Dream Whispers

By Cheryl L. Hyde

Kelsey and Gaige Have a History

 

And, she once thought they had a future. That is until Gaige dated her best friend. Returning to her hometown for the summer, Kelsey discovers Gaige is back also, and what's worse he's working for her dad and taking care of her horses!

 

Kelsey is determined to squelch her growing feelings for Gaige, especially when those feelings start invading her sleep—her dreams. The last thing she needs or desires is Gaige creating hot, edgy, sensuous turmoil in her bed every night like an intense itch begging to be scratched.

 

She decides that confronting Gaige is the only way to regain control. But control is not what Kelsey feels when he is close to her and her treacherous body threatens to undermine her best intentions.

 

Gaige is determined to win Kelsey back and begin to build the future he knows they could share. He decides putting himself in her path as often as possible is one way to let her know he is not going anywhere.

 

Can Kelsey and Gaige move beyond a troubled past to create a future?

Will these two independent, determined individuals meet in a fiery head-on collision or will the secret attraction they feel spark and ignite into true love?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Whisper Publications
• Release date: Aug 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781950598038

Cheryl L. Hyde

I make my home in the beautiful state of Colorado backed up against the Rocky Mountains. I live with my husband Anthony, and my rescue Blue Front Amazon parrot, Riley. I enjoy traveling, writing, painting, fitness, nature, visiting with friends, curling up with a good book, and the awesomeness of every day.Each new day is a blessing to be treasured!One of the greatest joys of writing is losing myself in the story—I may begin the story, but soon it is writing itself—sometimes taking me on a totally different journey than originally imagined. I find myself on a magical ride to new places, or reliving and reinventing places I've visited.I hope you enjoy my stories and please feel free to connect with me. I love to hear from my readers and fans. I feel very lucky to have connected with and made so many friends in this very special world we live.Through social media, especially my Twitter Tribe and Writers Community, I am blessed with a multitude of caring and wonderful friends who support me in so many ways—you are awesome!It is with heartfelt gratitude that I thank my readers and fans around the world. I feel extremely honored to be a part of your reading list.Visit me on Twitter at: @Cheryl_L_Hyde

Book preview

Chapter 01 Night Whispers

SHE lies quietly, barely breathing with only her eyes moving—listening. Listening to the soft whispers of the night. Wondering if the sounds are normal or if someone really is in the house with her.

Her eyes dart to the bedside clock—it is 1:17am. She tries to calm her frantic heartbeat and slow her breathing even more. She closes her eyes and listens closely.

Is that the sound of shuffling feet? Are those low whispers or breathing? Is someone in my house? Suddenly she hears the unmistakable high-pitched creak of the second step from the bottom on the staircase.

Okay, I know that creak. Someone is definitely in the house. How’d they get past the alarm system? Maybe I didn’t set it. No, I know I did. Her mind quickly dialogues, as her body lies useless, paralyzed with fear.

I can’t just lie here and wait for whoever is in the house to find me. I’ve got to get up and prepare myself. Be on the offensive. I'm not going to be one of those helpless victims. Get up and get your Walther out of the drawer, Kelsey. Be ready.

Soundlessly she moves the blankets to the side and slowly rolls over. As her bare feet touch the chilly wood floor she sucks in a shallow breath. Moving quickly she opens the nightstand drawer, removing her Walther 380. She takes the safety off leaving the pistol ready to fire. Her dad taught her to always have a round chambered with the safety on, that way she only has to flip the lever and the gun is ready to fire. No loud noises of a bullet being chambered to alert intruders of her location.

She settles herself on the floor beside the bed, takes a long, slow deep breath, soundlessly releases it, and waits. Her hands, resting on the mattress, are steady and cradle the familiar gun. The barrel is pointed at the closed bedroom door with the laser site illuminating an area ensured to strike center mass.

She has put many hours into training how to protect herself and she feels the calmness settle over her, even as her adrenaline is highly ramped. It is the fight or flight mechanism kicking in as she prepares to fight.

It’s time to take a stand. This is my home and I won’t be run off. There will be no more running like a scared rabbit. Whoever is here has met their match.

Listening closely, she can make out faint footsteps coming up the stairs. One foot hits heavier than the other. With each step it seems as if the intruder is breathing a little harder—exertion or excitement? She hears a male voice whisper, I’m coming for you. You can’t hide from me bitch. Come out, come out wherever you are. A harsh laugh follows.

Kelsey’s eyes fly open and she is instantly thrown wide-awake with a start, sitting straight up in bed, as if catapulted by some unseen force. Her heart is racing and her breathing shallow and fast. Her hands are steady, 'holding' her pistol, only they are empty. It is the same nightmare, only this time she is prepared for the man who will open her bedroom door.

She leans over and flips on the bedroom lamp, flooding the room in a warm welcoming glow. She glances at her phone and sees the time is 1:17am—not a coincidence, she knows. Same time every night she is awakened by the same nightmare. At least now, she usually awakens before the man can enter her room.

I wonder what would happen if the nightmare continued and played out. Would I shoot him? Would I stop having these horrors if I did or would the nightmares become worse?

Consciously, she slows her breathing and regains control of her trembling body. Taking a deep breath, she slowly releases it and feels her pulse slow in response. She reaches into her nightstand and feels the pistol—a gift from her dad—resting in its holster. It offers a kind of peacefulness and protectiveness that all her self-defense training just can’t match. Not that she ever expects to have to use it, but...

Kelsey climbs out of bed, slips her robe on, drops the pink Walther into the pocket, and pads to the bathroom. She splashes water on her face then sits on the toilet to pee. That urgency taken care of, she washes her hands, fills a glass with water, and gulps it down her parched throat. She goes through the same routine every night.

Leaving the bathroom, she pads silently down the hall, checking the various doors and inspecting each room—her office—complete with a day bed so it also serves as a guest room—the hall closet and bathroom. Satisfied that all is as it should be, she slowly and quietly makes her way downstairs being careful to walk to the far outside of the step with the loud squeak. She thinks of that squeak as an early warning signal, knowing exactly where to walk to avoid it.

Walking into her cozy living room she sees that the alarm is set then carefully checks all the corners and behind all the furniture. Turning, she steps into the large kitchen with its windowed breakfast nook, which also happens to be the lunch and dinner nook. The room darkening shades are pulled to block the night out and enhance her privacy.

Still gripping the gun in her right hand, she checks the garage door alarm and sees it is working correctly. She deactivates the alarm, cautiously opens the door, and performs a cursory inspection of her surroundings and the small garage, including her most prized possession, a bright red Mustang. She saved for two years to be able to buy this car. Walking slowly she moves out into the garage and inspects under the car, as well as all the way around it. She checks the far corner behind the storage cabinet. Nothing is amiss.

Going back inside, Kelsey closes and locks the door then resets the alarm. She goes to the refrigerator and gets out the milk. She sets about making a hot chocolate, hoping to be able to get a few more hours of sleep, although she knows she probably won’t.

Kelsey takes the hot chocolate into her office and sits in front of her computer. She decides to work on the short story that is due next week for her creative writing class. She selected the course as an elective, but Kelsey discovered she really enjoys writing. She is thinking of doing some freelance writing for one of the veterinary journals.

Only four more weeks of classes and she’ll have her undergraduate degree before beginning graduate school to become a veterinarian. First though she is going back to the farm for the summer to be with her dad. He is coming for her graduation then she will go home with him. She has missed him, her horses, dog, the cats, and even the cows.

It will be so good to get back to clean, fresh air and spend time with Dad. I can’t wait.

Her best friend, Brinn, who Kelsey met during a self-defense class at the recreation center, is going to stay in Kelsey’s condo for the summer and take care of things. Kelsey will return in the fall to begin her classes. She is only taking a few clothes, her computer, and her car home for the summer—everything else is staying in the condo.

Chapter 02 Graduation Eve

I can’t believe I’m really graduating! Kelsey exclaims to Brinn. On one hand it seems like it has taken forever to get to this point and on the other it seems like I just started yesterday.

I know what you mean. I am so excited even though I still have to finish that one stupid class this summer. I’m glad they are letting me go through ceremonies with you. And, thank you so much for letting me stay in your place for the summer. I promise to take good care of it.

It’s not fair you couldn’t get credit for that class you took last summer while you were home. That really sucks! Brinn nods then shrugs. But, I have to say I’m totally psyched you’re going to live here and take care of things for me. I hated the thought of trying to find a tenant for the summer, now I don’t have to. Thank you. Kelsey leans over and gives Brinn a heartfelt hug.

The two women are sitting in Kelsey’s living room enjoying a glass of wine while waiting for the pizza to arrive. They plan to watch an old romantic comedy on cable then Brinn is spending the night.

Tomorrow morning they will graduate!

Kelsey’s dad, Caden, was delayed by one of the young mares going into labor with her first foal, but he has assured her he will arrive before she takes that walk to the podium to receive her diploma. Kelsey is graduating with honors and he wouldn’t miss her ceremony for anything. He has always been there for Kelsey—he is her rock. She was really hoping he would arrive today, but there is nothing to be done about the delay, except enjoy a fun movie with her best friend.

The doorbell rings and Kelsey leaps up to answer it, checking the peephole to confirm it’s the pizza guy. She deactivates the alarm, throws the two locks, and opens the door.

The aroma of a thick crust supreme pizza fills the doorway and drifts into the living room. Oh that smells divine, she compliments, then hands the driver $30 for the pizza including a generous tip.

Thanks! He says looking at the amount. Do you want some change?

Nuh-uh. This is a special night and we’re celebrating so you get a big tip.

What’s the occasion?

We’re graduating! Kelsey and Brinn say together.

Hey. Awesome! Congratulations!

Thanks. Have a great night. Kelsey hands Brinn the pizza then locks the door and sets the alarm.

I hope I remember how to set that when you're gone.

It’s easy. Just don’t forget the combo or to deactivate then reset it when you come in. The alarm company gets a little testy.

Have you ever forgotten?

Kelsey nods and grins. When I first had it installed, I’d forget how to work it—a lot. I was always calling the company to explain it was a false alarm—again. Finally, I got the hang of it. Now it’s second nature. I called to let them know that you will be here this summer beginning tomorrow so they are alerted—just in case something happens.

I’m sure I’ll manage to set it off a few times.

More wine?

Thanks. I’ll get the plates and napkins.

Glasses are filled and plates are loaded with two big pieces of steaming pizza. The two young women sit on the floor to eat, drink, and watch a movie.

Chapter 03 Graduation Day

THE doorbell rings at 7am, waking Kelsey from a sound sleep. What the heck? she mumbles as she tries to uncurl her body. Every muscle and bone yells in protest.

Arrgh!

She looks around and realizes she and Brinn slept on the hard floor all night. The TV is still playing, although their movie ended hours ago. The doorbell chimes again followed by a knock.

Brinn stirs and asks, Want me to get that?

No, I got it. I’m just moving a little slowly. I can’t believe we slept on the floor, Kelsey says walking to the door.

Oh, God! I think a Mac truck ran over me, then turned around and did it again, Brinn grumbles.

Kelsey doesn't even think to look out the peephole and swings open the door. She sees her father standing there with a big smile on his rugged face and arm raised to knock.

Daddy! she squeals in delight and throws herself into his strong, solid arms, all aches and pains forgotten. He grabs her tight, lifting her off the floor, and gives her a bear hug. She breathes in his familiar spicy scent. Oh my God, you made it!

I told you I wouldn’t miss your graduation, he replies, squeezing her tight. My little girl graduating college is a big deal! he adds proudly.

She pulls him into the room. Daddy, I want you to meet Brinn. Brinn this is my dad, Caden.

Pleased to meet you Brinn. Just call me Cade. Kelsey tells me you’re going to housesit for her this summer.

Yes, sir. It is a pleasure to meet you. I have heard so much about you.

Likewise and all of it good. He looks around the room. What did you two do, sleep on the floor?

Much to our chagrin this morning, I assure you. That floor is hard even with a thick area rug on it. Kelsey begins picking up the left over pizza and the wine bottle. Just let me clean a couple things up, Dad.

I’ll help. Brinn gathers the plates and glasses and takes them to the dishwasher.

How’re Ginger and the foal. Do we have a boy or a girl?

"Ginger is splendid. She had a pretty tough time birthing her big, long-legged lady, but both are doing fine. The filly has four white socks and a big blaze, just like her mama. She has her daddy’s dark chestnut coloring. She is a looker with her long neck, pretty head, and alert ears.

It appears her mane and tail may be flaxen, but we won’t know for sure for a few weeks. She sure is a pretty thing though—all long legs and big, expressive, brown eyes. Her mama took right to her. I got your grandpa to agree to look in on them a few times today.

I can’t wait to see them. I miss the farm, the animals, and, of course, you, Kelsey grins and winks at her dad.

You always were an animal person. Bringing home every stray or abandoned critter you found. I still remember that baby skunk you brought home. I thought your mother was going to run into the next county, he says warmly, chuckling. I think you are making a very wise career choice. I’m sure the menagerie will be very happy to see you and get some spoiling! Cade smiles lopsidedly, at his daughter. Speaking of spoiling. How about I take you two graduates out for breakfast?

That sounds perfect, Dad! Just let me take a quick shower and do my hair.

Thank you, Mr. Barneswell, I mean Cade. I also need to shower and do my hair. We have to be there at nine, even though the ceremony doesn’t start until ten. I don’t want to look all skuzzy!

Tell you what. You girls take your time getting ready. I’ll make friends with the TV. I can probably watch most of an old movie while I wait, he chuckles.

I have on-demand hot water so we can both shower, Kelsey tells Brinn as they head for the showers.

I wondered who was going to get a cold shower, Brinn laughs. Your place is great, Kels.

Thanks. I really like it. Dad helped me find and buy it. We got it before prices went totally crazy. He did a few improvements, mostly for security. Brinn lifts onto the step that has the big squeak, gives a quick yell, and jumps backward. Oh, that’s my security alarm, Kelsey chuckles. If you walk way over here, it doesn’t squeak.

I’ll keep that in mind. I about peed my pants, she giggles.

I forgot you’ve never been upstairs. There’s the bigger bathroom. I’ll use the one in my room.

See you in a few.

Forty-five minutes later the two graduates meet in the hallway and head down to find Kelsey’s dad asleep in front of the TV.

Do we let him sleep?

Nah. He needs his breakfast. I feel badly for him. He must have been up all night the night before last with Ginger. Then after the foal arrived, he had to make sure she would be a good mommy, plus he had to take care of all the other chores. I’m guessing he caught the late train last night to be here now. I wonder how he got from the train stop to here—it’s about three-hours. she shrugs then continues. We’re driving home in the Mustang this afternoon. Maybe he can sleep on the way. God, I really hate to wake him though.

I’m awake. I was just resting my eyes, Cade says, stretching and yawning. I hardly remember stretching out. I slept on the train, but you know how that is.

Kelsey nods and gathers her stuff. How’d you get up here?

Hitched a ride with a trucker.

Daddy! That’s not very safe, Kelsey chastises.

Ah, hell, Kelsey. He was a good ol’ guy. We had some dinner together and talked about our families. He asked where I was heading to and offered me a ride. Dropped me about two blocks from your place.

Well, I’m glad I didn’t know in advance what you were doing. I’d have worried myself sick, Kelsey says. I’m just glad you’re here and safe, she adds, giving her dad a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek. Are we ready? I'm starving!

We’re ready, Brinn and Cade say together.

They head to breakfast then over to the auditorium arriving just a few minutes after nine. Hey, not bad considering we got sort of a late start. I’m glad you arrived when you did, Dad. Who knows how long we would have slept. We watched a romantic comedy then an old action movie last night before we started solving the woes of the world, discussing life, religion, politics, and everything else along the way. We finally feel asleep sometime around three or four this morning.

Thank you so much for that wonderful breakfast, Cade. Now hopefully I won’t faint when they call my name, Brinn compliments.

You are very welcome.

Dad, you can hang out in the bleachers, if you want, or walk around, or whatever. We have to assemble in that area then enter the auditorium as a group. I’m so glad you were able to make it, Kelsey says with feeling reaching up to hug her dad.

He kisses the top of her head and pulls her close for a warm, heartfelt hug. I’m so proud of you, Pumpkin. You’ve done good! I’ll just mosey around a bit before I find a good seat. Maybe work off a couple calories from breakfast, he chuckles.

Okay, see you later. Come on Brinn, we better get a move on.

Oh my gosh. I thought I was going to pee my pants or faint or both when they called my name, Brinn says, as the two young women hustle out of the auditorium after the ceremonies. I can’t believe all we get is an empty burgundy folder. I knew mine would be empty until I complete my class, but I thought yours would have your diploma in it.

Not until they get the final grades and make sure I don’t owe them any money, like for parking tickets or such. It is sort of a letdown though—nothing to show for all my hard work. Oh well, I’ll get it soon enough, I guess. Oh, there’s Dad! She waves and yells to Cade.

So let me see it, he says.

There’s nothing to see. They’re empty. Kelsey holds up the empty folder. See.

I guess they have to make sure all your t’s are crossed and i’s dotted before they let you have the paper.

Yep. Still it’s a good feeling knowing I finished this part of my education.

Now onto grad school.

"Yeah,