Page 41 of Timber's Line

Ever is typing on her phone but puts it away as I stand and Ariel helps me into the shoes.

“Fuck,” Memphis mutters from the door.

I don’t even know what to say.

“Time to go,” Ever says and tugs me toward the door.

I’m nervous now. Do I look okay?

“You look beautiful,” Memphis says.

I blush and head for my spot at the tree.

“We’re shaking things up after this,” Sal says to me. “You look beautiful, by the way.”

“Shaking things up?”

“I’ll explain tomorrow after I’ve talked to the guys.” He doesn’t elaborate, and I wonder what he has in mind. I don’t like drama, but the show needs it for ratings, I guess.

The guys line up.

“We didn’t get to introduce ourselves earlier. I’m Axel, and this is my brother, Silas.” I recognize them both.

“Nice to meet you.” I smile up at them. They make me feel small, which isn’t hard to do since they’re huge men. Axel smirks as if he’s reading my thoughts, and I turn away.

“Axel and Silas are safe tonight. Two must be eliminated,” Carlton informs me. Still two?

Brice nods at me. I know he’s okay with being eliminated.

“It’s time, Timber.”

“Thank you to all of you, for making me feel special. This isn’t easy for me. And I hope the two guys I let go understand.”

Some of the men look wary and some are grinning at me.

“Lucas and Brice, I’m sorry,” I whisper. Lucas approaches me first and hugs me.

“I’ll be okay.” He smiles at me. And even though we didn’t hit it off, I’m glad he doesn’t hold a grudge. I feel relieved. I don’t like hurting people’s feelings, even ones who do it to me.

Brice approaches me, hugging me tightly.

“He likes you. Give him a chance,” he whispers in my ear.

“Dayton?”

He nods.

“I don’t think he does. He loves someone else,” I say quietly.

“Give him some time. Find me later.” He walks off camera and sits with Memphis and London.

“Those of you still standing, live to fight another day.” Carlton grins.

I stifle a giggle, keeping my composure.

“Cut,” someone calls, and I relax. I feel pretty in this dress, but sad I only wore it for a few minutes.

“Gentlemen, tomorrow at breakfast you will meet the rest of the suitors. We will continue with the dates, Timber, but we’ll start the fun group activities. This Friday is your first task to stay in the competition. You have a week to prepare. To help you with that, Lincoln and Jimmy are here to advise you. I would talk to them, if I was you,” Sal addresses the guys. I take this chance to head to my favorite place.