Page 22 of No More Secrets
“It does, doesn’t it? But it’s not all bad. For every five underfed runway models and smarmy agents, you run into someone truly exceptional. A brilliant designer, a politician making a difference, a woman who auctioned off her entire art collection to fund disease research. What kind of people do you spend time with here?”
Carter wrapped the last bandage around her toe and lowered her leg. “Blue Moon is a microcosm of weird. It started as this tiny farming community, and then 1969 happened.”
“Woodstock?”
“The story goes that two dozen or so hippies got lost on their way home and ended up here. They liked it and made it their new home.”
“How prevalent was that culture here?” Summer asked, switching into interview mode even with a pillow in her face.
“There is no ‘was.’ Their influence was contagious. They settled down, got married, started families, opened businesses. You’ll see tonight when we go into town.” He patted her leg. “Listen, I’m going to go shower and then I’ll come back and we’ll see if we can get you up and on your feet.”
“Thank you, Carter.”
CHAPTER SIX
Summer took a hot, steamy shower, spending most of it thinking about shirtless Carter and back rub Carter. By the time the water went cold, she felt mostly human again.
She straightened her hair into a sleek bob that made her feel put together. Her cheeks were still a little too pale, so she added a healthy brush of blush for color. She changed into her only pair of non-distressed jeans and a crisp white button down. Driving moccasins covered most of the bandages.
She turned her back on the bed that was calling her name and gave her reflection one last check before heading downstairs.
She found Carter sorting mail in the kitchen. He had changed into clean jeans and a black lightweight sweater. She handed over the rice sock. “Thanks for ... everything.”
Sterling eyes scanned her head to toe before returning to her face. “You sure you’re up for dinner?”
“As long as there’s no manual labor after dinner.” Oh, God. “There isn’t, is there?”
Carter’s lips quirked. “I think we’re done for the day.” He glanced at the watch on his left wrist. “And since you’re ready early, we can make a stop before dinner.”
Summer’s aching body was grateful when Carter guided her to the large pick-up truck in the garage instead of the Jeep. She settled back in her leather seat and sighed. Dinner was sounding better and better. And when they got back, she’d do some work on the blog and then pass out in bed.
Carter turned right out of the driveway and headed south. In five minutes, the fields gave way to Blue Moon Bend. Tradition was evident in the tidy brick two-stories with wraparound porches. Other influences could be seen in the unusual color choices for the Victorian trim on otherwise stately manors.
Summer blinked at a canary yellow three-story with purple scallop trim. The house number was carved in a peace sign.
As they drove further into the heart of town, homes gave way to smart storefronts. Carter turned down a block and then up a side street where he pulled into a small parking lot. It was the first floor of a three-story brick building. The window displays highlighted footwear of the cowboy persuasion.
Blue Moon Boots.
“What are we doing here?”
“Getting you a pair of boots that won’t destroy your feet,” Carter said, unfastening his seatbelt and getting out of the truck.
Summer met him on the sidewalk. “Cowboy boots?”
“They’re comfortable and heavy duty. A pair of these will last you years longer than those hikers. Plus you can ride in them.”
He held the door for her and instead of the typical bell that announced visitors, a digital yee-haw sounded from a speaker above the door.
“Carter Pierce!” A woman with blond hair wrapped in a long, thick braid greeted them. “I know you’re not coming back to find a replacement for your boots already.”
“Hey, Willa.” Carter laid a hand on Summer’s shoulder. “This is Summer. We’re looking for a pair of boots that will get her by for a week on the farm.”
Willa made her way out from behind the desk. She was wearing an ankle-length skirt and a dozen silver bangles on her wrist.
“Welcome, Summer.” She reached out both hands to her, sending the bangles jingling. “Any friend of the Pierce family is a friend of mine. I’m sure we can find the perfect match.” She paused, her lavender eyes glazing over. “Something strong and sturdy that will protect you, but with a little give.” Willa flitted off, leaving Summer frowning after her.
She shot Carter a sidelong look. “Is she talking about boots or men?”
