Page 25 of Colt

“I’m sorry. I didn’t see you.”

“It’s okay,” she said as she stared into his eyes, then he stepped back.

“Did you need something?”

“I wanted to tell you that if you want to go home—”

“No. I’d rather work. If I go home, I’ll just sit around and think about him.”

“I understand. Again, I’m so sorry for your loss, Colt.”

“Thank you. I need to tell the men.” He ran his hand down his face. “I’m not looking forward to it.”

“Do you want me to tell them?”

“No. I think it would be better coming from me.”

“Oh, alright. I just thought I could take that burden off you.”

“It’s fine.” He moved around her and strode down the barn’s aisle.

****

Chelsea watched his long strides as he walked out the doors at the end of the barn. She knew he was hurting, and wished she could take away his pain, but she also knew he wouldn’t let her.

She sighed as she strode across the yard, up the steps, and entered the house. She pulled a chair out from under the table, sat down, folded her arms on the table, and placed her head on them as she sobbed over the loss of such a wonderful man.

Standing at the gravesite a few days later, Chelsea held Colt’s hand as they listened to the reverend read from the Bible. There wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd. She glanced around to see so many people here for Walt. He was loved by so many.

Looking at Colt, her heart broke when a tear rolled down his face. Once the service was done, she and Colt hugged Tricia then left to go home. Colt told Chelsea he didn’t want to go to the townhall after the service, so she drove them back to the ranch. He never spoke a word the entire way. She reached over to touch his hand, and grasped it tightly in his, but stayed silent.

A week later, Chelsea entered the barn to look for Colt. She wanted to make sure he was alright. She knew he was still hurting.

She saw Brian walking toward her. He touched the brim of his hat as he approached her.

“Ma’am.”

“We’ve talked about this, Brian. Please call me Chelsea.”

“Alright, Chelsea. Did you need some help?”

“Do you know where Colt is?”

Brian smirked as he pointed to the hayloft above. “Up there.”

Chelsea glanced up then back at him.

“Is he working up there?” She couldn’t understand what would need to be done up there.

“No. He goes up there when he wants to be alone and think.”

“I see. Well, thank you.” She walked around him and headed for the ladder.

“Ma’am, I’m not sure that’s a good idea. He likes to be left alone.”

“It will just take me a minute.”

“Alright.” Brian left the barn.

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