“I’m in love with Axe Beckett, Mother. I don’t care what Father says. I’m through with suffering because of your pasts. If he doesn’t like my relationship, then he’s the one who’ll never see me again.”
Instead of concern, she clapped her hands together. “That’s what I was hoping to hear. You deserve to live your life the way you want to live it. Axe is an amazing young man. I’ve watched him grow up, sharing his hopes and dreams. His friendship with Wade was… I was overjoyed. And your father will come around. Trust me.”
“Well, I can guarantee you that friendship has ended and do you know why? A love triangle that didn’t exist. How’s that for karma?”
“Time has a way of healing things, especially when something is as important as a relationship. Just remember that.”
As I stood, I realized she was right. “Thank you for sharing with me.”
“Past time, I think. I’ll be in the stands of the rodeo. You can share that with that man of yours.”
Of mine. I wasn’t entirely certain about that. “Ugh. Don’t remind me. There’s a lot of work to do.”
She stood, her expression one I wasn’t certain of, but when she grabbed and squeezed my hand, I was reminded of the day I’d run home crying after being forced to accept the boy of my dreams didn’t want me. “With Axe by your side, the event will be a major success. I’m very proud of you.”
“For what, Mama?”
“For following your heart.”
My heart. I’d ignored aspects of my heart for years, promising myself I’d never care enough about anyone to let them in.
And in a few short days, a grumpy smokejumper ignoring his own heart had forced me to open mine.
The irony given our two families was something I’d not soon forget.
“One last piece of advice, darling girl. Don’t wait to tell him how you really feel. Over eight years have gone by. While I’m a firm believer everything happens for a reason, I’m also old enough to grasp the reality that life is too short. If you love Axe with all your heart, tell him.”
“What if he doesn’t feel the same way?”
“Well, I find that difficult to believe, but let’s say he’s incapable of embracing the truth felt in his heart, at least you can look back and say you tried without regret or remorse. Besides, I raised a warrior and warriors go after what they want.”
“Mothers are always right.”
“Don’t you forget that.”
A warrior. As I headed out, I knew my mother was right.
The old truck rattled as I headed to the barn. How many times had I sought solace at the large space as a child? So many times I couldn’t remember. After every fight with my father, every snub from a boy, and every time I’d felt lonely, which was often, it had been my hiding place.
For some reason on this beautiful, star-filled night, I needed a little time to myself.
Once inside, I headed to the mare’s stall, filling her food trough.
As I leaned over the open gate, my thoughts drifted from her to Axe. It was interesting how he was never far from my mind.
“What do you think, little beauty? I need to think of a name. You look like my girl, Sasha. When I was seventeen, she grew sick and died. Losing her nearly broke my heart.”
The mare lifted her head, still chomping on some food. I’d learned a long time ago just how sensitive animals could be. She instantly sensed I was in a bad place in my mind and walked closer, hanging her head over the gate.
Her whinny brought a smile. “Wait. Are you suggesting I call you Sasha?” Her nudge was exactly what I needed. I stroked her muzzle, closing my eyes. “Then Sasha it is. Tomorrow, we go for a ride.” Jose knew me so well, realizing how much having a horse here in my own private sanctuary would brighten my mood.
Perhaps in a way, my father had known as well. I’d yet to thank him.
The brief moment of peace was interrupted by my phone ringing. Hopeful it was Axe, I eagerly yanked it into my hand, frowning immediately.
“What do you want, Wade?” I stroked Sasha’s nose again before pulling away, closing the gate.
“I want to talk to you about what happened.”
