Page 63 of Wild Rivals

Rhett pulls me into his side as we start the walk, and I make a note to check in with him later. I might have been the closest to Dad, but Rhett was a baby when we lost our mom. He doesn’t remember much about her, so this is his first big loss.

We walk in silence, the only sound surrounding us that of the horses’ hooves hitting the ground in tandem with our own. Around fifty people were invited by Dad before he passed. They’ve offered condolences I wish they hadn’t needed to.

It won’t bring him back after all.

Nothing will.

38

WYATT

August 13

WYATT

Hey, how are you holding up?

MADDIE

I’m okay, thanks for checking in.

WYATT

I meant what I said yesterday, I’m here if you need anything.

August 16

WYATT

Just checking in.

I called by today but there was no answer.

I’m here if you need anything.

August 18

MADDIE

I’m fine, I promise.

WYATT

You don’t have to shut me out, Mad.

I’m here for you.

MADDIE

I’ll come by soon.

I promise.

August 20

WYATT

I saw Autumn today, she’s worried about you.