Love in the Dust: A Cowboy's Second Chance with a City Girl

Don't remember

Chandler's expression seemed to furrow together as if to make sense of the words I had just said. His eye was showing complete confusion.

I sigh deeply, disappointment heavy on my voice. voice. "You really don't remember, do you?" I ask once more.

"You aren't making sense; you think you are, but you're not. Remember what, Margaret?" Chandler's tone was sincere but tinged with apparent irritation.

He adjusted his hat, still unsure of what I was referring to. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves.

"Years ago, you were a jerk to me. I don't know if you've forgotten or if you're just playing a game, but it's not something I've forgotten." I say, snapping, turning my gaze from him temporarily as I clenched my hands into fists.

Chandler's eyes seem to flicker and shift for a moment. He finally absorbed what I had said. The straightened up is back, the smirk fading ever so slightly. "I don't remember that. I'm sorry if I hurt you, but I genuinely don't recall." He explained to me as he ran hand over his jaw.

Hearing the words come from his mouth and the fact they sounded genuine. I still couldn't help shaking the feeling that there was more to his demeanor. I studied him carefully as I tried to gauge his honesty.

I sigh once again, still feeling frustrated. "You might not remember, but I do. I've worked hard to move past it," I said firmly, my voice steady.

Chandler's lip slightly flipped up in a tight smile. Simply nodding, showing he understands. "I understand. I'm sorry if I've caused you any discomfort. I genuinely wanted to help you tonight and maybe get to know you better."I did actually appreciate his apology.

However, I wasn't going to let my guard down. "Well, I suppose we'll just have to see how things go from here." I say quickly not even realizing what I'm saying before the words leave my mouth.

A mix of regret was evident in Chandler's eyes. Maybe even determination as well if you look hard enough."I understand and can respect that. I hope to prove you wrong though." He said as though he already had a plan in mind.

I wasn't sure what was going on in the wild mix of emotions going on in his mind. "Thanks, Chandler. I'll keep that in mind." I say with a tight smile.

He gave a small, genuine smile, turning on his heel and walking out the door. "I'll see you around, Ms. Talley."

As Chandler left and replayed the conversation, his apology seemed sincere. Despite everything, a small part of me was curious to see how things would develop between us.

The obvious attraction I felt to him, I could deny it.I sighed, confused, and returned to my task at hand. Focusing on organizing and tidying up everything for tomorrow.

The moonlight filtering through the windows casts long shadows. Strangely enough, the fluorescent lights flickered softly above me, aiding in my fight to remain energized.

Despite my efforts to keep my distance, I couldn't shake the lingering thoughts of Chandler's apology and the way he looked at me. It had felt like maybe an hour I finished arranging the last of my supplies.

The room was almost completely organized and ready for the students to have a fun environment to work in.The clock on the wall read just past ten, and suddenly I felt the fatigue of the long day wash over me.

The drive home was quiet, my mind busy reliving the conversation and the mix of emotions I had felt. I parked in my driveway and headed inside; the comfort of my home relaxes me and makes me feel a sense of relief.

After a dinner and a relaxing bath, I settled into bed. Nice, warm baths always helped relax me when I was stressed. Which I definitely was the events of the day replaying in my mind. The initial irritation I felt toward Chandler had softened somewhat, but I am going to keep my distance.

I wondered what would happen tomorrow. Chandler had promised to stop by, and I was wondering if he would actually "stop by" or if it was just empty words. I wasn't sure what I wanted him to show up or to leave me alone.

I woke up feeling better and ready to start the day. I had a few more things to do for my classroom before students arrived, but I felt sure that I could get it all done.

My thoughts, wild as they kept drifting back to Chandler's visit and his blunt comments.I prepared everything I needed. I silently weighed options if I should reach out to Chandler. I wanted to address the awkward thing between us, but I wasn't sure if talking with him further would lead to more complications.

I had decided to focus on my tasks and keep everything with Chandler professional and not let personal issues affect anything. During lunch, I decided to take a quick break and grab a coffee. As I walked to the break room.

I see Chandler leaning on the wall. He was talking with a few other male coaches; his demeanor was casual, but his presence stood out.

I hesitated for a moment but decided to approach him. "Hey, Chandler," I said as I walked up, trying to keep my tone friendly but neutral. I couldn't allow anything to happen.

He looked up, a smile quickly spreading across his face. "Hey, Margaret. How's your day going?"

"It's going well, thanks," I replied with a small smile. Pausing for a moment "Just trying to get everything ready for the new school year."

"Yeah, I saw your classroom yesterday. It is looking great," Chandler said, his smile seeming to widen. "I hope you didn't overwork yourself."

I laughed softly, still exhausted. "Just a bit. But it's worth it to have everything in place."

We chatted briefly about school and our plans for the year. I could see he was genuinely trying to be friendly, and it made me reconsider my initial judgments.

As the lunch period ended, Chandler gave me a friendly nod. "I'll see you around, Ms. Talley. Let me know if you need anything." Though I do briefly think I see him eye my body up and down. But perhaps I was imagining things.

"I will, thanks," I said with a smile.

Time skip end of day:

I hear a throat being cleared, catching my attention. "Hey chandler," I say with a small smile, noticing him at the doorway.
"Hey Margaret, I promised you I'd stop by." He says, adjusting his cowboy hat ever so slightly, the light shining more on his face.