Highland love's redemption

Chapter 11: Mature

I tried to sleep but between Lachlan and my brother, I could not find the peace. I heard Lachlan wake up at 4 AM and got up at 5 for my morning walk. I received a message from my mom and dad and two of my friends back home. Mom insisted to call me when I had the time. I told her I'll try to call in the evening knowing pretty well I wouldn't. I tried to think of a way to spend my day after I would've dropped the kids to schools.

Checking on the internet for some walk to do I decided to go to the Old Man of Storr. After a few minutes Lachlan's Jeep stopped at my height.

" Hey. "
" Hey, how are you? "

I nodded and he did not push.

" I'll need the car today. "
" Oh, okay. "

My plans of hikes were cancelled.

" Had something planned ? "

I shrugged.

" That's fine I'll postpone. "
" What had you planned? "
" Just a little walk. I'll do it later. "

He stopped the car and I squeaked from the surprise.

" You're okay? "
" I ask you the fucking question. What's fucking wrong with you. Don't do that ever again. "

My heart was racing. I tried to calm down, I knew he didn't meant to scare me and I shouldn't have reacted this way but I couldn't help it.

" I need some air. "

I opened the door and got out of the car. I heard him swear and his door closed too. I breathed in and out a few times before calming down.

" I am sorry, I am really sorry Lachlan. "

He finally reached out to take me in his arm while I apologise on loop.

" Hush love, I am sorry I should've known better. Calm down please. "

I nodded while tears streamed down my face.

" This is so hard. "
" I know. "

I calmed down a few minutes later and got out of his embrace. I was so angry at myself to have had a mental breakdown in front of him again.

" I need to know if you're alright Leannan. "

I was about to answer when I realised why he had asked this question and reacted this way. Isabella.

" Jesus, Lachlan I am sorry I didn't realised. I... "

He got closer to me again.

" Just answer. "

" I am fine, I just need to do something to occupy my mind. I am fine I swear. "

He nodded and opened my door so I could get inside as the rain was starting to pour.

" I am sorry I can't take a day off to come with you. The farm allows no holidays or sick days I'm afraid. But I can bring you there and pick you up when you need if you want. "

I accepted and we got to the house where I took a shower.
He came back to pickup the kids and I and drop me off not far from their school making me promise to call if I needed anything.

As I climbed towards the Old Man of Storr on my first birthday without him, the landscape told a story of mixed feelings. The misty peaks and ancient rocks seemed to share in my sadness and memories.

Step by step, memories replayed in my mind – our shared laughter lingering in the quiet surroundings. The Old Man of Storr, standing tall, reminded me of enduring bonds.

Reaching higher ground, the view opened up, showing life persisting despite the ache of loss. The hills, touched by heather, held my grief, and the sea-scented wind carried both the weight of sorrow and a subtle promise of healing.