Page 132 of Reins

As Oliver starts digging a hole, Dixon gestures me over.

“What are your plans?” His gruff tone doesn’t quite hide the sadness tightening his eyes.

“I might be heading back to Texas in the morning.” I promised Rosalyn I would.

But that may change.

“Texas?” Mason shakes his head. “That’s so damn far.” He lets out a long breath, the cheek under his left eye twitching. “I wish you’d stay for a while so we could catch up.”

“I’ll see what my wife says.” I shrug. “She’s the boss.”

Dixon snorts. “Got that right.”

“At least join us for dinner?” Mason’s jaw clenches. “I’d like to hear all the details.”

All these years I’ve waited for today. I wanted so badly to be brought back in, fully accepted.

It isn’t until now that I realize it won’t be an easy path.

If anything, I’ve learned from Rosalyn just how long trauma can stick and that I can’t just wish away the past.

He may not hate me going forward. But he’s spent over a decade living with my name being attached to all of the pain in his life.

Hell, truth be told, I’m probably holding onto my own.

“Let me see what she wants to do. I’ll meet you at the ranch and let you know.” I’ll always choose her.

“I’ll follow you down. Elena can ride with me so you two can talk.” Wade falls into step next to me.

When we’re out of ear shot, he pauses with a hand on my shoulder. “Cade, I hope y’all can stay for a while, but understand on so many levels why you’d go. Just know I’m glad to have you back and I want to stay in touch.”

“Thank you. I do too.” I circle the truck to the driver’s side and open the door. “Elena, Wade’s your knight in sweaty armor.” I grin at her as Wade pulls on the far handle.

“Your chariot awaits, little girl.” His wink is downright nefarious as he helps his wife out.

She giggles, waving to Rosalyn before walking away.

Within seconds, Rosalyn’s face drops and she turns to me. “Well?”

I shake my head with a frown. “They’re gone, Ros. They will never hurt anyone again.”

When the tears start to fall, I know I made the right decision.

“I can’t believe it,” she sobs. “Is it real?”

“Yes, baby. I promise.” I shift the truck into drive and aim it down the hill towards the ranch.

These were my old stomping grounds. The place I grew up yet never thought I’d see again.

“Mason wants us to stay for dinner. I told him we might be leaving for Texas in the morning.” I steal a glance to see how the idea sits.

She takes a harrowing breath and leans against my arm resting on her thigh. “I wanted to get away from them.” Her hair tickles my skin when she shakes her head. “If they’re gone, there’s no reason why we have to rush if you want to get to know your family again.” She flattens her palm on the inside of my elbow. “I know how badly you want it.”

When those big blue eyes meet mine, I can see all the love and adoration she holds melted into her gaze. “I want you to be happy, that’s what I choose.”

Chapter 63 - Cade

I lean back, patting my stomach that’s as hard as a rock under my ribs. “Those are the best biscuits I’ve ever had. They remind me of the ones Mom used to make.”