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Carmen’s mind seemed to be hyper focused on all things Molly Parsons at the moment. From overhearing Molly speaking with Enid and Bessie—because their voices traveled from the front porch—to attending the high school to watch Molly talk to a group of young adults, Carmen couldn’t focus on anything else.

Well, maybe the fact that Faith had told her she’d masturbated with her girlfriend for the first time. Is this what being a parent feels like? Carmen felt honored that Faith felt comfortable enough to have that conversation with her, but it would have been nice to receive a little warning. Maybe she could have prepared her answer better. Molly would have known what to say. She wouldn’t have felt embarrassed.

Ah, there she went again, allowing her mind to settle on Molly Parsons. It was plain to see why Molly worked with young adults. The talk she’d given at the school was informative and confident. Molly naturally oozed calm, allowing the kids to feel instantly at ease with her.

A pool of envy filled Carmen’s stomach. She loved being a graphic designer, but was it something she was passionate about? The businesses she’d started served a purpose. Now she and Mateo were financially stable, Carmen had retreated to the safety of her home and laptop. Watching Molly work as hard as she did to help those around her made Carmen a little ashamed. Not everyone could do what Molly did, but Carmen could definitely do more, be more. These kids struggled and fought, but they never gave up, even when they wanted to. Could Carmen say the same?

The fight to survive and the fight to live were very different things. Carmen and Mateo spent a lifetime fighting to survive. Mateo was making the transition to living his life. A transition he wanted Carmen to embrace as well. It seemed everyone around her fought their demons and were moving on to better things. Why couldn’t she?

“You look full of thought,” Molly’s sweet voice whispered close to Carmen’s ear. Once again, Carmen squealed in shock at the unexpected presence.

“Holy crap,” she gasped.

“I don’t think I’ve ever met someone so jumpy,” Molly laughed, settling down on the grass next to Carmen. After they’d returned from the high school, Carmen had taken it upon herself to wander around the property.

The Sunflower Ranch was huge. It must take an awful lot of work to maintain. Looking out onto the fields must make the slog worth it, though. The view was spectacular. Before long, Carmen stopped walking and had taken a seat on the ground, quite content sitting in silence, contemplating.

“It’s Mateo’s fault. He always liked to sneak up on me as a kid. Little asshole.”

“You two are incorrigible,” Molly chuckled. Carmen smiled.

“It really was a pleasure to watch you with the kids today, Molly.”

“Nothing makes me happier.”

“I can see. Do you think you will stay here?” The question had been on Carmen’s mind. Molly liked to go where she was needed. Whether that was because she liked to spread the love or because she needed to keep moving, Carmen wasn’t sure. What worried Carmen now was Faith. It was already going to be heart-wrenching to say goodbye to her if she stayed with Molly. But what if Molly took her on the road? Carmen might not get the chance to see either of them again for a very long time, and that didn’t feel good.

“Bessie needs me. The farm and kids are too much for her to handle and, to be honest, this place feels close to a home.”

“I can see why.”

“Do you think Faith likes it here?”

“Sure, although her head is in the clouds at the minute,” Carmen grinned.

“Ah, yes, Nathalie.”

“They’re good together. I’ve known Nat nearly her entire life. She’s one of the good ones and she seems completely enamored with Faith.”

“I’d say the feeling is mutual, if Faith’s goofy face is anything to go by,” Molly laughed.

“She’s changed so much, Molly. I’m in awe of her confidence.”

“I think she had wonderful role models.”

“Are you going to ask her to stay?”

“I want to give her the option.”

Carmen nodded, her gaze shifting back to the golden fields. “Faith will love the idea, I’m sure of it. All she’s wanted is a family member who understands and loves her for who she is.”

“I’d say she’s had that family for a few weeks now.”

A lump formed in Carmen’s throat. “Thanks,” she whispered. Surprise etched itself across her face when she felt Molly’s hand slip into hers. They sat silently for a few minutes, peacefully enveloped in the calm California air.

“Hey, I took a look at the ranch’s website. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Not at all. So, what do you think?”