As I’m tugging on a pickleball dress, my phone pings. I grab it as I pull the skirt down, and a little thrill zings through me when I see the name.
Lake: There are a few things better than the perfect squish of an avocado.
He listened to my show? Already? He’s in Montreal, and game time is soon. Did he listen to it during his pre-game workout? I picture him on an exercise bike at the visitors’ weight room, or lifting weights, headphones on, my voice in his ear, him sweating. I’m breathless, both from the news and from theimages, and it’s ridiculous how much I want to hear what’s better than a perfect squish.
Remy: Do tell.
Lake: The quiet of the sun rising over the hills in the morning. A hard workout. And a catnap. Ideally with a cat.
Is Lake a secret poet? As I grab my racket, I dictate a reply.
Remy: I wish I were a napper. They sound delightful, but they make me more tired.
Lake: Then you’re not napping right.
Remy: There’s a right way to nap?
Lake: Yes. I can show you.
I run a hand through my hair. Do I want to take him up on that offer or is he teasing?
Remy: You’re actually offering naplessons?
Lake: I am.
He’s so straightforward, it makes me feel wobbly in the best of ways. I’m so not used to a man like him. Blunt, confident, no bullshit.
Remy: Far be it from me to say no then.
I head to the door, feeling frothy. All from imagining…a nap? Who even am I? When did naps become flirty?
When Lake Axelrod told me he’d give me a lesson.
I picture him tugging me against him, spooning me, running his nose through my hair. The zing rushes down my chest, straight to my thighs where a sweet ache builds.
Lake: Nap lessons are a go when I return.
I’ll see him in a few more days, and I kind of can’t wait. But I also need to return to topic number one.
Remy: You listened to my podcast already?
Lake: It’s what a good boyfriend would do.
Jameson never did.
Remy: I’m not used to that.
Lake: Remy, you watch my hockey games. Of course I’m going to read, listen to, and watch what you do.
I’m warm everywhere, but I remind myself not to get caught up. This is all part of him showing me how a man should treat a woman. That’s all this is. It’s not about me per se. It’s some kind of, well, point. A point I like a lot. But a point, nonetheless.
Remy: Thank you. I appreciate it.
Lake: Besides, I was your inspo on the episode.
A blush creeps across my cheeks. He knows? I gulp then reply, coyly I hope.
Remy: Were you now?
