Page 14 of Clear Skies (Stormcloud Station)

“Your throne, my queen.” He parodied a low, sweeping bow and was rewarded by a throaty giggle from Daisy.

She sat down gingerly on the basket, and took the glass he handed her, watching him open the wine and then fill her glass nearly to the brim. He did the same with his and took a seat next to her, clinking his glass against hers. He liked the way she stretched out her long, brown legs in front of her and balanced her glass on her knee.

“It’s not that bad in here,” she admitted.

“I know. You probably think I’m odd, but it’s one of the few places I can get any true privacy this close to the lodge.” Of course, he had other favorite spots he liked to go when he needed to think, or to get some much-needed space. But all his outdoor hideaways would be useless after all this rain.

Daisy considered him, her long hair falling across her shoulder. “Not really.” She didn’t elaborate any further, but he got the impression she might also know a little about needing to get away from people now and then. “Well, that was an interesting discussion,” she said quietly. “Is that your normal family get-together?”

“No, not at all.” Dale gave a grunt of exasperation. “And I have to apologize. If I’d known what Steve was going to say, I wouldn’t have invited you to join us.”

“Not at all. It was really quite interesting, and a good distraction. Took my mind off wondering when I’ll get back to my place.” She flicked her hair away in an unconscious gesture and took a gulp of wine. “So, what are your thoughts on this missing girl?”

Damn, why hadn’t he seen that coming? Should he tell her the truth? About his mother and Karri?