Page 54 of The Texas Sterling Collection
“Bye.” I disconnected the call. Although I was relieved Alfonso was handled, Stella’s conversations with Mitzi still echoed in my mind. That was something the college couldn’t fix.
Chapter Thirty-One
WYL
Walt and I sat on the porch enjoying the afternoon, waiting for Rod. After the Kerrville incident with Dusty, I became more appreciative of the man I loved. I discovered a meaning to life I didn’t realize I missed. My fear of relationships was based on one tragic incident. An incident with a man who was not worthy of my affection. For years, I distanced myself. Thank God Rod showed me how amazing a relationship can be.
“Mitzi called today,” Walt said.
“Did she leave a message?”
“No,” Walt shook his head. “I picked up. I hoped talking to her would discourage further contact. Somehow, I doubted it, but it was worth a try.”
“What did she want? Money?”
“Actually, no. Surprised the shit out of me,” Walt said. “She wanted to tell me all about you and Rod, hoping I would flip out.”
“How did she find out about Rod and me?”
Walt shook his head. “I’m betting it’s the Stella gal you mentioned. The one who keeps in contact with Mitzi.”
“I think you’re right. So, what did you tell Mitzi?”
“I told her it was old news, and I supported you both. I think she figured I would throw a fit and kick you out.”
I shook my head. “You’re right about one thing: Stella is the primary source of campus gossip. Speaking of Rod, here he comes now.” The caliche dust billowed from the ranch road as his truck approached. My thoughts returned to the time I watched him walk out the door after the unexpected kiss. I never wanted to see that sight again. Rod pulled up and parked. I jogged down the sidewalk to greet him.
He killed the engine and opened his door. “Hi, babe.”
I pulled him to me, kissed him, and wrapped my arms around him in a firm hug. “I missed you.”
He chuckled, his arms around my neck. “We were together this morning before class and in class.”
I shoved his truck door closed. “Yeah, but you said you had a rough day, and I couldn't protect and comfort you.” I kept my arm around Rod’s waist as we walked.
I stayed busy on the ranch today, but we had capable ranch hands and a foreman. It was nothing like the drama of a campus full of employees and students. Rod took center stage in my life. If Rod had a bad day, I made it my mission to ease his tension and give him the support he needed.
“Hey, Rod.” Walt gave a small wave from his comfy seat on the porch. “Welcome.”
Rod took the steps and extended his hand. “Thanks.”
Walt stood, knocked his hand to the side, and grabbed Rod in a quick hug. “You’re family to us. Family always hugs.”
Rod wrapped his arms around Walt. “Thanks. This means a lot.”
“Let’s go in and tackle those martinis.” I opened the door.
* * *
“Sit, Rod. Take a load off.” Walt headed to the leather couches. I stepped to the bar.
Rod sat and untied his tie. “Yeah. Lots of drama on campus today. I’ll fill you two in once we have a nerve settler.”
“Wyl said you had some trouble on campus. Everything okay?” Ice clinking in glasses punctuated Walt’s question.
“Yes.” Rod laid his tie across the back of the loveseat. “And what’s going on involves my secretary.”
Walt shook his head. “What a coincidence. Wyl and I talked about her minutes ago. Does Mitzi have anything to do with this situation?”
