Page 70 of Follow Me Down

Chapter Seventeen

Titus

“Hey there, big brother.” I look up from the bike I’m working on to see Ellen heading into the shop, a cup of coffee in each of her hands. “You’re at it early this morning.”

“Yeah.” I wipe my hands on a towel as I stand, taking the cup she extends to me moments later. “I thought I’d get an early start since everyone was still sleeping.”

She takes a sip of her coffee and looks over the motorcycle. “It’s looking good.”

“It’s getting there.” I shrug, lifting the hot liquid to my lips before taking a tentative sip.

“Who knew that all those years you tinkering in the garage would lead to this?” She smiles. “I’m really proud of you, Titus. I know I don’t say it often enough, but you’ve really made a life for yourself.”

“You say that like you’re surprised.”

“Truthfully, I kind of am.”

“I’m going to try not to take offense to that.”

“In my defense, you didn’t exactly have your life together when you decided to walk away from the family.”

“I guess you’re not wrong there.” I grunt.

“You know.” She leans against the work bench, balancing her cup between both of her hands. “I was so mad at you when you left.”

“I know,” I admit, a little surprised to be having this conversation with her. In all the years that have passed since I left, we’ve never really talked about it in any great detail.

“I thought, what an idiot. Walking away from a guaranteed future for one filled with so much uncertainty. But I can see now that it really was the right decision for you. You seem... happy.”

“I am happy.” I smile, realizing for the first time that I truly mean it.

“I’m sure Fallon has something to do with that.” She gives me a pointed look. “Though I must admit, I was surprised to find out you had moved someone in with you. Especially after finding out how long you’ve known her.”

“If this is going to turn into a lecture about moving too fast, save your breath.”

“It’s not,” she interrupts. “In fact, I can see why you like her so much. She’s sweet and funny. Intelligent. Not to mention, very pretty.”

“She is, isn’t she?” I smile. “Does that mean she has Ellen’s seal of approval?”

“Not that you need my approval, but yes, she does. We had a really good time yesterday. Made me realize how much I wish I had a sister.”

“Are you trying to hurt my feelings?” I tease, cocking a brow.

“Of course not.” She laughs, taking a drink of her coffee. “You know I love having you as a big brother. But I also wouldn’t have minded having a sister too. You know, someone I could go do girly things with. Someone I didn’t have to worry about trying to take advantage of me or only being my friend because they’re hoping they could cash in on our family’s wealth.”

“It’s not easy being a Driscoll,” I agree.

“No, it’s not. Don’t get me wrong, it has its perks. But when it comes to trusting people...”

“I get it. But you have friends.”

“Not really.” She shuffles her feet. “Not any that I feel particularly close to, anyway.”

“That’s because you don’t let anyone get too close.”

“Can you blame me?”

“Not at all. I’m just saying, sometimes people can surprise you.”

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