"He wants to enjoy life." Her mom smiled. "We have our own news we wanted to share with you, and I've been worried that we'll upset you."
"What?"
"I should probably wait until your dad comes in—"
"Mom." She groaned. "You can't drop that information on me and leave me hanging."
Her mom raised her brows and brushed her hair over her shoulder. "We've been talking about moving to Hawaii, buying a home there."
Her neck straightened in shock. "What? On the grid?"
"It's true." Her mom shrugged. "We're not the young couple in love with fancy ideas about raising our daughter in a free lifestyle. You're grown and on your own. It's only us now. The benefits of living in the commune are more suited for those younger than us."
She stepped away, pressing her hand to her forehead. "I can't believe this."
"I knew you'd be shocked."
"My mind's blown." Nicole snorted, shaking her head. "I'm floored."
"So was I when your dad brought it up. I asked him if he realized he had to take a plane to Hawaii." Her mom laughed softly and then sobered, "I love him, and secretly, I'm excited."
All the stress of worrying over her parents' safety and happiness left her body. She looked out the window at Priest, deep in conversation with her dad.
His gaze was clear and intent, looking her dad in the eyes. Both men took their turn talking. There were a lot of head nods being exchanged.
Nicole swallowed, exhaling harshly. As if Priest sensed her watching, he turned his gaze to the window. She wasn't sure if he could see her or not, but she held on to the contact and took strength from him, keeping his word.
She'd trusted him.
Everything was going to work out.
Her parents were going to gain the freedom to travel and experience living in society. On an island, no less. Priest and Tarkio Motorcycle Club would gain another way of making a living.
Priest's gaze intensified. Her stomach warmed. He could definitely see her through the window.