“I’m really glad your dad and Jessica showed up. Between us two alone, it’d take all day, and with Ellie waking soon… I’d like to hit the road as soon as possible.”
“As soon as everything’s in,” Ava said, stepping back inside for another box.
“Okay,” he said. “If we roll out by ten, we’ll hopefully hit Clifton by three.”
She paused, hands on her hips, and gave him a watchful smile. “Then let’s get it done.”
With that, they dove into the steady work, each box bringing them one step closer to home.
****
As they all stood beside the vehicles under the bright morning sun, Ava kept blinking back tears that shimmered in her eyes. This was ridiculous, she thought to herself, she was only going to be five hours away. The air was filled with the scent of fall and the soft rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze.
“Come here, sweetheart,” her father said, as he pulled her into a warm, familiar hug. Ava wrapped her arms around his waist, feeling the rough fabric of his shirt under her fingers, trying to hold back the flood of emotions. “It’s going to be fine, Ava,” he assured her, his tone steady and soothing.
“I know. It’s just that it’s been a long time since I didn’t live here,” she replied, her voice tinged with nostalgia and a hint of trepidation.
“I get that, but this is for the best. For you, Ellie, and Deke. I’ll miss my girls, but we’ll talk and visit each other,” he promised, his eyes twinkling with both sadness and pride.
“Okay,” Ava whispered, nodding.
“Mama? Go bye-bye,” Ellie chirped from her car seat, her tiny voice breaking the tension and making them all laugh.
“In a minute, baby,” Ava said softly, turning to embrace Jessica. “Thank you,” she murmured, her gratitude deep and sincere.
“Of course. Oh, and I think you and Deke will do fine. There is a lot of heat between you two.A lot!He’s so handsome. I’m sure he’ll be good to both of you,” Jessica said with a knowing smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
“I know he will,” Ava replied, a soft blush creeping up her cheeks as she glanced at Deacon, who was engrossed in conversation with herfather. “He is handsome, isn’t he?”
“Very handsome. You know we’re here for you. In fact, let me give you my number and you can call or text me anytime,” Jessica offered, her voice warm and reassuring.
“I’d love that,” Ava said, feeling a sense of comfort in the offer.
As she entered Jessica’s number into her phone, she heard a vehicle coming up the drive and gasped when she saw it was Joella. Tears filled her eyes and spilled onto her cheeks.
She watched as Joella stopped her car, opened the door, stepped out and ran toward her. Ava ran to her and they hugged and cried.
“I’m so sorry,” Joella said.
“No, it’s not your fault. I should have told you. I’m so sorry I kept it from everyone, but especially you. How did you know I was leaving?”
“Tyler called me.” Joella smiled.
“I love my brother,” Ava joked.
Joella looked over Ava’s shoulder and her eyes widened. “Is that him?”
Ava glanced over her shoulder to where Deacon and her father stood, then looked back at Joella.
“Yes.”
“Damn. He’s gorgeous and a cowboy,” Joella said with a sigh.
“Yes, and he has two brothers.” Ava grinned.
“Looks like I’ll be visiting.” Joella laughed then sobered. “I am going to miss you so much.”
“I’ll miss you too. Please do come visit.”
