Page 111 of Timber's Line

“For making up with Dayton.”

“You were right. Don’t let that go to your head,” he laughs, “but you were right. We abandoned him. I won’t do that again.”

“I’m glad.”

We pull up to this house that is all glass, three floors, abstract, and very much what I would have loved my house to look like.

“The door is unlocked. Have fun.” He leaves me to explore.

The living room is open, I can see the other three floors, and there is a pool in the living room. The kitchen has all new gadgets and black, sleek counters. I might be a country girl, but this is what I wanted for my kitchen, almost down to the detail. I walk up the stairs, exploring the rooms. The master bedroom has a huge jacuzzi tub looking out over the mountains. There’s a big walk-in shower with a waterfall inside. I mean, this is the dream. Who built this?

I head outside and turn toward the barn. I watch two horses play in the field and recognize one as Dwight. That must mean the other one is Jimmy’s. Ever bought them? What is going on?

I decide to take a dip in the pool and float while gazing at the stars. This is my dream home. I can’t believe it. Who did this?

I fall asleep in the master bedroom after swimming for a few and wake up to the smell of breakfast. I pad downstairs to see Memphis and London cooking, Ever setting the table, and Skye pouring drinks.

“Morning,” they all say, almost in unison.

“Weirdos.” I laugh as I take a seat. “Not that I mind and I’m happy to see you, but why are you here? If you say something about me needing protection, I will crush your nuts.” I point at Memphis and London, who both flinch slightly.

“We wanted to see how you were doing. We’re not coddling you, as you think.” Ever smooths down my hair.

“You bought Dwight?” I ask her. She nods but doesn’t say any more.

“I didn’t know you could cook.” Lincoln chuckles at London as he walks through the door.

“Fuck off.” He throws a dish towel at him.

“Aren’t you excited?” Ever smiles at me.

“Where is he?” They know who I’m talking about.

“He’s doing some business in Atlanta. Don’t worry, you’ll see him soon,” Memphis replies.

We eat in silence, and I don’t mind it. Soon, the house is a flurry of excitement. I’ve never seen so many flowers before in my life. Then a grill and smoker are delivered. More flowers. Pool floaties in the shapes of unicorns and flamingos. More flowers.

“You need to eat some lunch,” Ever says as we watch Ariel and Skye direct where the tables should go.

“I’m so nervous, I don’t think I can stomach anything.”

I shouldn’t be nervous. He likes me. He kissed me in the dress store. He said he was coming.

“I made soup and bread.”

I nod and follow her, laughing when I see the guys scarfing down her food.

“You are animals.” She snorts and hands me a bowl of chicken noodle soup.

“This is so good.” Rome doesn’t even care that his mouth is full of food.

“Rude,” I snicker.

“I can’t help it. She’s a master in the kitchen.” Then he looks around, I’m guessing for my dad.

“Your secret is safe with me.” I grin, and he smiles back.

I finish the bowl, realizing that I was hungry. But now, it’s time to get ready.