Whisper In The Wind

She limped to the house anxious for a long hot bath and a glass of iced tea. Food would wait, though her stomach growled in disapproval.

While soaking in the claw foot tub, which had been around since the house was built in 1948, Caitlin relaxed. Deep breaths allowed more tension to escape, but she winced with each movement. "Who knew that repairing a barn was fun? Of course, when you're working beside a handsome man, whether you are interested or not, any job is fun." She sank lower into the water, letting it rest on her chin. As she relaxed she said, "I'll sleep like a baby tonight."

Not until all the water had drained, did Caitlin attempt to move. She crawled over the edge of the tub, barely landing on her feet. Each step was labored and her hands were unable to hold the towel.

Zipping her jeans ripped open another blister, but she won and then fell on the bed in exhaustion. Her stomach grumbled, begging for food. Caitlin exhaled with the realization of having to get up and go downstairs in order to fulfill her body's request for food. She eased down the stairs, one at a time, pausing on each step. Those twelve steps never seemed so long or so steep. After making a ham sandwich and pouring a glass of iced tea, Caitlin went outside to enjoy the cool evening. She called Jen and told her about the events.

"You're kidding. You've got two men vying for your attention. Wow, nothing like this happened when I lived there. So, what are you going to do?"

"Nothing. I still love Garrett and always will." She paused for a moment as a menagerie of feelings rushed through her. "How much time do I give him?" she finally asked.

In the moment of silence that followed, Caitlin grimaced. What if Jen told her to give up on Garrett? Would it be that easy? She knew Garrett would always be in the depths of her heart and soul, regardless of his feelings for her. "Garrett does things in his own time frame," Jen finally said. " I know it's hard, but be patient. You know you love him."

"I know, but I'd like to know if the feelings are mutual. Here's another question for the love advice guru. Why does no one want to kiss me?"

"They fear your independent streak. It's who you are, Cait, so if they can't appreciate it, tell them both to take a hike."

They talked a while longer and then said good night. Hearing the truck stirred new emotions. Had Scott returned or was it Garrett for his nightly visit? She turned her head and saw Garrett in a beige cotton sweater and dark blue jeans, his hair still wet from a shower. Her heart danced a jitterbug.