I opened my mouth to argue, but Bristol pulled me in for a hug. “I called him,” she said quietly in my ear. “I’m so glad you came and had fun tonight. I know I don’t know or understand everything you’ve been through, but I just want you to know I’m so glad you’re back and with my brother. He’s happier than I’ve seen him in a long time.” She pulled back slightly. “I’ll drive your car back to the farm, and Reid will follow and then bring me home.”
A lump rose hot and fast in my throat. “Thank you,” I whispered.
I glanced at Chase, who gave me an easy smile.
“Ready?” He held out his hand, and I accepted it without hesitation. From now on, the past had no power. I was only looking forward.
Chapter 27
Chase
She was fuckingadorable with her defenses down. She chattered away as we drove back to Silver Creek Farm, curled sideways in the passenger seat. Her cheeks were a little flushed, maybe from the sangria, or maybe from all the laughter I heard when I showed up at Megan’s house.
I’d been a little concerned when Bristol called me and suggested I pick up Anna. But she assured me everything was fine. Better than fine. She said Anna let her guard down, loosened up with a couple of drinks, and they were all having a great time.
I reached over and found her hand. “I’m glad you had fun.”
She smiled and leaned her head against the seat. “I did. More than I thought I would. I was so nervous when I got there. I know your sisters and I are working through everything, but they were kind. And their friends are hilarious.”
“They are. Bristol and Cam just needed a chance to remember how much they love you.”
“They were guarding their hearts. Yours, too.”
“Well, I’m glad they finally remembered you have one, too.”
She grew a little quieter. Probably the sangria was wearing off. She stared off into the distance as I drove the dark but familiar road home. The porch light cast a soft glow across the drive as I pulled in, Reid and Bristol right behind us.
Bristol stepped out with a dramatic sigh. “That car rides like a dream,” she told Anna. “But we really need to get you something more mountain-friendly before winter. Can’t have you driving off the road again. I’ll keep my eyes out if I see something that’s a good deal. I still have some good connections.”
“Do it,” I told her, flinching when Bristol whacked me on the arm. “Ow! What was that for?”
“I wasn’t asking you. Anna can speak for herself.” She smiled at Anna. “Right?
Anna beamed at my sister. “Right. And yes, do it. Find me something that can drive off-road and that Jack can be comfortable in. Nothing fancy needed.”
Understanding lit in Bristol’s eyes, followed by a wicked little smile. “Something very non-Mason-like.”
“Exactly.”
Bristol stepped forward and wrapped Anna in a hug. “I’m glad you came tonight,” she whispered.
Anna hugged her back without hesitation. “Me, too.” She pulled back enough to squeeze Bristol’s hands. “Thank you.”
Bristol tried to shrug off Anna’s gratitude, but Anna held on. “No, seriously. Not just for welcoming me tonight. But for actuallyseeingme. For understanding.”
My sister had never been a crier, but her smile waveredjust a little under Anna’s sincere look. She nodded. “Welcome home, Anna.”
Anyone else might have seen the moment as just a simple goodbye. But I knew it for what it was—inclusion and forgiveness. Bristol was making room in our family for Anna.
Reid wrapped his arm around his wife’s shoulders. “Good night, Anna. We’re all glad you’re here.” He looked down at Bristol. “Let’s get you home, hmm?”
She stretched up to kiss me on the cheek. “Night, Chase. I love you.”
“Love you, too.”
Anna and I stood together, watching until their taillights disappeared. The night was still, except for the hum of crickets and a soft breeze.
“I never let people see me like this. Never let my guard down. I always had to be so aware of everything. This was nice.” She looked over at me, her eyes steady in the porch light. “Your family is nice.You’renice.”
