Page 52 of About Time You Noticed

“Hey, now. I’ve never hurt anyone in my life. I’m a pacifist. True, I can’t even donate blood because I’m a wuss when it comes to needles.” He raked his fingers through his hair, his other hand holding onto Midnight’s reins. “The threat was more of a joke, but yes, I wanted him to know I wouldn’t be happy if he mistreated you.”

His words were almost convincing, but she needed to take a stand. “Tom, I won’t be with anyone even the slightest bit like my father. There’s a reason why I’ve never dated anyone or kissed someone before now. And it wasn’t my choice. My dad intimidated guys. He smothered me—had to know my every move. It was claustrophobic.” She let out a heavy sigh. “He controls Mom too. So, it’s more than me being an only child. He renovated the old cottage and made it amazing enough that I couldn’t resist free rent and postponed moving out. But he’s there, keeping an eye on me, coming over all the time, asking me where I’ve been.”

Tommy frowned. “I’m not like your father, Sarah.”

“What about Theo?”

“Huh?”

“When he wanted to go to the prom with me. You told him to stay away. I ended up going with other single friends.”

Tommy went pale. “Sarah, if I told you what I heard Theo saying about you, you’d understand. He didn’t have pure intentions.”

“But you didn’t believe I could take care of myself. You and Becca both assume I’m naïve about guys."

Tommy frowned. "I’didn't say that."

"You know what I think, Tom?"

He jostled in the saddle. "I’m sure you’re gonna tell me."

"You might be a narcissist."

Tommy choked. "Are you serious? Do you even know what a narcissist does?"

She shrugged. “Well, I’m sure there’s some personality disorder about controlling and manipulating.”

“Come on, Sarah. You know me."

"I know the person you’re presenting. My mom didn't know what my dad was really like until it was too late."

"If you're truly worried, I'm happy to have a psychiatric assessment." He gave a soft laugh. "I'll even have my parents come along to make sure I'm giving honest answers.” He dipped his head. “I can't believe we're having this conversation.” He met her eyes. “Don't you trust me?"

She swallowed hard. "I can't risk anything. I need space to collect my thoughts. Your actions speak louder than words, and I don't like how you've turned guys away from me. First, Theo, someone at youth group, and who knows who else.” Tears burned her eyelids. “Do you know how it feels to think you’re the ugly duckling your whole teenage existence? By twenty-five, I hadn’t dated anyone. How do you think that effected my self-esteem?” She stroked her horse for comfort before she broke down like a reject. “And then you went and interfered with Edward. You've crossed the line. There’s no excuse for that."

“I’m sorry.” Tommy closed his eyes for a beat. "Are you asking for a complete break?"

"I'm forced to see you every afternoon because you've bought a horse and have nowhere else to keep Midnight." She huffed. "You don't even like horses. Now I’m wondering if you purposely arranged this so you could keep an eye on me. So I wouldn’t be able to move forward with Edward."

Tommy looked to the sky and then to the dirt before raising his palms. "You don't owe me anything. I bought this horse, and I plan to be responsible for it. Don't worry about the rest of the lessons."

She crossed her arms. "Good."

He nodded curtly. "I'll make my own way. I know the trail now."

"Fine. Go by yourself. You don't need me anymore."

A sadness washed over his face as he turned and rode away.

***

HOURS LATER, TOMMY'S horse galloped into the paddocks.

Alone.

Sarah touched her throat. Where was its rider? Had Tommy fallen off? Panic shot through her. Was he okay?

The birds went berserk in the trees, flocking together for the end of day rant. The noise grated on her nerves.

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