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I’m pissed at you.
I’m pissed at myself.
I should have seen the signs, but I let you down. For so long I carried the guilt like a cloak, but I’m tired of the burden. I’m tired, Vargas. I need to let this go. I need to be better.
I miss you, buddy. I hope you’re free.
Gage
Chapter 48
Gage
One month later...
After a month on the night shift, I’m happy to have a few days off and transition back to days. There isn’t much crime in Starlight Ridge, but we stay busy. Forest Services monitor much of the terrain, but we still patrol. It’s not a bad gig to ride around on a four-wheeler and check on campers in the area.
Bobbi hooked me up with a realtor who has been taking me out to look at property on my days off. I need to get out of this cabin, and while I could find a rental in another town I’d prefer staying in Starlight Ridge. So, building it is.
I’m plating my eggs when I hear a car drive up. I hate cold eggs so I shovel in a few bites and wash them down with coffee before wiping my mouth and leaving my breakfast behind. When I open the door, my eyes double blink.
“Sophia?”
“Good morning,Deputy Castillo.”
Chuckling, I shake my head. “What are you doing here?”
“Would you believe I was in the neighborhood?” I shake my head. “How about I need a cup of sugar?” Another shake.
Sophia sighs and drops her shoulders. “Fine. I missed you. I missed Starlight Ridge and our hiking spot. I missed Joan and Bobbi. One day, I’ll miss The Bluebird. But mostly, I needed to see you.”
I take a step back and open the door farther. She steps inside and walks to the middle of the room. Nothing has changed in the cabin, but she seems to be taking it all in just the same. While she’s looking, I use the time to take her in. She’s wearing those damn jeans shorts and a loose-fitting tank top. Her hair has grown and when she pulls it to the side I spot the telltale signs of a tattoo on her shoulder.
When she turns around with a huge smile on her face, I’m overwhelmed with feelings. The kind I haven’t admitted aloud. The ones that trigger thoughts of the future. Plans and dreams I never thought were possible.
“I read your letter.”
“Thank you.”
“No, Gage. Thank you. For trusting me. Did it help?”
My throat is tight, so I nod.
“Good. You look well. Like all the burdens you’ve carried are gone.”
I don’t respond but instead motion for her to move to the couch. When we’re both settled, I lean into the corner with my arm resting on the back. Sophia reaches out and runs her finger over my hand, her gaze focused on the movements.
“What’s life like now that you’re a resident of Starlight Ridge?”
I chuckle. “Not much different than it was, except I wear a uniform some days.”
“Are... are you seeing someone?”
“No. You?”
Her eyes flick to mine. “No. I... I couldn’t.”
With hope blooming I ask, “Why?”
