“You better… you can leavethemthere.” I giggle.
“I heard that,” Kelsey shouts. Then the tip of my rod bends down and jumps violently in my hands.
“Woah!” I shout, pulling back just like Ian showed me to set the hook. We both rush to our feet and the battle begins. The line squeals as I spin the handle on the reel. Whatever is on the other end of the line is big and it doesn’t want to come out of the water. I jerk forward as the beast tries to get away. My small arms are working overtime as I pull and spin the handle on the reel.
“You got this angel, take a step back… breathe… pull… reel… step back.” Ian coaches me, “I’m right here, that fish isn’t getting away from you, angel.” His arms are out, like he is ready to catch me.
Zane and Kelsey rush over with the net. “Bro, take the rod before that thing snaps the rod and gets away,” Kelsey shouts. Excitement is in the air. I’m in the biggest battle of my life. Then the water breaks and we all see the silver and white beast jump out of the water, trying its hardest to break the line and get away.
“Not in a million years. She has this.” Ian’s words give me the boost of confidence I need. Energy surges through my hands. I’m working hard, pulling and reeling. Sweat beads form on my forehead.
Soon the beast of a fish is close enough to the shore that the three of them rush into the water. Zane uses his net, and before I know it, I caught the beast. I throw down my rod, jumping up and down, screaming and shouting. Adrenaline still coursing through my veins.
“I can’t believe it,” Kelsey runs his fingers through his hair.
“Great job, Kate. This catfish has to weigh at least ten pounds.” Zane brings the beast of the fish to me.
“I’m so proud of you, angel.” Ian rubs my back. The thrill and victory of the battle has left me speechless, and all I can do is nod my head like a silly fool.
“You know what this calls for, Kate?” Zane asks, looking between Ian and me.
“What’s that?” I tilt my head.
“Bonfire,” Zane and Ian say in unison.
“I’ll put the call out,” Zane smiles.
Chapter ten
Picnic for Two
**March 2004**
Kate
“Youbroughtmetoyour fishing honey hole?” Looking towards the lake, I see he has set a picnic area up. Complete with a blanket, pillows, and a low table in the center. The table has place settings for two with candles. Next to the table is a wine chiller filled with ice and two bottles of wine. “Wait, you’re not going to make me catch my own lunch, are you?” I spin to look at him.
“Nope,” he laughs, “but if memory serves me correct, you’re one hell of a fisherman… woman.” He picks up the large picnic basket from the back of the golfcart. “I came prepared,” he taps the basket and smiles.
“Ian, I’m not going in there with you any time soon.” He follows my gaze to the fishing cabin.
“That was not my intention,” he motions me over to the picnic area. “This place holds a special place in my heart and calms my spirit.” We take off our shoes before walking onto the soft blanket. “I brought you here, because this is where you and I really began.” We take our seats across from each other, and Ian unpacks the basket and places the food on the low table. “This place is where we got to know each other, where we connected.” He pours a glass of wine and hands it to me.
“And the fishing cabin is where I gave you my virginity.” I say as a matter of fact.
“This place holds so many wonderful memories for you and I.” He gulps and takes a deep breath, “before I messed it up so bad.” He lowers his head in shame.
“Rosé,” I try to change the subject, “this is my…” Ian interrupts.
“Favorite. I remember. Memory like an elephant and all.” He taps his head and sips his wine.
“I have a question,” I swirl my wine.
“Okay?” He has a nervous look in his eye.
“Why didn’t you kiss me? There were so many times that I thought you might, but you never did. Why?” I sip my wine.
“I couldn’t.” Ian states.