“Knew that was coming,” I volley back.
Her hand plops down at her side, and she looks at me, puzzled. “We haven’t really discussed past romantic entanglements. Have you ever lived with a woman?”
Yikes. My jaw ticks, and I attempt a nervous smile. “Not relevant.”
“So that’s a yes?”
“Many, many years ago. I’m older than you, remember?” I answer simply.
Her chin slides side to side, and her nails tap against her hips. “Huh… okay. Well, her loss is my gain… unless it didn’t work because you never put your dishes in the dishwasher? Could be a dealbreaker.”
I’m relieved she is taking this conversation in stride.
“No worries there.” My smile is dampened.
She points her finger at me. “Well, I’m sure she didn’t provide you with both Hanukkah and festive cheer. That reminds me, I have a Hanukkah ornament for the Christmas tree that you failed to have. My grandmother gave it to me for my first Chrismukkah. Don’t you worry, my father doesn’t think that item is cursed.” She walks on by me and pats my shoulder. “That year, anyhow.”
“Fine. We’ll store it next to my elf figure for next year,” I mention seriously.
Gracie stops in her tracks and turns on her heel. She seems shocked. “You have one of those stuffed elf dolls?”
I lift my shoulders as if it’s nothing. “Did I not mention that? Oops, my bad.”
“You, Asher Tate, Mr. Badass Hockey Coach, have an elf that kids believe comes alive at night and sits on shelves?”
Licking my lips, I smile until my cheeks hurt. “Relax. It’s in a closet somewhere… and let’s not call it a doll. It’s an action figure. I’m surprised my mom didn’t tell you. Shaw has the Hanukkah version.”
She excitedly claps her hands together. “This is great. Next year we can do it with the baby.”
Now I just need to shut her down. “Uh, he or she won’t even be crawling yet.”
“Okay, maybe it will be more for me,” she admits.
“Topic closed. Shall we pack a little?” I urge us along.
She throws her hands into the air and huffs. “I guess I start with shoes.”
Gracie steps toward her closet, but I reach for her wrist and reel her in to me. “Hey.” My voice grows tender the moment I feel the electric spark when I touch her. “I have a feeling living with you will be an adventure and a good kind.”
She lifts her nose and has a wistful look. “Asher… I think so too.”
And she nuzzles herself into my arms as I wrap her close.
Until now, I always assumed luck would lead to a winning game. But I’m not playing any games with Gracie. I’m lucky because I met her, and now we are growing to know one another, well aware we will have a lifetime together.
CHAPTER 15
GRACIE
I’m waiting for my best friend to say something because I just told her the big news. Although, I feel guilty for not telling her sooner, I knew she would understand. I sit cozily on her couch while I watch her reaction, which is somewhat amusing.
“P-Pregnant?” She’s definitely in shock.
“That I am.” I’m completely relaxed and feel my smile wanting to break out as I play it casual.
“And with the coach?” She’s still in disbelief, it seems.
I nod in confirmation.
