Chapter - 12
A few days later, Jacob and Eliza found themselves riding on Dakota, heading out to a beautiful spot Jacob had discovered near a stream. The journey took about half an hour from town, but with Eliza's arms wrapped around his waist and the gentle rhythm of Dakota's gait, it felt like no time at all. Eliza had thoughtfully packed lunch in a wicker basket, eager for a day of relaxation away from Bluebell.
The path they took meandered through a lush forest, the canopy overhead providing dappled shade that kept the summer heat at bay. The sound of birdsong filled the air, accompanied by the rustling of leaves in the soft breeze. As they approached their destination, the gentle babbling of the stream grew louder, promising a serene retreat.
They finally arrived at a small clearing by the water's edge. The stream was clear, its surface sparkling in the sunlight, reflecting the vibrant green of the surrounding foliage. Wildflowers dotted the banks, adding splashes of color to the picturesque scene. Jacob helped Eliza dismount, and they tied Dakota to a nearby tree, ensuring the horse had plenty of grass to graze on.
Eliza spread out a blanket on the soft grass, and they settled down, unpacking the delicious food she had prepared. After a leisurely meal, they found themselves drawn to the water. Jacob playfully splashed Eliza with a handful of water, causing her to squeal in surprise.
"Jacob! You scoundrel!" she laughed, wiping water from her face.
"Couldn't resist," Jacob grinned, backing away as she advanced on him, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
Eliza retaliated, splashing him back, and soon they were both soaked, laughing and chasing each other along the stream's edge. The world seemed to fade away as they reveled in each other's company, their carefree joy echoing through the trees.
Eventually, they tired of their playful antics and returned to the blanket, their laughter subsiding into contented smiles. They sat side by side, sharing the last of the food and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Eliza turned to Jacob, her expression growing serious. "Jacob, I want you to meet my parents," she said.
Jacob's smile faltered slightly. "Your parents?"
"They want to meet the man I've been spending so much time with," Eliza continued, reaching out to take his hand in hers. "I want them to know you, Jacob. To see the wonderful person you are."
Jacob's mind raced. Meeting her parents was a significant step, one that came with its own set of challenges and potential dangers. His life with the gang was far from respectable, and the thought of facing her wealthy, presumably discerning parents filled him with unease.
"I'm not sure, Eliza," Jacob said, his hesitation clear. "What if they don't approve of me?"
Eliza squeezed his hand reassuringly. "Jacob, they trust my judgment. And I trust you. Just be yourself. That's all I ask."
"Alright," he said slowly. "I'll meet them."
Eliza's face lit up with a radiant smile, and she leaned in to kiss him, her lips conveying all the love and gratitude she felt. Jacob wrapped his arms around her, drawing her closer, and took a deep breath to calm his nerves.
"Alright," Jacob whispered softly, "nice and slow."
As their lips met once again, Jacob started with a gentle touch, keeping the kiss light and tender. Eliza responded, her lips soft and warm against his. Jacob recalled Koen's lesson and slowly began to part his lips, inviting Eliza to do the same. She mirrored his movements, and their kiss deepened. He moved gently, his tongue brushing against her lips, then tentatively exploring her mouth.
Eliza's breath hitched, and she followed his lead, her tongue meeting his in a delicate, unspoken dance. Their movements were cautious, testing boundaries, but as they found a rhythm, the kiss grew more assured. Jacob ran his fingers through her hair, his touch tender and reverent, making her feel loved.
Eliza's hands moved to Jacob's shoulders, her fingers gripping him slightly as she melted into the kiss. The initial nervousness began to fade, replaced by a profound sense of connection as their tongues intertwined.
Jacob focused on Eliza, on the way she tasted, the way she felt in his arms. He tilted his head slightly to deepen the kiss, feeling her respond with a soft, appreciative sigh. The world around them seemed to disappear, leaving only the two of them in their private paradise by the stream.
When they finally pulled back, both were breathless, their foreheads resting against each other. Jacob opened his eyes to see Eliza's flushed cheeks and shining eyes as she smiled at him.
"That was... perfect," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion.
Jacob smiled back, his heart swelling with happiness. "I'm glad," he said softly. "I wanted it to be special."
"It was," Eliza assured him, her hand gently caressing his cheek. "It was more than I ever imagined."
Before long, both of them had to return to reality. As they gathered up the blanket and their stuff, tying them securely to the horse, Eliza leaned into Jacob's arms. She rested her face against his broad chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath her cheek.
"Thank you, Jacob," she murmured, her voice filled with gratitude. "For everything. For bringing me to this beautiful place, for kissing me with so much love, and for agreeing to meet my parents. It means so much to me."
Jacob tightened his embrace, his hand gently stroking her back. "For you, Eliza," he replied, "I'd do anything."
Eliza looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "You make me feel so cherished, so special."
Jacob smiled. "That's because you are special, Eliza. More than words can say."
She reached up, touching his face gently, her fingers tracing the lines of his jaw. "I don't know what I did to deserve you, but I'm so grateful."
He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "I'm the lucky one," he whispered. "Having you in my life is more than I ever hoped for."
Jacob hadn't told Eliza about his true profession. He couldn't bear to tarnish the image she had of him. To Eliza, he was Jacob Hill, a low-level prospector who had come to Bluebell in search of fortune. He had woven a story about traveling with his senior, Koen, a seasoned prospector guiding him through the rough and tumble world of mining and prospecting.
In this fabricated life, Jacob was a hardworking man trying to make an honest living. He spoke of the long days spent digging and panning for gold, the backbreaking labor, and the moments of quiet hope when they found a promising vein of ore. He recounted tales of the harsh wilderness, the dangerous wildlife, and the camaraderie of men who shared the same dreams of striking it rich.
Jacob often felt a pang of guilt for the deceit. He loved Eliza deeply and wanted nothing more than to share his true self with her, but he feared that revealing his outlaw life would shatter the bond they had built. So, he maintained the facade, hoping that one day he might find a way to come clean without losing her.