Me
I’m a big boy. I’ll manage.
It takes a minute for her to respond, and I curse myself for making a stupid joke.
What the fuck was that?
That wasn’t veryfriendlyof me, and I hope I didn’t make her uncomfortable. When she answers, shifting gears, I blow out a sigh of relief.
H.E.
Is 9 too early?
Me
9 works.
H.E.
Do you like coffee?
Me
I do like coffee.
H.E.
Let me guess. Black?
Me
Not even close. I go for iced brown sugar oat milk shaken espressos, but a regular coffee with cream and sugar is fine.
H.E.
Sugar oat WHAT?
Holy shit. That came out of left field, but I love surprises. I’m going to bring you the biggest size with as much espresso as the cup can fit. Since you’re a big boy and all.
My cheeks flush at her response. Parker knocks on the door to the office, and I nearly drop my phone.
“Ready, B? Boys are loaded up,” he says.
“Yeah. Yes. Airport,” I say.
He lifts an eyebrow. “Are you having a stroke? Do I need to get a doctor?”
“I’m fine.” I shove my laptop and charger in my bag. “Let’s get out of here.”
My phone burns a hole in my pocket when I climb onto the team bus and take my seat. It stays there while I ignore the guys trying to get me to join some social media dance trend and board the plane. Right before takeoff, I read her message again. I can blame my response on the energy from tonight. Something fleeting I won’t let myself indulge in tomorrow.
Me
Can’t wait.
FOURTEEN
HANNAH
