Cheap stays are one of the best parts of chasing. We’ve met amazing people, and in some spots, at night, all the chasers go outside to hang out.
Not here, though. Not today. I’m not in the mood for people.
My phone vibrates in my back pocket, and I groan. I just want to be left alone.
“I swear, Ruka. If you don’t give me some space, I’m going to—” My anger falls short when I see the unknown number.
Oklahoma: Hey, Nariko. This is Oklahoma, the guy who was rude to you on his property and then apologized to you at the diner. I know this is out of the blue, but are you okay?
I smile, a freeness being taken from the emotion in my chest, and I’m able to breathe. I know nothing about him other than he brings me peace whenever he makes himself known.
Me: Hard to forget the rudest cowboy in the state. I’m just kidding. Since you don’t know me well enough to know when I’m joking. And honestly, no. I’m not okay.
Oklahoma: You aren’t wrong about being the rudest in the state. I have my moments. I’m still sorry about that. And is there anything you want to talk about? I’m here to listen.
Me: Ruka and I got into a fight. I chased all night because of him. I’m exhausted. That’s pretty much it, minus some details, but I don’t want to get into it right now, if that’s okay.
And because I don’t need Oklahoma to know we were fighting over him. We barely know this guy, and I don’t want to send him running for the hills before he takes me out on a date.
Oklahoma: Ah, the brother. He’s a big fan of mine. Want me to talk to him? I’m sure he will listen to me.
“Ha! Unlikely,” I mumble, kicking off my mud-soaked boots.
The old carpet is hard underneath my palm, and the thought of it not being washed in who knows how long has me yanking my hand away, only using my legs to push myself into a standing position.
A loud kick has me jump as the air conditioning under the window shakes to life, spewing fresh air into the room. I moan as the coolness dries the sweat on my skin. I’m not sure how I’m going to find the energy to move, let alone shower.
I could just fall into bed, uncaring if I get it dirty. My gaze lingers on the floral comforter, and intrusive thoughts take over.
What if the sheets aren’t washed?
What if there are bed bugs?
What if the pillows are flat?
“I don’t even care. Just shower and let this day be over.” The fibers of the carpet dig into the bottoms of my feet, scratching the delicate skin as I drag them with little energy.
Staring at my reflection in the cracked, oversized mirror, all I see is someone who is done caring—for the time being. There are bags under my eyes, mud caked everywhere on me, including my hair. I lean against the small vanity, trying to push my emotions down.
My phone dings again, and when I see Oklahoma’s name, I smile. He’s the only happiness I’ve felt since I saw him last night.
Oklahoma: Sorry, that was a joke too. I’d never talk to your brother. Not without you being okay with it. I didn’t mean to upset you. I’m not good at this, am I? I’ve done nothing but make an ass out of myself in front of you.
Oklahoma: And forgive me for saying ass. I shouldn’t talk like that around you. You deserve better.
The tension in my neck and shoulders releases, and a small smile tugs at the corner of my mouth.
Me: Sorry. I’m getting ready to shower all this mud off. And I really don’t mind bad language. I use it every day. I suppose that means I’m not very ladylike?
I don’t bother trying to change my appearance. There’s no making this look good after the night I’ve had. I lift the phone and pose by lifting my arm above my head and using the remaining energy to smile for Oklahoma as I snap a picture.
Me: See? Not ladylike at all. How many ladies do you know who chase tornadoes?
A few bubbles appear and then vanish.
“Oh.” I frown, rereading my message just in case I said something wrong.
Stripping off my clothes, I toss them to the side, chunks of hardened mud dusting the floor. I grimace. I’m just as filthy. I flick the switch on the wall, but the dim yellow bulb isn’t casting enough brightness. I might as well be showering in the dark.
