“Just tired.” Emotionally exhausted is closer to the truth.
“Want me to get the ATV?”
“No, I like walking through the woods with you.” Maybe it will give me a chance to burn off all this sadness.
“Charlotte,” he says once we’re a good distance from the clubhouse. “Do you think maybe it’s time you talk to someone?” His words and tone are gentle but firm.
“No. I’m fine.”
“You looked like you were ready to burst into tears.”
“I got a little choked up seeing you and Heidi and Grace together…” Damn, that’s a tired excuse. I wasn’t trying to change the subject and pile more guilt on his shoulders. But he doesn’t seem offended.
He just squeezes my hand and continues guiding me through the maze of trees, branches, and piles of leaves. “I’m glad I didn’t say anything.” He blows out a thoughtful sigh. “She loves Grace, and I don’t want to be the reason she ends up resenting her or something.”
That sounds like another lie he’s told himself. But I’m not exactly in a position to point that out.
Excuses, excuses. We’re both full of them.