Page 76 of Untamed

I wipe the few tears that have rolled down my cheeks and take a steadying breath. I love that he didn’t throw all of his feelings into a letter. I would prefer to hear him say the things he needs to say. But I do appreciate letting me know he doesn’t want this to end. I can finally have some peace knowing that Hayes still wants me. He still wants this.

So I fold the piece of paper back up, lay it on my nightstand, and turn out the light. I unlock my phone, stare at the old text message conversation between the two of us, and let my thumbs hover over the letters. He said he would come running, but I don’t want to do this when he’s been out and I’m exhausted from a long day. Instead, I lock my phone and shove it under my pillow.

We can wait one more day.

I lied to myself. I was fully committed to texting Hayes the next morning, but then I thought I should get ready first, just in case he actually does run right over. So I showered and got ready for the day, comfy clothes and my hair braided. Because no one wants to be in denim on their day off. And by the time I was done, Katherine was knocking on the door again, bringing me a plate of hot food.

“You have got to stop doing this,” I tell her as I open the door and let her in. “You have too many other things to worry about.”

“Oh, hush.” She pets Betty on the top of the head and then sits the plate down on the island before making coffee. “You’re what I’m worrying about right now, so just let me. Gives me something to do.”

“Katherine. Oh, my god. This is way too much food!” I peel back the foil, and the plate is just piled high.

“It’s not just for you,” she says, laughing as she pulls out a couple of plates. “I figured I’d eat with you this morning. It’s gorgeous outside, so we can sit out on the front porch and enjoy it.”

A few minutes later and Betty is lying out in the grass, eyes squinting toward the sun as she bakes in it. She’s still tied up on a long lead because I don’t quite trust her yet not to run off. That’s going to take some training. Katherine and I have eaten the amazing food she brought, and we’re just enjoying the sounds of the ranch as we sip our coffee.

“You spoken to him yet?” she finally asks.

“No. But I plan to today.” I grin and drop my head back on the rocker, closing my eyes. “He left me a little note and told me to tell him when I was ready to talk.”

“If you don’t hear from him right away, he’s helping Rhett and the other boys transport cattle to the fairgrounds. Probably going to be busy all day.”

“I totally forgot it’s the fair!”

I love the fair. Especially the days before it gets busy on Friday and Saturday. During the week, it’s quieter, with only the ranchers and farmers there for animal shows during the day and barn dancing at night. All the food trucks are set up, though, so you get to go through all the delicious food without the long lines. I can already taste the homemade lemonade and deep-fried funnel cake.

“They’re gonna be busy bees for the next couple of days, that’s for sure. I know Rhett is ready to make some money on those cows.” She picks up the empty plates and carries everything back into the kitchen.

“Leave those in the sink!” I call after her. “I will never forgive you if you wash those dishes!”

“Fine, fine!” The old floor creaks as she walks back outside. “I better get goin’. Clyde is watching the babies for me while I’m over here, and god knows what he’s lettin’ them get into.”

“I’ll pray for you!” I tell her as she laughs and walks out into the yard. She stops and gives Betty some belly scratches before walking the rest of the way home. I stay out on the porch for a while longer, listening to the sounds and letting Betty wear herself out with watching squirrels she’s never going to catch.

Once we’re back inside, I pick my phone up to text Hayes. I have so many nervous butterflies that I’m a little worried the food might come back up. Will he even have time to talk today? Should I wait to text him until tomorrow when he’ll be less busy?

My thumbs begin typing and then stop, hovering over the keyboard with uncertainty. This should not be this scary. And when the phone vibrates with a text, I almost drop it. Christ, I’m on edge.

Hayes: Saw the typing bubbles pop up while I was checking my phone.

I huff out a laugh.

Me: That’s creepy.

Hayes: Can we talk?

Me: Your momma said you’re busy today. Fair stuff.

Hayes: I’m never too busy for you, darlin’.

Me: Cheesy.

Hayes: Stop making me chase you through this damn phone. Meet me out here later. I’ll treat you to dinner.

Me: Will there be funnel cake?

Hayes: And lemonade…

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