Page 43 of Game On

He had the usual texts from his family offering congratulations...

And a text from Dorian. He’d sent another photo of Poppy, this time wearing a party hat.

Dorian

Poppy says congrats.

Setting aside thoughts of Dorian’s smile and the way his body had felt against Jamie’s, Jamie grinned and typed out a message.

Jamie

Did Poppy enjoy the game?

Dorian

Poppy fell asleep halfway through. You can’t tell by her expression, but she’s excited for you on the inside.

Jamie

And what about her owner?

The text bubbles popped up, indicating Dorian was typing. Then they disappeared. Popped up. Disappeared. Popped up again. Just when Jamie was about to ask if he was writing a novel, Dorian’s message came through.

Dorian

He also fell asleep halfway through the game.

Jamie let out a laugh. Dorian was such a liar. They both knew he didn’t go to bed until two in the morning. Before Jamie could respond, another message arrived.

Dorian

Not that I’m her owner. I’m more like the owner’s assistant. And not that you’re her owner either, come to think of it.

Jamie

Either way, I appreciate you looking after her while I’m away.

Dorian

Whatever.

That made Jamie grin. He pictured Dorian frowning at his phone, jerking his shoulders as though trying to slough off the feelings.

“Yo, JJ!” Walters called. “Want another slice of cake?”

Jamie put his phone away and got back to the party.

CHAPTER NINE

Midway through the Orcas’ nine-day road trip, Dorian’s boss asked him to replace one of the social media interns in California.

“They’ve got the flu,” Mark said from behind his desk while Dorian leaned against his office doorjamb. “I can fly you down there tomorrow morning so you’ll be on hand for the Orcas’ final two California games. Then you’ll fly back with them on Friday.”

“Can’t,” Dorian said. “I’ve got a dog at home.”

Mark squinted at him. “Since when do you have a dog?”

“Jamie and I are fostering. Sort of. With him in California, I’ve got to stay home and look after her.”

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