Page 57 of Mended Fences

Something to look forward to, at least. My little sister was a sweetheart. She was quiet and shy and innocent, but she took no shit from her big brothers. She was also the only other member of this family who had no interest in working the orchard.

Charlie was one of those people worth protecting at all costs.

Like Elena.

I scrubbed a hand over my face, and my phone buzzed with a private message.

TESSA

Hey… I need a favor

I perked right the fuck up. Did they need me to come help? I’d break every speed limit to get to her.

But Tessa didn’t know that, so I needed to play it cool. My sister-in-law had already warned me off her best friend once. As soon as I was finished proving to Elena that I could be what she needed, I’d prove it to Tessa, too.

And everyone else.

CHASE

What’s up?

Cool. Casual. Totally normal.

TESSA

I found a rental in town for Elena, but I haven’t had a chance to go over there yet. I don’t want it to be gross when she gets there.

My heart leaped into my throat. A chance to make sure Elena had a perfect place to come home to?Fuck yes.

But I couldn’t agree too quickly. That would be suspicious.

CHASE

Doesn’t that seem like more of a job for Jasper? or Mom?

Why ask me?

Good job, Chase. That sounds like some asshole thing you’d say.

TESSA

Idk, figured maybe you could get off your ass and help someone who needs it for a change.

Damn. Shots fired.But very fair, well-aimed shots. Tessa didn’t fuck around, especially when it came to the people she cared about. Elliot was lucky as hell he got her to marry him after how shitty he treated her over the years.

Hopefully I’d get just as lucky with Elena.

CHASE

Whatever. Address?

TESSA

6081 Maple Street. The little white cottage with the blue shutters.

Thanks Chase

CHASE