Pulling into my drop off point, I unhitch the trailer. Finding my hotel for the night, it’s after eleven, and a bed’s never been more inviting. Well, any bed with Doll is more inviting, but that’s done. I fall into the same restless sleep I have every night. Consumed in dreams of her smile, her kiss, and each one ending in her walking away, it’s the same dream night after night.

Getting up the next morning, I shower to try and bring life back into my exhausted body. Sitting on the bed, I turn my phone on so I can check in with Rex back home. The phone lights up as her name appears on my screen. Well, fuck me, she sent a message yesterday. Sending a quick reply, I type.

U need something?

What do I say? The only reason she should be reaching out to me is because she wants something. Before I have a chance to finish gathering my stuff, my phone pings alerting me to a new message, I look down to see it’s her.

I need 2 know ur ok <3 Doll

Fine. U good?

I reply. And so it begins. We spend the rest of the day texting here and there. Soon, one day turns into one week. One week turns into one month, and now two months.

It’s been almost four months since I’ve seen her now, and for the last three weeks, we’ve talked daily after we’ve been texting regularly. Tank is stable, but there is no guarantee he will ever wake up from the coma. Sass visits him all the time according to Doll.

Listening to her tell me about her day makes the long hours on the road manageable. I’ve never looked forward to talking to someone before. I’m heading back home tonight and Doll is supposed to be there when I pull in. I don’t know where we go from here. Tonight though, she’s gonna be in my bed where she belongs. In the morning we can sort out our shit once and for all.

33

Not Enough

Having had enough of only having phone time, I want to see Tripp. He’s on his way in from a transport. I agreed to be at his house when he arrives home. Making the five-hour drive wasn’t terrible. Stopping by his office, I plan to run in real quick and get the house key from Rex.

“Doll,” he greets, stepping from behind the desk. Standing in front of me, he hands me the key. “I’ll be out for the night so the house is yours.” He adds with a wink.

“Thanks, Rex. It’s good to see you.” I say, getting ready to leave.

Something in Rex’s face changes as I turn to see what has his attention. I’m lost on the little woman in front of me. Time has not treated her well, her skin looks like leather that hasn’t been oiled. She’s shorter than me, around five feet tall. Her clothing is well worn, having seen better days. Her hair is shoulder length golden color that looks brittle. Everything about this woman looks easy to break. She smells like alcohol and stale cigarettes. It’s the middle of the day, why does she smell like she’s spent her time in a night club or bar? My eyes come to meet hers. One look, my chest tightens as I recognize those eyes.