Hailey nodded, understanding dawning in her eyes. “Ah, I see.”
“I’ll put your stuff down in the living room for now. There’s a spare bedroom upstairs that you can use. Make yourself at home. I’ll get started on dinner while you get things sorted out.”
“Okay. Thank you.”
Chase headed to the kitchen and opened the fridge. He scanned the ingredients, wondering what he should cook. The problem was, he had no idea what either of them liked.
“Hey,” he called as he backtracked to the living room. Hailey glanced over at him, already halfway up the stairs. “Do either of you have any allergies or dislikes that I should worry about?”
She seemed pleasantly surprised that he’d asked. “Hmm, no allergies, but Riley’s not a big fan of onions. If you can avoid them, that’d be great.”
Chase raised his eyebrow. “Wow, is that all? That’s impressive for a kid his age.”
Hailey laughed. “I know what you mean. I’m sure I was much pickier at his age. But he’s always had a strong stomach; I don’t know where he gets it from.”
He was relieved to see his mate calm and relaxed again. It was amazing how quickly she bounced back. “He didn’t get it from his father?”
There. That seemed like an innocent enough way to inquire about the boy’s father. Obviously, the two were no longer together, but he didn’t know if it was through her choice, nor whether the man still featured in Riley’s life. And if he did, why he wasn’t doing a better job of providing for his son.
He’d expected things to get a bit awkward after he asked. It was a personal question, even dressed up like that, after all. But what he hadn’t expected was for her to blanch at the mere mention of her son’s father.
Ah, so he was the one.
Protect mate,his reindeer shouted in his head.
Chase clenched his hands by his sides. He tried his best to hide the wave of anger he was feeling, but evidently didn’t do such a great job of it. Hailey’s face grew even paler.
“Sorry,” he muttered. “It’s none of my business.”
She seemed relieved when he didn’t pursue the matter. “It’s okay. I’d just really prefer not to talk about my ex. It kind of spoils the mood.”
It was a diversion tactic, and he knew it. But if she didn’t want to talk about it just yet, that was her right. He wasn’t going to push her. Perhaps she just didn’t want to have this conversation in front of her son. Or with a man she’d just met. She was human. She had no way of knowing they were mates. And he couldn’t overwhelm her by telling her. She’s been through enough of a shock for one day.
Chase nodded. “I understand. Don’t worry about it.” She’d made herself clear: it was time to change the subject. “By the way, I’m a vegetarian. Is that going to be okay?”
Hailey shrugged. “Sure, we’re flexible. Honestly, I’m still just impressed you can cook.”
He glanced over at her, startled, and then caught the mischievous expression on her face. He grinned and quirked a brow.
“Oh, so it’s like that, is it? Just you wait, I’m going to make the best,” he pulled open the fridge and peered inside with a frown, “uh, noodles you’ve ever had.”
She laughed.
“Looking forward to it already.”
“There’s a bathroom upstairs, if you need it. This may take a while, so feel free to freshen up, take a shower—anything you need.”
“Thanks. I appreciate that.” Hailey bit her lip. “Do you also have a bathtub, by any chance? I’d love the opportunity to give Riley a bath, it’s been a while since we’ve stayed at a place that had one.”
“Yeah, help yourself. Sorry, I don’t have any bubbles or toys. I can run out and get some after tomorrow, though.”
“Oh. You don’t have to do that. You’ve been more than generous as it is.”
“I don’t mind. I want you to feel comfortable here.”
Hailey shook her head. “No, really, don’t worry. Besides, it’s better not to have more things to lug around. A minimalistic lifestyle is better for my back.”
Chase was at a loss for words. Hailey didn’t seem to realize it, but she’d just confirmed one of the horrible scenarios that had been playing through the back of his mind. How long had she and her son been living out of a duffle bag? At least a few months now would be his guess.
