Chapter 8

Before dawn, Rowen wakes Gigi and notices Jess in the bedroom, revealing he stayed the night. To channel the early start, Jess proposes a Sunday fishing trip, which excites Rowen and reluctantly pulls Gigi along.

At the farmhouse, Jess arrives with an older blue truck, a small aluminum boat, and Oakley, the station’s black dog. Rowen is cautious around Oakley due to Gigi’s rules about unfamiliar dogs, but with Jess’s reassurance she pets him and agrees to get to know him later.

They drive to Wade Lake, whose quiet, pristine scenery awes Gigi. After launching, Jess outfits Rowen with a life jacket and teaches them to fish, moving between channels when Rowen grows restless. Jess catches three fish; Rowen catches two, abandoning reeling to watch Jess bring them in while Oakley peers over the side with her.

As time passes, Rowen warms fully to Oakley, impressed by his gentle obedience. Jess explains Oakley belongs to the station and splits time with deputies. They also spot deer, a turtle, a duck with ducklings, and a bald eagle, enjoying the lake entirely to themselves.

On the drive home with Rowen asleep, Gigi thanks Jess and squeezes his hand. Jess agrees it was a great day, and their quiet exchange affirms a deepening, family-like connection among the three.