Page 110 of Those Who Are Bound

“No, Becks,” she answered quietly.

“Kid, I’m going to find out who this man is at some point.”

“I know, but…” She kicked at the leaves again. “Give it a few more days? After the two-week mark?”

He was quiet. She heard the flick of a lighter, his inhale, then exhale. “Ellie, I’ve never heard you sound like this before. This is what happiness sounds like. Let it happen, kid. There isn’t a countdown clock. Don’t get inside your head.”

“No, I’m not,” she promised. “I want this for me for a couple more days. I’ll text you his name on Sunday.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“Why Sunday?”

“Countdown clock aside, that’s after the two-week mark. And I should probably tell you who’s taking me on a canoe trip. Just in case, you know, I drown.”

“Canoe trip?”

“I know, right?” She laughed. “Motorcycle ride up, camping, canoeing.”

“I’m not keen on the motorcycle part of that.”

“He’s careful. He bought me my own gear, even.”

“Still not liking it,” he insisted. “When is this?”

“A couple of weeks out yet. I told you, he’s a nature boy; we’ll be in his element. I’ll be fine.”

Becks made a scoffing sound. “It’s not always about his best intentions when it comes to others on the road. But two weeks gives me time to send you pictures of horrific motorcycle accidents.”

“Stop,” she laughed.

“He hurts you, I hurt him.” Said lightly, but the threat was deadly serious.

“Got it.” Elliott responded with equal levity. “And Becks?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks for checking in.”

“Always, kid.” He hung up.

Elliott returned her phone to her back pocket and took a deep breath, letting the rush of emotion sweep over her without panicking her or making her feel guilty. She was happy.

Lucy: Remember you asking about the rope?

Jonah: Yes.

Lucy: And what I told you about it?

Jonah: Yes. Why?

Lucy: Your girlfriend just freaked the fuck out.

Jonah: Why?

Lucy: Over rope.

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