Page 86 of Cavern of Silence
"You haven't done anything wrong, Julieta. You've only helped Vanessa. This is all on me," he says.
"Not true. I'm not innocent. I should have explained how I knew the landowner at the border crossing, but I didn't because it had to do with my ex. I didn't want to explain because...well, it's embarrassing for me. I never thought I would be divorced, and it's kind of painful." I swallow the lump in my throat. "But I did cross there over a hundred times, and I didn't expect it to be any different. The landowner doesn't do anything bad that I'm aware of. He's an old farmer who makes extra cash from letting people pass. Miguel has known him since we were kids. I'm sorry I put everyone at risk and didn't tell you the background going into it. I should have."
"Thank you for your apology and for telling me. I'm sorry for how I reacted about that, too. Do you think we can start over?"
I nod. "Sure. I'd like that."
He taps his fingers together, opens his mouth, then shuts it.
"What?"
"Ryker hasn't had it easy, and I'm not only talking about the last few years. Maureen was sick for the majority of their marriage."
Tears well, and I swipe at them.
"I'm not trying to interfere, and I know you're upset with him, but if you could um..." He looks away.
I wait for him to continue.
He turns back. "If you could give him a pass on this one... I just...if any guy out there deserves another shot, it's him."
I sniffle, and the tears continue to fall. I can't speak, all I can do is nod.
Hunter rises. "I'm going to shower. Thanks for accepting my apology."
"You, too."
He leaves, and I pull myself together and go inside. Tinker is in the kitchen, pouring a cup of coffee. "Morning."
"Good morning."
"Did you sleep well?"
"A little bit."
"Mind racing?"
"Yes."
Tinker reaches for my mug. "Want a refill?"
"Sure. Thanks."
He pours the coffee.
"Would it be okay if I make breakfast for everyone?" I ask.
"Is that a real question?"
"I don't like assuming things."
"My kitchen is your kitchen. Feed me!" He hands me the coffee.
"Okay. Anything off-limits?"
"Nope. Have at it."
I open his cupboards and pull out tortillas, rice, and beans.
