Page 32 of Forever in the Country

“I’m still packing mine.” He tries for a joke. “Might need a bigger suitcase.”

“I’m here if you want to talk about it.”

“I think it’s best if only one of us is having a breakdown at a time, don’t you?” My lips twitch the slightest bit and he nods.

“Yeah, and thanks for”—I wave my hand around the kitchen—“this.”

He smiles and his relief is palpable. “Anytime.”

Ducking my head, I turn and head for the door. I can’t decide if I feel better or worse but one thing is clear. I need to find Rhea and I need to trust that it’s not too late.

* * *

The day was turninginto night and I still hadn’t found her. I’d been all over Clementine Creek and the surrounding towns with no leads. She could have gone farther but it didn’t feel right. She was close—I just had to figure out where.

My phone vibrates in the cupholder and reluctantly, I pull over to look.

HAYDEN: I need you to pick a new book

Normally I likedbuddy reading with Hayden, but right now my only focus is getting Rhea back. I met Hayden at Rhea’s friend Harper’s wedding, and through an unlikely series of events, we’ve negotiated buddy reading a couple times a month.

SORREN: I’m not in the mood

HAYDEN: Did I say “Sorren, will you please pick a book?”

HAYDEN: No I did not

SORREN: I’m a little busy

HAYDEN: Yeah fucking it up with the love of your life

SORREN: I will permanently remove you for all future buddy reads

HAYDEN: Liar

SORREN: Try me

HAYDEN: I know where she’s meeting her hot date tonight

SORREN: Fuck

HAYDEN: I know. They might. Wouldn’t that be nifty?

SORREN: If it gets to that I’ll need bail money

HAYDEN: So pick a book

SORREN: Where are they going?

HAYDEN: Pick. A. Book.

SORREN: I will

SORREN: Now tell me so you don’t have to write me in prison

HAYDEN: I do love a man in uniform

HAYDEN: Pretty poetic if you ask me

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