The Bridesmaid's Hero Read Online Free PDF

tearoom.”
    “Our mothers are known for their great coffee. Did you hear about the cream cake?”
    “Yep, and apparently we’re getting married soon.”
    He chuckled. “So I’ve heard. I told you my mom can get carried away when she gets an idea in her head.”
    “It’s my mother who’s getting carried away.”
    “Don’t underestimate my mom. Josh and Lindi have provided a granddaughter, which has taken some of the pressure off.” For now. This morning his mom had outlined her concerns for his future. Twenty five. Single. No marriage prospects. His argument that he’d need more permanent employment before considering a serious relationship had appeased her. Temporarily.
    Serena stretched out her calf muscles. “You live with your mom, right?”
    He nodded, fascinated by her exercise routine. “Just the two of us. My dad passed away when I was in my last year at school.”
    “I’m sorry. He must have been young.”
    “Forty-seven. He left my mom in a difficult financial situation, but things are better now.”
    “That’s good to hear.” She repositioned her arms into a triceps stretch.
    “The job provided by your parents has made an enormous difference to her life.”
    “Maggie is part of the family. Her official job title of housekeeper doesn’t come close to describing her role.”
    “Agreed.” He was glad his mom had secured a job she enjoyed.
    Serena stood on tip toes, her fingertips touching above her head. “Do you like living on a farm?”
    He nodded. “We’ve leased our apple orchards to local growers, so there’s hardly any farm work to do. The regular income has saved us from having to sell up.”
    “Good news.” She finished her routine and sipped her water. “My parents have always been generous, and I know they’ll look after your mom.”
    “I’m thankful they’re a good employer.”
    “So how many jobs do you have?”
    “A few. I drive cars for Josh and I have my twelve-seater minibus. My current mode of transport. I haven’t replaced my old car yet.”
    “Frustrating.”
    He shrugged. “I’ll sort something out next year. I also work with the local vet, and I’m a qualified vet nurse.”
    “Really? Is there much work in Snowgum Creek?”
    “It depends. My main interest is equine and we’re not a big horse community compared to other towns.”
    “That makes sense.” She shifted her weight from one foot to the other, as if her feet were sore.
    “I’m looking at other opportunities, and I’ve applied for a university course starting next year.”
    “Does that mean you’ll be moving?”
    “Maybe.” He shoved his sunglasses on his head, the sun behind him in the clear afternoon sky. “It’s distance education. There are no guarantees I’ll eventually get accepted into a vet science degree program. It’s competitive.”
    She nodded. “Do you have horses?”
    “I used to. My old mare passed away a few months ago, and I haven’t invested in another horse because my plans are uncertain.”
    “I understand. Horses are expensive and time consuming.”
    “Did you grow up with horses?”
    “My mom has owned horses for as long as I can remember.”
    “How about we go riding sometime? These horses need exercise while your mom is out of action.”
    She shook her head. “I don’t think so. Horse riding isn’t my thing.”
    “But you grew up around horses.”
    “I haven’t ridden much since I was seventeen.”
    “Why? What happened?”
    Her sunglasses dangled from her left hand as she held his gaze. “My horse spooked and threw me into a river. It kind of turned me off for life.”
    He stepped off the fence and moved to her side, his tone gentle. “I’m sorry that happened to you. It’s not fun to get thrown.”
    “Has it happened to you?”
    “More times than I can count. Only minor injuries, though.”
    “I’ve ridden a couple times since, but I won’t go faster than a trot. I prefer an enclosed paddock where the horse is less likely to