Page 70 of Reins

She’s fucking wholesome. Sweet with a subtle humor that she’s finally letting escape in tiny teases.

With each little smile, the need to see it again digs deeper into my chest. And I hate how much I’m enjoying just touching her. Even if it’s just a hug or caress, it makes me feel more present.

Like her, all I want is someone to want me.

I can take comfort in her company.

And I can lie to myself that it’s all I want.

Standing in the hotel hall, I wait outside her door for her to unlock the deadbolt.

“Morning,” she says breathlessly with pink cheeks. “I’m all set, I just need to grab my purse.”

We spent yesterday at the Social Security office and the Office of Records to get her birth certificate.

I’m sure she’s tired of administration buildings by now.

As she falls into step next to me, she drifts her hand around the inside of my wrist.

Reflexively I grip her fingers in mine, secretly grateful.

“Did you sleep okay?” Her big blue eyes peer up from near my shoulder.

“I guess.” I shrug. “All I see is fire when I try.”

Her lower lip pouts out in a frown but shows the mark where it was split is quickly healing. I’m happy to see her limp has disappeared as well.

“That’s understandable. I see it too, but it’s Eli burning everything important to me.” She clings tighter and shivers as we leave the warmth of the hotel. “I don’t want to go back.”

“It won’t be for long. Just to get the horses and swap rigs.” I can’t wait to get the hell out of Montana.

If I never come back it’d be too soon. The best part of this state is hanging off my arm and I’m taking her with me.

“How long does it take to drive to Texas?” She lets me guide her to the SUV and hold the door for her.

I don’t answer until I’m sitting behind the steering wheel. “Long,” I groan. “I made it in about three days. Now that it’s winter, it might take longer if we hit a storm.”

“Oh, I’ll watch the weather reports tonight and find the safest route.” She beams. “One of the only websites I was allowed to visit outside of school was for weather.” Her eyes unfocus as she stares out the window. “It’s pretty fascinating stuff.”

I tilt my head and sneak a glance of wonderment at her. She surprises me with the stuff she’s learned despite being basically locked up her entire life.

“Do you have a map?” She blinks while she chews on the inside of her cheek. “I’ll need it.”

With a chuckle, I shake my head. “I used the GPS the whole trip.”

“Ah.” Her shoulders slump. “I forgot that’s a thing.” Her hand waves idly. “I’m not used to all of this new-fangled technology.”

That makes me snort. “You’re half my age, grandma.”

“Hey—” She feigns a pout while a smile tickles over her lips. “—a calculator was a big deal for me.”

“When we’re done with this, let’s find a bookstore. You’ll probably want something to read anyway so you don’t get sick of talking to me.” Pulling into the parking lot, I kill the engine and pull out my phone. “There’s one just a few blocks away right next to a Greek restaurant.” I glance over. “Ever had a gyro?”

Her blonde brows pucker. “Um, I haven’t tried many places. My brothers would take me to a drive through usually for my events.”

I feel guilty that we did that last night for dinner before hitting the hotel.

“Then we’re going to start trying new places until you find a favorite.” I walk with her through the double glass doors to the ticket machine just inside.