A buzz came from across the room as my phone vibrated on the table. I looked over at it like Ethan could jump out of it at any moment and hurt me again. Another buzz of the phone sounded.
Sighing, I stood and walked over to where it sat. As I turned on the screen, a sense of relief washed over me at two new messages from Caleb and only the one from Ethan.
Walking back to the couch, I opened the text from Ethan.Better to rip off the Band-Aid, I guess.
Ethan: Rae, it's been days. Where are you? I need you to text me now.
A shiver went through me as I closed Ethan’s message and switched to the messages from Caleb.
Caleb: Hey, Sunshine. I had a really nice time with you at coffee. I would love to meet up again soon. Let me know what you think! No pressure of course.
Caleb: Also, still love animals? If you want to come to the farm and hang out with the horses, chickens or even my new dog, you can. I think Duke would love you. Again, no pressure. I just remember you loved animals in high school. Reach out if you need anything!
I set my phone down for a moment and ran my fingers through my hair as I let out a huge sigh.“No pressure” versus “I need you to text me now.” Sure, he may be concerned and wanting to know I'm okay, but probably not. Caleb, though, was not wanting to pressure me into anything.
“What did I ever see in Ethan?” I grumbled angrily.
I picked up my phone, opened the message from Caleb, and sent him a reply.
Me: Thank you, Ranger! I do still love animals, so I would love to come to the farm!
I set my phone down, feeling a bit lighter after his text.
At least I've got a good friend in Caleb.
Chapter 8
Rae
Iwoke up to the soundof crunching rocks outside my bedroom window in the flower bed my mom put in. I lay in bed, listening, and the sound stopped.I did hear that, right?I put my glasses on just in time to see a shadow pass by as the crunching sounds resumed. I sucked in a breath and held it.
Did I lock the front door?I quickly looked around, realizing I was not really sure what I was looking for.
I slowly and quietly threw back the covers and walked to the front door, gripping my phone so tight.
Oh, thank goodness it's locked.I held my hand over my pounding heart as I let out the breath I had been holding. The back door from where I stood looked locked as well.
