Page 17 of Unmasking Love
"I honestly think hockey comes second to the team chat for some of these guys."
"How about you? Where does hockey rank?"
"It's everything." I admit, surprised by my willingness to open up to her. Blame it on the shared experience of seeing a couple in their 80’s going after it captured in acrylics on canvas, I won’t deny I am comfortable around her. "But it has to be, the life of a back up goalie means I need to be ready. Anytime. Anywhere. The call could come in the middle of a game or at any hour if something happens to the first stringer."
"Is that stressful? Always beingonlike that?"
"Probably, but I'm used to it at this point. I've adjusted to this level of focus."
We hit a stoplight and she turns to me. "Okay Aiden, level with me. The next home I have planned is probably not going to be ‘it’ either. We can skip the showing but you have to promise to meet me tomorrow for more. I want to go back to the office and find the perfect home for you."
"Can't."
"Oh." The crestfallen look on her face is a punch in the gut.
"No, I mean, I can't tomorrow. We have a game. And then we leave early Friday for a road trip. I won't be back until the following Saturday."
"Oh," this one is brighter. "Well, that's fine, I can plan for that. Could I set up some showings for the next day?"
"We have an afternoon game the Sunday we get back but we can do it on Monday. There will only be a light morning skate after that road trip and home game."
"Okay, so Monday afternoon then?"
"Yes, that works."
"I'll text you the time and pick you up again."
And just like that, I’m planning ahead and looking forward to it.
Who would have fucking guessed?
Chapter 6
Harper
Confirming the Absence of NSFW Paintings
Ileanbackinmy desk chair on Monday and tap my nails along the back of my phone. A new listing just hit and I immediately thought of Aiden. And thinking of Aiden caused a blizzard of butterflies in my stomach. Which brought a nervous laugh to my lips.
Twice now I’ve started a text to him about the house. With one last centering breath I square my shoulders and level with myself.
This is silly. Yes, he’s hot but you’ve had attractive clients and you’re attractive yourself. Just text him. Do it.
It’s literally your job.
Okay, fine.
With a sharp inhale I unlock my phone and start to type.
Hi Aiden! I have a new listing for you to consider.
After pasting in the link and sending it off, I set my phone down and look at my computer to avoid watching for a sign that he’s read it. I almost jump out of my chair when it buzzes a second later.
But are there any commissioned artworks in the home?
I crack a smile and reply.
I haven't confirmed in person.
