“She coming to Friday’s game?”
I hesitate. Chloe’s not exactly the sports kind of girl. But then again…that’s what a real girlfriend would do…right? Feels like a trap. I flash a smile. “Yeah, I don’t know. She’s got a lot going on with her sister’s wedding.”
“Well, tell her she should come.” He grins. “You’ve been less miserable lately. Whatever she’s doing, it’s working.”
I stuff my jersey in my locker without response.
“Seriously, man. You’ve been wound tight for months. It’s nice to see you loosening up.”
“I’m still the same person, Torch.”
“Yeah, but you’re not walking around like the world’s about to end anymore. So…are you really?”
“Ouch.” I grimace, feigning injury.
He chuckles as he heads for the showers.
I sit there with my gear half off, his words sitting uncomfortably in my chest.
Am I different?
Less miserable?
I haven’t thought about it. Haven’t had the time. I’ve been too busy trying not to set my career on fire, juggling the constant calculation of what’s real and what’s tactical between Chloe and me.
But maybe he’s right.
Maybe something is working.
Now I just need to make sure, when things with Chloe come to a crashing halt, that it doesn’t disappear.
I pull off my skates. Toss them in my locker. Head for the showers too.
The hot water feels good against sore muscles. I let myself stand under the spray, let the water rush over me, quiet mymind. I let the game fade away, the contract, my renewal, my reputation…all of it. And then I’m back to Chloe…
To our date, tonight.
Seven p.m., Barcelona Wine Bar. Reservation for two.
A real date. That’s what I called it, but it’s more like recon work. A chance to get to know Chloe on a deeper level. Make us convincing enough that Derek backs off and our next event doesn’t turn into an execution.
And maybe—maybe—figure out what I’m actually doing here.
I’m dressed and heading out—jeans, Henley, leather jacket—when someone steps into my path.
Derek.
“Kane.” His voice is flat. “We need to talk.”
My stomach drops, but I manage to keep my expression neutral. “Yeah? About what?”
“Don’t play dumb with me.” He steps closer. “This whole thing you’ve got going on with Chloe, it’s got to stop. I don’t know what kind of scheme you’re running?—”
“Scheme?” My voice is level, but my heart is pounding. “What are you talking about?”
“You show up out of nowhere with Maya’s sister, and suddenly you’re this devoted boyfriend?” His voice drops low, seething with disdain. “A week after the news breaks that you’re not the charmer everyone thinks you are? You need her. I’m not an idiot, Kane.”
“There’s no scheme, Derek. Chloe and I are together. We reconnected a few weeks back and?—”
