Page 97 of Unmasking Love
“Aiden, let me send three texts and then I’ll join you in my room. Go wash up for bed, I’ll be right there.”
“I’m setting a timer for five minutes.”
“Okay,” I laugh and give him a peck. He releases me and scoops his bag off the floor. I watch as he walks down the hall and bite my bottom lip.
“Stop looking and start texting Harper.” He scolds as he gets to my bedroom door. He throws me a wink and closes the door.
I roll my lips to trap my smile between my teeth and pull out my phone. I find my client’s contact information and send a text wishing them a Happy Thanksgiving and that I’m looking forward to seeing them tomorrow. Since I don’t hear the timer I check my email. No new leads.
That’s a little frustrating but I remind myself that it’s a holiday.
When I let myself into my bedroom, Aiden is standing in front of my closet in his underwear. He’s thumbing the skirt of a satin dress and pulls it further out from the other clothes when I get closer.
“When did you wear this?” He asks.
“I actually haven’t had a chance yet. I got it from a sample sale last spring. It’s more of a holiday dress than a summer dress though.”
“Could you wear it to a gala?”
“Yes,” I agree slowly. I wonder what he’s got in mind.
“Would you come to the D.C. Renegades Holiday Ball with me in two weeks?”
“Will you be in a tux?” Because, holy hell yes.
“That’s the plan. Will you be my date?”
“Yes.” I smile and he nods. I was expecting more of a response but he slowly puts the dress back in the closet and then turns to me.
“Good, it’s a date.” I run my hand up his chest and I almost enjoy the way his eyes change when I reach his scar. I don’t know how to tell him that I’ll never ask about it. I might be curious but I trust that he’s taking care of himself enough to play on a professional hockey team.
He hasn’t opened up about it yet. The only reason I know it’s even a thing is because there is physical proof.
Aiden can’t see the scars I carry on my heart and I’ll continue to keep them close. I’m not even sure I’d admit them if he does ask. Our relationship is so new, and with his travel and my work schedule, it’s limited exposure anyways.
I assume he wants us to enjoy being together and to keep things light. What man wants to delve into the world of high school drama his girlfriend hasn't let go of?
Chapter 28
Aiden
"I like how hard you work."
“YoungGunareyoubringing Harper to the Gala tonight?” Duncan asks as he takes a seat and starts undressing.
“Yeah, she’s going to pick me up at 6:30.”
“That’s so badass. Such a flex to make her come to you.” He says with an appreciative shake of his head.
“I guess so. I gave her the option to get a car service but she said ‘no’.”
“We should have rented a limo together! Like prom. I didn’t get to go to my senior prom,” Crosby says wistfully. I don’t want to get into high school memories right now, or ever. I want to shower, nap, and recharge my social battery for the gala.
These things are always a pain. Season ticket holders who want to contribute to game strategy. Season ticket holder wives who get a little tipsy and then flirty. I’m not high enough on the team totem pole to get much attention but I’ve witnessed it.
Once my gear is off and in the bucket for cleaning, I check my phone. I smile when I open the picture message of Harper getting her nails done for the night. When she picks me up tonight it’ll be the first time I’ve seen her in person in a week.
We’ve been on the road. It was another west coast swing and we flew back late last night. Harper didn’t answer my call when we landed and this morning she texted apologizing for falling asleep.
