Page 71 of Desperate Pucker
Ingrid, who’s sitting next to me on the couch, reaches over and gives my arm a soft squeeze.
“It feels really nice to spend time with you guys. You’re all so kind and welcoming,” I say quietly.
“We love spending time with you,” Ingrid says with her trademark sweet smile.
“We’re happy that you like hanging out with us,” Dakota says.
“Really happy,” Maya says, smiling.
“It’s hard to make friends as adults. Especially in this hockey world,” Bella says. “We’re just happy you want to hang out with us. We can be a lot.”
I chuckle. “You guys are perfect.”
We finish our pho and dig into the fruit plate.
“So. How are things with Ryker going?” Ingrid asks. I don’t miss the curious gleam in her bright blue eyes.
I fight a smile and clear my throat. “Good.”
“Just good?” Bella asks, a teasing smile on her face. “When I dropped Braden at the airport this morning, Ryker was there too, and I overheard him mention he stayed at your place last night.”
They all look at me. My cheeks heat, and I let out a flustered chuckle.
“He did stay over last night. He, um, took care of me while I was sick.”
They all go, “Aww!”
“That guy is such a softie,” Ingrid says.
Dakota nods. “All those gruff, grumpy guys are sweethearts on the inside.”
I smile down at the strawberry slice on my plate. “He’s honestly the sweetest guy I’ve ever met.”
When I look up, they’re all gazing at me with giddy smiles.
“This is so damn cute,” Maya says.
“Very, very cute,” Ingrid says.
I chuckle. “Is it?”
Ingrid nods. “You guys didn’t like each other. You clashed the moment you met. And now look at you two. He goes out of his way to play sexy nurse to you when you’re sick.”
I burst out laughing. “Nothing sexy happened. I was gross and sweaty and unshowered.” I clear my throat. “But there was some cuddling. And kissing. And we fell asleep together in my bed.”
They all squeal, and I laugh even harder.
“So, wait, are you two a thing now?” Ingrid asks.
I shake my head. “After what I went through with my ex, I don’t think I could date or be in a relationship again.”
They all look at me with uncertain expressions, like they’re doubting me. I guess I can’t blame them. They’re all happily paired up with their fiancés and husbands.
“I gave so much of myself, and when it was over, I was heartbroken and humiliated. I can’t do that again.”
They nod like they understand, even though they all look disappointed.
“I’m glad that Ryker and I are friends now though.”
