Page 18 of The Rancher's Jilted Bride

"Once you get home, just stay indoors," Chickie advises. "And then wait until you get a text from the police or the mayor'soffice. They keep us updated during times like this. They'll let us know when it's safe to go out."

"Duly noted."

Stay indoors.

Wait for a text.

It sounds simple enough, but I completely miss out on the chance to practice it since time has gotten away from me while working.

Oh...poop.

Even though I still work in Maintenance, Hilary managed to convince Mr. Hale about a year ago to let me take care of the hamsters during Roger's off days. Today was one of those days, and while I dearly love all of my hammy babies, it'snotmy intention at all to end up sleeping over in the Sanctuary.

I rush down the stairs, but the lobby's completely dark save for a desk light on the reception counter. I check the doors, but everything's locked. I check the receptionist's computer, and that's when I see the words blinking in the upper corner of the screen.

Automated Security System Activated

POOP.

This was installed just a few months ago, and I learned all about it from our annual safety orientation. It's only activated when the Sanctuary is undermanned and pre-programmed to last for twelve hours or until sunrise the next day, whichever comes first.

That means I'm stuck here until tomorrow—-

"What the hell are you doing here?"

With him.

Yes, him with a small 'h'.

Him as in...Mr. Hale himself.

And I just don't understand anymore.

I thought I was supposed to forget him, God.

I thought he wasn't the one for me.

Was I wrong?

Hale

"ARE YOU SURE ABOUTthis, Mr. Hale?" his driver asked worriedly.

"It's going to be fine, Sears."

"But once everyone leaves, and the emergency security system is up, we won't be able to come back for you. The doors will only open tomorrow."

Hale clapped a reassuring hand over the older man's back. "Stop worrying and go. You've got family waiting."

Andthat,in a nutshell, was why he was opting to stay in the Sanctuary.

Memories of his childhood after his parents' death flooded his mind as soon as he found himself alone in his office, most of which he hated having to remember.

Thirteen was an awkward age to be sent to Social Services. Couples looking to adopt thought it too old but it was also too young to manage independent living. Foster care was the only option left for kids like him, but this could either be a massive hit or a sorry miss.

Fortunately for Hale, the family he had eventually landed in was...bearable. The older couple had been blunt but decent: they had made it clear from the start that they wanted Hale and the other kids to do housekeeping in exchange for giving them a place to stay. There was never money for extras, but they never had to worry either about being homeless or beaten up.

It might not have been a good life, but it could have been a lot worse.

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