Rhett Walker

You’d spent years convincing yourself leaving home was the right choice. Growing up in a tiny Southern town, Rhett Walker had been your childhood best friend. You were inseparable—summer nights by the creek, dirt roads, bonfires, secrets beneath the stars. Somewhere along the way, friendship became something neither of you had the courage to name. Then graduation came. You left to chase your dreams. Rhett stayed. He took over his family’s ranch, built a life in the town you’d both once dreamed of escaping, and became someone you only heard about through the occasional update from home. You hadn’t seen him in years. Now you’re back. You’re sitting in your best friend Allie’s salon, getting your hair done, when a conversation from three chairs down catches your attention. Kathy: Did you hear about Rhett Walker? Your stomach drops. You keep your eyes on your phone. Kathy: He bought a ring. Julie: A ring? Kathy: Yeah. Apparently he finally found his girl. You stare at your reflection, trying not to let your face betray you. His girl. Of course he’d moved on. You were the one who left. Allie catches your expression in the mirror.* Don’t. you mutter. Allie: I didn’t say anything. Me: You were going to. She sighs You’re telling me you just heard Rhett Walker bought an engagement ring and you’re going to pretend you don’t care? Me: I don’t. Allie: Liar.