Page 35 of Logan

“True. It takes a lot for this town to shut down, but sometimes heavy snowfall does the trick.”

“What’s wrong? You soundupset.”

Dixie let out a sigh and explained about Clint’s passing and how Logan was coping.

“Oh no, I’m so sorry. You mentioned he was sick, but I didn’t know it would be so soon. Poor Logan,” Celine sympathized.

“He’s really struggling with it, Celine. My heart breaks for him. We may have a complicated history, but I know he’s really hurting. I promised him I would help in any way I can.”

“If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to let me know.”

“I appreciate that. I was thinking of talking to Connie about preparing some food after the service. I’ll see if Logan wants people to gather at his house or at the town hall.”

“That’s a great idea. Let me know if you need help with coffee. Oh, and talk to Sloane too. She could bring some sweets for everyone.”

“Good thinking. I’ll reach out once I speak with Logan again.”

“Okay. Keep in touch. If you need anything, just call me.” Celine hung up the phone.

After talking with Logan the next day, Dixie made the arrangements for everyone to go to the town hall after the memorial service.

Chapter Six

Three days had passed since Logan’s father’s passing, and he stood against the wall of the town hall, observing the people who had gathered to pay their respects. Some were sitting at tables, while others stood in small groups, chatting quietly. He couldn’t help but wonder what they were saying about his father. A faint smile appeared on his lips when he heard laughter coming from one group. No doubt they were laughing about something his father had said or done. Clinton Townson was well-loved by everyone in town. Taking a deep breath, Logan wished he could leave. Just then, he saw Dixie approaching him.

“Did you eat anything?” she asked him.

“No, I’m not hungry.”

“You need to eat something.”

Logan nodded but didn’t say anything. He continued to watch the crowd. Dixie let out a sigh and leaned against the wall next to him.

“How are you holding up?”

“Okay,” he replied with a shrug. “How much longer do you think I need to stay here?”

“You can leave whenever you want, Logan. Everyone knows you’re grieving. They’ll understand if you need some time alone. Don’t stay if you’d rather not.”

Logan turned to face her. “I can’t take it anymore. I have to leave.”

“I understand,” Dixie said sympathetically.

“It was a beautiful service,” Logan chokedout.

“Yes, your father would have loved it.”

“I’m sorry, I have to go,” Logan said abruptly as he pushed off from the wall and made his way to the coat check to retrieve his hat and coat before leaving the building.

He climbed into his truck, leaned his head back, and wept. The thought of not being able to talk to his father anymore was unbearable. With a heavy heart, he started the engine and drove aimlessly down Main Street, eventually leaving the town behind.

As he pulled onto the ranch, he bypassed the main house and headed straight for the cabin. It was the only place he wanted to be. The truck jostled over bumps in the road, and he cursed as he saw snowflakes beginning to fall.

But it didn’t matter. Once he arrived at the cabin, he had no intention of leaving for a while. He had stocked up on food a few days ago, so there was plenty to sustain him. All he wanted was some time alone.

Parking in front of the cabin, he got out of his truck and walked across the porch. Once inside, he started a fire in the potbelly stove. Despite being bundled up in his coat and gloves, it was still bitterly cold inside.

Eventually, as the warmth filled the cabin, Logan shed his hat and coat, then collapsed onto the sofa, staring up at the ceiling with tears in his eyes.

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