THE WEIGHT OF DREAMS, Cole Walter ✓

17| BORN TO RUN

DESPITE LEAVING COLE NUMEROUS MESSAGES, Charis received no response from him. She couldn't shake the worry gnawing at her as she imagined him potentially grounded and grappling with his own demons. Austin's return from the Walters' ranch only added to her speculation. She could almost picture Cole's demeanor, confined and brooding in the confines of his home.

Charis couldn't help but wonder what might be going through Cole's mind during this time of silence. Was he reflecting on his actions, regretting his choices, or simply lost in a whirlwind of emotions? She longed to reach out to him, to offer comfort and support, but his unresponsiveness left her feeling helpless.

As she awaited news or any sign of life from Cole, Charis found herself consumed by a sense of unease, hoping against hope that he would soon emerge from the shadows of his solitude.

The day of the rodeo had arrived, a bustling event filled with anticipation and excitement. Alex, with his competitive spirit, was gearing up to compete, ready to showcase his skills in the arena. Meanwhile, the twins, eager to join in the festivities, were en route by bus, looking forward to another day spent together.

However, this time around, Charis, Leah, and James wouldn't be participating in the rodeo. James, deemed too old for bull calf riding and not yet experienced enough for bronco riding, had to sit this one out. As for Charis, the thought of competing after her prolonged absence from the rodeo circuit filled her with a mix of nerves and apprehension. Yet, despite not being in the lineup, they were both excited to be part of the event, cheering on their friends and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the rodeo grounds.

Charis couldn't shake off the nerves that gripped her as she approached her closet. It had been so long since she last set foot on rodeo grounds, and the thought of facing her old competitors after nearly a year filled her with a sense of unease. Would they judge her for her absence? Would they assume she had bailed out, leaving without a word? Would they see her as weak, a coward who couldn't handle the challenges of the rodeo circuit?

These thoughts swirled in Charis's mind as she contemplated the reactions of her peers. Had they heard about the accident that had left her scarred for life? Or had her absence gone unnoticed, overshadowed by the relentless pace of rodeo life? The uncertainty gnawed at her, leaving her feeling vulnerable and exposed.

As she made her way through the clothes, Charis wondered if today would be the day she made a decision about her future in rodeo. Would she have the courage to step back into the arena, to reclaim her place among the riders? And what about Bandit? Would he be her partner in the future, or was it time for her to pursue other paths?

Amidst her internal turmoil, Charis knew she could count on the support of Leah and James, who would undoubtedly be by her side, offering encouragement and guidance throughout the day. Their presence was a source of comfort amidst the uncertainty, reminding her that no matter what happened, she wasn't alone in her journey.

As Charis settled into the quiet of her home, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in the air. Marilyn's sudden departure to Danny's without so much as a word left Charis feeling somewhat abandoned, unsure of what had transpired between her sister and Cole. Little did she know, Cole was receiving an earful from Marilyn, a conversation that would undoubtedly leave him troubled and introspective.

Charis couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. She had been eager to share with Cole the news of her return to riding, the exhilaration she felt as she once again took to the saddle. But now, with Cole preoccupied with his own worries and dreams seemingly slipping away, she found herself hesitant to burden him with her own happiness.

Instead, Charis retreated into herself, her thoughts swirling with uncertainty. Should she reach out to Cole, and offer him comfort and support in his time of need? Or should she give him space, and allow him to process his emotions without interference?