Read Online A Man to Trust by Carrie Turansky - Free Book Online Page A

around and she headed into the bathroom. Even though this wasn’t an official date, she shouldn’t go out the door looking like she didn’t care how she looked.
    She ran a brush through her hair, then added blush, mascara and a touch of lip gloss. At least that gave her some color and made her look presentable.
    The knock at her door set her heart pounding. “You are being ridiculous,” she whispered as she walked to the door. When she pulled it open, Ross greeted her with a smile. He now wore comfortable jeans and a forest-green V-neck sweater that looked great with his olive-toned skin. Over his shoulder he carried his black leather camera bag.
    “Are you ready to go?” he asked, his expression warm and open.
    She nodded and sent him a tight-lipped smile. “All set.”
    “Okay.” He led the way down the steps. She followed.
    They set off walking toward the center of town. She bit her lip, trying to think of a good topic for conversation. But it had been so long since she had gone out with anyone besides Adam, she felt stumped. Of course there had been that one disastrous blind date with Irene’s friend Noah. She shuddered.
    But this wasn’t a date, so she didn’t need to worry. Right?
    Ross glanced over at her. “Have you been to the Salmon Bake before?”
    “No.”
    “Salmon is one of my favorites. Do you like seafood?”
    “Yes.” She looked away. Why did she suddenly feel so nervous and tongue-tied? She and Ross had worked together almost one month.
    They walked another half block in silence.
    “I brought my camera.” He tapped the bag he carried on his shoulder. “Thought I might take some photos.”
    “Of what?”
    “Anything and everything.” He grinned at her, and she couldn’t help returning a small smile. “You never know what we might see at an event like this. Maybe I’ll get lucky.”
    “Lucky? What do you mean?”
    “If I get a great shot, I might be able to sell it to The Bellingham Herald or Entertainment Northwest .”
    “Have you sold photos to the paper before?”
    “A few. They usually send out their own photographers. But if I capture something special, I can send it over and see if they want it. And there are a couple of websites looking for photos of local events.”
    “What’s your favorite type of thing to photograph?”
    That kept Ross talking for several minutes as he told her how he enjoyed shooting sunsets on Bellingham Bay or the trails and bridge at Whatcom Falls. But his favorites were the majestic peaks of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan and Picture Lake.
    Adrie slowly relaxed as she listened and before she knew it, they rounded the corner and arrived at the Village Green. She was thankful for the bustling crowd gathered there. With all the noise and activity, she wouldn’t have to be the sole focus of Ross’s attention.
    Grills and serving tables had been set up beneath the pergola along one side of the square. A line of people waiting to pick up their meal stretched to the far end of the green. Up on the stage, a four-member band played a country-western song. People sat on the grass in groups, listening to the music and enjoying their plates piled high with salmon, corn on the cob, coleslaw and rolls. Some people were already enjoying cupcakes for dessert.
    “Wow. It smells great,” Ross said. “Let’s get in line.” He placed his hand on the small of her back and guided her through the crowd.
    Adrie was initially surprised by his touch, but the warmth of his hand felt comforting and protective. They found a place at the end of the line. He dropped his hand, and she found herself missing his touch. Honestly, Adrie, what is the matter with you? Are you so desperate you’d assign romantic intentions to that simple touch? He’s just being a gentleman.
    “Adrie! Good to see you,” a male voice called.
    She spotted Eric waving a long-handled spatula from behind the barbecue grill.
    She lifted her hand halfway. “Hi, Eric. How’s it going?”
    “Great!