From Skylines to Fence Lines

Mia Carter didn't do dirt road.Or Silence.Or places where the nearest coffee shop wasn't within walking distance. Yet here she was, gripping the edge of her seat as her mum's car rattled over another bump, dust swirling behind them like a warning she should've listened to."This is ridiculous," Mia muttered, staring out the window at the endless stretch of dry paddocks and wire fences. "People actually choose to live out here?"Her mum, Claire, shot her a look from the driver's seat. "People like Cindy. My best friend, remember? The one who is letting you stay with her.""Correction," Mia said, crossing her arms. "The one I'm being forced to stay with."Claire sighed, like she'd already had this argument a hundred times, which, to be fair, she had. "It's not forever, Mia. Just a few months. You need a break from the city, from your... Choices lately."Mia turned her head sharply. "My choices?""Yes," Claire said, her tone tightening. "Skipping classes. They're partying. The attitude

Mia should've known Cindy wouldn't let things stay tense for long."You can't sit inside all day," she'd said that morning, hands on her hips, smile sweet but completely unmovable. "Lane needs to check the south fence line, and you're going with him."Mia blinked. "I'm... what?""It'll be good for you," Cindy added. "Fresh air. And Lane could use the company."From the doorway, Lane let out a quiet huff."Pretty sure I'll survive on my own. Ma."Cindy shot him a look. "You'll take her."Lane's jaw tightened slightly. "Mum-,""You'll take her," she repeated, softer this time, but somehow more final.Silence.Then Lane pushed off the wall. "Fine."Mia crossed her arms. "I didn't agree to this."Cindy smiled. "You don't have to agree. Just be ready in five."And just like that-Mia found herself standing outside beside his Ute, wondering how her life had taken such a sharp, unfortunate turn."This is unbelievable," she muttered.Lane opened the driver's door. "You getting in or what?"Sh