Page 65 of Red River

"Alright. We’ll do it your way. We’ll wait a few days," I whispered, surrendering.

Archer remained silent.

Now, I had to fight my fear for Igor’s safety alone. I reminded myself that this was normal—young alphas fought all the time. They competed, they clashed for position, almost like animals. I couldn’t just panic and… what?

Take him out of school? Overprotecting him would only make him more stubborn, and set in his ways. I had to give Archer a chance.

I stood up and muttered, "Alright, I’ll leave you to it. I don’t want to interrupt your work."

Walking away, I felt bad, but I told myself to be patient. I decided not to ask Milo about the situation again for at least a week.

"River…"

Archer’s voice was surprisingly warm, almost tender, like he could see right through me.

"I think you should take a break from work. A vacation. For years, you fought for six people, kept your family afloat while Thomas guzzled it away. Take some time to… just be with yourself. The kids are in school half the day. Do something you love—play, walk, swim, relax, refuel."

I closed my eyes, feeling a sob threaten to escape my throat.

How was he reading my mind like this?

"Okay. Thank you, Archer… I appreciate it."

"I got you. All of you."

I was so grateful I could almost cry, but… my happiness didn’t last.

It was almost like Fate didn’t want me to relax and enjoy my vacation.

***

The second week of Igor’s school ended on Friday. That afternoon, I was lounging in the pool, enjoying a rare moment of peace.

Oliver had offered to pick up the younger kids since they got out earlier that day. Igor, however, had classes until 4 pm.

Archer stepped outside and spotted me in the pool.

He walked closer, his eyes slightly hooded.

"I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself."

I blushed. "As a matter of fact, I am… thanks to you."

A short pause.

Then, casually, he added, "Oliver has a shopping list. Maybe we could pick up Igor together and grab everything while we’re out?"

I nodded and climbed out of the pool. Archer’s gaze flickered downward, but there wasn’t much to see—I was wearing a long-sleeved swim shirt and knee-length shorts.

"It’s not that cold," he muttered, narrowing his eyes.

"I’m a redhead. It’s basically the same as being a vampire—I burn in the sun way too easily."

Archer laughed—a real, spontaneous laugh—and it made my chest tighten. I rarely heard him laugh like that.

"Perfect explanation," he said. "Though maybe we could swim together… on a cloudy day."

I bit my lip. "I’d love that. I have a thermal suit, actually… perfect for cloudy, cold days. Full-body cover."

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