I want to tell him how much he’s meant to me. Instead, I say thank you when he hands me my sweatpants and sweatshirt.
I zip up the bag and carry it to the door.
Finally, he sighs.
“I know I told the reporters that I would come with you,” Mateo says.
“That was very nice,” I repeat. “You are excellent fake boyfriend. A fake boyfriend would say just that.”
“Do you want me to come with you?”
“Is that a real option?”
“Everything is a real option.”
“I-I would prefer that,” I admit. “I know it is selfish, but?—”
Andthen Mateo kisses me.
He wraps his arms around me and sucks on my tongue. It is a wonderful, wonderful sensation.
I hoist him into my arms so he can kiss me more, then I carry him to the bedroom and its bed which makes kissing even extra easier.
It’s… Well, it’s nice. It’s always nice to kiss Mateo. I will miss kissing Mateo a lot.
I want to tell him that, but right now his tongue is in my mouth. It is the best way to spend time.
The doorbell rings, and Mateo steps away. “It’s Gina. I forgot to tell her?—”
“It is fine. You will need to pack. Can you get away from the Blizzards?”
Mateo winces, and I think about the time that Mateo has already taken off because of me. “For a few days. I’m not the only massage therapist, and I did travel with the team on the recent trip?—”
“Good. I will book your ticket.”
Mateo’s eyes widen, like he thinks I won’t want him by my side if I have to pay for his domestic flight.
The doorbell rings again.
Florian
Gina enters the apartment. Her look is sad.
“I can’t believe you’re being traded,” Gina says. “You’re new!”
“It is part of being a hockey player.”
“Sports Sphere reported that Mateo is joining you in Nashville.”
“Yes, I am booking his ticket.” I pull up my app andpurchase him a business class seat. “What is your e-mail address, Mateo?”
Mateo’s cheeks are pink as he tells me.
“And your phone number?”
Mateo’s cheeks are more pink as he recites the digits.
“You’re moving with Florian to Nashville?” Gina asks.
