Page 68 of Check & Chase
Is that so?
I automatically answer reporters’ questions about the team’s performance, my recovery timeline, how it feels to watch from the bench. But my mind is elsewhere, fixed on green eyes and the sight of my name across her back.
Finally, Coach wraps things up. I make my way back to the players’ area as quickly as my single crutch will allow, disappointment sitting heavy in my chest when she’s no longer where I left her.
My phone buzzes, and I draw it from my pocket.
Emma:Had to go. Maya was waiting. Sorry for disappearing.
At least she didn’t just vanish without a word. Progress from last year.
Me:Team’s heading to Sullivan’s to celebrate. You and Maya should join us.
The three dots appear, disappear, then appear again. Like she’s typing, deleting, reconsidering.
Emma:Maya’s got an early shift tomorrow. Rain check?
I frown at the screen. After the heat between us earlier, her sudden retreat feels jarring. Then my phone buzzes again.
Emma:Unless you want just me to come? I could catch an Uber.
The tension in my shoulders eases.
Me:I definitely want you to come. I’ll save you a seat. Text when you’re close and I’ll meet you outside.
I head straight for my car instead of the team bus, and just as I’m unlocking it, Donovan slides into the passenger seat like he owns the place.
“Skipping out on the team ride now?” he asks. “Bold move, Mitchell.”
“Figured I’d drive myself. Avoid the whole sardine-can experience.”
He smirks. “And here I thought you just wanted a moment alone to daydream about Emma in your jersey.”
“You’re really leaning into this whole nosy best friend thing tonight.”
“Hey, I just call it like I see it. And what I saw? Pretty sure that wasn’t ‘taking it slow.’ You two looked like you were seconds away from defiling the corridor.”
I’m grinning like an idiot, and he knows he has me.
“Is she meeting us at the bar?”
I nod. “Yeah. Without the roommate.”
His eyebrows climb. “Interesting development.”
Sullivan’s is already packed when we arrive, but our section is free with pitchers of beer ready. I claim a booth in the corner, strategically leaving the space beside me open for Emma. I order a club soda, garnering the usual ribbing about being a lightweight.
“It’s the pain meds,” I remind them.
Keller slides into the booth across from me. “Word is the PT will be joining us tonight. She’s pretty fucking hot.”
Something possessive stirs in my chest. “She’s also sitting right here when she arrives, so maybe dial it back.”
My phone buzzes.
Emma:Outside. Where should I meet you?
Me:Stay there. Coming to get you.
