Erika could have talked herself out of taking such a big leap of faith with a dozen different “why nots.” But her friend’s ambition and belief in herself was something she’d always admired and slightly envied. Cassie didn’t need the same reassurance from others that Erika did. “This is none of my business, but the money from your mom was enough to open up shop in Wild River?” She didn’t know much about Wild River real estate, but a storefront on Main Street couldn’t be cheap. Rent alone on these buildings could cause a new venture to struggle.

“It was when Reed gave me his half,” Cassie said, grabbing a handful of popcorn.

Erika’s eyes widened. “That was nice of him.” Really nice. Admirable. Respectable. Had her questioning what she thought she knew about him and regretting every bad thought she might have ever had. The siblings had always been close, but this went above and beyond. She ignored the tug at her heartstrings.

“That’s my brother. He’s always had a protective nature. It’s what makes him so great with the search and rescue team. Always putting others first.”

Erika had always envied Cassie and Reed’s relationship. An only child, she’d longed for a sibling. Cassie’s family had been the next best thing, and despite not particularly liking her, Reed had kinda assumed a protective role over her whenever she spent time with the family.

“I think he felt it was his job to be the man of the house after Dad disappeared,” Cassie said, her expression changing slightly as she mentioned her dad.

One day, Cassie’s father had gone to work with a logging company in the forest and hadn’t returned. It was just months before Erika’s own mom died. Losing a parent had only bonded her and Cassie even more. It was a tough time in both of their lives, but they’d helped one another through it. Their friendship was the only thing Erika had to depend on back then. With her father withdrawing, she’d felt alone. Cassie had been there.

“Anyway, I still feel bad about taking the money from Reed. He’d been saving to go to university, but as soon as I mentioned the business idea, he handed me a check. I’ve tried repaying him, but he won’t hear of it. Man, he’s so pigheaded sometimes,” Cassie said, but affection for her brother was the only thing Erika heard in her voice.

“What was he planning to study?” Not that it mattered, if he was putting that goal permanently on hold, but she was so curious about him. In two days, she’d gotten to see various sides to him and it only left her wanting to learn more.

“He wanted to be an EMT...possibly a nurse. He’s smart enough for med school, but he doesn’t believe that.”

Or maybe he just knew the cost of that degree was something he’d struggle to afford. Growing up, Erika had never had the financial worries that her friend did. And it sucked that it might have been what prevented Reed from following a passion. Obviously, with his original plans sidelined, he was doing the next best thing here in Wild River.