Chapter 112

The countryside blurredby as Dana's old '83 Classic Range Rover chewed up the rural dirt roads. The cabin couldn't arrive soon enough. Jake had bitten his tongue twice since they left the paved roads of civilization behind.

"Tell me again why we decided to take your car?" he complained, his teeth rattling with each bump the timeworn suspension failed to absorb.

"It's a classic," Dana said, grinning as she shifted gears in her ancient rust box.

Jake struggled against the fraying tan seatbelt that seemed to be getting tighter by the moment. "Yes, and it would be better off in a museum than on the road."

Claire's monotone voice drifted from the back seat. "She'll never get rid of it. It was her father's."

Jake's eyebrows rose. "Is that true?"

"Yes," Dana replied with a sudden vulnerability that made Jake regret his words.

This sentimental side of Dana was unexpected. The entire time he'd known her, Jake had only seen one framed photo of her parents, which she kept on her desk at the Smithsonian. Next to it was the retired green pager. It too had belonged to her father. Another fact Jake had only learned after his relentless teasing.

Frowning, he made a mental note to ease up on his sarcastic nature. It was a trait he'd sharpened to perfection in the Army and often slipped out without regard. He knew Dana had thick skin and was tough enough to handle some ribbing, but she'd had to endure an entire lifetime of mockery. Jake didn't want to be the source of more.

Especially when it was merely a defense mechanism to deflect the inadequacy he often felt in her presence. Dana was by far one of the most incredible people he'd ever encountered. He was beyond grateful that they were … well, whatever they were to each other.

He'd made it clear that he wanted more and was working on making his peace with not getting it. He would find a way to be satisfied with having Dana in his life in whatever capacity she offered.

"I'm glad we're doing this," Jake said, changing the subject.

"Me too," Dana agreed.

"You're going to love the cabin, Claire," he said, turning to face her. "First order of business, s'mores. I'll gather wood. You and Dana work on unpacking the provisions."

Claire gave him a morose nod. Considering the circumstances, it was the best he could hope for. She'd been more aloof than ever after yesterday's events, but Jake hoped some fresh air and nature would help. It always did wonders for him.

Jake turned to Dana. "You never told me; how did it go with Meredith yesterday?"

Dana kept her eyes on the road. "It went well."

"That's all I get?"

"Jake, I know how you feel about her. You're just asking to be polite."

He smirked. "Since when do I do anything to be polite?"

Even with her gazing ahead, Jake could still see Dana's signature eyeroll.

"Come on," he said. "I wouldn't ask if I didn't want to know."

Dana sighed. "Mere's doing well. She's really making progress. This last visit … it was like old times."

"I'm glad."

Dana gave him a patronizing glance. "No, you're not."

"I am. If you're happy, I'm happy, bottom line."

The smile Dana let slip satisfied Jake's soul. He grinned back, just as the cabin came into view.