The tension between you and your boyfriend means there’s an issue that needs working through. Get it out on the table before it grows into something more.
A sound pulled Annie from a deep sleep. She became aware of an ache in her arm.
She stirred, stretching, opening her eyes. The cot, the cabin. She sat up and looked around. Daylight seeped through the dirty windowpanes. The space in the corner where Dylan had slept was empty and the fire was low but warm.
“Dylan?”
She wondered what time it was, then grabbed her phone off the floor and checked: 6:47.
Where could he be?
A rumble outside drew her attention, and she recognized the sound that had pulled her from slumber. An engine!
A moment later a car door slammed, then the cabin door creaked open. Dylan’s silhouette filled the space.
“Mornin’.” The curve of his lips fell short of a smile. He wore last night’s clothes with the addition of a jacket.
She swung her legs over the cot and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. “Someone’s here?”
“I walked back and fetched my work truck. Ready to go?” Using a log, he spread out the crumbling wood, then emptied a water bottle over it. The fire sizzled out.
She stood, pulling the blanket from the cot and smoothing her hair. She must be a sight. “You should’ve woken me.”
“You were sound asleep.”
She followed him out the door, pulling the blanket closer against the cool morning air. “Well, thanks.”
When they were both seated, he put the truck in gear and pulled away from the cabin.
“What about your truck?”
“I’ll fix it later.”
She hated the lingering tension between them. It would be a good time for that apology she owed him. Despite his detached demeanor, he’d been nothing but gracious since she’d made that accusation. Given her the cot, given up the blanket, and he must’ve kept the fire banked because she hadn’t so much as shivered all night.
Time to eat crow. She opened her mouth.
“Have some bad news,” he said before she could produce a word. “Your sister left some frantic voice mails on my phone.”
“Oh no. I was hoping she went to bed early.”
“No such luck. I called and explained what happened.”
At least Sierra knew now. “Thanks.”
“That’s not all. She got worried around midnight and called Oakley. He drove over and found your truck in my drive, then left a voice mail that sounded less than happy. Thought I’d better let you handle that one.”
Oh no. “He must be worried.” She pulled out her phone, but she still had no reception. They hit a rut and she braced herself against the door.
“Try mine.” He pulled out his cell and handed it to her as they crossed Moose Creek. “You should know that your boyfriend also called the sheriff. There was a message from him on my voice mail too.”
Annie ran her hand over her face. “Oh, man.”
“I canceled the all-points bulletin.”
She punched in John’s number, ignoring Dylan’s jibe. She hoped word hadn’t spread around town, but it was seven o’clock, and the rumor mill opened at sunrise.
“What’s going on, Taylor?” John said in a tone she’d never heard from him. “Where’s Annie?”
“It’s me. I’m so sorry for the worry.”
“Annie! Where have you been?” She was taken aback by the anger in his voice. He’d been worried though. She should cut him some slack.
“I went to see my grandfather’s cabin last evening and the truck broke down. I was stuck there all night.”
“With Taylor?”
“Right. There was no cell reception and it was dark, so we had no choice but to stay the night.”
“What did he do? Did he lay a hand on you, Annie? Because if he did, I’ll sue his sorry rear end!”
“No.” She glanced at Dylan. “No, he was—nothing happened. Really. I’m fine. Everything’s fine.”
A shadow moved across Dylan’s face as he clenched his jaw.
“Where are you now?”
“On my way back.” She purposely left Dylan out of the mix.
“Well, thank heavens for that. I was very worried about you, Annie. I called the sheriff when I couldn’t reach you. I’d better let him know you’re safe.”
“Already done. And thank you for your concern.” She nailed Dylan with a look. Regardless of his sarcasm, it was nice to have someone who cared.
“Are you sure you’re okay? There was no trouble with Taylor? Because he has a reputation, Annie, and it would be just like him to take advantage.”
“No, not at all. I’m right as rain, just a bit hungry.” They hit a rut and Annie grabbed for the handle.
“Well, I’ll bring you something from the café then.”
She desperately needed a reprieve from human company. “No, no, you must be exhausted. Besides, I have a full schedule today. I’ll just grab something from the cupboard. But thank you. It’s sweet of you to offer.”
“If you’re sure.”
“I am, but I’ll see you tonight. Have a good day, John.”
They said good-bye, and she pushed End just as Dylan turned onto the main drive.
She held out the phone. “Thanks.”
“I see Oakley also has a high opinion of me.”
She felt the barb down to her heart. “Dylan, I’m really—”
Her phone rang, apparently in range now. It was Sierra, probably needing to hear her voice. The apology would have to wait a few minutes. She answered the phone.
“Annie! I’m so glad you’re all right!”
“It’s not your fault. Dylan explained everything, and I’m so sorry for everything I said last night—I didn’t mean it.” Her sister’s voice wobbled.
“I’m sorry too. I love you and Ryder so much. I just want you both to have the best opportunities.”
“I know you do. I know.”
Dylan pulled up to the barn and shut off the engine. He motioned toward the barn. “Gotta run,” he said quietly.
Annie covered the mouthpiece. “Thanks, Dylan.”
He nodded once and offered a smile that didn’t reach his eyes or call on his dimple.
She wanted to say so much more, but he was leaving the truck and heading into the barn. Annie walked to her truck, still comforting Sierra. She wanted to stick around and finish the apology she’d barely started. But it was after seven and she had to grab a shower and a bite to eat and be at the mayor’s ranch by eight. As she pulled down the drive, she realized they’d never even discussed the letters for this week’s column.