Page 131 of Catch
“I can walk around campus without looking over my shoulder.”
“I’m so happy for you, baby.”
I hug him tightly to me.
“But it’s still not over yet,” Jett whispers.
“No, but we’ll get through it. One day at a time, right?”
“Yes.”
“I think you need to talk to your therapist again. And maybe I can join you for a session or two?”
Jett nods and snuggles into me. I kiss his temple and nuzzle his hair.
“I think this news deserves a celebration.” Jett leans back and smiles at me. “Let’s do something fun.”
“How about a kick-ass party? Say yes, Jett. I’ll organize the biggest, loudest, wildest party you’ve ever experienced.”
“Wild, eh?”
Jett kisses me.
“The wild part is only with me,” I add.
“Deal.”
CHAPTER 28
ETHAN
A MONTH LATER
I’m more than excited for this long weekend to get started.
Excited and nervous as hell.
Jett and I take off on the early morning flight to Nevada, but it’s Thanksgiving holiday week so of course there’s delays. When we finally touch down in Reno, I start to sweat. Meeting the family is a big step, for both of us.
One that I’m still not sure I’m entirely prepared for. I love Jett like crazy, but will his family love me?
I reach for the silver chain around my neck, the one Jett gave me, and feel myself settle. It’s my lucky charm, and I never take it off. Hockey players love their superstitions, but the necklace means way more than that. It’s a promise between me and Jett, one I don’t take for granted.
Jett’s grandfather, Gifford, is waiting for us as we exit the terminal. Jett doesn’t need to point him out to me because I’d recognize those eyes anywhere. Gifford’s hair is gray, and he’s sporting a beard, but I realize I’m looking at an older version of my Jett. He’s wearing dark jeans and a plaid shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and pair of stylized cowboy boots. His faceis weathered and tan, and when he sees Jett, he opens his arms wide and lets out a loud whoop that has everyone in the airport looking our way. There’s no question I like him already.
“Jett Brunswick Hawthorne, it’s about damn time you got here!”
“Pops!” Jett calls back and runs over to hug his grandfather.
Watching them together makes my heart happy, but it also aches when I think about my mom and dad. I wish I had a close relationship with them. Even though I know I made the right decision to come here, it doesn’t mean I’m not thinking about my parents. I started talking to Jett’s therapist about my situation and it’s helped me deal. I’m not giving up, but I’m also a realist.
Jett pulls back and motions for me to meet his grandfather.
“Brunswick?” I chuckle.
“Not a word, Ethan. Not a word,” Jett whispers to me with a wicked smile and then turns to his grandfather.
“Gifford,” I call out and offer my hand. “It’s great to meet you in person at last.”
