She wished she’d had a chance to join her grandfather on one of his adventures, but something always got in the way. College, her mother’s illness, then losing her to cancer. Abby hadn’t dated much over the years, had only been in one serious relationship, with a college professor named Benjamin Gallagher.

She’d given up her one chance to join King in his search for the Devil’s Gold to be with Benjamin, who’d turned out to be everything she didn’t want in a man. A liar and a cheat, not worth spit. He had broken her heart, though it could have been much worse. She was older now and wiser.

Abby smiled to think that at last she was actually here, part of an expedition in search of her grandfather’s treasure. She only wished he could be with her.

Ignoring a sweep of sadness, Abby glanced across the clearing to where Kyle and Smiley worked to get supper ready. They had brought freeze-dried packaged meals, a choice of chicken and dumplings, biscuits and gravy, beef stroganoff, or chili mac.

“Not exactly a gourmet dinner,” Gage drawled as they sat around the campfire and dug into what out here passed for food. “But it’ll keep us going.” He smiled. “We’ll all be looking forward to Mae’s cooking by the time we get back.”

That’s for sure, Abby thought as she took another bite and tried not to grimace at the taste. Kyle did after-supper cleanup while she and Gage walked up a game trail to the top of the hill.

This time of year, the sun set at about six-thirty, painting the sky in pink, turquoise, and red, a lovely backdrop for the giant saguaro that stood like sentinels guarding the mountains.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” she said.

Gage’s eyes followed hers to the colors saturating the distant peaks. “Every place in the world is different. If you look, you’ll find each has its own special beauty.” He glanced down at her. “I’m glad you’re able to see it here.”

Her gaze held his. “How could I not?”

Gage reached out and ran a finger down her cheek. “Some people don’t. They refuse to leave their comfort zones, look at things from a different perspective.”

Abby fell silent, her gaze still locked with his. She couldn’t look away from the intensity in his blue eyes. He moved a fraction closer. She thought he was going to kiss her, and anticipation sizzled through her. Instead, he turned away.

“It’s been a long day,” he said. “We’d better get back.”

Abby managed to nod. “All right.” They headed down the gentle slope and returned to camp. Exhausted, she opened her bedroll, took off her boots, then slid into the lightweight bag.