Page 7 of Exes and Oh Hell No

A decade has passed, and you’ve moved on.

I inhale sharply and force myself to look in the mirror hanging over the dresser.

My reflection stares back, eyes rimmed red, cheeks flushed.

Have I moved on?

My phone rings, yanking me from my thoughts.

I blink rapidly, swiping a hand over my face.

When did I start crying?

Walking to my dresser, I peer at the screen. When I see Allie’s name on it, I practically sag in relief.

“Hey, Allie.”

“What’s up, my favorite bish?” Her voice is teasing, and I can hear her smirk through the phone.

I let out a soft laugh. “Oh, you know. Just back in the hometown.”

“Ugh. Why doyouhave to be the one dealing with the house? Couldn’t your parents have stayed and handled it instead of jetting off on a cruise?”

I roll my eyes. “They worked their asses off for years and sacrificed for me. They deserve a vacation.”

What I don’t mention is thatIvolunteered.

That I practically insisted on handling everything myself.

I know she’d read too much into it.

“I told them I’d deal with it until they get back,” I say instead, hoping my voice sounds casual.

“Uh-huh.” Suspicion laces her tone. “So, you’re just doing them a favor? Has nothing to do with a certain hockey player also being back in town?”

I scoff. “Don’t start.”

She hums knowingly.

Damn her.

I’d heard the rumors that he was here. When a pro hockey star returns to his hometown, the entire community is abuzz with gossip.

I change the subject. “How are things with Mark?”

Predictably, she launches into a tangent about how wonderful he’s been, how things are progressing, and how she thinks he might bethe one.

I’m happy for her.

I really am.

But there’s something about hearing her talk aboutlovethat makes my stomach tighten.

“Who knows?” she says, her tone playful. “Maybe you’ll find the love of your life in your hometown. It’s all the rage in Hallmark movies.”

I snort. “Yeah, well. This isn’t a Hallmark movie. It’s real life.”

I pace to the window, my stomach twisting when my eyes automatically drift to the house across the lake.

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