Page 68 of Timber's Line

I actually giggle. “No.” He doesn’t push me, but I will never know if I’m really that damaged if I don’t talk to him.

I’m about to say something when we pull up and see someone sitting on the steps of the porch, waiting for us. Snow.

“I’ll just go.” I brush past him and head for the house.

“Timber,” he calls after me, but this will change everything. I know it will.

I text Ever to tell her I made it home and try to fall asleep.

By the time morning is streaming through the window, I’ve slept maybe twenty minutes.

“Shit,” Skye says when she knocks and enters.

“I’m alright,” I tell her. I’m not. Just when I thought we were making progress, Snow shows back up.

“You don’t know why she was here,” she says, picking out my outfit.

“She’s here because she wants him back.” I yank the top out of her hands and throw it.

“Alright, let’s sit.” She motions to the bed, and I do as she says.

“Just because she was here doesn’t mean she wants him back. But they do have a history. I know you like him, and I’m sorry to say it that way. Just remember that you have guys here who you haven’t been on a date with. Take it day by day. Maybe it’s not meant to be with Dayton, and if it is, it will happen.”

I nod.

“Sorry for snapping at you,” I say.

“That was nothing compared to some of the snapping Stella does. I swear, she’s as stubborn as her father.”

I smile sadly.

“Let’s get you ready. We are here to support you.”

“I don’t belong in your group,” I reply.

“Um, girl, you must be on something. You belonged way before I did.”

“I have nothing in common with any of you.”

“You do, more than you think.”

“All you guys do is protect me.” I’m whining, and I know it, sounding as young as I am.

“As we should a little sister.” She brushes my hair.

I don’t say anything else.

“I know you feel out of place, but you do fit in. You just need to relax and be yourself.”

“Okay.”

“Shall we go to breakfast?”

“Sure.”

“No matter what, you put a smile on your face.”

“I’ll try.”