Brody lit up as he took in the new arrival. “Holy shi—” He grimaced, likely remembering the child in his arms, still half-asleep. “You’re Tobias Moyer.”
“Yeah, that’s me.”
“I’m Brody. Are you a member here?”
Tobias gave the guy a searching look. He was irritated for some reason, but Chase didn’t know why.
“I own the gym,” he said, extending his hand to shake Brody’s. Chase noticed the quick wince on Brody’s face when they shook.
“Cool,” Brody said, retreating a step after Tobias released his hand, flexing it before returning it to Noah’s back. “I had no idea. I moved to town not too long ago. Small world. I actually just started working with the Inferno on their medical team.”
“Congrats on the new job!” Chase said. “That’s so random.”
“Yeah, random,” Tobias said, glare still on his face.
“Is Cherrywood treating you and Noah okay so far?” Josh asked.
Brody went on to explain the parts of town he enjoyed, and how thankful he was to find a gym with so many different workout options. Tobias continued his grump act and Chase couldn’t figure out why, until Josh asked his next question.
“Is there a Mrs. or Mr. Brody back at home?”
Brody chuckled. “Walsh is my last name. Brody Walsh. No one at home but me and Noah, but we’re available, if you know anyone who’s into redheads.”
Tobias grunted, and it hit Chase why he was being a bit of a dick.
Tobias wasjealous.
Chase supposed he understood why. Brody was a handsome guy, and his freckles and son were super cute, but he hadn’t shown any interest in Chase. Still, the butterflies in Chase’s stomach whenever Tobias was around rejoiced at his jealousy.
Whether Tobias liked it or not, he wanted Chase. Now, Chase had to convince him it was a good idea.
Sure, Brody may have been good-looking, but Tobias was a vision. Like God woke up one day and said, “I’m going to create the perfect man for Chase Townsend, even though I’m not going to make Chase for another five years.” Competition didn’t exist for Tobias.
After Brody and Josh left, it took everything in Chase not to immediately tease Tobias about his grumpiness.
Instead, he sidled up to Tobias where he stood at thecomputer, checking the day’s programming.
“You still up for working on some reflex drills?” Chase asked innocently.
Tobias turned to him, his eyes filled with warring emotions, and sighed.
“At this point, I don’t think I could say no if I wanted to. I need to be ready in less than two months.”
Chase placed his hand lightly on Tobias’ shoulder, hoping he wouldn’t spook him.
“Hey, I’ve got you. Those instincts are still there. We just gotta wake ’em up.”
Tobias flashed him a rare smile and cracked his neck in preparation.
“Okay, coach. Put me to work,” Tobias said.
Oh, the work I’d give you if you let me…
17
“READY?” CHASE ASKED AS he stood behind Tobias’ towering form.
“I’m ready,” he said, releasing a deep breath. “Give it to me.”
