Page 117 of Hot Damn
We might not have talked about it, or publicized our relationship, but we’re partners in every way that counts.
And Cam is the closest thing to a mother Whit has ever had. The bond between them is as solid as the one I feel between me and Cam.
I can’t imagine our lives without her now.
“You okay?”
Focusing back on Chase, I smile. “Yeah, sorry. Just thinking.”
“You thinking about coming out?”
“What?”
“Oh, come on, we all know you and Cami are together.”
“Oh. That coming out. For a second, I thought… Never mind. Yes. We’re together but we’re taking it slow because of everything that’s happened.”
“Nothing has lately though, right? Those reporters haven’t given you any more trouble?”
“No. Not that I’m aware of.” His frown has me asking, “Do you know something?”
“No. Not really.”
“What kind of answer is that.”
Chase shrugs. “Whitney’s been acting a little offaccording to the twins. I figured it was because of you and Cami but she loves Cami so I don’t think that’s it.”
“She does love her, and the feeling is reciprocated, but it could be that making Whit alittle off. A lot has changed in her life recently. First the move down here, the new school, and then the media thing, plus Cam.”
Damn. I need to check in with Whit. I’ve let my relationship with Cam take over most of my thoughts and time.
“Thanks for the heads up. I’ll talk to Whit tonight, see if I can get to the bottom of it.”
“I’m sure it’s nothing. The twins are still adjusting to being here too, and Whitney is the only friend they have.”
“They haven’t made others?”
“No. But that’s not unusual for them. They have each other and rarely let anyone else into their circle. It’s why I’m always so happy to have Whitney over and to be honest, I may have pushed that friendship more than I should. They’re a few years younger than Whitney, she might not be the best choice for helping pull them out of their bubble.”
“How are you doing? Not just with the move here, playing in the NHL. How are you and the girls doing?”
“We’re okay. Gem helps a lot.”
Chase’s reference to the Rogues GM always makes me think there’s more to their relationship, but from what I’ve seen it really is just a boss helping one of her employees. There aren’t any longing glances or small touches, nothing to indicate they’re more.
If there is a deeper relationship between them, they hide it better than me and Cam. Another thing to remember to talk about later.
First I need to make sure Whit is okay with me seeing Cam—with her basically living with us. And now I think about it, I’m sure that’s what Chase’s sisters are picking up on.
“Thanks for telling me what the twins said. I’ll let you know how my talk with Whit goes so you can ease their minds.”
“Thanks.” Chase looks around the deserted Rogues gym. “You starting or finishing?”
“Finishing.” Disappointment flashes across his face. “But I can stick around and spot you if you’re doing weights.”
“Nah, it’s okay. Now that I don’t have to get the twins, I’m going to get a half-hour run in before I have to leave to pick up Candace from daycare.”
“Okay, I’ll message you later about Whit. See you tomorrow at morning skate.”
