Page 3 of When We Break

I pinch my phone between my ear and shoulder and open my car door, ushering Riley into the back seat. I had to buy a huge car for my huge dog.

“I’m on my way to an appointment,” I inform my brother. “What areyoudoing right now?”

“I’m between meetings.” I can hear the exhaustion in Connor’s voice. “Thought I’d check in with you. Any news?”

“No.” I start the engine and wait for my phone to connect to the car. “I haven’t heard anything in months, so that’s encouraging. You know, you don’t have to call me every day to ask me if my stalker has found me.”

“That’s not the only reason I call, and you know it.”

“But it’s the first thing you ask me. Don’t worry, I haven’t dropped my guard, but it’s been nice to have some peace and quiet.”

“It’s relieved I am that you feel safe there. That’s what you wanted, that’s what you got, and that’s all that matters. I’ll be in town next week.”

I frown out the windscreen. “Really? Why’s that?”

“A potential investment opportunity. And to check in on my favorite sister.”

“Only sister,” I remind him with a smile even though he can’t see me. “Good, you’ll be here for our spring recital. I’ll save you a seat.”

“Sky—”

“Ah, ah, ah. If you’re coming to town, you’ll watch my recital. No amount of money you have will get you out of it.”

“Fine.” He sighs heavily. “I’ll watch the bleeding recital. But you’ll owe me some meat pies in exchange.”

“I can handle that. What day will you be here?”

“I’ll know for sure in a day or so. I’ll keep you posted.”

“See that you do. I’d better go, but I’ll talk to you later.”

We end the call, and I drive Riley and me from our adorable house to the doctor’s office on the edge of town.

When we walk inside, Riley is at my side in his handsome red service-dog harness, and we’re greeted with a smile.

“Hello, Skyla. I have you all checked in. You can have a seat, and someone will be out for you shortly.”

“Thank you.” With a nod, I lead Riley to the end of a row so he can lie down next to me.

I’m obsessed with Bitterroot Valley, which has mountains and a quaint downtown full of shops and restaurants I love. So many sweet people have welcomed me here. It couldn’t be more different from New York City, which I also loved, but this small town has quickly become home in the eight months I’ve lived here. I have friends and a feeling of belonging that I was afraid I wouldn’t find outside my ballet family in New York.

But I’ve found it here, and I’m so grateful.

“Skyla.”

The nurse grins and gestures for me to follow her. Riley is at my side, walking with me.

“How are you today?” she asks.

“I’m doing well. And how are you?”

“It’s been a good day around here so far.” She winks. “Let’s get some vitals on you.”

After I’ve been weighed and my temperature and blood pressure are logged, the nurse hustles out, assuring me that Dr. Blackwell will be here shortly.

Riley lets out a huff from his spot on the floor.

“I hear you.”

---