“Do you think she’ll wake up soon?” Tara asked.
“Her body’s healing and I imagine she hasn’t slept over the last few days. She’s catching up,” he assured her.
“Rachel asked if I wanted to meet a girl my age named Kara. She lives in town and her dad works here. Since it’s the weekend, Kara comes and helps with the horses. I wanted to ask Riley if I can go,” Tara informed him.
“I’m sure she won’t have a problem. It’s good to hang out with friends,” Garrett insisted as he watched her expression.
Tara winced and shrugged. “Riley doesn’t like me leaving the apartment.”
“You’re technically still on the ranch. I think if you check in with her, she’ll feel better about it.”
“I don’t have a phone. Neither does Riley. It got disconnected in Houston. Mine broke, and we shared the other until my dad found us, and he fought with Riley. She left it at the hotel when we escaped. In fact, she left our suitcases there, and we only took our backpacks.”
Garrett mulled over the information, wondering if Riley guessed her dad somehow tracked them.
“Speaking of backpacks, I think I have something for yours,” he said, rising.
“Matthew and Julio went to your apartment and packed up the rest of your things. You mentioned you took classes online, but we didn’t find a computer,” he said, waiting for her answer.
“I went to the library while Riley worked. I used the ones there. She always makes sure I do my work,” Tara admitted.
“School’s important,” Garrett said, nodding. “We’re on the ranch and you can’t go to the library for a while. If you need books and such, we’ll figure it out.” He entered his office and took out the bags. “Your sister will probably pitch a fit, but I’ll take the responsibility for it. You can’t get behind.” He handed her a computer and held up a set of headphones. “These are for my sanity. You can use them for your classes while I work in my office.”
Tara stared at the computer box. Her hand glided over it as her expression seemed torn. “Riley won’t like this one bit. I can’t accept it.”
“You told me she took you to ensure you finished your education. The way I see it, it’s not safe in town, and Riley will need help for at least six weeks. You’ll fall behind,” he explained. “I’ll get her to see common sense. When you finish school, you can pay me back,” he offered.
Tara bit her lip. “Are you sure?” she asked with hope shining in her eyes.
“I’m positive. Seeing you excel will make me happy,” he said as he helped her with the box by taking out his pocketknife and cutting it open. They pulled out the computer, and he helped her set it up. “Remember, don’t contact any of your friends or post on social media. It’ll put you at risk.”
“I won’t,” she promised. “Can I take this to my room?” she said, grabbing the headphone box.
“Have fun,” he said as he watched her break out in a grin. Picking up the box and Styrofoam, he put them in the garbage. Tara already sat on her bed, headphones on, and clicking away at the keys. Moving to the kitchen, he put their plates in the dishwasher. A noise from his bedroom caught his attention. Drying his hands, he went to check on the woman in his bed.
“Shit,” he exclaimed as she sat on the floor, appearing dazed. Rushing to her side, he helped her to stand. “Why didn’t you call for me?” he demanded as he tried to lead her to the bed.
“No. I have to use the bathroom,” she said, struggling against him.
Garrett picked her up and carried her inside.
“Stop carrying me around. They gave me crutches. If you’ll bring them, I can use them,” she groused.
“You’re on medication and not steady if you recall five minutes ago,” he snarked. “I’ll be outside the door. Let me know when you finish, and I’ll take you back to bed.”
Riley didn’t move until he left the room. He straightened her sheets and plumped her pillows.
He heard the toilet flush and the sink water turned on. Garrett stared at the ceiling and counted to ten. Riley must be the most frustrating woman he ever met. When she opened the door, she bit the inside of her cheek to keep from raising her voice.
He bent to pick her up.
“I don’t want to stay in bed. I’m not used to lying around. Where’s Tara?” she asked.
“Do you want to watch TV with me? Tara’s doinghomework in her room. We saved you some pizza,” he said, carrying her into the living room.
“Thank you,” she said as he set her on the couch. He brought out her pillows and stuffed them under her limbs. “You know I’m basically lying down on the sofa at this rate.”
“You’ll have to get used to it,” Garrett said, reheating her food. “How do you feel? Before you think about lying, remember what I said earlier.”
