Because Rory flicks at something inside me that makes me want to play with him. He knows exactly how to get me going.
I grin at him, still sitting in the sand, and extend a hand, but he pulls me down beside him. I’m filled to the brim with gratitude because this actually made me feel better. Or maybe it’s being with Rory.
We’re both breathing hard still, damp and sweaty, but I smile at him. “Thanks.”
“Don’t thank me yet. You haven’t even seen the picture.”
I choke out a laugh as my stomach swoops in anticipation. As we get up and walk home, I think about earlier at dinner, when my mom asked Rory what he was doing for the holidays.
“So,” I start, “about earlier.”
“Which part?”
“The Christmas part.”
He sends a curious glance at me, the corner of his mouth tipping up.
“I know you probably have plans,” I say, fiddling with my fingers.
“I don’t.” His eyes linger on me, bright, interested, and patient, like I’m a flighty bird and he’s gently waiting with his hand out for me to gather the courage to land.
“Right.”
God, why is this so hard? Maybe because Connor always gave me the impression that I was being clingy when I tried to make plans with him. Just blurt it out, Hazel.
“It’s short notice and maybe there aren’t even any flights left”—I don’t know why that thought is so disappointing—“and the guest bed at my parents’ place is worse than my old one”—he could sleep in my twin bed in my room, but it would be cramped, although maybe that would be hot and we’d mess around more—“and you’d probably be bored in a small town—”
“Come on, Hartley. Spit it out.”
“Do you want to spend Christmas in Silver Falls?” My heart beats up into my throat.
He arches a teasing eyebrow. “With you?”
I huff a laugh. “Yes, Rory. With me.”
“Taking this fake dating thing a little far, aren’t you?”
My stomach drops. Of course I am. Of course I got carried away. Earlier, when he comforted me, I thought… I don’t know what I thought. “It would look weird if you didn’t come with me,” I lie.
Coward, my brain whispers.
Under his scrutiny, my pulse speeds up.
“You’re right.” He puts his arm around my shoulders and pulls me to him, and I relax. “We should keep up appearances.”
“You can say no.”
“I don’t want to.” He tugs on a lock of my hair. “And now I’ll get to see you open the presents I got you in person.”
“Presents?” I light up. “Multiple?”
I’ve already bought him a couple things, but I wasn’t sure how to bring it up.
“Yep.” His eyes narrow with mischief. “It wouldn’t be weird if I gave you lingerie in front of your parents, right?”
I burst out laughing, all tension from earlier disappearing. “No, I’m sure that would be totally fine and not awkward at all.”
“Great. I’m looking forward to it.”
My heart lifts. I know he’s joking about the lingerie, but the idea of Rory in my childhood home, spending time with my family?
I’m looking forward to it, too.
CHAPTER 39
RORY
Later in the week, I’m lying in my hotel bed, scrolling through my text chat with Hartley. We played New Jersey tonight, and when our right winger scored after my assist, I felt another rush of that light, victorious feeling I’ve been chasing.
I should be sleeping or reviewing game tape for tomorrow’s game, but instead, I’m thinking about Hazel.
When she asked me to come with her for Christmas, she was doing that finger-twirling thing. She was nervous.
Keeping up appearances, my ass. She likes me. She isn’t ready to admit it, but I can be patient.
I scroll through our chat. She didn’t respond to the link I sent with a studio for rent.
Did you see the studio I sent?
The typing dots pop up, disappear, and pop up again. Yes. Thanks.
And?? She sends a shrugging emoji, and I frown. Too expensive?
It’s expensive but not outrageous.
Too big? Too small? The listing said the space has two studio rooms.
No. It’s a good size.
I shake my head at my phone, confused. Let’s check it out when I get home.
I don’t think I’m ready yet.
I remember what she said after the dinner with her family while tears rolled down her face, about how if she couldn’t help her mom, how is she supposed to help other people, and my chest hurts. The need to make this situation better for Hazel claws through me.