Page 64 of The Breakdown

“They have met the horses. Did that yesterday evening when you was already holed up in the guesthouse.”

“But I just saw them. In the stables, talking about the horses.”

“That’s because they had questions after Vaughn’s discussion with them today. And they wanted an extra visit with Miracle.”

Natalie felt sick. The stench from the boiled chicken sat in the back of her throat, nearly gagging her as she thought about Vaughn working closely with the young woman.

Em.

What kind of a name was Em?

She dropped the knife and clenched her eyes. It was too much. All of it was too much.

“I’ve got to go.”

“Where you going?” June asked as Natalie hurried to the door.

“For a walk.”

“Now?”

“Yes.” She opened the door and paused, realizing just how rude she was being. She wiped a stray tear and spoke. “I’m sorry, June. I’m just…having a hard time.”

“You’re not going to try and leave again are you?”

Natalie laughed. “And go where?”

She felt a soft hand rest on her shoulder. “Child, I hope you’re not staying simply because you have nowhere else to go.”

Natalie fought back sobs. “I’m—not.”

“Then look at me. Look at me, child.” She lightly tugged on Natalie’s shoulder and Natalie turned to face her. June wiped her tears and pressed her wrinkled lips together in concern. “You are wanted here,” she said. “Needed here.”

Natalie laughed again. “That’s what Vaughn said.”

“And it’s the truth.”

Natalie stared into her eyes, wanting so badly to believe her. But she was having such a hard time. She didn’t feel wanted anywhere. Needed by anyone. She knew it stemmed from her childhood, but she didn’t know how to make it stop.

“I’ll stop by after supper,” June said. “We’ll talk.”

Natalie shook her head and tried to argue. “I just want to be alone.”

“Being alone is the worst thing for you right now.”

“It doesn’t matter—”

June pulled on her, making like she was going to shake her. “Course it does. I’ll be by after supper.”

She palmed her cheek and smiled at her.

Natalie finally gave in and nodded. “Okay.”

June gave her a light pat with her palm. “You go on your walk, now. Before the others see you. There’s no telling the questions they’ll ask once they get a look at ya.”

Natalie turned and walked out the door, grateful to be alone, even if it was the worst thing for her.

Chapter Twenty-nine