Page 30 of Country Contract

“Have they come by?” I know they have. Cassidy won’t shut up about how cool she thinks Harlow is. She’s ever hopeful that she will make regular trips out here to continue some kind of weird literary friendship with her.

“Yeah, a few times this week. I can tell she’s holding back.”

Harlow seems to have a knack for putting people at ease. Being able to sense what the people around her need and a way to create an entertaining environment. Silas toldme she was entertaining as hell after he had a drink with her.

“Once you give her the green light, there will be little you can do to stop her. That woman can go a mile a minute and Blake basically has Red Bull pumping through her veins.”

Harlowsmiles and then pats Star one more time before brushing her hands off and walking back toward her porch.

“I fully intend on telling Cassidy she’s welcome to swing by with that little girl of hers anytime. They’re wonderful company.” It sounds like she already has plans to hang with Cassidy soon.

I onlyoffer another nod as if that counts in making conversation. Harlow takes the few steps up to her porch and gathers her belongings in her arms. She doesn’t look back over atme as she heads toward the front door. She pauses after she opens it, turning back to me.

I was just about to tell Starto head back out, but I pause.

“Good luck out there, Cowboy. I’ll be sure to brew up a rainy-day spell for us soon.” She adds a small wink at the end of her words before disappearing inside.

Chapter 14

Harlow

Heath: Good Morning. I hope you’re getting all the rest you need in between work. Tell me your favorite part about your trip so far?

Me: Good Morning. I am. Resting.

Heath: Do you enjoy frequent R & R?

Me: Yes and no.

Heath: Care to elaborate?

Me: I like to rest but also like to be busy.

Heath: Busy doing what?

Me: IDK. Art shows, music, outings with friends, museums on occasion.

Heath: Do you like movies?

Me: Yes, but mostly prefer reading.

Heath: Any questionsfor me?

Me: Do you like movies?

Heath: I prefer live entertainment.

Heath: Anything else?

Heath: Enjoy your day.

Heath: Can I call you later?

Life can’t be this simple for everyone in this random little town. It’s starting to grate on my nerves. What I first thought was cute and idyllic is now a little annoying and suffocating. There has to be more hardship, turmoil, or disruption than they are letting on.

I’ve gone to the bar once this past week to get out, and it was just as calm as the first time. Everyone in there was enjoying their drink and the local company.

Cassidy had come over, just as Harrison said she would. He accurately described her, too. Basically foaming at the mouth when she heard I was a fellow reader. She’s motivational as a woman. So self-assured, confident, and funny. She immediately made me feel at ease.

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