My nieces practically drag my mom out of the kitchen, and the moment they’re out of sight, I smack the back of Logan’s head. Hard.
“Ow,” he whines, rubbing the spot. “I could have a concussion.”
“We’re hockey players.” Cam snorts. “We have perpetual concussions.”
“Did you really have to say that to my mom?” I bite out. “She’s going to be on my ass for weeks.”
I immediately regret the ass comment when Logan wiggles his brows suggestively. He thankfully keeps his trap shut about it.
“Whatisgoing on with you and Maya?” Jake asks, his expression one of pure curiosity.
He hasn’t brought her up since practice a few weeks ago. Likely because he feels unnecessarily guilty for bringing up Nate.
“There’s nothing to tell.” With a frown, I run my fingers through my hair. “She wants to befriends.”
The word tastes sour on my tongue. Like I’m stuck in the penalty box, watching the game continue on without me. Spending time with Maya, even if it’s mostly via video calls, only makes me want to spendmoretime with her.
Logan nods, as if this makes complete sense to him. “Take it slow and prove yourself. I have a good feeling about you two.”
Cameron’s jaw drops. “‘Take it slow’? This coming from the guy who fell head over heels after what, six weeks?”
Logan waves him off, unbothered. “Elliott’s different. He’s open to finding his person, whereas Maya doesn’t like change. And she only dates guys who are safe. Ones who have no chance of sticking around longer than she wants them to.”
“Why would taking it slow help, then?” Jake asks, taking the question from my mouth. “Wouldn’t it be better to rip the Band-Aid off and dive right in?”
Logan pops a chip into his mouth. “You can’t build trust overnight. Especially not with someone who’s only ever depended on herself. You rush her, she bolts. I’m not psychological, but?—”
“Do you mean you’re not a psychologist?” Jake gives him an incredulous look.
Logan swats his words away with the flick of his hand. “Yeah, that’s what I said. Anyway, I’m not saying she won’t date you, but if you rush her or push for more than she’s ready for, I think she’ll run.”
“Minus the way you mixed uppsychologicalandpsychologist, that has to be the most emotionally mature thing you’ve ever said.” Cam lets out a low whistle. “Elliott’s good for you.”
“He’s good at a lot. Especially blowj?—”
“Nope. Absolutely not.” Jake rears back. “I haven’t had nearly enough whiskey for that conversation.”
“How come you guys can talk about your sexual escapades and I can’t? Just because?—”
“Don’t pull that crap.” Cam snatches the dip bowl off the counter and points the chip in his hand at Logan. “Us ignoring your extremely inappropriate questions about our sex lives hardly qualifies as talking about our sexual escapades.”
I tune Logan out as he grumbles about how we’re no fun at locker room talk and take out my phone again.
Cole Berrett
It’s okay to admit you miss me, bean. I’m sure the Book Nook sells self-help books that cover how to handle your overwhelming feelings.
Maya Silver
We only sell books that help egomaniacs tone down their narcissism. Happy to put a copy on hold for you!
Cole Berrett
I’ll pick it up tomorrow when I’m back in town. We can discuss it over tapas once you’ve finished working.
Maya Silver
I’m more of a chips and guac girl.
