Page 72 of Timber's Line

“Will do.”

“I’ll come back next week and check in.”

“Thank you, Timber. This town is lucky to have you.”

“Thank you.” I head out to take a breather.

Silas hands me a bottle of water after I hose my hands off. I’m sure I smell as well.

“You’re really good at your job.”

“Years of studying.”

“It’s a gift. I’m sure Mason’s right about this town being lucky to have you.”

“Thanks.”

“Timber, we need to head back so you can shower and change.” Ever smooths my hair down.

“I probably smell,” I admit.

Silas snorts. “I wasn’t going to say anything. But you could go like that on my brother’s date, I’m sure he wouldn’t mind.”

“You’re horrible.” I shake my head as I climb in Ever’s truck.

I don’t even bother looking for Dayton. I don’t care anymore.

“Who puked first?” I ask her.

She tenses. I know who puked first. Guess he is a liar too.

“You don’t have to say. By your body language, I already know.”

“It’s not what you think with her.”

“Maybe not, but he told me he was going to win. If he wanted me, he would try. He didn’t. And she spent the night with him. What am I supposed to think? He could say whatever he wants to pacify all of us, but I’m going to just do my thing and forget he exists.”

She doesn’t say anything. I rush up to shower, and Alexa is waiting for me when I come out.

“Ever thought you might need a break from her.”

That hurt as well.

“Everyone handles me with kid gloves, and the minute I say something that is remotely true and grown up, I’m the bad guy.”

“I don’t think that’s the case. They’re only looking out for you.”

I don’t care anymore.

“I picked out jeans and a lightweight, long-sleeve T-shirt for you.”

“Thanks.”

“And I went and got you some boots. But take your tennis shoes with you.”

“Alright. When did you do this?”

“A couple of days ago when I knew what Axel wanted to do.”