Page 7 of The Road to Forever (Beaumont: Next Generation #7)

SIX

M y tour starts in three days, and I think I’ve finally convinced Nola to come along for most of it.

She would have to skip her fall semester or do it online.

The last time, she visited many of the historical sites in places we stopped.

I joined her when I could. I’ve told her she doesn’t have to be at every show, although I love looking to the side and seeing her standing there, swaying to the music. But I get it; it’s a lot.

On my way home from rehearsal, I stop and buy her a bouquet.

I haven’t done this in a while, and this could be part of the minor discourse we’ve experienced.

Ever since Peyton and Noah’s gender reveal, things have been really good between us.

I’m calling whatever it was the past few months nothing more than growing pains.

It’s natural for every relationship to have its ups and downs, its good days and bad days, after all.

I understand she wants things for herself, and I fully support her. If it’s important for her to stand on her own two feet, then I’ll stand slightly behind her and let her shine.

Pulling into the driveway, I maneuver around our car and push the kickstand down. I’m hoping she’ll want to take a ride later, maybe head out to some roadside taco stand.

Inside, the house is quiet.

“Nola?”

No answer.

I set my keys down and notice a note from her sitting on the kitchen counter. A smile spreads across my lips, and I think of how cute it is that she wrote me a note.

That is, until I open it, and her engagement ring slips out.

Quinn,

Things aren’t working here for me right now. I’ve gone to my parents. We need some time apart or I do. I don’t know where my feelings are.

Call me when you’re in town.

Eleanora