He didn’t turn. ‘Only from hoisting myself on you.’

She laughed softly and turned back to the road as if the bitumen held a world of fascinating sights. Without looking at him she said, ‘You can change your mind now. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck on an isolated cattle station surrounded by red earth, mountain ranges and bossy women.’

She tried not to hold her breath in case he did just that – underlining the fact that he must be wondering if he was doing the right thing in trusting her. A woman he didn’t remember. She grimaced at that. The one positive was that it had been recommended by his doctor.

What was it about this man that had made her put herself at risk like this? The feelings inside her were too big for the occasion now that it was all one-sided. She knew he didn’t feel the same urge she had to reach across and touch his cheekbone to reassure herself he was fine.

She had to believe everything would work out. If it didn’t it wouldn’t be for want of her trying.

She pointed to the floor. ‘There are two rehydration drinks and some muesli bars in the cool bag beside your feet.’

He raised his brows with a slightly mocking smile. ‘Thanks. You’ve packed my playlunch?’

That sounded more like her Zac and she smiled at him. ‘Cheeky blighter. I’m keeping you hydrated and your glucose levels up. This way there’ll be less chance I’ll have to phone a friend to save you.’

He gave her his heart-melting smile at that and she was lost as her cheeks heated. ‘Ready?’

Zac shifted in his seat to look at her properly. ‘Yes. Though I’m still not sure why you agreed to let me lump myself on you in this state. Doesn’t seem fair for your holidays.’

‘I know.’ She threw up her hands, pretending horror, before she started the vehicle. ‘Crazy. But your sparkling company grew on me in just a week and I’m hoping to find that again,’ she said lightly. She was still a little surprised he’d agreed to come. ‘I’m sure you’d do the same for me if our roles were reversed.’ She wasn’t, but it was a standard answer she used when people tried to thank her for an act of kindness.

‘True.’ And he gave her another singularly sweet smile that reminded her she’d liked this guy on first sight. Loved him by day two. And maybe that smile was why she’d been drawn to Zac. That, and seeing Zac’s genuine caring and compassion for the young, the old and the staff, despite the maelstrom of a busy ED and maternity department. But he didn’t remember any of that.