about the most important thing we both found.“ He leaned close. „Love. I love you, Grace. You’re exactly what I’ve wanted in my life. The part that’s been missing all these years.“

At his words, she blinked back the tears that threatened. „I love you, too, Josh. I don’t know how it happened. I certainly never expected anything like this, but here it is.“

„Here it is.“ He lowered his mouth to hers. „So what are we going to do about it?“

„We could hide out here for the rest of our lives.“

He nibbled her lower lip. „It’s tempting. We could shut out the world and create our own little paradise.“

Bamaby suddenly raced to the door and began barking.

Grace and Josh stepped apart. With his finger to his lips he shoved her behind him and picked up the fish knife before opening the door.

Barnaby rushed out and began racing along the dock, barking furiously.

When Josh stepped outside, Grace hurried to catch up. „Whatever is out here, you’re not facing it alone. We’re together now, remember?“

„I don’t want you hurt, Grace.“

„I’m not going back inside without you.“ She took hold of his hand.

When they reached the end of the dock, they paused beside Barnaby. The dog had gone eerily silent and was staring at the lake.

And then they saw the light, dancing across the dark waters, heading directly toward them.

Grace’s hand tightened on Josh’s as the light began to shimmer and glow, before it assumed the figure of a woman. As she drew closer, they could see her gown, dazzling white, and her hair, a glorious cascade of red-gold curls.

„Oh, I have waited so long for you. So long.“ Her musical voice was as clear as a bell. „I could not take my rest until I fulfilled my heart’s desire to see you happy.“

„Mother?“ Grace said the word haltingly and wondered why it sounded so right. So perfect. It was the first time she’d ever said it aloud. She took a deep breath and said it again. „Mother.“

The woman smiled. „I have waited a lifetime to hear my daughter say that word. It is the sweetest sound ever created.“

„How long have you been… gone?“ Grace couldn’t bring herself to speak of death.

„In the world it would be a year or more. It is a mere moment in this place, where time is of no consequence. My love for you burns brighter than the sun, Grace. Far too bright to be dimmed even by death.“

Grace was so moved by those words, she couldn’t find her voice. She stood, tears streaming down her cheeks, drinking in the vision that was her beloved mother.

Beside her, Josh draped an arm around Grace’s shoulder to offer his strength. „How does Wyatt Eagle fit into this?“

„Wyatt is my guide to the Great Beyond. It was he who taught me that great love can wield great power.“

„And so you went through all this elaborate scheme“ – Grace’s hand swung to include Josh and the dog at their feet – „just to make me happy?“

„Your happiness has been my greatest concern. It was necessary for you to know how deeply you are loved, Grace. Without that knowledge, you would be incapable of fully giving love.“

„But why Josh? How did he happen to get caught up in this?“

The woman turned to Josh. „Your father was… dear to my heart.“

Grace turned to Josh, and knew, by the stunned look on his face, that his thoughts mirrored her own. His father had been a warrior who had given his life in battle.

„He was here once, wasn’t he? That’s his army blanket I found in the shed.“

The woman nodded. „He and I were here together once, in that long ago time. And then, all too soon, he was gone.“

„Why can’t I see him? Why isn’t he here, too?“ Josh’s voice rose in anguish.

„As much as he wanted to show himself to you, he ceded his power to me. My need was greater, because my daughter never knew me. You know your father, Josh. So well, in fact, that you have striven to emulate him all the days of your life. And he remains with you forever.“

Her smile grew radiant. „He and I hoped, by bringing the two of you together in an idyllic setting, you would open yourselves to the love that is possible. Now mat you have found it, the rest is up to you. But remember this. Love so easily found in paradise can be lost or squandered when the realities of the world intrude. Only the two of you can decide the final outcome.“

Before the last word was spoken, the woman’s image began to shimmer and fade.

„Wait. There’s so much more I need to know.“ Grace reached out a hand, but like wisps of fog, the image dissipated and began drifting back across the dark waves until it was nothing more than a distant light.

As they continued to watch, the light flickered, then faded as it disappeared beneath the waves.

Before they could say a word they heard the sound of a plane coming in hard and fast.

The sky lightened, and they were startled to see the sun hanging low on the horizon. It was no longer nighttime, but late afternoon.

Grace was the first to speak. „That isn’t my supply plane.“

Josh stared in astonishment. „It’s one of ours. The one that’s been missing for days.“

The plane made a perfect landing on the water and rolled up to the dock. As soon as the door opened, Josh strode forward.

Marty was the first to step out, followed by the pilot, Brady Stewart, with the rest of the crew spilling out behind him.

„Where’ve you been?“ Josh strode forward to meet them.

„Following you, buddy boy.“ Marty removed his sunglasses and pointed. „Didn’t you hear us applauding you? That was a hell of a fine landing.“

„Landing?“ Josh stared beyond the plane to see his own, bobbing in the water, tethered neatly to a buoy just offshore.

For the space of a heartbeat he couldn’t find his voice. When at last he spoke, his tone was incredulous. „Are you saying I just came down?“

Marty glanced at his watch. „Not five minutes ago.“

Josh looked at his own wrist and realized that his watch was now working perfectly. It read four-ten.

Grace stifled a cry and turned away, running blindly, with Barnaby following.

Brady Stewart chuckled. „Your agent warned us you’d manage to find some gorgeous model even in the wilderness. How’d you smuggle her in here?“

„We’ll talk later.“ While the rest of the crew milled about, setting up camera equipment, Josh made a dash toward the cabin. When he stepped inside he saw the dog lying by the fire.

Grace was pacing the room. She looked up as he entered, and he saw the tears before she flew into his arms. Her words were muffled against his chest. „I was afraid I’d only imagined you as well.“

„Yeah. I had the same fear.“ He ran a hand over her hair, down her back, as though to reassure himself that she was indeed real.

„What happened to us, Josh? Was all of this a dream?“

He gave a quick shake of his head. „We’ll need some time to figure it all out. But this much I know. It was no dream. Barnaby is real. So are those letters and pictures of your mother.“ He took her mouth in a hot, fierce kiss. „And so is this.“

She returned his kiss with one of her own. On a sigh she stepped back. „But what do we do about it?“

He shrugged. „You heard your mother. Now we deal with our feelings in the real world.“

„But how can our love possibly survive? Our careers take us all over the world.“

He nodded. „That’s right. I have a contract to fulfill. A journey to take through the wilderness. And you have a photo essay to file.“ He grinned. „I’ll be curious to see how you describe the mysterious legend of the lake now.“

She was silent a moment, imagining the possibilities. Her breath came out in a long, deep sigh. „With all these responsibilities, where does that leave us?“

He could hear the director shouting orders, and the voices of the crew drawing closer, and knew that there was precious little time left.

„If you’re willing, why not meet back here when we both complete our assignments? We’ll plan our future.“

„Our future.“ At a sudden thought she glanced at the dog drowsing by the fire. „And Barnaby?“

„You heard Wyatt. He’ll make a boon companion on my journey. And when you and I are married, he’ll make a boon companion on our journey together.“

„Our journey together.“ She sighed and wrapped her arms around his waist. „Oh, Josh. I never thought I’d welcome those words. But it’s what I want.“

Josh could hear Marty shouting for him. He gave her a quick, hard kiss. „You’ll be here when Barnaby and I return? No matter what?“

„No matter what. Count on it.“

„I love you, Grace Marin. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.“

Against his mouth she whispered, „And I love you, too, Josh Cramer. Forever and always. Please take care of yourself. I’ll worry about you until we’re together again.“

„Don’t worry. We have angels watching out for us, remember?“

After one final kiss he whistled up the dog, and the two of them walked out the door.

Grace stood staring at the closed door, her head spinning. There was so much she didn’t understand and probably never would. But this much she knew without question. Through a series of events far stranger than anything she’d ever imagined, whether by magic, or mysticism, or simply the power of love, she’d just been granted her fondest wish. Now it would be up to her to write her own happy ending.

It would be a challenge. The world would do its best to intrude on paradise. But Grace didn’t have a doubt in the world that she and Josh would be up to the task. After all, they had some pretty amazing ancestors showing them the way. Best of all, they had love. As her mother had made perfectly clear, true love could overcome any obstacle, even death.

Feeling as strong as any warrior woman, she picked up her camera. Time to complete her assignment. No more would she be just passing through this world. She intended to get down to the business of living her life to the fullest. With Josh’s love as the beacon, the journey ahead was bright with promise.