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That would be stooping to the same level as Chad. That’d be proving Chad right. I want Travis to want me for me. I don’t know how I’m going to separate my feelings about Travis from this story, but I guess I’ll have to find a way.
I set up my computer on his desk, closed the door, and got to writing. Before I knew it, a thought popped into my head.
Mia knocks on the door, and I shoo her away. I can’t stop now.
A few minutes later, Travis comes in.
“Hey. I need to talk to you.”
“Not now. I can’t stop writing now.”
“It’s important. I think you’re going to want to–”
“Travis, I can’t, ok! I need to get this story out. If I stop now, there’s no telling when I’ll be able to pick it back up. The story is what you want, isn’t it?” I snap.
He sighs. “Ava, please–”
“Not now. Please,” I say and go back to my computer.
“So you’re not going riding with us?”
“No. Words are flowing; I have to keep the creative juices flowing,” I say without looking at him.
He closes the door and walks away without saying anything.
22
TRAVIS
Iguess I’m just going to have to tell him myself. Maybe it’s better this way. If he blows up, I can protect Ava from the hurt. If he blows up and disowns me, what will I do? Will I still choose Ava? Can I really throw away decades of friendship? Can I forget about her? The answer is no to both questions.
I locked myself in my bathroom after the horseback ride with the ladies, which went really well. I think they all had a great time! I was a little preoccupied. It sounded so easy–pretending that last night didn’t happen. But I just can't stop thinking about her. I need to kiss her again. I need to hold her again.
“I’m in love with your sister,” I say out loud in the mirror to myself. “I’m in love with your sister.” It’s easy to say to myself. I close my eyes and repeat it, picturing Ryder on the other side, “I’m in love with your sister.” Is he going to hit me? He might punch me in the face. I’m prepared for it. I’ll let him hit me if that’s what it takes.
It’s nearly time for the bonfire. It’s usually an enjoyable night for everyone. We grill hot dogs and hamburgers for dinner and then have s'mores for dessert. We roast marshmallows and sing and dance around the fire all night. It’s a great send-off for our guests. They go home the following day smelling like a campfire, with camp tunes stuck in their head. I’m sure these ladies will have a great time.
I am a little nervous about what Barb will do if Ava isn’t there to protect me. Especially since it’s her last night. She might be emboldened because it's her last night.
I’ve also got to find a spot for Ryder. He thinks he’ll stay for the bonfire and leave afterward, but I doubt he’ll be up for driving home. I haven’t told him I’ve had his sister sleeping in my bed with me to protect her.
Maybe it’ll be a non-issue. If I have the courage to tell him tonight, he might not be staying after all.
“Dad, are you in there?” Mia knocks on the door.
“Yep, be out in a minute.”
“Kenny is going to light the fire!”
“Ok, I’m coming.” I take one last look in the mirror at myself, just in case Ryder decides to break my face.
“Where’s Ava?” Mia asks.
“She must still be working,” I answer.
“I’m going to go get her. I know she wouldn’t want to miss the bonfire.”
“Ok. Good luck.” Maybe Mia will have better luck.
