Shattered by the Alpha Stronger Than Ever novel Chapter 46

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The thought of living there for free felt uncomfortable, even trashy, and I couldn’t shake off the feeling of obligation and dependence that came with it.

He clarifies, his voice gentle and understanding “Karry, that house is basically empty and you know Hendrix, he wouldn’t let any stranger stay there, and he hasn’t stayed there in like years.” I sighed, feeling a pang of guilt for my initial refusal, not wanting to appear rude and ungrateful for their genuine concern and help. His words painted a picture of a vacant, unused space, and I knew Hendrix’s offer came from a place of kindness and a desire to support me.

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“Okay, but only if he accepts rent. Or these are going straight back with you.” I warned, trying to sound firm. He shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips, as he handed me the keys and documents, seemingly unfazed by my ultimatum. His casual demeanor suggested he knew Hendrix would likely refuse my offer of rent, but he was willing to let me fry,

No! He grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners, clearly amused by my predicament.

“You’re welcome to argue with him,” he said, his deep, drawling lone dripping with a gentle, teasing cadence that made my eyes roll heavenward in exasperation.

Oh god, I had almost forgotten how endearingly, maddeningly chivalrous cowboys could be, always trying to swoop in and rescue everyone around them, even when you desperately wanted to handle things yourself. Or at least the ones I knew.

1 acknowledged the warmth and affectionate friendship we all shared over the years, but my mind was already shifting to the impending conversation with Hendrix.

I accepted the keys and documents, my resolve firming up, I wouldn’t be a charity case, no matter how well–intentioned their offers were. It was time to have a straightforward, no–nonsense chat with Hendrix about the rent; I was determined to pay my way and maintain my independence, no matter what.

“By the way, how’s the ranch?” I asked, despite knowing bits and pieces from Corwin, in an attempt to lighten the conversation, Deckard’s eyes instantly transformed, sparkling with a warm, inner light, like embers fanned into a flame. It was a look I knew well, the same one that appeared when we discussed our deepest passions,

Deckard and Hendrix had inherited their grandparents‘ sprawling ranch and, after retiring from the military, they had chosen to run it with a dedication that bordered on reverence. Alongside his older brother Hendrix and his cousins, who had also found success with his

2013 business related ventures, Deckard had built a thriving agricultural empire, one that brought him a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

“It’s doing great,” he said, his voice filled with pride and enthusiasm. “You should check it out sometime if you want to get away.” He offered me a tempting invite.

Who wouldn’t be drawn to the allure of the countryside, with its rolling hills, fresh air, and peaceful rhythms? The prospect of escaping the chaos and finding solace in the rustic beauty of the ranch was tantalizing, a siren’s call to leave my worries behind and reconnect with nature’s serenity.

“Yeah, I would love to sometime,” I replied, leaving the door open to possibility, but not committing to anything just yet. My mind was still reeling from the aftermath of the epic cheating scandal that had shaken my world, and I had far too much to attend to in the present to consider a getaway, no matter how enticing,

The ranch, with its promise of tranquility and escape, would have to wait, for now, I had to focus on picking up the pieces and rebuilding my life.

“You’re always welcome there, Karry,” he proffered, his voice warm and genuine, as he reiterated the open invitation. I nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the kindness of the Holston brothers.

After Corwin’s parents had moved to Boston to be closer to their son and grandchildren, they had sold their property to the Holston’s, but Hendrix and Deckard had gone above and beyond to ensure they still had a place to call home. They had built them a cozy cottage on the ranch, where they could stay whenever they visited, a testament to the strong bond of trust and friendship between the families. It was a heartwarming gesture, one that spoke volumes about the brothers‘ compassionate and generous nature.

The realization encloses around me like a change of scenery, carrying with it the whispers of forgotten memories and neglected joys. I hadn’t set foot on the ranch in five long years, and it was astonishing how life’s relentless pace could sweep us away from the very things that brought us happiness.

ime, once a meandering river, had transformed into a raging flow, carrying me further and further from the serene shores of my past.

I made a silent promise to myself, a mental note etched in the recesses of my mind, to visit the ranch soon, once the chaos and turmoil of my current life had subsided.

The thought of returning to that peaceful haven, surrounded by the gentle rustle of leaves and the warmth of old friends, was a

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comforting beacon, shining brightly on the horizon of my mind.

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