Chapter 1

• - Mom, I'm on my way up. I'll be there in about ten minutes. You don't have to meet me. Just wait a little while.
• I hit the disconnect button and tossed my phone on the seat next to me. I sighed heavily. Mom tired me a little with her anxiety, and we hadn't even seen each other yet.
• I stopped by the small town where my parents have lived for the past three years. I don't know what got into their heads in their old age, but Mom and Dad decided to leave town, move to a quieter place, and go into the horse business. It's weird, the family business is thriving, our family's pretty well-to-do. And the old folks suddenly drop everything and buy a farm in a small town. It's not even a town, it's more like a settlement.
• Well, I can understand them, in principle. They are no longer young; they just wanted some peace in their old age. And it's not bad here.
• I liked the small town near the dense forest right away. I don't know why. Perhaps it was the atmosphere. Stores and cafes, which met me on the way to my parents' house, dispose to me by their appearance. I immediately felt warm and cozy, as if I had returned to my hometown.
• The houses are harmoniously arranged, I saw a lot of people. They were just walking or going about their business. And it was not a gray mass of depressed, sullen people in the subway, as I was used to seeing, but real, full of life inhabitants of a small town.
• I was riding in a pickup truck, wearing a wide-brimmed hat like those in the westerns from my childhood. I don’t know, it seemed fitting to me. My parents bought a farm, and I felt almost like a cowboy, coming here for the summer. A whole summer surrounded by horses and regular working guys. I hope there are some modern conveniences here, too. I mean, internet and all that.
• There was a loud sound, like something had popped, and I swerved a little. After parking the car by the roadside, I got out to see what happened. Damn, how did I manage to get a flat tire? I won't be able to change it myself.
• Fortunately, or unfortunately, the tire went flat right in the middle of town, near a gas station. I thought if I was careful, I could drive slowly. So, I did, and thank the gods, the car managed to roll a few meters. Yes, this is the first time I’m in a situation like this, just like in the movies. I've never had a flat tire before. Well, there’s always a first time for everything.
• After parking the car a little away from the gas pumps, I got out again and checked the tire. Should I Google how to change it? I looked around. There was no one at the gas station, not even an attendant. Alright. I need to figure something out. Maybe the clerk at the store can help me?
• As with any gas station, there was also a store with everything you might need for travelers. I walked inside. Everything was standard, just like everywhere else. But there was no cashier at the register either. Of course, everyone had to go somewhere right now. I really have the worst luck.
• It was a hot day, and even my short denim shorts and light blouse weren't helping. A drop of sweat rolled down my back. I need to get something to drink.
• I walked between the aisles and headed straight to the refrigerators. There’s so much selection, something for every taste. I didn't grab any beer or soda. Oh, Red Bull. Just what I need. I’ve been on the road for half a day, I’m tired and worn out. This will help me perk up a bit and not run off to rest the moment I arrive. I want to spend some time with my family and catch up. We haven't seen each other for four whole years. A lot has happened during this time; I want to share.
• After grabbing a chocolate bar too, I went to the register. The clerk still wasn’t there. Alright. I started looking around. This place isn’t bad; I think I’ll like it here after the city hustle and bustle. It wouldn’t hurt to take a break from the frantic pace of life. I hope my parents had the sense to hire workers to take care of the horses? I really don’t want to spend all summer cleaning stalls.
• - That’s not the healthiest drink for a young girl.
• I jumped in surprise. There hadn’t been anyone here. But turning around, I saw a guy nearby. A tall, dark-haired guy. Very attractive, I would say too much so. I know types like that—handsome, self-confident guys. I should stay away from them.
• But this guy excited me, to be honest. His face immediately catches your attention. Expressive gray eyes with thick lashes, a strong jawline and cheekbones, a straight nose, and slightly plump lips. But that doesn’t ruin him; on the contrary, it somehow adds a ruggedness along with a hint of stubble.
• His physique is impressive too. He takes care of himself, obviously on a regular basis. His muscles are well-defined and visible under an ordinary cotton t-shirt and jeans.
• Wow, it’s really hot today.
• - Maybe so, but I really need this right now. I’m exhausted from the drive and want to perk up a bit.
• Where the hell is that damned clerk? Where has he disappeared to? This stranger is up for a chat, and I need to leave. Besides, I don’t like my reaction to him. It’s better if we part ways quickly.
• - The best way to perk up is to have sex with a stranger. I’m free and ready to help.
• I turned to him, and he stepped closer. He was now very close to me; I even had to take a step back to avoid touching him. But this guy also placed his hand on the counter, blocking my way.
• My heart raced wildly, a shiver coursed through my body. He stood there, staring at me with those captivating eyes and smiling. What a beautiful guy; you rarely encounter someone like this. Here in the middle of nowhere, hiding treasures like him.
• - You can't really call that a healthy way to perk up. Along with feeling energized, you also get a bouquet of STDs. That’s not for me.
• - I’m clean. I even have a certificate. Want me to show it to you?
• Is he serious? Are we really about to look at his health certificate?
• - I said no.
• Fortunately, the clerk finally arrived. Finally. Where the hell have you been? I was almost coaxed into sex here. What kind of work ethic is that?
• The guy stepped back, but only a step, and he still stared at me with those otherworldly eyes. By the way, when he was right up close, I thought his eyes changed color. Probably just the play of light.
• Finally, I grabbed my purchases and headed for the exit. My heart was still racing, but I felt a bit lighter. The source of my agitation hadn’t followed me. Oh, crap, the tire. What should I do? I can't just go back to the store now, right? He’s still in there.
• - Excuse me, can I help you?
• I turned toward the voice. Another guy was walking toward me, and he was also very handsome. Like the one in the store, dark-haired and gray-eyed. They even looked a bit alike. Only this one had softer cheekbones and jawline, and his nose was slightly different. But those eyes are just as captivating. Are all the men around here like this?