Page 144 of Buckin' Around

“Alright, let’s go find her.”

Ives starts to cry, sobbing as she points to her crib. I pluck up Mr. Fluffy and give him to her.

She shakes her head.

“Not Mr. Fluffy? Then what is it?”

Confused at her distress, I walk us out to the kitchen and pull the drawer where her plastic bowls are stored out.

Maybe she’s just hangry.

As I shut the drawer, something on the counter flutters up and comes to rest.

A note.

No . . .

Tell me you didn’t, Riley O’Malley.

I spoon Ivy’s favorite pureed fruit into her bowl and strap her into her high chair. Handing her the bowl and a spoon, I glance at the small piece of paper covered in Riley’s handwriting.

The last breath lodges in my throat.

I force myself to pick it up.

Spence,

I know you’ll hate me for this. But maybe that’s the point. We both know this was temporary. As incredible as it was, our responsibilities are worlds apart.

I knew saying goodbye would destroy the both of us, so this is it.

I didn’t want Ivy to have to see us like that. Or to be upset.

I left the little car. Please sell it and put the money into a fund for Ives, or I guess you could keep it for her to learn how to drive one day. Whatever you decide is fine with me.

I said goodbye to Stace last night.

My fucking sister knew Riles was leaving this morning and didn’t think it crucial that I know?

God, this thing between us really is fucked up.

Oh, and tell Brades the back door needs new hinges. And also, that I’ll miss him.

Then there’s this cowboy, you know the cocky one with the blue eyes and most gorgeous grin, I’ll miss him the most.

He kind of shaped my heart. Who knew anyone could mold this banged up old thing.

But I know he’ll be fine. Look how he stepped up for his little girl.

I’ll miss you more than words can ever convey.

Huggle Ives tight for me. Tell her Riles loves her to the moon and back.

Bye cowboy,

Riles. xx

PS I think Brades is seeing someone... There’s headlights leaving out front of his place.