CHAPTERTEN
Chase
I stepout onto the porch of my cottage and close the door behind me.The air is brisk on this early fall morning, a reminder that winter is approaching.This year, it’s expected to be warmer than usual, which doesn’t bode well for relief from the drought.I pause on the porch, taking in a few deep breaths of the fresh mountain air before admiring the picturesque view.My cottage is situated a short distance away from the main house, separated by hedges and a pebbled path.I built this place in my early twenties after moving back home to give me some privacy from my parents.After my father passed away, my mother offered to switch houses with me and live in the smaller cottage so I could have the larger main house.But I declined; I built my cottage myself and it suits my needs perfectly.It may not be fancy or luxurious, but it’s clean and functional—just like me.I’ve never been one for material possessions, and this small cottage is all I need to feel content.
My mom is outside hanging laundry on the line, and she waves me over with a warm smile.I quickly slip on my worn-out cowboy boots from beside the door.As I walk over to where my mom is working, the familiar scent of fresh linen and the earthy aroma of the garden fill the air.We both wake up early every day to tend to the ranch and do housework, a routine that suits us both perfectly and strengthens our bond.
“Good morning, Mom,” I say, reaching her side.Her eyes sparkle with the same kindness and resilience that have always guided our family through thick and thin.
“Good morning, sweetheart,” she responds, her hands deftly pinning a shirt to the line.“It’s another beautiful day,” my mom says with a smile.It’s become a bit of an inside joke between us.
“I can’t even remember when we last had some rain.”I grab a shirt from the laundry basket to help.
We share a moment of quiet understanding, appreciating the simple yet profound connection that comes from working together.It’s in these small, shared tasks that our relationship truly thrives, each action a testament to our mutual respect and affection.
“Maybe they’ll do a rain dance at the concert.”
“It’s worth a shot.”My mom steps away from the clothesline and places her hands on her hips.“Have you seen her yet?”
I fill my mom in on the meetings with Bayleigh, recounting how difficult it’s been to see her again after all these years.My mom listens quietly, her eyes filled with understanding and compassion.She’s always had a way of knowing when to offer advice and when to simply lend an ear.
“She seems different now,” I continue.“More guarded, but also more determined.It’s like she’s trying to rebuild herself piece by piece.”
My mom nods thoughtfully, hanging the last of the laundry.“People change, especially after going through something traumatic.Maybe this time back home will help her find some peace.”
I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia as I think back to the days when Bayleigh and I were inseparable.Her laughter used to fill these fields; her presence as natural as the changing seasons.But those days are long gone, and the reality of our separate lives is stark and unyielding.
“Do you think she’ll stay long?After the concert I mean,” my mom asks, breaking the silence.
I shrug, unsure how to answer.“I don’t know.Part of me hopes she does, but another part knows it might be best for both of us if she moves on, resumes her life in Nashville.”
“She was an important part of your life,” my mom reminds me.“What happened was unfortunate.Her mother has never been able to move past it.”
I nod in understanding.Mrs.Gilmore had transitioned from being a respected community member to living in social isolation.Her constant bitterness and sharp words had slowly driven a wedge between her and those who once cared for her.
My mother sighs, giving me a knowing look.“Sometimes facing the past is the only way to truly move forward.Maybe this is Bayleigh’s chance to do just that.”
I ponder her words as we finish up the morning chores.The sound of a vehicle catches my attention, and Frankie’s truck pulls into the gate.
I stride to the driveway and meet him as he parks.Frankie gets out and stands there, that big goofy grin on his face, flanked by Kelly.
Kelly smiles widely.She really is very pretty, and she has that people-pleasing cheerleader vibe about her.
“Morning.”I frown, looking back at Frankie.“What’s going on?”
“Can we talk?”Kelly asks.
I hesitate for a moment, but my manners take over.“Sure, come on in.”I gesture towards my cottage, and we walk over and go inside to the living room.
Kelly and Frankie make themselves comfortable on the couch while I stick my hands in the back pockets of my jeans.“Can I get you guys a drink?”
“No, thanks,” Kelly responds before turning to Frankie.
Frankie clears his throat and fixes his gaze on me, excitement dancing in his eyes.“An amazing opportunity has presented itself.”
“Oh yeah?”I expect news that Frankie’s landed a record deal.
But then Kelly speaks up.“The guitar player who was supposed to play with Bayleigh this weekend fell ill and can’t make it.We need a replacement.”
