“Why would that be a problem?”
There was no real way to get him to understand unless I came right out and said it.
“I need you to keep this private.” I stared right at him. “Like code to the grave.” It was a statement the team used when weneeded the other to know this was something they couldn’t share with anyone.
“Got it.” Devon’s face got serious.
I looked around. This was a popular trail for people to hike in the morning, and I wanted to make sure we were completely alone. “She’s the therapist who was first assigned to me.” I kept my voice as low as possible. Just because I couldn’t see someone, it didn’t mean the trees didn’t have ears. Now that I thought about it, I should have waited until we were somewhere private to say a word. Shit!
“Wow.” He dragged the word out. “Is that illegal?”
“It isn’t illegal, but she’s worried she can get in trouble.” I explained. “I don’t think it’s as big of a deal as she is making it, considering we barely spent any time together before I was reassigned. Still, she thinks it will count.”
“So her going home with you would be a big signal that something is going on?”
“Maybe.” I shrugged. “I mean, she could always tell them she is going on vacation somewhere else. They don’t have to know that she’s with me.”
“But if you both are off base at the same time, then…” He paused. “Wait, is she military? Cause that would cause a whole different set of problems.”
“No, she’s a civilian contractor.” I’d already thought about that.
“Okay, that’s good.” He nodded. “Is this serious? Taking someone home to meet the family is big. Like could be the one kind of big. Is that what is going on?”
I thought about his question. Could Rita be the one? “I’m not sure, but I know I want her to meet them.” I replied. “I know I want her in my life, and I don’t want to lose her. Does that mean she could be the one?”
“Fuck if I know.” His shoulders came up to his ears. “I think the last time I thought someone could be the one was in fifth grade when Melody Robins gave me her two pack of cookies for lunch.”
“You’re an idiot.” I told him.
“What? They were good, and you know how much I love sweets.” He laughed.
“What should I do?” I got back on topic.
“I’m not sure I’m the one to be handing out relationship advice. Refer to the fifth-grade cookie, but I’d say go for it.” He told me. “We’re Rangers. We don’t back down, and we don’t walk away. If she is this important to you, then ask her.”
“And if she says no?”
“Then maybe she isn’t ready or in the same place as you, but at least you’ll know.”
He was right.
“Thanks.”
“Sure.” He hit me on the back. “Last one down buys breakfast.” He turned and took off.
“I don’t think so.” I raced down behind him, determined this would be a clean win.
Chapter 12
Rita
The knock on my door surprised me. I didn’t get visitors. Most people in town didn’t even know where I lived. I looked out the peephole, and my breath caught. I swung the door open and pulled Stewart inside.
“What the hell are you doing here?” I looked around the hallway of my apartment building to make sure it was clear before closing the door. “How do you know where I live?”
“I followed you home from Colorado Springs, remember?” I’d actually forgotten, but he’d followed behind me to make sure I made it here safe. We’d stayed on the phone the whole drive back.
“How did you know which apartment?” I leaned back against the door.
