Page 48 of Fake Out

“I know.” I walk into the kitchen.

“Well, it’s something.” He follows me, sounding more cheerful than I expected him to.

I just wish I could get in the same mindset.

I know I need to be positive, to believe things will get better. It’s hard, though, when I’m reminded of just how much is hinging on one phone call.

“Hey, I’m not worried.” Charlie slips his arms around me.

“You’re not?” I study him, unsure whether I believe him or not.

“Nah.” A glint of mischief plays in his eyes. “I trust you.”

The words hit me like a punch to the gut, warm and surprisingly shaky. His trust is something that I don’t take lightly. But it’s also pressure. Pressure to not mess up, to not let him down.

He tips my chin up, his fingers gentle against my skin. “You got us through all those doors, and I know it will pay off.”

I nod, swallowing past the lump in my throat. If Charlie can muster such confidence in me, then maybe I can, too.

“Ready to eat?” he asks.

“Sure.” This time, smiling feels easy. “What did you make?”

“Your favorite.” He steps back, moving towards the counter. “Fettuccine Alfredo.”

I laugh at that. I always did have a soft spot for carbs. Not ideal for an athlete like Charlie, but it’s his cheat day.

The aroma hits me first — garlic, parmesan cheese, white wine and cream. It’s intoxicating.

“Smells amazing,” I say, following him to the table, which is already set for us.

“Why thank you, madame.” He grins, pulling out my chair. Always the gentleman.

We sit down and I take a deep breath, trying to let go of the day’s stress. It helps to be here with him.

The first bite is divine, and I find myself moaning in appreciation. “This is so good.”

“That’s why you pay me the big bucks,” he teases. “Personal athlete and chef at your service.”

I chuckle, though I’m very aware that no one is technically paying him right now.

Yet I push the worry to the back of my mind. I can let go of all of that for the evening.

With Charlie’s arm draped over the back of my chair, I feel safe and warm and cherished. It’s exactly what I need.

For a while, we just sit in our kitchen bubble, talking about everything but the phone call we’re both eagerly waiting for. Trying to pretend that our world isn’t on the brink of changing forever.

Because in this moment, it’s just Charlie and me — and that’s all that really matters.

“Hey.” Suddenly, his hand is wrapped around mine.

“Hi.” I find his eyes, which are already staring me down.

“I just want to say…” He pauses, considering his words. “Thank you for everything.”

“You don’t need to thank me again. We’re a team. This benefits?—”

“I’m not just talking about work.” His gaze softens. “I’m talking about us. I’ve never… been this deeply involved with someone, and…”

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