Page 57 of Blame It On Midnight

He couldn’t argue with her there.

“Whatever the reason, Collins came here because you sparked something inside her. And I think she’s claimed a part of you. That piece you’ve kept locked away ever since things went south?—”

“No.” He stopped her there. “Daisy Mae and I never had what it took to make it all the way. I know that now. What we had was a hell of a lot of attraction. It was being teenagers and finding that first kind of love that doesn’t last because it’s not meant to.”

“Who says you don’t have a way with words?” Scarlett reached over and patted him on the arm. “I wasn’t thinking about Daisy Mae.” Her face fell. “I was thinking of our parents. Of mom and dad and how things were after she died. You were the oldest. You took the brunt of everything bad thrown our way.” She picked at the cushion. “Dad and his drinking. His words that cut sharper than knives, and his fists that left marks. You were her favorite. He knew it, and it’s why he picked on you so much.”

He shifted in his seat. Uncomfortable with where their conversation had gone. “Come on, Scar. That’s ancient history.”

“Yes. I know. But it’s history that makes us who we are. We all knew Mom loved you the most. And we were fine with it because I think all of us needed you a little bit more than each other. Because of how much she loved you. Because you’re so much like her.”

Benton felt something sting the corner of his eyes. He looked away from Scarlett. Let his gaze settle on the mountains.

“I’ve watched women in this town throw themselves at you. Some of them you spend time with, because, well, you are a man and all. I get that. But none of them have ever penetrated that shield of yours.”

He turned back to Scarlett. What the hell was she talking about?

“You have one set up. You just don’t know. A big old invisible thing that keeps the feelings away.” His sister crumpled up the now-empty chip bag. “I think you’re afraid to love like that and I don’t blame you because I sure was. It took a lot for Taz to break down my barriers. For me to accept the fact that I was worthy of someone’s love.” She got to her feet. “It’s a long road, Benton, but you’re already on it. You just don’t know it yet.”

Scarlett stepped away, a wry grin lighting up her face. “You deserve to be happy. You deserve to have the family that all of us have found. And if Collins Lafferty is what you want for it, then you better get your butt in gear and let her know. Because a woman like that, no matter what her age is, she’s not waiting forever.”

“Jesus, Scar, you’ve got me picking out a ring and walking down the aisle. I barely know this woman.”

“Keep telling yourself that. I just listened to a man describe in detail a woman he can’t stop thinking about.” Her eyebrows rose dramatically. “Like I said. Long road, and you’re only a few miles in. You need to keep moving to figure this stuff out. Maybe Collins is only a pit stop. A side-of-the-road café. A place for you to rest and enjoy a meal or two. Or maybe she’s waiting at the end of it. Maybe she’s your final destination. You’ll never know unless you keep driving.”

“That’s a lot to think about.”

“I’ve been reading a lot lately. My brain is full of words and advice.” She took a step toward the front door. “Do you want to stay for supper?”

“No.” He was thinking a drive to Big Bend was where his head was at.

“I’ll bring the girls back to your house tomorrow night. Remember, it’s your turn for the sleepover.”

How could he forget? Three little girls were squealing and acting silly. He smiled at the thought.

“Thanks.” He headed for the steps.

“Benton?”

He glanced over his shoulder.

“Be happy, okay? We all deserve to be.”

Benton got into his truck and hit the road. He figured his sister was right. Initially, he’d been open to spending time with Collins because it felt good. He’d told her as much only a few days ago. The sex was great. Hell, it was off the charts. But this wasn’t about the sex. It wasn’t about feeling good or right. It was simpler.

For the first time in his life, he wanted more.

Chapter Twenty

Big Bend was hopping. There was a buzz in the air that Collins hadn’t felt before. Not that she was an expert on buzz in Big Bend, but still. The Sundowner was packed, and she’d just started her shift. Millie Sue was behind the bar helping out, alongside her co-owner and cousin, Zach. Jo was serving tables.

“You’re still here,” Millie Sue said, handing her an empty jug.

“I am.” Collins filled the jug, grabbed two frosty mugs, and handed them to the gentlemen waiting. They gave her cash, and she finished the transaction, tossing the tip into a large jar that was perched behind her.

“Well, saddle up. There’s a music festival in Bozeman this weekend, and it’s always a boon for our town because of the proximity.” Millie Sue motioned toward the bar. “Plus, folks think if they come to Big Bend, they’ll get the chance to see Cal perform.”

“Will you guys get up there?” Collins asked.

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