“I was hoping he didn’t scare you away. He’s been a mammoth dick for months. Thought you had left there for a second until Mom found your suitcase in the laundry room.”
“No, I went to see my family. My dad called last night, and I dropped everything. I didn’t think about leaving a note.”
He eyes my tear-stained cheeks. “Want to talk about it?”
Sweet Trevor, he’s just a sixteen-year-old kid, and he’s spending most of his time trying to keep his own family together.
“The short of it is that my parents are getting a divorce.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Yeah, me too. But it’s been two years, and it’s time to close that chapter. I’m okay, really. Just getting past the sting.”
“I read about your dad, what a mess.”
“Yeah. It was.”
I roll up the window and lock my rental up. Stepping out, I glance around the ranch as the sun begins to set.
“It really is beautiful here.”
Trevor nods. “It is.”
“You like being a rancher?”
“Honestly, I don’t know life without it, but I love it. I do. And so does my brother. Definitely in our blood.”
“I can see the appeal. It’s peaceful.”
Trevor looks over at me, evident concern on his face. “Mom made meatloaf. It’s really good. I saved you a plate in the microwave. Lance has been hitting it pretty hard today. He’s blown up a few times. I think he thought you left too.”
I realize then how stupid it was not to send a text. He’s probably been expecting this. I’d rolled my suitcase into the laundry room before I left when I discovered I had nothing clean to wear to face my parents. I’m in the Grand hoodie I stole from him and my last pair of leggings.
“Is he still in the gym?”
“No.”
“Good. I want to work some of this out.”
“Okay, well, I won’t tell him you’re here. Give you some time.”
“Trust me, he’s not coming after me.” Trevor doesn’t hesitate, he pulls me into his arms. I hug him back and break down a little.
“Sorry,” I sniff.
“Don’t be. I would be devastated if my parents split. It’s got to feel weird.”
“It does.” I pull back and manage a smile. “You’re going to be an awesome husband one day.”
“Damn right, I am. I assure you not half as pigheaded as my brother.”
“Well, that should do you good.”
He looks worried when he asks. “So, you aren’t leaving?”
“I’m tired of running from the things I’m afraid of. Doesn’t make it any less hard to deal.”
“You’re perfect for him, you know.”