He rises to his full height, looking down on me and puts his finger under my chin to lift my eyes. “I’ll text you. We’ll check in every day, and you can tell me how she’s doing. I’ll tell you about the games…”
My stomach flips, and I fight the urge to step closer.
Instead, he does, lifting my hand in both of his. “You won’t even know we’re gone.”
Dipping my chin, I’m so embarrassed. “You don’t have to do that.” Concern still lines his face, so I put my hand on my hip, lifting my chin defiantly. “I’m not a baby, Mav. I’ve lived by myself before.”
“I know.” He shrugs. “But it’s never been on my watch. I like to know my things are safe, and that includes you now. So text me. I’ll be wanting to know how my girls are doing.”
“Your girls?” I arch an eyebrow.
“That’s what I said.” He gives me that killer grin that makes my skin tingle. “Okay?”
I don’t know what to do with this, but I confess, I like it. “Okay.”
10
MAVERICK
Dove
It’s a good thing you had that blue box of mac & cheese.
I’m pulling on my gear, getting ready to head out onto the ice against Gav’s and my old team the Atlanta Frost when her text lights up my screen.
I pull my phone down, smiling as I read her words, thinking about her in my kitchen.
Maverick
Toss in some habaneros. It’ll give the whole dish a lift.
Dove
I think I’ll leave the spicy peppers to you and your mom. Toodangerous.
Maverick
You know when Mom was pregnant with me, she couldn’t eat any spicy foods. Hell, she could hardly eat a thing.
Dove
That sounds like you. Always causing trouble.
Maverick
Hey! I’m a lover, not a fighter.
Dove
Still, I’ll leave the peppers out for now.
Maverick
Peppers are good. I’ll teach you when I’m cooking on the regular.
Dove
This is not a Dare Night. We are not at Cooters & Shooters.
