Page 14 of The Love Comeback
“I bet that would make Brett happy.”
I swallow the grief. “I know it would make him happy. Colton’s definitely got his dad’s talent for this. It’s clear as day.”
She laughs softly, though it holds an air of sadness. “Well, Colton’s got one of the best coaches he could possibly have, too, so I’m sure that’s helping.”
“Yeah, I guess so.” My voice falls flat.
“I’m really glad you reconnected with Kade,” Mom chimes. “I sure liked him. He was a good kid. He just had to grow up. Seems like he’s done that, and he’s successful, too.”
And can date models if he wants.
I holdmy tongue and instead make an “uh huh” kind of noise. I don’t feel like expanding on the subject of Kade after sitting here and mulling over how amazing of a father he’d be.
It’s just pure torture to continue.
“Well”—I clear my throat—“I was just hoping to call and check in on you. I hadn’t heard from you in a few days, and you know I get worried.”
“Oh, I’m fine. You worry too much about me, El. I’m right as rain here. You know Chandra keeps a close eye on me, too. The woman will barely let me walk outside without following me like a little dog.”
I laugh, but it fades to a sigh. “I know it’s a little much, but she’s just trying to do her best. I don’t know what we’d do without her.”
“I know, Iknow,” Mom mutters. “I’ll keep her around—and I kind of like her, but don’t tell her that.”
“You got it.” I giggle, shaking my head as my eyes flicker back out to Colton and Kade. They’re laughing, skating patterns on the ice through cones Kade set up. Colton is grinning ear to ear, and Kade is going easy beside him. He makes it look so effortless, and I hate the way it’s mesmerizing.
“Well, I’m about to eat dinner,” Mom says, cutting into my thoughts. “I’ll let you go. Tell Kade ‘hi’ for me.”
I don’t think I’ll do that.
“Okay, love you, Mom.”
“Love you, El. Have a good evening. Ohand—”
“Yes?”
“Be easy on Kade. He was just trying to make everyone happy all those years ago. He was under a lot of pressure.”
“Yeah, okay,” I say quickly. The guys start skating in my direction. “Talk to you later, mom. Love you.” I hang up just as they make it to the gate, feeling a mix of emotions. I’m grateful for days like today, when I can talk to my mom and she remembers details about my life. But I’m also sad, knowing it’s only a matter of time before her dementia takes over.
I plaster the sweetest look I can muster on my face as Kade and Colton approach. “Hey, lessons are already over?”
“Yeah.” Colton’s shoulders slump. “Kade says he has plans tonight, so he needs time to get ready.”
“Oh?” I cock a brow, unable to hide my intrigue—mostly because Kade’s cheeks are lighting up in a shade of crimson. “Big plans with the team?”
He shakes his head. “No, it’s a …date.” His voice comes out awkward.
I ignore the way my heart drops in my chest.
“Well, that’ll be fun.” I stand to my feet, my knees feeling like they might give out at any moment. “I hope you have a great time.”
“Yeah, we’ll see. It’s kind of a blind date,” Kade explains with a shrug. “Nate set me up with her, so who knows how it’ll go.”
I nod. “Those are always fun. Though, I’ve never been on one.” I turn to Colton, who already has his Converse on again. “Let’s get going. We need to get out of here so Kade has the time he needs to get ready.”
“Okay,” Colton hums, slinging his bag over his shoulder as he hops up.
I give Kade a smile and a small wave, then lead Colton through the doors and into the lobby. He looks up at me with a curious look on his face.
