Page 5 of Three Pucking Wedding Dates

I wish I’d remembered.

Gray’s concerned gaze falls on me. “I didn’t realize you were still afraid of it. If I had known, I would have booked us a road trip instead. I just…”

“Gray,” I start, cutting him off, not wanting him to feel bad. My voice is barely above a whisper. “It’s not just that I’m scared of flying. After what happened with Mom…” The words hang heavy in the air between us. I don’t have to finish the thought, because we both know the truth that my mom died in a plane crash. “I can’t shake the feeling that something terrible could happen.”

His expression softens with understanding, and he reaches out to gently place a hand on mine. His touch is warm and comforting, a stark contrast to the chill settling over my body.

“Oakley, I promise you, nothing is going to happen. I’ll be right there beside you the whole time.”

My heart swells at his reassurance, but I can’t help the sarcasm that slips past my lips. “Are you suddenly an expert on aviation safety, Gray?”

He laughs, the sound soothing my frazzled nerves. “No, but I am your best friend. And I’d never let anything happen to you.”

Yes. My best friend. That’s what I need right now.

“Thanks, Gray,” I murmur, meeting his eyes. “You always know how to make me feel better.”

“Of course, Oakley.” He smiles warmly, giving my hand a reassuring squeeze before releasing it, just as our flight is called. “Now, let’s board this plane.”

As we make our way through the boarding process, I follow closely behind Gray, my heart pounding in my chest. But as I glance over at him, his steady presence calms me like nothing else can. And for the first time in a long while, I allow myself to trust, to lean on someone who has always been there for me.

The moment my foot crosses the threshold onto the plane, I feel a wave of apprehension wash over me. Gray’s hand on the small of my back grounds me, and I focus on the gentle pressure. We make our way down the aisle, and I can’t help but blink in surprise when we arrive at our seats—first class.

“First class?” I quip, trying to hide my nervousness with humor.

Gray chuckles as he stows our carry-ons in the overhead compartment. “I figured if it’s your first flight in years, you should do it in style. I’ve been riding in first class for years now.”

“Style, huh?” I arch an eyebrow, putting on my sassiest expression. “Well, Mr. Fancy Pants, let’s see what all the fuss is about.”

We settle into the plush leather seats, and I have to admit that the extra legroom and luxurious surroundings do bring a modicum of comfort. As I’m exploring the various buttons and adjusting my seat, Gray leans in closer, his warm brown eyes twinkling with amusement.

“Enjoying yourself?” he teases, brushing a stray strand of hair from my face.

“I admit, this isn’t half bad.” I grin at him. “So, tell me, how has life been treating you since we last caught up? Still scoring goals and breaking hearts?”

Even though I say the words, I know the truth—Gray has never been much of a playboy. Matter of fact, I’m pretty sure he’s only ever had one girlfriend. I don’t know why, though. He’s extremely good-looking, rich, and kind. What woman wouldn’t want him?

Except for me.

“Something like that,” he replies with a light laugh. “But enough about me. Are you still figure skating?”

The second I hear the words, the smile drops from my face, and I blow out a breath. I try not to think about my failed figure skating career, but how could Gray have known that?

“Uh, no,” I answer, a bit awkwardly.

He frowns. “Why not?”

“It doesn’t pay the bills.” I shrug. “It was just a little childhood dream anyways. Being comfortable is more important to me than pursuing some dream.”

Gray seems like he wants to say something but refrains. “Are you still working at the hotel?”

“Yep, I’m a front desk agent.”

“And…you enjoy it?”

“Well, you know,” I say, leaning back in my seat and crossing my legs casually. “It’s a never-ending parade of demanding guests, late-night check-ins, and room service orders. But it does have its perks.”

“Perks?” Gray asks, intrigued.

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