He pulls me to my feet and wraps me in a tight hug, squeezing so hard I can’t even breathe.
Does this mean he’s going to miss me too?
It’s all moving so quickly, it’s a whirlwind.
The cold gust is a shock when he tugs me outside.
Maybe I just don’t get on?
Sit my butt down in the snow and refuse to leave?
It’s a violent wave of gritty flakes that drive into my cheeks as we battle the vortex of the helicopter blades.
A man with a red jumpsuit with a helmet and goggles jumps nimbly from the side, sinking to his knees in the whirling powder.
“Ford!” My voice is nearly lost in the chopping motor, but I latch onto the front of his coat and don’t let go. “Tell me you’ll answer the phone.”
He looks down and I can see the muscle of his jaw work. “I made a promise I would.”
His eyes fix on my mouth, then his lower lip goes between his teeth.
“April Nelson? It’s time to go.” The man yells loud enough to be heard over the roar of the engine.
“Ford? Will I see you again?” I nearly scream, clawing to keep contact even as the man in the jumpsuit is tugging on my elbow.
Ford takes so fucking long to answer, tears sting down my cheek.
“I hope so.” His hands cup my jaw and he wipes a wet streak under my eye.
Then he kisses me on the forehead and lets go.
All the strength fades from my grip to let the stranger pull me away.
Chapter 21
Ford
I deserve every bite into my skin from the whipping winds.
All I wanted to do was beg her to stay, but I knew better.
Holding her at arm’s length is best. She doesn’t need to dwell on me.
I’d never be able to give her what she deserves, no matter how badly I want to.
The helicopter disappears, followed by the fading beat of the rotors.
I need to make sure she’s taken care of.
“Mason? I have a favor.” I don’t wait for him to even say “hi”.
“Anything.” He doesn’t pause.
We’ve known each other too long.
“When April gets there, I want you to take her to my place, give her the key. And the ones to my truck.” I want to make sure she has someplace safe.
He takes a deep breath and lets it out loudly enough it blows into the speaker. “You must really trust this girl.”