Page 50 of Her Maine Reaction

“No. I mean why didn’t you tell us about him?”

“I don’t know. It was personal.”

She’s silent for a few seconds. “Do you like him?”

“Maybe,” I whisper. “And I don’t know what I’m doing. This is new for me.”

“I know, Ash. Well, do you know how he feels?”

“I don’t know.”

“Okay, then. Just be you. You’re fucking amazing, and he’s lucky that you’re even giving him the time of day.”

“You’re just saying that.”

“I’m not. I know you, Ashley. Forgive me for saying this,” she says, “but you’ve been messed up since your dad died. Emotionally, and mentally. The men you’ve chosen since were only distractions for you. You’re scared because you think if you find something real, then it’ll be taken away from you like your dad was. But trust me on this, Ash. You’re not living if you’re scared of what you can’t control.”

“I know, Ellie.”

“Do you, though?”

“Yes.”

“Good. And don’t forget how much of a badass bitch you are. You’re a hard shell with a soft center. Give him both.”

“Yes, ma’am.” I smile.

“Alright, love you, girlie.”

“Love you, too.”

“You better call me with updates.”

“I will.” I laugh. “Bye.”

“Bye.”

Hanging up, I send a text to Ally separately.

Hey, Al. Ryan plowed his way to the cottage last night and saved me from starvation. And then this morning he brought me back to his house because he still has power and didn’t want me out there by myself. He’s at work now, and I’m just trying to keep myself busy until he gets back. I’m kind of worried about him.

I’m glad he got to you before you starved LOL. I know cheese and wine only goes so far.

Yes, he brought me a big, juicy cheeseburger, a brownie, and wine. He’s perfect.

Oh, is he?? Haha. And don’t be worried about him. Ryan knows what he’s doing.

Are you sure?

Yes. Just relax and enjoy the heat while you can. This storm isn’t supposed to stop, and I don’t know how much longer you’ll have power. We’re on a generator right now and my phone is going to die eventually.

Alight. Go have some fun with your man.

I will!

Ally and Jake are so in love, it’s disgusting. They’re lucky to have found one another, and it was all by chance.

I wouldn’t even be here right now if it wasn’t for Ally. If she hadn’t come here to Pine Cove, then I never would have gone to that Taylor family barbecue, and I never would have met Ryan. I would still be living a life of dating apps and partying.

---