Page 3 of Waiting for Sunshine

“If you ever make your way back to San Francisco, we would love to have you back as part of our team. I see potential in you, Shane. You’re on your way to being something great.” Tears begin to well in my eyes again and I nod.

“Thank you,” I clear my throat, these stupid emotions need to leave me alone.

“Do you mind if I grab my things from the room I use to paint?” I ask.

“Of course not. Take your time.” He smiles and walks me to the door. “Good luck, on your next adventure.”

I collect my things from the creative space Hugh allowed me to use for the duration of my employment. I look around and am devastated when I can’t find a certain piece I had painted. I looked the room over twice, but it was useless, it was empty and the painting wasn’t there. I pack everything else in my Jeep, then head to Pete’s to pack the rest of my belongings. Looks like I’m going home. I open my phone to the group text to let the rest of the girls know what’s going on.

Me

Looks like Nashville just got a new resident.

Taylor

New roomie, YAY!

Leah

So, we missed something?

Lauren

It appears so.

Me

Girls' night as soon as I’m back and I’ll explain everything.

Taylor

Check in often so we know you’re not getting crazy murdered by truckers.

Me

And on that note… I won’t be sleeping until I’m back.

After packing the rest of my belongings from Pete’s house, I head to grab a coffee, before I’m back on the road. This is going to be the longest trip of my life.

CHAPTER2

SHANE

I have beenon the road for 30+ hours, sleeping in motel rooms that left something to be desired and eating nothing but fast food. I feel gross, to say the least, but I am finally nearing the end of this long ass trip back home. After listening to my travel playlist one too many times and not vibing at all with my latest audiobook narrator, I call Taylor over the Bluetooth in my Jeep to let her know my ETA.

I cannot wait for a shower and to sleep on a bed I am confident doesn’t have a family of roaches living beneath it. I shudder at the thought as Taylor answers the phone.

“Shaney! Thank god, you’re still alive!”

“Yes, yes. I am still alive. I smell like crusty motel and cheeseburgers, but I am alive.” An enormous yawn takes over my body at that moment. I’m beyond ready to get out of this car.

“Okay. Ew. But that’s okay girl. I have my guest room all made up for you. I figured you’d want to shower and get some sleep. However, I do have a little surprise for you when you get here.” She says mischievously. I have a feeling I know what said surprise is, but I will play along for her sake.

“You’re a lifesaver, and I can’t wait. I love surprises.” I wag my eyebrows before realizing she can’t see my face. “Umm, Tay?” I question.

“Yeah?”

“You have disinfected the kitchen since Tana, right?” I ask cautiously.

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