“I’m really happy for you, man.”
I finally allow myself to look up at my teammates. Every single one of them is looking at me like they’re proud dads or something. I’m not a super emotional guy, but there’s a lump the size of Minnesota in my throat.
“We all are,” Bash agrees.
“Thanks, guys.” I clear my throat, and they all pretend they didn’t just hear my voice crack.
I sigh in relief when we step inside Chasers. Compared to the almost single-digit temps outside, it feels damn near balmy in here. Everyone close to the door looks our way when we enter, but that’s probably more because of the blast of arctic air that hits them than because of who we are. A few of the patrons nod at us in recognition, a handful look like they’re trying to place us, and few women at the bar eye the five of us with hungry expressions, but all in all, we settle into our booth without any commotion.
With my mind firmly on family and everything it’s starting to mean to me, I jolt when my phone buzzes in my pocket.
Dad
I have tickets to your next game in Boston. Bring something nice to wear to dinner. There are some people I’d like you to meet.
Normally, a text like this from my dad would tie me up in knots. It would hurt. Because the asshole can’t even sayhi. But now? Nothing he says can touch me.
Me
I don’t think so.
Dad
Excuse me?
I’m not interested in meeting anyone. Especially not if it’s a new stepmom.
Don’t take that tone with me, son. And you will attend this dinner. One of my former teammates wants to introduce you to his daughter.
A spike of rage pulses through me, but it dissipates quickly because, for the first time, I don’t give a single shit what he wants or thinks. I don’t need his approval. Hell, I don’t even need him to like Blair.
I’m happy, and nothing he says or does can touch that.
Me
Not interested. I have a girlfriend. She and her brother are moving in with me. If you can’t be happy that I’m happy, we have nothing more to say.
Dad
The woman from the game?
Yes. The woman you hit on. Blair. The love of my fucking life.
Don’t be rash.
Goodbye, Dad.
Logan.
I hope someday you come to your senses. But until you’re ready to apologize and make some major changes, I’m done.
You owe me everything.
I appreciate everything you did to help me get where I am, but I owe you nothing. I love you, Dad. Goodbye.
There’s a pinch in my chest, and I let myself feel it. Because I’m not convinced my dad will ever come around. But I’ve said my piece. It’s in his court now. Not wanting to continue this back and forth, I block his number. Maybe in a week or two, I’ll unblock it, but for now, there’s nothing left to say.
“You okay?” Bash asks.
