Carter (The Harlow Brothers Book 1) by Brie Paisley Read Free Book Online Page B

didn’t like her Mom was mean to her, and would say nasty things to her. “When your Mom says those things to you, just remember that I love you, Shelby. And I know my parents love you, too.”
    She wiped her cheek and asked, “You promise?”
    “I promise. I’ll always love you, Shelby.”
    I rub my eyes, making myself stop the memory from continuing. I still remember the feelings that ran through me seeing Shelby so hurt. I did keep my promise, too. Even if I never see her again, I hope she knows I never once stopped loving her. I run my hands down my face, trying to push away the unsettling emotions in the pit of my stomach. I have to rub my chest when my heart starts to ache, and turn off the radio as Springsteen by Eric Church comes on. I can’t bear to listen to that song. It makes me think of the past, and of all the times I was with Shelby, a time when I thought we’d never be apart. But times change. People change, and promises of a ten-year old mean nothing now.
    I turn off my truck, leaning my head against the seat. I close my eyes, trying to keep myself rooted where I am. As soon as I’m comfortable, I jump, hitting my arm on the door, when a loud tap comes to my left. I turn seeing Bethany standing beside my truck. She’s laughing, even holding her sides, knowing she scared the shit out of me. Shaking my head, I grab my wallet then get out of the truck. I shut the door and lock it, as she continues to laugh. “Laugh it up while you can,” I say and smile at her. It’s a rare moment when she catches me off guard like that, and I give her props for getting me.
    “I wish I recorded that.” She stops to laugh more then says, “That was awesome. I can’t believe I finally got you!”
    “Remember it because that’s the last time, Beth.”
    “You say that now, but I’ll wait for another chance. What were you thinking about anyways? You looked so sad.”
    I start to walk towards the bowling alley, noticing Bethany beside me. “Nothing really. Just trying to get my head in the game for tonight.” I look away, hoping she buys what I’m selling. I don’t want to talk about Shelby. I don’t want to be reminded how I need to let it go. Everyone close to me knows the story. They all know how I still zone out thinking about her, and every time they tell me I need to move on. They all loved Shelby, except Bethany, because she never knew her, but the rest of my family wished she would come back. I know my Mom still talks about her and tells me all the time how I should go find her. The thing is, I know where Shelby is. I know she’s happy, living her life how she wants. Who am I to fuck up what she has? I’d rather stay here, being miserable, than mess with her happiness.
    “Uh huh.” Her eyes narrow, and I know she doesn’t believe me. “Well, I hope you prepared enough because I’m bringing my A-game.”
    “Good. You’re going to need all of it to win.” I don’t dwell on her not so subtle way of not believing me, but I’m glad she doesn’t push for more. I’m actually grateful she didn’t want to pick me apart about it. The thing about Bethany is she’s the easiest person to spill all my deepest secrets to, but I always make her work for it. I don’t like opening up those wounds, and I’d much rather leave them be.  
    “You keep on talking shit. Whatever makes you feel better about losing.”
    I laugh as we walk inside the bowling alley. I hold the door open for her and ask, “Why are you always so competitive?”
    “I don’t like to lose, Carter. You know this.” She’s right. From the moment we started becoming friends, I noticed how she had to be the best at everything she did. It didn’t matter if it was just us hanging out, and doing our normal gaming night, she had to win. I didn’t really understand why she thought she had to be the best, but I have a feeling it has something to do with her parents. I never really asked, knowing it’s still a sore subject to bring up.