Page 102 of Crease Collision

“Kai? Are we…” No, I can’t ask like that. “Will we see each other over the weekend when you come home?”

“Of course.” His voice is softer. “Come on, Ozzy. I wouldn’t say that if I didn’t mean it.”

I close my eyes as the tension eases. “Good. Have fun at dinner.”

On the way to the arena, I shove the worry down and try to lock it away. He seemed happy to talk to me. That’s a good sign.

By Friday morning, I’m turning into a mess because Kai didn’t get in touch yesterday. Although we have another game tonight, I push myself harder than usual at practice, trying to sweat out the awful feeling in my gut.

He finally calls when I get home from the rink.

“Hey,” he says. “I just realized you might be napping. Do you have a few minutes?”

“I will talk to you anytime,” I say. “Did you get to Seattle okay?”

“Yes, the game’s at seven tonight.” He sighs. “I really miss you. This trip feels like it’s lasted a year.”

He sounds tired, which worries me.

“I can’t wait for you to get home.” I decide to test the waters. “Have you thought about what you’d like to do this weekend?”

“Didn’t you say you want to stay home? I’m worn out, so that would be fine with me. We can make up for last weekend.”

That’s good to hear. I hope he doesn’t change his mind.

“Sounds perfect. We will make it good, baby. I’ve got something big waiting for you.”

“Thank God.” He sounds more sincere than he has all week. “I need you so much.”

My thumb hovers over the FaceTime icon. Then I glance at the clock. I have to be back at the arena in three hours, and I need a nap because I slept like shit last night.

We talk for a few more minutes. He says all the right things, but I can’t shake the feeling that something seems off. After we hang up, I let out a long sigh. God, what if he wants this to be us now?

I wake up early the next morning with a knot in my stomach, anticipation and dread woven together. I can’t wait to see Kai, but I’m afraid he might cancel again.

Coach gave us the morning off, so I tidy up my apartment after breakfast. As I’m heading out to run some errands, my phone buzzes. It’s a selfie from Kai. He’s smiling. My eyes sting, and I have to blink to clear my vision.

KAI: Leaving for the airport in an hour. See you soon.

The buzzing in my head settles down. See you soon. Not a plan, but it’s enough.

OSKAR: I’m counting on it! Fly safe.

KAI:

A heart. That must mean something.

CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

KAI

I text him as my cab is leaving the airport.

KAI: Just landed and heading home. Come over in an hour?

The reply comes before the phone lands in my lap.

OZZY: On my way.