Page 127 of Meant to Be

“His name is Kaleb. He lives a couple of towns over. We met at a rodeo one night. He’s really great, Josie. You’d like him.”

“I’d love to meet him,” I say.

“Really?” he brightens at my words.

“Really. Name a time and a place, I’ll be there.”

Leaning over, Sam clutches my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

And just like that, those four years apart are forgotten. Dad might still not be talking to me, but at least things are right with my brother.

* * *

I don’t leave my bed until well after lunch time the following day, and if I could, I would have stayed there permanently.

Anxiety has settled into my veins, making my mind painfully analyse every moment and word exchanged on Saturday night.

The bus is due to arrive back into town at four p.m. today. I’ve switched my phone off, since Belle has been trying to ring me over and over. I don’t want to see if either Nick or Harley has reached out. I know they would have been alarmed when I didn’t show up the next morning when the group regathered, but honestly, I can’t even think about it all right now. I couldn’t show my face there the next morning and sit on that bus with everyone staring and whispering.

Groaning, after I shower, I flop back onto my bed and throw my pillow over my face. I wish I could sleep for five years.

After spending the afternoon binge-watching Netflix, I force myself to order food and walk down town. The fresh air will do me good.

When I enter the pub, a heavy wave of muggy heat hits my face. When she notices me, the girl disappears to fetch my order. I lean on the counter, rifling through my bag for my debit card, when the door creaks open.

I feel his presence before I see him.

His eyes settle on me and we stare at each other. He must have gone straight to work after getting back home from the trip. He looks as bad as I feel.

“Here you go!” The girl chirps.

“Thanks.”

I take the bag from her and turn my back to Harley. I don’t release my breath until I’m a few metres away.

Once I’m home, I switch my phone back on. I sit on the lounge and listen to the vibrations as it turns back on. I numbly eat my food, staring at the wall. When the buzzing finally stops, I lean over and look at it.

Several missed calls from Belle. Texts from Harley asking me where I am and that he is worried.

And one more.

From Elliot. In the chaos that is my life, Elliot had honestly been at the back of my mind.

Elliot:See you soon, Josie.