Page 42 of Now That We Don't Talk

He nods. “I’ll take your advice.”

I make every effort to stay engaged, and the rest of our lunch goes well. Cash is easy to talk to and makes me laugh—plus he’s easy on the eyes.

When he excuses himself to use the restroom, I make themistake of checking my phone. As expected, I find a text from Katie waiting for me.

How’s it going? Call me as soon as you leave.

I ignore it and click on Mac’s last message. I quickly type a reply.

Why so curious?

It’s short and to the point. I’m not sure what’s come over me, but I want to know why he’s suddenly curious about what I do in my personal time.

Cash returns, and we make our way outside.

“Thank you for lunch,” I tell him as he walks me to my car.

“Thank you for joining me. I feel like I’ve been hearing about you for months.”

I laugh. “Same. Katie is happiest when she’s taking care of everyone around her,” I say.

“Would you be interested in doing this again? Dinner next time?”

A nervous feeling comes over me. I’d be stupid to say no…

“Absolutely,” I blurt out.

“Great,” he says leaning in to kiss me on the cheek. “I’ll call you.”

He waves before turning to leave. I touch my cheek with my fingers. Cash is amazing. So why aren’t I more excited?

CHAPTER TWELVE

MAC

Istare at the Vivian’s text.

Why so curious?

I don’t know how to answer her question. I have no idea why I’m suddenly so interested in her life—it’s none of my business. But it’s all I’ve managed to think about since Katie told me she hasn’t responded because she’s focused on her date. I suddenly have an urge to find out more about this guy she’s having lunch with. I know he’s Dallin’s co-worker and the perfect match for Vivian—according to Katie. How does she know who Vivian’s perfect match is?

I start to type a response and stop to wipe my hands on my jeans because they are sweating. This is weird. I don’t get this nervous when the Wolves are facing a challenging opponent. Or when the score is tied with a few minutes left on the clock. Hockey is a breeze compared to texting a woman you don’t have the best history with. I finally decide to suck it up and reply with brutal honesty.

I don’t know, but I am.

And there it is. I hate being vulnerable, especially with women. But Vivian isn’t like every other woman. She’s notsomeone I met while on the road in a random city. She’s always been right in front of me.

I’m assuming she’s still on her date, so I don’t expect a response right away. And of course I’m wondering if it’s going well.

I return to watching highlight clips from our season. I’m supposed to be taking a break from hockey, but I don’t think I could ever fully step away. It’s still important to study and keep up with workouts. As I watch I make notes of a few things we can work on when we return to the ice. My phone buzzes again, and I breathe in sharply when I see Vivian’s name on the screen.

Whatever. Anyway, my sister and her friends would like an introduction—I’m assuming they are fans of your team. Sorry to put you on the spot.

Hmm…she totally glossed over my text. I’m not sure what to make of her avoiding it. It’s so hard to gauge reactions through messages. Maybe it’s best to just let it go.

Of course. I’m always happy to meet my fans. Name the place and time.

About twenty minutes goes by before she responds.

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