Page 2 of Now That We Don't Talk

“He’ll survive. At least it’s just food poisoning and not the dreadedman cold,” she says dramatically. “Nowthatwould be a nightmare. When Dallin gets a man cold, he acts like it’s the end for him.”

I laugh. “That’s sounds pretty accurate.”

“Anyway, I’ll see you in the morning,” she says. “Enjoy your night off. Let me guess…you’ve already changed into your pajamas?”

I scowl even though she can’t see me. “See you tomorrow.”

I end the call, grab my not so fancy charcuterie board and curl up on the couch with a blanket. This is my kind of night.

It may not be a meal prepared by a world class chef, but it’s much better than forcing a conversation through awkward pauses and wondering if I have food in my teeth. Truthfully, I’m not against going out with Cash—it’s just the initial meeting that stresses me out. He might be the most amazing man ever, so I should at least take a chance, and having a good meal is an extra bonus.

I let out a deep sigh. Dating isn’t for the weak. My last relationship ended on good terms—and maybe we would’ve lasted if it were a different time. Brent and I weren’t at the same place in our lives, so we wished each other well and went our separate ways.

Sometimes I wonder if I should branch out and move to a new place. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, and I’ve never had the desire to leave. I love being near my family and friends, while only a train ride away from a bustling metropolitan city.

My parents downsized to a condo a year ago, but are nearby if I ever need them, which is very rare. I’m wildlyindependent and stubborn—I’ve made it my life’s mission to make it on my own. My younger sister still soaks up all the benefits of being the miracle baby of the Lewis family. After years of infertility, my parents had Jaclyn, and the rest is history. I went to college, got my degree, and landed my dream job in finance. And yes, it’s my dream job. I’m one of those people who loves math, including algebra. Yes, we do exist. I thrive on solving problems—at least when it comes to math. Relationships, though? That’s a whole different equation.

I cross my legs and lean my head against the back of my couch. I continue to scroll through the channels until I find a lighthearted romcom.

Sometimes a quiet Saturday night at home is exactly what you need.

“Mmmm…is there anything better than waffles?” Katie asks, closing her eyes as she enjoys every morsel of her breakfast. “Other than churro waffles.”

“The answer is no,” I declare, taking a sip of my coffee.

“Correct.

“So, how’s Dallin feeling on this beautiful morning?

She rolls her eyes. “He says he’s a little better today, and he’s left the bathroom if that’s any indication. I told him I’d go over and check on him later.”

“Yes, because that’s what a devoted and loving girlfriend does.”

She rolls her eyes despite the hint of a smile. Katie can be just as stubborn as me.

“Anyway, I have some interesting news,” she says carefully.

“Interesting? I hope that translates togood.”

She blows on her coffee and shrugs. “I guess it depends on what you would considergoodnews.”

“Hmm…I don’t like the sound of that.”

She makes a face. “Kyle told me that Mac is coming back after his season ends. I guess he’ll be here all summer.”

I groan. “And that’s your idea of good news?”

She cringes. “Sorry.”

“Are you sure he’s stayingallsummer? I’d think he’s much too important to lay around here for months. I mean, being a hockey player isn’t like being a Marvel superhero, but I doubt Mac Evans thinks there’s a difference.”

She snorts. “Probably not.”

“I’m sure the good people of Tennessee will miss him. Maybe he should just stay there.”

“Maybe your paths won’t even cross,” she suggests.

“Oh they won’t—I’ll do everything I can to make sure of it.”

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