Lights and Shadows (Oregon In Love) Read Online Free PDF

shrugged. “I doubt it. She’s married to her
career and seems happy enough.”
    Sara refrained from disagreeing with her husband. Men
could be oblivious to such things. This new knowledge explained
Julia’s earlier reaction when she’d brought up the subject of
Marc. It made her feel awful for pushing the issue. Still, with
all the fervor of the happily married, she felt certain the right man
would be just the thing for her sister-in-law.
    The least she could do was pray.

Chapter Four

    After making Sara breakfast the following morning, Julia
asked her for the directions to Portland. It was the largest city in
the state and within reasonable driving distance. She had to
get away. There were only so many beds to make, so many dishes to
unload from the dishwasher, only so many ways to help Sara with the
running of the B & B. Conversely, each task only served to weary
her more.
    Her time was usually consumed with her job. Every minute
her mind had to concentrate on the task at hand. In the evenings
after late hours at work, exhaustion made her fall into bed and not
wake up until the next day. That was the way she liked it. It gave
her a sense of security and control. Although life in Buell Creek was
quiet and restful, Julia craved a change of pace. Preferably a fast
one.
    This day is going to be different, do or die .
    Sara handed her the keys. “Be sure to visit Pioneer
Courthouse Square. It's a landmark. And if you want coffee, there's a
great shop on the west corner you should check out.”
    “ Thanks, Sara. Is there anything I can get for you
while I'm out?”
    The brunette smiled mysteriously. “No, no. Have fun
and just be open to new...experiences.”
    Julia raised a brow at the strange tone. “Um, okaaay.
Sure thing.” She sent her a wave as she went out the back door.
    It was a gorgeous summer day and she’d dressed
accordingly in a petal pink, sand-washed silk dress. Gravel crunched
under her strappy sandals as she walked to the Mustang. Firing up the
engine, Julia donned a pair of Fendi sunglasses, careful not to muss
her hair which was swept up into a smooth French twist. The breeze
tugged at the locks left to dangle about her face.
    Once on the open road, she felt some of the tension
leave her body. Having a purpose made her feel almost euphoric. Her
plan was to drive to downtown Portland and just explore. Maybe she'd
find the cutest little boutique. Maybe she'd find something for the
baby. Either way, she had a goal without the pressure, and she
planned to enjoy herself.
    Compared to San Diego standards, traffic was
ridiculously light on the freeway and the drive passed by in a blur.
By following the signs, Julia easily made her way to the city’s
downtown area and found a parking garage near Pioneer Courthouse
Square. Perfect . After parking, she ventured into the Square,
which was filled with people basking in the warm sunshine. Some sat
along the steps visiting with each other while others perched near a
sculptured waterfall. A live band played cool jazz tunes. Julia
lingered long enough to hear several familiar songs.
    She strolled along the brick walkway, smelling the
flowers for sale along the perimeter. On all sides, the Square was
surrounded by buildings, some old, others more contemporary. Julia
stopped in front of a dark bronze statue of a man holding an umbrella
and smiled. Sara had warned her to bring along a coat and umbrella,
saying Oregon weather could be temperamental. Gazing at the thin blue
sky, Julia was glad she wasn't encumbered with accessories so
obviously unnecessary. Besides, she needed her hands free to fill
with shopping bags.
    Meandering along the sidewalks, Julia stopped to peek in
little shops, pausing from time to time to people-watch. She explored
the flora of abundant park areas, allowing the vibrant feel of city
life to invade her bones and impart some of its energy. After a few
hours of sightseeing, Julia felt the need to boost her flagging
energy. Spotting java in