“Yep. Nice work. See ya then.”

After I clean up, I order a protein berry blast from the smoothie bar. Tyler finds me shortly after and asks how things are going.

“Great, can’t complain honestly.”

“I’m glad to hear it. Can you believe this time last year we could only talk on the phone a couple of times a month?”

“It’s surreal. I’ve only been out for six months, but so much has happened during that time. My life has changed more than I thought was possible,” I admit. One of those life-changing things is Everleigh. I’m so happy and grateful for what we have, yet I can’t fight the feeling that I’m going to somehow fuck it up. Maybe it’s because I’ve never been in a serious relationship before or that I just love her so damn much that the fear of losing her consumes me.

“Yeah, after I was released, my world drastically changed too. Gemma and I had to become friends again first, and once I confirmed she still had feelings for me, I knew a life with her here was all I wanted.”

I smile as I think about everything he’s overcome. He looks at me as if he’s waiting for me to say something else, and when I don’t, he continues. “I know it’s none of my business, but it’s been weighing on me, so I have to ask.”

“What’s up?”

“Do you think you’ll stay in Lawton Ridge? Since Annie and Sadie are in Wyoming, I wasn’t sure of your plans, especially now that you’re with Everleigh.”

Ahh…the long-awaited big brother talk.

“Honestly, I’ve not thought too far into the future. I enjoy being here, and I love Everleigh. I hope one day Annie and Sadie will move to Alabama, but I think that’s gonna take some convincing.”

Tyler nods with a grin. “I’d like that for ya, man. Family’s important to have around.”

“I agree, though I think of you as my family too,” I say truthfully. “You gave me a home.”

“And I’d do it again, brother.” Tyler hugs me before we part ways.

I decide to walk to the grocery store before I head home so I can make Everleigh dinner. She has a few hours left of work, and I’d like to surprise her.

On the way there, I think about my conversation with Tyler and then send Annie a text.

Archer: Things going okay? Notice anything weird again?

Annie: No, not since that one time. Don’t worry, I’m keeping an eye out.

I grin because she knew what I was going to say next.

Archer: Okay, good. Can’t be too safe. I wish we lived closer.

Annie: Me too. Maybe someday.