Page 27 of Stick Play

“Yeah.”

God what is it about his one-word answers that mess with me. Maybe it’s the deep tenor, the way he breathes it out, that has the ability to tease the needy juncture between my legs. I really don’t know. All I know is I’m melting a little inside as I sink into a kitchen chair.

“What’s up?”

“How are the kids?”

My heart wobbles. I like that he’s asking about them, even though they scare him. Although, maybe after today’s sledding adventures, he’s come to realize they’re not so frightening. “They’re good. Playing a game. How’s your dad?”

“Stubborn bastard.”

“Takes one to know one,” Grant responds in the background.

“Jesus, Dad, are you twelve?”

I stifle a laugh at their banter, and hear a horn honk. Is he driving? “What’s going on?”

“Dad said he’s not feeling well. His stomach hurts. I want to take him to a clinic, but he won’t go. I at least convinced him to come to my place. We’re on our way there now.”

“How is his temperature?”

“I don’t know. He doesn’t own a thermometer. Not that he’d let me take it anyway.”

Grant’s voice is a little closer to the phone when he responds with, “Gina can take my temperature.”

A frustrated sigh escapes Ash’s lips. “He said?—”

“I heard.”

“We’re almost at my place now. I can turn around.”

“No, if he’s not feeling well, it’s best to get him settled. I can pack up the kids and come over.”

“Gina, I don’t know.”

“It’s okay, really. It’s still early and I’m feeling a little cooped up anyway. I was thinking of giving Melanie a call to see if she wanted some company, so I was planning on heading out your way anyway.”

A moment of quiet, and then, “If it’s not too much trouble. I worry about him.”

“Ash, it’s the least I can do.” I stand and walk to the window to look out at the backyard. It’s dark after dinner, and dreary. I could really use the adult company. “Look at everything you’ve been doing for me.”

“We’re here now.” His voice is low, tired. Did the kids wear him out today? Am I asking too much of him, or is he just really worried about his father? I know how much the man means to him. “I’ll share my location.”

“Okay.” My phone pings as he shares his location and I don’t admit that I already know where he lives. Melanie pointed it out to me ages ago. I think she was trying to get a reaction, so she could see if there was anything going on between Ash and me. My friends do know I’m lonely, and how long it’s been for me. I sort of made that clear when I told Dani and the others that I wouldn’t be opposed to casual sex, but if they knew it was with Ash, it could complicate things when we end it. I don’t want anyone to be uncomfortable around us.

“Ash?”

“Yeah?”

“Did you guys eat? I have some leftovers.” I walk to the fridge and pull it open. “I could easily pack them.”

“Don’t go through the trouble. I’ll just order in. I’m not sure Dad can eat anything anyway.”

“I am going through the trouble. Fast food is awful for you, and I want you to be healthy when you play this week. You are not getting clogged arteries and having a heart attack on my watch. You’re a professional hockey player and need to be in your best shape.”

I hear a car door slam and his voice is soft, amused, when he whispers, “Thanks, babe.”

Thanks, babe.

---