Page 58 of Off The Rush
“Do you think she’s serious?” JD asks.
“Doesn’t matter. I’m not getting back together with her just because she’s threatening me.”
I shake off the encounter, focusing on the upcoming date with Emma - a chance for us to continue growing closer and building something special together.
“Thanks, guys,” I mutter, watching her retreating figure until she disappears.
“Anytime,” JD replies, clapping me on the back. “So, when are you taking Emma out?”
“Just planned it for Friday,” I say, smiling at the thought of our upcoming date. “I’m excited about it.”
“Good for you, man,” Luka says, giving me an approving nod.
I was afraid there would be jealousy but they seem genuinely happy for me. I wasn’t happy when they went out with Emma.
How are they so okay with this? I’m trying but there are still moments I can’t help being jealous.
Maybe securing my place with Emma on our date will help.
* * *
I’ve changed my outfit three times.
I can’t help but check myself out in the mirror one last time as I adjust the collar of my shirt. This date with Emma needs to be perfect, and I’m determined not to screw it up.
“Hey, man!” Luka bursts into the room, his energy palpable even before he fully enters. “You ready for your big date with Emma tonight?”
“Yes.”
“What are you doing?
“I’m not telling you anything. Knowing you, you’ll just show up and try to join,” I hiss at him, trying to keep my plans a secret.
Luka rolls his eyes with a playful smirk. “Fine, fine. Just make sure you have fun, okay? And don’t stress too much. Emma will love whatever you’ve planned.”
I nod, appreciating his support even though I know he’s dying to know what I’ve got up my sleeve. With one last glance in the mirror, I grab my keys and head out the door.
The anticipation builds as I drive over to Emma’s place. When she steps out of the house, she’s curled her hair and it falls perfectly around her face, and her cheeks are flushed from the cold. She looks stunning.
“Hey, Alec,” she greets me with a smile. “Ready?”
“Absolutely,” I reply, trying to keep my nerves under control.
We get in my truck, and I start driving towards the hockey rink. As we approach the building, Emma looks over at me with a hint of worry in her eyes.
“Um, Alec, there’s something I should tell you… I can’t skate.”
I chuckle, relieved that she’s shared this piece of information. “Don’t worry, we’re not skating tonight. But I’ll remember that for the future.” The surprise I’ve planned is much better than that, and I can hardly wait to see her reaction.
“Okay, good,” she says, visibly relieved. “I was worried I’d end up embarrassing myself out there.”
“Trust me,” I say with a grin, “you have nothing to worry about tonight.”
Stepping inside the hockey rink, I guide Emma to a seemingly random door tucked in the corner. My hands are clammy with nerves as I reach for the handle, silently praying that she’ll like the surprise I’ve planned for her. I can feel my heart pounding in my chest, but I try to put on a confident smile for Emma.
“Where are we going?” Emma asks, curious but trusting me to lead the way.
“You’ll see,” I reply cryptically, opening the door and revealing a set of stairs leading up to the roof. I motion for her to follow, and together we climb the steps.
