CHAPTERTWENTY-EIGHT
Snow
“He didn’t come home after the BBQ,” I say, flopping on the sofa after pacing the last ten minutes. I’m in another session with Ariel, and I don’t know what to do.
“Have you tried talking to him?” Ariel asks.
“Shane did, but it ended in an argument.”
“Shane is right,” she says, “let it be for a bit. The show can be stressful.”
“Do you think he’s dumping us?”
“No, but if he was . . .?” she asks, lifting a brow in question.
“I have Shane. And I’d be happy for him.”
“That’s my girl.” She beams.
“I just wish that he would talk to someone. He keeps sneaking off with some guy. He won’t even introduce us.”
I’m so frustrated, having no idea what to say or do, or if it would even help if I did insert myself in some way. I mean, if he wants to leave us, I can’t make him stay—neither can Shane. It’s an emotion beyond hurt feelings—something I can’t describe to myself, let alone put into words for Ariel.
“Maybe just give him a few days,” Ariel advises, and I nod.
“Thank you,” I say as we stand and exit the study.
“Anytime.” She nods at me. We watch as Afton learns to make cheesecake brownies.
“I can see why you love it here.” Ariel gives me a sidelong glance and smirks.
“You’re just buttering me up for food.” I grin.
“It’s in the fridge.” Shane shakes his head at Ariel with amusement.
“I love you guys.” She giggles, nudging me playfully.
“Tell Brick hi for us. And Stella can come play in the pond this weekend if she wants,” Shane says with a smile.
“I’m sure she will say yes as soon as I suggest it. Or you can tell her later when you see her. She really wants to do the haunted house.” Ariel waves as she leaves.
“She’s nice,” Afton says as he puts the tray in the oven. “Not sure about the haunted house, though.”
“Coffee is on,” Shane announces.
Afton helped with the chickens today. The contestants aren’t meeting with Carlton and London until later. It’s Friday festival, and we already took our dishes down to the diner to warm. I’m selling fresh eggs for a penny. I don’t need the money, but I was told to price them. Brick and Linc will bring the horses later.
“I’m sure you guys will come up with something,” I tell him.
“I was told that the costumes have to be kid friendly and things or animals found around the farm. The girls won’t like that.” Afton makes an incredibly amusing point. The girls will definitely want to show some skin.
“I have to admit it hasn’t been that bad, yet, with backstabbing and talking shit,” Shane says.
“That could change,” I add.
“Always.” Shane nods.
“So, we’re selling eggs and making brownies for this festival?”