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“I’ve missed you, too.” He drapes his arm around me, pulling me close to him once more.

Below us, the Sycamore Falls Saints score another touchdown, and the crowd erupts in cheers.

I don’t stand up and join them.

Instead, I sit beside my brother.

For now, it’s exactly what I need.

We may not talk every day or even every month. But we’re always there for each other when it matters.

Like right now.

CHAPTER NINE

WYNTER

By the time Bennett drops me off after the game, I’m so exhausted that all I want is to collapse in my bed. I blame my brother and his travel mug full of scotch.

But I can’t keep putting off telling my parents the truth about why I’m here, hoping for the right time. I doubt there is a right time to have this conversation.

So instead of going upstairs, I make my way into the living room and sit on the couch. The lights on the Christmas tree blink against the window, the scent of pine filling the room. Gary joins me, his tail thumping against the cushion as I scratch his ears and wait for my parents.

And wait.

And wait.

I have no idea when they’ll be home.

The game ended more than an hour ago, but that doesn’t mean my father can leave after the final whistle. He has players to congratulate. Parents to talk to. Assistant coaches to debrief. I could be waiting a while.

Knowing I’ll most likely pass out if I keep sitting here, I pull myself to my feet and cross the room toward the window, looking out over the quiet street at all the houses decked out with holiday decorations. Including the one next door.

The driveway is empty, the only light coming from the bulbs lining his house. Joshua must not be home.

It’s Friday night, after all. He’s probably out with friends. Or maybe a girlfriend.

A twinge of jealousy pinches my chest at the thought, and I shove it down. It doesn’t matter if he has a girlfriend. He’s an attractive man. He should have a girlfriend. Or a boyfriend, if that’s his preference. Not to mention, I’m still married, even if not for much longer. Regardless, I have no reason to be remotely jealous over the idea of Joshua dating.

A pair of headlights sweeps around the corner, pulling my attention from Joshua’s house. I squint, trying to make out the car. When I see it’s my father’s truck, my stomach tightens with nerves.

Drawing in a long breath, I turn from the window and sink back onto the couch. Gary nudges me with his wet nose. I hug him, finding comfort in his presence. Just like I have since I left Wyatt. I’m not sure what I would have done without this dog. He’s been there for me no matter what. Not sure I can say that for many people in my life.

Outside, the truck’s engine rumbles into the driveway, then cuts off. A few seconds later, the front door opens, and my parents step into the living room.

“There you are!” Mom says when she notices me. “Why didn’t you answer my text? We heard you were at the game and wanted to invite you to join us at the brewery afterward.”

“I left my phone here,” I explain as I stand.

It’s not a complete lie. I did leave my phone here. I don’t mention it’s been off since I left Houston so I wouldn’t have to talk to Wyatt.

“I wish I’d known you planned to come to the game.” Dad hands his coat to Mom, who hangs it up for him before hanging up her own. “Some of my players were distracted by the idea that Wyatt might show up, too.”

“Sorry to disappoint, but that won’t be happening.”

“That’s understandable. At first, I thought it strange you’d visit now, but the more I’ve thought about it, the more it makes sense. Wyatt needs to focus on the game this weekend and maybe even the Heritage Bowl. Study the other teams. Figure out their weak spots. It’s best if he doesn’t have any distractions right now.” He places his hand on my shoulder and squeezes. “You’re a good wife, Wynter. He’s very lucky to have you.” He holds my gaze for a beat, then releases me and turns toward the staircase.

“That’s not why I’m here,” I say before he can disappear, my voice echoing in the stillness.