My phone beeped. I knew before I looked that it was Jade responding to my text.
What do you mean you’re leaving? You said you’d stay.
I let out a breath. I was a coward, truth be told. And I told her as much.
I’m sorry, blue eyes. I’m just not ready to meet your father yet. I’m…scared.
A few moments passed before my phone beeped with her response.
Fine. Do what you need to do.
Was that said with understanding or resentment? Damned texting. I decided not to ask.
I’ll be back tomorrow evening if you need a ride back to Snow Creek.
Again, nothing for a few minutes. Then, Don’t bother. My father can drive me back.
All right.
I stopped typing for a moment. The three words that had been so difficult for me to say now hovered on my fingertips. Why was it easier to say them than to type them into a text? I forced them from my fingers.
I love you.
I waited a few minutes, but she didn’t respond. No “I love you” back. Not that I blamed her. I was running out on her when she needed me. I had to get back to the ranch. I had told the guys and Marj to meet me tomorrow, and this was something I had to do. And there was truth in what I’d told her. I wasn’t quite ready to meet her father. Yes, I loved Jade, and yes, I wanted her for life, but I had so much more to get through myself before I could meet the man who’d raised her, who’d helped shape her into the amazing person she was. Right now, I still wasn’t good enough for his little girl. He would see right through me.
An hour later I arrived back at the ranch. I had a text from Marj.
&nb
sp; Got your text. I’m staying in Grand Junction tonight. I want to go to the hospital and see Jade and her mom. What time do you want to meet with the guys and me tomorrow? I’ll make sure I get back.
I texted her back. How about lunchtime?
Cool. I’ll be home by noon. But don’t expect me to cook.
No worries. I’ll have Felicia make us up something and leave it.
Then I texted the guys.
Marj will be home at noon tomorrow. Can you guys come over at eleven?
It was time.
* * *
I slept fitfully, though that was nothing new. I’d texted Jade a few times to check in. She sent me back robotic texts with no “I love you.”
I didn’t blame her. Once I got through everything, she would understand. I just hoped she’d stick around long enough.
Jonah and Ryan arrived right at eleven. I had already poured myself a Peach Street.
“A little early, huh, Tal?” Ryan said, joking.
I heaved a sigh. “There’s a reason I wanted you guys to come early. Before we tell Marj, I need to tell you guys exactly what happened.”
Ryan smiled. “We’re here for you.”
Jonah gripped my shoulder. “Yes, we are,” he said.