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Granted, I’ve spent far too much slouching over my desk and staring un-movingly at my screen, but a part of me had been counting on her refusal to give me the time off.
However, not only did she approve the entire month, but she was also nice enough to tell me it wouldn’t affect my accountability or attendance.
I don’t know if I’m relieved or worried.
After skimming through the email, a newsletter filled with pictures and anecdotes, I blow out a breath. Then I put my phone away and weave in and out of the people.
At one of the stores, I stop to buy myself a bottle of water and a hat. I pull it on and study the line of people gathered with signs held up to their chests.
I scan them carefully and grimace when I see my own name spelled out in cursive.
A short, dark-haired man in a brightly colored shirt and cargo shorts is waiting for me.
As I approach, I realize he’s got pit stains under his arms, and his forehead is covered in sweat.
He takes out a pack of tissues and pauses to wipe his head. Then he offers me a bright smile and reaches for my bag.
“Welcome to Montana, Ms. Clark. I hope you’ve had a pleasant flight.”
I nod and follow him. “I did, thanks. Is it always this hot? Mr. er….”
“Brady Horn.” Without missing a beat, he wheels the two bags behind him, and I settle into a brusque pace to keep up with him. “We are experiencing one of the hottest summers in recorded history. But don’t worry, the whole resort has central conditioning. And you’ll find that the ranch occasionally gets a cool breeze.”
“Occasionally?” We step outside, and I lift my hands up to shield my eyes from the sun.
Several cars are parked next to the curb, and I hear honks in the distance. Brady leads me to a small silver sedan parked on the far side of the street.
By the time we get there, my clothes are clinging to my skin, and I can smell myself.
Slowly, I wrench the back door open and watch Brady Horn as he places the bags in the trunk.
On his way past, he offers me a smile.
In the car, he rolls down the windows to let the hot air out and switches on the engine. “I’ll take you straight to the ranch, Ms. Clark. Unless you want the more scenic route.”
I shake my head and fan myself. “No, I think we can do that later. Right now, I just want a cold shower.”
Brady chuckles and fiddles with the AC. “Understood. I’m the one you’ve been communicating with via email, Ms. Clark. And I’ve got everything set up for you, including some activities. And I placed an extra bed in your room.”
I clear my throat. “Thanks. I’m not sure if my friend is going to be coming. But I figured better safe than sorry.”
“That’s no problem,” Brady assures me. “We can have the bed removed anytime you want, Ms. Clark.”
I stifle my disappointment and offer Brady a sigh. “Thank you. Is the ranch far from here?”
“Not at all.” Brady settles back against his seat and sticks his arm out the window. A large white truck races past, nearly slicing his arm in half.
He doesn’t seem fazed as he flips the driver off and rolls up the window. Then he fiddles with a knob, turning on the loud and intrusive AC.
But it’s a welcome distraction from the heat. And being at the mercy of my thoughts.
You’re a grown-ass woman, Danielle. You can handle being on vacation on your own. Besides, it’s not Savannah’s job to put you back together. She’s already done enough.
And the last thing I want is to make her feel like I’m a burden.
I tell myself that I am not an insecure people pleaser who throws herself at the mercy of others.
And that if I am, the ranch is supposed to help me with that.
