Page 46 of These Pucking Boys: Part Two

Shaking his head, Jake takes a bite. I can’t believe he didn’t have anything to add. He’s quiet but loves to add fuel to the fire.

Silence prevails as we enjoy the food. I don’t want to toot my own horn, but it does taste fucking amazing.

After a while, Jake pipes up. “Ryan, isn’t there something you want to ask June?”

I sit straighter in my chair, confused. But then I remember our conversation at the gym. I’ve been trying not to think about my mother. It’s a sticking-my-head-in-the-sand move. Ignoring the reality won’t make it change.

“Right.” I wipe my mouth with the napkin.

June sets down her fork and stares at me, waiting.

“My brother is flying to San Diego to visit my mother at the hospital this weekend, and I’m meeting him there.”

“Oh.” June studies me. “I didn’t realize she was in California.”

“Yeah. She’s been in San Diego since she left us behind in Montreal.”

Hell, I don’t sound bitter at all. I grab my glass and take a couple sips of water. This conversation is making me queasy. The delicious meal I prepared is sitting heavily at the bottom of my stomach now. I’m annoyed with Jake for bringing up the topic in the middle of dinner—not that he could have known how I would react.

“What did you want to ask me?” June probes when I remain silent.

“Jake and Lachy are coming with me, but I was wondering if you’d come too.”

Her pretty eyes grow larger. “Yes, of course.” She reaches for my hand. “I want to be there for you.”

Relief washes over me. I need all the support I can get, and I know June’s presence will help calm me down. She has that effect on me. “Thank you.”

“But... aren’t you playing on Saturday?”

“It’s an early game. We should be done around seven, and we have Sunday off,” Jake replies.

“Oh, that’s perfect then. But what about the pets?”

Shit. I completely forgot about the pets.

“I’ll book the dog walker to check on them while we’re gone,” Jake replies.

“Guys... I don’t feel well.” Lachy grimaces, touching his belly.

My stomach sinks. Fuck. His face is red and swollen.

“Oh my God. You’re having an allergic reaction!” June jumps to her feet. “We need to take you to the ER.”

Jake and I fly out of our chairs in a flash. Jake helps Lachy get up, and I grab my car key. “I’ll drive.”

“What the hell did you put in the food, Ryan?” Lachy moans from the back seat.

“Nothing you haven’t eaten before,” I reply, keeping my eyes on the road.

I’m driving as fast as I can, and I need to maintain focus. Adrenaline is running in my veins, and my heart feels like it’s beating as fast as the car. I can’t believe Lachy is having an allergic reaction to my food. He eats everything.

“That’s not true. Lachy’s never eaten quinoa before,” June pipes up.

“Do you think I’m allergic to quinoa?” he asks.

I rub my face. “It’s possible. I’m so fucking sorry, Lachy. Please don’t die on me.”

“He’s not going to die,” Jake grits out from the shotgun seat.

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