Ride It

Chapter 15

It's been three days since that night I denied Bentley. We barely see each other now. He's always busy with the ranch while I use the time to help the ladies with cooking and cleaning.

I can't deny that I miss him.

He hasn't eaten dinner or breakfast with me either. In the mornings, he's up and out of the house before I am, while at night he comes in late when I'm already in my room on the verge of sleep.

It's like he's actively trying to avoid me and it makes me feel a bit hurt.

Is it bad that I miss his attention?

What does he spend his time doing outside of work?

Has he found someone else to accompany him at night?

The thought leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.

I sigh and place the basket of eggs on the kitchen counter.

"Are these all the eggs we got today?" Sal asks as she whisks the cupcake batter.

It's currently high afternoon, and the ladies and I decided to do something nice for the workers and make them some pastries. Luckily, I've always enjoyed baking, so convincing me took all but three seconds.

I nod. "It's all that we're allowed for now. Tilly says she'll try to sneak us more next time."

Sal eyes the basket and purses her lips. "I guess it'll have to do."

"I'll take these babies. Y'know, my son just got his first child last month. I'm an actual grandma. Who'd believe that?" Rebecca comes over and collects the eggs.

I would.

"Hey guys," Mona walks into the kitchen. "Mom's going into town and asks if you need anything."

Rebecca looks at Sal, who shrugs and says, "I think we're all good for now. We restocked two days ago."

"Your mom is going into town?" I ask, perking up.

This is my chance.

"Is it okay if I ask her for a ride? I want to visit my parents. You don't mind, right Sal?" I look at the two old women hopefully.

Rebecca snorts and waves a dismissive hand. "Sweetie, we'll be just fine. Go say hi to your parents for us."

I nod, trying to contain my anticipation as I hurriedly follow behind Mona. Fortunately, I'll be able to get back before Bentley even notices I'm gone.

We meet Jessie at the front loading her minivan, and she turns to look at me. "Where to?"

I smile gratefully and give her my parents' address. Then I help her finish packing the van before we hop in.

Mona talks my ears off the entire time, telling me about a rumor that's going around about a girl in her class.

The atmosphere is comfortable, and I quickly befriend the mother-and-daughter pair.

~~~

It's been a while since I've been at my parents' place. A while since I've felt the warmth of the fireplace as I sit beside it, braiding my little sister's hair. With the smell of freshly baked goods permeating the air from mother's little business and the loud wrestling match in the background as my father watches TV.

It's hard not to miss those days. The only days I felt happy and grateful for my life until I realized where I stood to everyone around me.

As Jessie pulls up in front of my house, I thank her and Mona and get out of the car.