The Bridesmaid's Hero Read Online Free PDF Page B

bolt.”
    He nodded. “Bessie would be a good horse for you. She’s older, docile, and prefers to walk.”
    Serena returned to her bike and reattached her helmet. “You’ll have to work hard to charm me into riding Bessie again in the wild. She was the horse who threw me.”
     

 
     
    Chapter Four
    Five days later, Serena slipped on her running shoes and headed over to the tearoom. She’d agreed to meet Harry mid-afternoon before he drove into Snowgum Creek to collect another group of guests from the bus station.
    Her first week of work on the farm had been fun. The tearoom was quieter on weekdays, and she’d enjoyed the slower pace. Yesterday she’d taken the day off to go shopping in Sunny Ridge and pick up farm supplies for her parents. She’d returned early to spend time with Harry and the horses.
    At Harry’s insistence, she’d started taking Bessie for short rides each day in the paddock. To her surprise, she’d enjoyed riding again. Harry’s presence in the paddock made a difference, and she appreciated his encouragement. The mare’s dawdling pace suited her, and she’d long forgiven Bessie for the nasty fall that had led to a concussion. The shallow river water had buffered her fall, and she’d kept all her bones intact.
    Harry waited for her on the veranda, looking relaxed and comfortable in a polo shirt and knee-length shorts.
    He stood, a broad smile on his face. “You look ready to explore the gardens.”
    “Yes, and I have my phone to take photos. My mother has to update our website tonight.”
    “You don’t have a camera?”
    She shook her head and tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “My father can’t remember where he put it. He’s too busy to take the photos, and the special online promo starts tomorrow.”
    “Okay. Would you like a drink before you start? Tea. Coffee.”
    “Definitely tea at this time of day.” She walked inside with Harry. A few customers were scattered among the tables, and Maggie was perched on a tall stool behind the counter.
    “Hey, my favorite people are here. Can I tempt you with cookies, or cake? Scones are sold out.”
    Serena laughed. “Tea is all I need. Lemon green tea to go, please.”
    Harry furrowed his brows. “You drink that stuff?”
    “It’s refreshing and healthy.”
    “If you say so.” He gave his mom a wide smile. “My usual latte, please.”
    “Coming right up.” Maggie walked over to the coffee machine.
    Serena perused the specials listed on the blackboard. “My New York baked cheesecake has sold out, too.”
    “I’m not surprised. It was good. Really good.”
    “Have you been sneaking in here for a slice?”
    He raised his hands. “Guilty. I have a sweet tooth, and your cakes and desserts are amazing.”
    She smiled. “I’m glad you like them.”
    Maggie placed their drinks on the counter. “Enjoy. The light should be good for photos.”
    “Thanks, Maggie. That’s what I’m hoping.”
    “See you, Mom.” Harry strode ahead and held open the door to the veranda.
    Serena walked with him to the closest garden bed, the yellow and orange tulips creating a stunning combination. “Maybe I need a ladder.”
    “Huh.”
    “To gain extra height for my photos.”
    He reached for her hand, his fingers clasping hers for a moment. “Can I enjoy my latte first, before I traipse around the farm in search of your ladder?”
    “I’m sorry.” Her hand tingled from the brief contact. “My to-do list is always in my mind.”
    “The website has aerial photos. You may be better off with close-ups of the new tulip varieties.”
    “Good point.” A magpie flew low and landed in front of her on the lawn. “Hey, Finn. How are you today?”
    Finn tipped his head to the side and bounced around on the grass.
    She handed her tea to Harry and crouched low. “Have you met Finn?”
    “No, but I’ve heard about him. He likes cake.”
    The magpie dug his pointy white beak into the lawn, searching for earthworms.
    “Among other