Next time I’ll definitely make sure to remember I need to order extra food to keep her satisfied.
“Mind if we make a stop on our way back?”
“Sure.”
When I pull into the drive-thru for the second time, she gives me a sidelong glance. I put in a new order and follow the line of cars to the pick up window.
“If you wanted some, you should’ve just ordered when you got mine.” She holds up her hands. “For the record, my emotional breakdown is not responsible for your cheat meal.”
“It’s for the guys,” I explain. “Even though we have our nutritional plans, and we can all cook for ourselves. Well,mostly. Some of the guys on the team aren’t allowed in the kitchen.”
After thanking the girl at the window, I park, then hop out. I’m aware of Maya watching me set the bag in the back seat and clicking the belt around it before I get behind the wheel again.
“You buckled in the nuggets,” she points out.
“I know. We do emotional support nugget runs.” I hand her my phone. “Here, take a photo and tell the group chat the goods are safely secured.”
It gets her to laugh, and that’s all I wanted from the minute I saw tears in her eyes.
It’s late by the time I finish the extra practice time I put in at the rink to hone my skills. On my way home I check in on Maya to see if she’s okay. Once I get in, feed the cat, refilling the bowl we leave for her on the porch. Then I stop in the kitchen, grabbing milk from the fridge. My attention stays glued to my phone while I chug a few sips from the container before pouring a glass.
“Is this some new hand-eye coordination training? Because you suck.” Cameron pops up on the island in the middle of the kitchen. “Try getting it in the glass.”
“Shut up.”
He steals the jug from me while I’m distracted by three dots appearing in the message thread with Maya.
Easton:How did the rest of your day go? Any updates about your grandfather?
Maya:He’s better now. They sent him home.
Easton:That’s great [heart emoji]
Maya:I’m so relieved. It stresses me out when he’s there.
Easton:Wyd now?
“Earth to East.” Cameron nudges me.
“What?”
He smirks. “I asked if you’re done with the milk. Twice.”
“Yeah.” I bump my fist to his.
My phone vibrates on the counter between us. He grins, snatching it up before I read her response.
“Reeves.” I stalk him around the island. “Give it back.”
“You’ve been glued to your phone.”
Madden comes in with a fork sticking out of an empty container from last night’s leftovers. He eyes both of us.
“Help me out, Graves,” I say.
He sighs, moving to block Cameron, leveling him with a flat look. “This is stupid.”
“Here.” Cameron tosses my phone to Noah as he comes in from the entryway.
