Page 50 of Puck Princess

“I heard you say you were hoping to get out of flying with us. I’m hurt.”

His playful manner tells me he didn’t hear the whole conversation and a wave of relief washes over me.

“No offense, Craven, but y’all smell.”

“I wear Old Spice. The lavender one.”

I spit out a laugh. “Old Spice makes lavender?”

“It’s part of their botanical line.”

“I’m sure the ladies love that,” I tease.

“Girls are so into the organic shit right now. And mixed with my natural musk, well, they can’t keep their hands off me.”

“Maybe you should try it around Kennedy.”

Then mention of her name seems to poke a hole in his ego. “With the way she treats me, I’d be better off trying to repel her than seduce her. Maybe I’ll wear garlic around my neck. I’m not convinced the girl isn’t a vampire.”

I have to laugh at that. And it feels good. I really like Lance.

As we walk into the training room, the conversation takes a left turn.

“Are you sure it isn’t anything else, though?” he asks.

“What do you mean?”

Lance shoves his hands in the pockets of his work out shorts. “I don’t know. Trouble in paradise with Owen or something?”

“Not at all.” I answer and I feel like it’s the first time today I didn’t lie to someone. “Owen and I are doing amazing.”

“Okay, good.” He blows out a relieved breath. “I feel like you guys have been through hell. But I also feel like you’re right for each other. Hell, I could see y’all getting hitched someday.”

“Slow down there, cowboy. We just started dating. We’re not in a rush. But between me and you? He’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Lance smiles and hugs me before heading over to the work out equipment to hop on a treadmill. He’s truly a great guy, and I’m glad he’s Owen’s best friend.

But then my heart hits the floor.

Standing next to the dumbbell rack is Spencer. He’s been there the whole time, and I didn’t even notice.

His eyes are locked on me—dark, angry… Possessive.

I turn away, willing my heart to slow down. I’m terrified I am going to have a panic attack.

Say something.I hear the voices of both Kennedy and Miriam in my head.Do something.

But even if I wanted to, even if I marched into my uncle’s office right now to spill it all, I don’t know that I’d have the bravery to speak.

When it comes to Spencer Santos, I am paralyzed.

When it comes to him, I’m always back in that closet. And I don’t know that I’ll ever be free.

17

CALLIE

The last time I was on a plane with the guys, I thought I was going to puke. I was in the first trimester of pregnancy and the simple act of breathing made me want to barf, so shooting myself into the stratosphere was clearly not the vibe.

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