Page 116 of Shared By the Mountain Men

“Everyone bikes everywhere!” I replied excitedly. “And I meaneveryone. Kids, retired people with grey hair, and everyone in between.”

“Is that why you settled on that little town?” he asked absently, still focused on whatever was on his phone.

“That’s part of the reason,” I said. “I just really liked the vibe there.”

“Isvibethe name of the guy you’re seeing?”

I laughed. “What makes you think I’m seeing someone?”

“Because you’re my dumb older sister and I know when you’ve fallen in love.”

“Love?” I made myself laugh again. “Nobody is in love, Brian.”

“You’re a bad liar.”

“I promise,” I said, picking my words carefully, “that I am not interested in a single man in Crested Butte.”

“Whatever,” he muttered. “Tell me when it’s my turn to drive.”

It was a long drive, but not terrible. Corn fields and soy beans as far as the eye could see through Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa. The hotel we picked outside of Omaha was next to a cluster of restaurants. Brian suggested the Applebee’s, but I quickly shot that down and we ate at a TGI Friday’s instead. I’d throw myself off a mountain before eating at another Applebee’s. I had moved on, but that didn’t mean I was ready to poke the wound.

That night, when I was ready for bed, I texted the guys.

Me: We’re in Omaha. Halfway there! We’re going to hit the road early tomorrow, so I’m hoping we’ll get into town around five in the afternoon.

Ash: You’re actually moving out here? I didn’t think you were serious. This is awkward. I started seeing someone.

Noah: LOL

Me: Is that a joke? From ASH?

Ash: What’s that supposed to mean?

Me: You don’t make jokes.

Jack: She’s right. You don’t.

Ash: Fuck you guys. I’m a goddamn delight.

Noah: Sure you are, big guy.

Jack: Whatever you say!

Ash: Hey Noah, you have a water leak. Looks like someone cut the main line with an ax. The damage is contained to your bedroom and toy room.

Noah: Don’t even joke about water damage. Especially while I’m not home. If any of my airplane models are damaged, I’m making you sleep outside in a tent again.

Ash: I’ve gotten used to luxuries like beds and electricity. I’m never sleeping outside again.

Me: You aren’t there right now, Noah?

Noah: I’m at the clinic in Ouray. I’ll be back in a week.

Me: You won’t be waiting there when I arrive? Really?

Jack: He’s just joking. He gets back tomorrow afternoon.

Noah: I’ll probably roll into town right before you do, actually! But I wouldn’t miss it for the world :-)

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