Page 160 of Dust Storm

He was home and had made some physical progress, thanks to an experimental therapy program. But he had closed himself off, refusing to see anyone.

It broke the girls.

Their favorite person in the entire world wouldn’t even talk to them.

“I think your dad was going to see if he was feeling up to it, but he still needs a lot of rest.” I pointed to the bag of bagels under the seat in front of me. “But Becks is going to love those.”

“Yeah, she is,” Bree said with a grin.

“Maybe we’ll do a girls’ trip when you turn sixteen. You, me, Gracie, Becks, and Charlotte.”

“Really?”

That seemed to lift her spirits.

“Yeah. It’ll be fun.”

“Okay,” she said, wiggling in her seat. “But I really did like this trip. You know, just you and me.”

“I’m glad.”

“I like hanging out with you.”

I could tell she was hedging toward something.

“I like hanging out with you too.”

She picked at her nail beds. “And I’m glad you’re with my dad.”

“You already said that a few minutes ago.”

“I know,” she said with a sigh. “I just want you to know that I mean it. And I’m glad you work for the ranch. And I know my dad likes you working for the ranch. You’re really good at it.”

The plane shuddered as we landed on the runway and came to a skidding halt.

“I like working at the ranch. Most of the time.”

She smiled. “And I like that you’re honest and you don’t treat us like babies or keep things from us to protect our feelings. You treat us like adults.”

“Where’s this all coming from?” I asked as the plane taxied to the gate.

“Nothing,” she said quickly. Guilt was painted all over her angelic little face.

I narrowed my eyes. “I already bought you all the clothes in Manhattan. What else are you trying to squeeze out of me?”

“I told you—nothing.”

“And I don’t believe you,” I whispered.

Bree bit back a smile as we collected our bags and carry-ons and exited the plane.

“I’m so excited to see Dad,” she said as we raced through the terminal.

Christian and Gracie were waiting on the other side to pick us up.

People held signs and bouquets of flowers. Passengers clumped together as they met their loved ones.

“I see his hat,” Bree said as she pointed out the tall cowboy who stood head and shoulders over the rest.

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