Sebastian
Just because your dad’s marriages haven’t worked doesn’t mean that all marriages fail.
Can we drop this now?
Maddox
We can, but it won’t make all of this go away. Someday, you’re going to have to have this talk with Blair.
Someday. But not today.
Griffin
Okay, bud. We’ll be here when you’re ready to talk.
Thanks.
Ryder
Everyone’s packed, right? You know what time to get there?
Maddox
Yeah, Handsome. We’re good to go. Un-bunch your panties.
Blowing out a slow breath, I let my eyes fall closed and tilt my head back against the couch. Blair has to know that I don’t want to get married. I mean, it’s a big enough concession that we’re dating. That has to be enough for her, right?
The groan that pours from my lips is long, low, and guttural. Like I’m trying to expel all the anxiety now swirling in a vortex of acid in my gut.
Picking up my phone, I tap on my contacts list, find Blair’s name, and presscall.
The need to speak with her is like an itch beneath my skin.
“Hello?”
“Hey, angel,” I sigh, letting her voice wash over me.
“Hey, Viking. What are you up to?” There’s a rustling in the background, and I hear Reed’s muffled voice. Blair chuckles. “Reed says hi.”
“Hey, bud,” I reply, grinning. “I’m just packing for the trip to Ryder’s cabin. You sure you two don’t want to come?”
I asked Ryder if I could invite Blair and Reed, and of course he said yes. But the Shermans already had plans with Bryson and his girlfriend. I was disappointed but not surprised. It’s a big ask to have them spend Christmas in a cabin with a bunch ofhockey players and their significant others. I doubt Reed would have much fun. At Bryson’s, he’ll be able to hang out with his buddy Eddie.
“I’m sure. You’ll have more fun without us, anyway. Thank you for asking, though.”
That makes me frown. “I would definitely have more fun with you two there, but I know Reed will be glad to have kids his age to hang with.”
Blair laughs. It’s a breathy, sharp thing that makes my stomach twist.
“We’re still going to spend the twenty-sixth all together, right?” I ask.
“Of course.”
“Okay, good. I miss you.”
“Miss you too.” Blair sighs. “It’s hard not being able to see you.”
“I know. Hockey schedules are brutal. I’m sorry.” I never minded all the days on the road or the late games before. Never had a reason to, because I never had someone to miss. Now? Now I’d kill to spend fewer days on the road and work normal nine-to-five hours.
