Page 56 of Heart Taker

“A grilled chicken and rice bowl for me and a medium burger and fries for you.”

“Perfect.”

“Did you miss much practice today by leaving early?” Josiah asked.

“Nope,” I reassured him. “I told you; we were almost done for the day.”

“Was Banning annoyed that I called his phone?”

“Not at all. He understood,” I replied. “And he wanted me to pass along his best.”

“You like working with him, don’t you?” Josiah remarked. “I can tell by the way you talk about him.”

“I do,” I muttered and left it at that.

“Liking Damien” was an understatement. I was already counting down the hours until our next session. Three days aweek? I could play five or six days and never get enough. And it wasn’t only about hockey. It was about being aroundhim.

Fuck, forget it. Forget him.

I couldn’t. Damien had asked me to text him, and as soon as we stopped to pick up the food, I’d type out a quick “we’re good” and leave it at that. Not that I was anxious to message him or anything, but I didn’t want to be rude after he was so kind.

I followed the directions to our dinner pick-up and even though the address was located on one of the busiest stretches in the city, I managed to snag a parking spot nearby. I glanced at the name of the restaurant, Unicorn & Ale. Huh, this was a favorite of Darby’s. I’d heard him talk about it at work. It was a queer-owned pub that opened a few months ago. I’d yet to visit the place, but I’d heard good things.

First, I grabbed my phone and texted Damien.

Silas: We’ve left the hospital. Josiah’s feeling much better.

Damien: That’s great news. Is he able to return to work? Summer jobs are a big deal at his age.

My stomach flipped over when Damien responded right away. It was late evening, and I figured he’d be busy. Or that he wouldn’t reply at all.

Silas: I encouraged him to keep going if he’s able. It won’t be easy. He might have to switch meds again. But he’s a fighter.

Damien: Runs in the family. See you Wednesday.

Silas: Can’t wait.

Can’t wait?Ugh, that sounded so freaking needy. Ignoring the flutter in my belly, and my suddenly sweaty palms, I shoved my phone in my pocket.

“I’m gonna head inside to grab our order,” I announced. “You okay waiting here? You need anything else?”

“I’m fine,” Josiah insisted. “I’m going to call River.”

I grabbed the green elastic from my wrist and pulled my hair up into a messy bun. Sliding out of the truck, I debated taking off my leather jacket since it was so warm out. Nah. I was only going to pop in and grab our stuff, so it wasn’t worth it. I’d leave it on.

I walked quickly to the front door, and when I stepped inside, I was immediately drawn to the cozy pub vibes. Next time I was in town, I’d make sure to stop by for a beer and a bite. And maybe I’d get lucky too.

As I scanned the place, I took in the polished wood bar at the back of the room, and my gaze landed on a familiar, if surprising, figure.

What the fuck was Damien doing here?

He was chatting up the sexy bartender for one thing. A flash of heat and unwarranted jealousy burned in my gut.

It’s not your business.

The last thing I needed right now was a run-in with my irresistible coach. Thankfully, the host spotted me, and I quickly showed him my phone so I could grab my order and get the fuck gone.

When I looked up again, it was too late. Damien spotted me, his eyes widening.

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