Page 10 of Now That We Don't Talk

Are we really discussing this? It’s supposed to be a family dinner.

“I’ll talk to Katie and see what I can do,” I say finally. At this point I’d say anything to change the subject.

“Perfect,” Jaclyn squeals. “Thanks. The man is gorgeous and…single.”

She types something on her phone and takes a sip of her water.

“Anyway, let’s order an appetizer,” I announce. I’m determined to end all discussion of Mac Evans.

When the server returns, we order spinach artichoke dip and an order of grilled shrimp.

The rest of the evening is uneventful, other than more debating of a cruise versus Las Vegas. Any topic is better than discussing famous hockey players.

CHAPTER FOUR

MAC

“One of these days I’m going to win a game,” Kyle mumbles.

I smile. “Sure you will. Just keep practicing.”

We’ve played three matches, and I won all three. This is much better than sleeping in. There’s nothing like a little friendly competition to start the day.

“Funny,” he says.

I sit down on the bench and take a few sips of my water.

“So how does it feel to be back here?” Kyle asks.

“Really good. I think it was the right decision to come back for a while. I needed it.”

Kyle sits down next to me. “We haven’t had a lot of time to talk. What’s going on?”

I shrug. “I guess I’m starting to reevaluate some things.”

“Really?” he says, sounding surprised. “Like what?”

I’m not sure how to describe it. And talking about my feelings isn’t one of my specialties.

“I don’t know exactly—priorities, relationships, the deep stuff.”

“Oh yeah, what happened with you and the vet? I thought you were really interested in her.”

I shrug. “She was great and had a lot going for her. Something was missing though.”

He nods. “There’s nothing you can do when that happens.”

“You’re right,” I say. “And did I tell you about Sophie?”

He shakes his head. “Who’s Sophie? Come on, man, you’re letting me down. Don’t leave me out of the loop.”

I snort. “I didn’t date Sophie. Long story short—she came for a visit with Cooper’s girlfriend, didn’t give me a second look, and fell for my coach.”

He throws his head back in laughter. “That’s brutal. I never thought I’d see the day when Mac Evans couldn’t get the girl.”

“Thanks for the support,” I mutter.

“You know what I mean.”

---