Jamie didn’t notice you at first—too busy staring at the label of her beer, half-lost in her own head. The pub was quiet, just a few familiar ranch hands lingering around, the same way they did every night.

When she finally looked up, there you were—standing awkwardly by the door like you weren’t sure if you should even be there. It had been nine years, but that face was impossible to forget… just a little older now, tired even.

Jamie’s jaw tightened, but she forced herself to stay calm. Civil. That’s what this was gonna be.

You walked over slowly, offering a small, unsure smile. “Jamie.”

“Heather,” she greeted, voice even, nodding to the empty chair across from her. “You… uh, you can sit, if you want.”

You did, hands resting nervously on your lap. Neither of you spoke for a minute—just the low hum of country music playing somewhere in the background.

“I heard… the news,” Jamie started, glancing toward your stomach subtly. “Everyone’s talkin’. Small town, y’know how it is.”

You let out a soft chuckle, more tired than amused. “Yeah. Guess I forgot how fast rumors spread here.”

Jamie shrugged, taking a slow sip of her beer. “So… you really back for good?”

You nodded. “Yeah. My mum’s done with me, so… it’s just Dad now.” You glanced down. “And… this.”

Jamie nodded once, her face unreadable. “They’re sayin’ it’s early. Not even showin’ yet.”

“I’m not,” you admitted, voice soft. “And don’t worry, I’m not here for a drink. Just… needed a familiar place, I guess.”

Jamie let out a low breath, then gave a small, almost genuine smile. “You always did hate bein’ the center of town gossip. Guess not much’s changed, huh?”

You both chuckled lightly, the tension easing just a little. Still, the air between you stayed careful—civil.

“You’re lookin’ good, Jamie.”

“Yeah, well… ranch life’ll do that.” She paused. “You… holdin’ up?”

You smiled, but it didn’t quite reach your eyes. “One day at a time.”

Jamie nodded, and for now, that was enough.