Page 26 of Home in the Country
The problem with working and living with your brother is that you’re together all the time. But it was never a problem before.
Also, Fallon hadn’t been here.
“Sorry, Case,” I say as I clean up my tools.
“I’m not mad. But I am pissed that you’re bein’ a chickenshit.”
“She’s got a kid.”
“And?”
“And I’ll get attached.”
My answer has him opening his mouth and closing it again.
“Well,” he says carefully, “I think that if you are serious about her and go slow, it might turn out good for everyone.”
“What if I screw it up?”
“People date single parents all the time,” he states matter-of-factly. “Most importantly, you’re never going to know if you don’t try or at least ask.”
“Seriously, dude, who are you?”
“What? I know shit.” He shrugs, and I shake my head before pulling my brother into a sweaty man hug.
“Love you, man.”
“Yeah, yeah, love you too. Now go get whatever it is from Jake and then get your ass home. You’re buyin’ dinner.”
“Deal.” I laugh and then I’m in my truck headed to Blackstone Falls, where Jake and Cheyenne live.
I’ve been there a couple of times over the years, and I can’t deny how much I love seein’ Cheyenne’s touch throughout the place. It’s what people mean when they say you turned a house into a home.
They’re happy, and I’m happy for ’em.
Despite the hot day, I drive with the windows rolled down and jam out to a song by Descending North playing on the radio. My good mood is dashed when I turn down their road and see Fallon’s car sitting in the driveway.
OTTO: Did you know she was here?
CASE: Yep but also Jake has something for you so win-win
CASE: (winking face emoji)
OTTO: You’re my least favorite brother
CASE: Worth it
CASE: You’re still buyin’ dinner
OTTO: Dammit
I throw my phone onto the passenger seat, and it bounces off and lands on the floorboard. Growling, I slam my door and stomp up to the house and knock on the door.
The muffled sound of a woman’s voice echoes from inside before the door opens in a flourish to reveal the sweetest little face I’ve ever seen.
“Briggs, we’ve talked about opening the door and—”
Fallon’s words die on her tongue as she looks up and our eyes lock.
