Page 12 of Timber's Line

“My wife does give good advice. I sometimes think about how I almost missed out on her.” I know his story. If anyone knows what I’m going through, it’s him.

“Why don’t you come join us on the porch while we wait for Timber to get back?” I flinch a little, but he doesn’t say anything.

I have no idea what I’m feeling right now.

“Hey, Dayton.” Brick waves as we walk to the back porch, and I slump into a seat.

Memphis hands me a beer. I almost say no.

“You don’t have to quit, just have to learn to drink in moderation.” Ever smiles at me.

“You’re rubbing off on that asshole,” I snicker, pointing at Memphis.

“He might give good advice, but he doesn’t listen.” Ever giggles.

“Hey!” Memphis lunges for her and kisses her. I miss that, kissing, holding someone.

“Can we join?” Jimmy and McKenna take a seat on the steps.

“Where’s Mason?” Linc asks.

“He’s finishing up some chores at his house. Is she back yet?” Jimmy asks and everyone shakes their heads.

“I hope she’s doing okay with this,” McKenna says, and everyone nods.

“How are you doing, D?” Jimmy directs his attention to me.

“I’m doing alright, I guess.” I wish that wasn’t a complete lie.

“You should come for dinner sometime.” McKenna smiles at me and pats my leg.

“Turns out McKenna can really cook.” Jimmy smiles at her and she blushes. I knew Jimmy stayed in town, but I didn’t know if they got together or not. I guess I was in my own world.

Mason and Alexa join us later. Shane pulls out the grill and cooks some burgers for us for a late lunch. I’m starving. Right as I go to grab a plate, Ty and Timber show back up. I’m curious how the date went. I catch Ever staring at me, but I look away. Even if I cared about Timber, I’m not one of her suitors.

“Guess I’ll go find Sal,” I say quietly.

“I’ll save you a plate,” London calls after me. He and Memphis are like the big brothers I never had.

* * *

“Cabin two,” Sal says, and I head in that direction.

I knock and wait. When the door opens, I want to beat the guy’s face off. Easton Fanetti.

“Hello, Dayton.” He tries to sound intimidating.

“It’s your time,” I grunt, leading him to the panel to wait for his signal.

I can’t believe this fucker is on the show.

“Guess you don’t want to talk to me, hmm?”

“Not in the slightest.”

“Hard feelings?”

“I have no feelings toward you at all, asshole.”