Page 116 of Truck Hard

The morning drags by in a blur of distracted work and constant phone checks. My brothers do their best to keep me occupied, bringing me random questions about repairs or “accidentally” creating problems that need my attention. I appreciate the effort, even though I see right through it.

Around noon, Mac sticks his head in. “Lunch run to Frank’s. You want anything?”

“Nah.” My stomach is too twisted with anxiety to even think about food.

“Wasn’t really asking.” He comes all the way in. “You need to eat something besides coffee and worry.”

I start to protest but the look on his face stops me. My youngest brother might be a daredevil on the racetrack, but he’s got a caring streak that rivals Grams.

“Fine.” I surrender. “But nothing heavy.”

“One rabbit food special, coming up.” He grins and disappears.

I turn back to my computer, determined to at least pretend to work, when my phone buzzes. My heart leaps into my throat as I grab it, nearly knocking over my coffee in the process.

Hannah.

It’s over. Court ruled in our favor. Charlie has no more rights to Cam.

The relief that floods through me is so intense it makes me dizzy. I quickly type back.

Liam

Thank God. Are you okay? Do you need anything?

Hannah

I’m fine. Will tell you everything tonight. But we won, Liam. We really won.

The way she saidwehits me right in the gut. She’s including me in her victory. I read the messages three more times, letting the reality sink in. Charlie can’t hurt them anymore. Can’t use the courts to maintain his control over Hannah. Can’t poison Cam’s life with his toxic presence.

My phone buzzes again.

Hannah

Have to go. Lawyer called and needs to go over some paperwork. See you tonight?

Liam

Absolutely. Just tell me when and where.

Hannah

My place? Around 7?

Liam

I’ll be there.

I set the phone down, noticing my hands are shaking slightly. It’s really happening. Justice is finally being served.

“Good news?” Chase’s voice makes me jump. He’s leaning in my doorway again, holding what looks like a transmission.

“Yeah.” I can’t keep the smile off my face. “Court ruled in Hannah’s favor. Charlie’s lost all rights to Cam.”

“About damn time.” The smile that covers his face is almost as big as mine. “Now maybe you can stop wearing a hole in the floor with all your pacing.”

“I don’t pace.”

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