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He sighs. “Yeah it does, even though it’s hard.”

I tuck the phone between my ear and shoulder and begin to clean up the supper dishes.

“So, please tell me you’re not still hiding up in your room.”

If that hadn’t been a real possibility, it would be funny. Would I still be up there if Brody and Daisy hadn’t showed up? I guessit doesn’t matter. I’m not up there, and I’m a bit proud that I can report something positive.

“No. In fact, I even went hiking today.”

Ash winks at me as he heads into the bathroom. The butterflies in my stomach take flight.

“You did?” It’s not that he doesn’t believe me, but he’s surprised.

“Oh my gosh, Raffe, it was amazing. We found a waterfall. Ash and I had lunch there. It was a perfect spot. For a moment, I thought I’d died and went to heaven.”

“Ah, hun, I’m glad you got outside and enjoyed the day. You’re being careful though?”

“Yes.” Raffe’s concern for my safety and the fact he even called makes me happier than I’ve felt in a long time. “Ash made sure I was safe. It was kind of scary in spots, but he was always right there to give me a hand and to encourage me to keep going. But I have to admit, I’m feeling every mile of it now that I’ve sat down.” I laugh, because even though my muscles are stiffening, it feels good.

“You should call JD and Elizabeth and let them know how today went. JD and I talked last night. He told me you were opening up to them, but he’s still concerned about you. I think hearing about your day would ease those worries.”

I start the water in the sink. “You’re right. I should call them.”

“That’s my girl.”

A warm feeling floods through my system at his praise.

“I have to get going. We’re having some medical supplies brought to the house tonight. But I wanted to check on you and make sure you were okay. I feel bad about the way we left.”

“It worked out, for both you and me, I think. Just please don’t forget to take care of yourself too.”

He sighs. “You’re right. It’s funny how life has a way of working out. But anyway, don’t hesitate to call if you need to talk.”

“You too.”

“Sweet dreams, hun.”

“Goodnight, Raffe.”

I finish the few dishes we have and then curl up on the couch with a blanket to call JD. I’m feeling much stronger today. I don’t know if it’s the hike, the mountain air, or the fact that I’m ready to go with the flow and see what happens. Something I’ve been afraid to do.

JD answers in a panic. “I’m on my way.”

“What? Why?”

“What’s wrong?” he asks.

“Nothing. I was just calling to check in.”

He releases a whoosh of air. “She’s okay,” he tells Elizabeth.

“Hey, sweetie,” her comforting voice comes through after JD puts the phone on speaker.

I proceed to tell them about my day. They not only listen, but they also ask questions. It’s an easy conversation, and before I know it Ash is lowering himself beside me on the couch. Freshly showered and smelling oh so good.

“I’m going to let you guys go so I can shower. That is if Ash left me any hot water,” I tease.

He shoves me in the arm. “Let me talk to them.”