Page 47 of Catch
“Kinda strange since you don’t want to say a word to me anymore.”
I sound like a petulant brat. I feel like one too.
“I’ve had a lot going on with hockey. Practice and games. Plus everyone’s feeling out of sorts with Jace and Finn leaving.”
Oh. Right. Shit. My snappy mood evaporates just like that.
“I’m sorry. That’s gotta be rough. I know you’re happy for them, but it’s also a big loss for your team.”
“Not only for the team. They’re my friends. And I’m sure this is only the beginning. More guys will be leaving.”
“Does that include you?”
Ethan shrugs. I don’t know why, but my gaze lands on hishair. It’s grown out a bit, not quite long enough to style, but it still suits him.
“I hope so.” He pauses. “That’s the goal.”
“So, you’ll be off to play professional hockey. Before you finish your degree?”
“It’s possible. If it happens, I can complete my degree online.”
“I wonder what’ll happen if Dane does the same,” I muse. “I mean, what will happen with him and Jackson.”
“I’m sure they’ll find a way to stay together somehow. Those two can’t be separated.”
I smile.
“I guess it’s a good thing you don’t like relationships, then. That means you can head off wherever, whenever, and never look back.”
Ethan doesn’t say anything. He keeps gazing at me like he’s looking for answers and he expects me to give them.
“Going back to my original question, why are you here?”
“I needed to see you. I promise I won’t interfere with your practice. I just want to watch.”
A shiver passes through me, but I ruthlessly ignore it.
“It’s a free lake. I can’t stop you.”
“And after, we can go have a bite or something?”
It sounds like he’s asking me out.
Yeah, right.
“The Crew are heading to Boots,” I counter. “But you’re welcome to join us.”
“I will. Thanks.”
Ethan steps forward into my personal space, and I’m suddenly self-conscious about my tight uniform again. Which is pretty funny considering it’s never bothered me before. I start to sweat and that’s not helping matters.
“I’m glad to see Renner has stopped harassing you,” he adds.
“How do you know that?”
“I’ve been keeping tabs on him. Just to make sure he doesn’t try anything stupid.”
“Gee thanks, but I don’t need a fucking bodyguard. What the hell, Ethan?”
