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“No. I wasn’t thinking straight. I realised I couldn’t take any references, so it would be a waste of time. If I had, it would get back to Brian.”

“Oh, Violet. You poor thing. But there’s always a silver lining. First, you ended up here where there’s plenty of work, and you don’t need references. If you don’t want to commit to us, just take it week by week. We’d be happy to have you for as long as you want to stay. Stay here and get your confidence back. Plus, there’s a few other studs around the district.”

“And what was second?” Violet asked.

Emma’s smile was crafty. “Joe.”

“Joe?”

“The chemistry between you both virtually crackled in the air at the pub the other day. I saw the way he was looking at you the whole time. And I know that you’re not immune to him.”

“How on earth did you see that?” Violet’s cheeks burned and she dropped her face into her hands. “Have I made a total fool of myself?”

“No, you just looked like two people really happy to be in each other’s company.”

Violet lifted her head slowly. “I am. He’s the kindest and most considerate person I have ever met.”

“Not to mention a bit of a honey to look at.” Emma chuckled. “Just go with the flow, and let things take their course, sweetie.”

“Wise advice.”

“We’re going to the Carols by Candlelight at the showground next Saturday,” Emma said “Why don’t we all go together?”

“Sounds good. Even if Joe’s working at the pub, I’ll come.”

“No, that’s not what I meant. I’ll get Jake to ring him and tell him to see if he can have the night off.”

“Emma, you haven’t changed a bit!”

Her long-time friend jumped up; her face alight with love. “Here comes Jake now. Come and we’ll show you around, and tempt you to stay.”

Chapter 17

Violet

On the drive into the Riverside Pub for dinner late that afternoon, Violet talked nonstop about the Smiths’ horse stud.

“Their stables are state of the art, their horses are superb, and best of all, they are the loveliest couple anyone could ever ask to work with.”

Joe glanced at her as he changed back a gear. “So, sounds like you’re going to take the job.”

“Only on a month-to-month basis. I’ll see what happens with the ute.”

“So, the dealer still hasn’t rung?”

Violet put her hand over her month. “Woops, I forgot to tell you.”

“Good news then?”

“I guess it depends which way you look at it.”

“What do you mean?” Joe frowned.

“Eight weeks at least. They’ve trucked it back to Brisbane to wait for a gearbox.” She glanced across at Joe and caught the glimmer of a smile on his lips.

“What about the job in the Hunter Valley?” he asked.

“I’ve decided to pass on that.”