Page 26 of Huge Pucking Play

"Maybe he's worth the risk," Sophie muses. "Remember me and Evan?"

I roll my eyes even though she can’t see me. "How could I forget?"

"Exactly! Now look at us. Engaged and happy."

"That's different," I argue.

"Is it?" Sophie challenges. "I mean, love's always worth fighting for."

I’m at home now and let myself into my place. I’m silent, torn between desire and practicality.

"Just think about it," Sophie urges. "Don't give up so easily."

After we hang up, I stare at the ceiling, Garrett's smile lingering in my thoughts.

Chapter 9

Cyn

Iscan the tarmac, my heart racing. Where is he? The team plane looms before me, but I can't focus on anything except finding Garrett.

"Looking for someone?" A voice startles me.

I whip around to see Coach Martinez. Disappointment floods my thoughts. "Oh, hi Coach. Just looking to see who’s here."

He nods, looking unconvinced. "First away game this season. Exciting stuff. Let’s keep these boys injury free, hmm?"

"Yeah, totally." I force a smile.

I can’t help it as my eyes dart past him, searching. The team begins to file onto the plane, but still no sign of Garrett. My stomach churns.

He has to be going, right? Assistant coaches always travel for away games. Don't they? I should totally know the answer to this. But my brain feels too addled right now to think clearly.

I bite my lip, thinking about our dinner two weeks ago for the thousandth time. The way his eyes locked on mine. How his hand brushed mine as we both reached for the ketchup. The man just does it for me.

"Earth to Cynthia." Coach Martinez jokes, waving a hand in front of my face. "Time to board."

"Sorry, yes. Of course."

I hurry up the stairs, nearly tripping. Slow down and take a deep breath, Cyn.

Inside, I pause. Where to sit? Away from the coaches, definitely. But also away from?—

"Hey, Cyn! Over here!"

Barnesy. Great…

I pretend not to hear him, quickly sliding into an empty row near the back. My hands shake slightly as I fumble with my seatbelt.

This is ridiculous. I'm a professional and a grown ass woman. I shouldn't be this worked up over...

A flash of salt-and-pepper hair catches my eye. My breath hitches.

Garrett.

He strides down the aisle, all easy confidence and broad shoulders. Our eyes connect, and he gives me a grin that makes my pulse quicken.

I feel my face redden and smile back but then look away quickly, pretending to look through my bag for my book. When I dare to glance back, he's settled into a seat near the front. Okay, that’s good. Sitting near him the whole flight would just be too much.

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