Page 30 of Over the Line
Right then, Liam appeared beside us, carrying a tray of snacks, probably to replenish the empty one on the coffee table. From the way his brow creased, he immediately clocked the uncomfortable vibe. “Everything okay?”
“Yeah. Yeah. I, uh…” Chris gestured over his shoulder again. “Listen, I need to take Jazz home. She’s fine, just not feeling great.”
“Okay. Sure. Don’t worry about it.” Liam turned to me. “Are you staying?”
“Uh… I don’t want to impose or—”
“Nah, it’s all good.” Liam flashed a quick smile before returning his attention to Chris “Do whatever you need to do. Shoot me a text if you need anything.”
Chris’s smile had a bit more life in it, and he nodded. “Okay. Thanks, man.” To me, he said, “I’m going to get her out of here.”
“Of course.” I hugged him gently. “Take care of her.”
“I will. We’ll do something this week, okay?”
“Definitely.” Releasing him, I nodded toward the door. “Go.”
He went.
After Chris was gone, I turned to Liam. “You sure you don’t mind me staying?”
He waved a hand. “Of course not. Your son is a Phantom, so you’re part of the Phantom family.” He motioned for me to follow him into the kitchen. “Do you want another beer?”
I glanced down at the bottle in my hand, which I’d all but forgotten about. It had been empty for a while, too.
With a smile, I shrugged. “Sure. Why not?”
He smiled too.
And my mind went blank.
CHAPTER 10
LIAM
Seriously, Kanes – let me know if you and Jasmine need anything!
We’ll be fine. Thanks, though!
Keep an eye on my dad so he stays out of trouble!
LOL Yeah because I’m sure he’s the biggest troublemaker in a house full of hockey players.
Fair enough. Just don’t play Uno with him. (grimacing emoji)
Oh? Is there a story there?
Ask him. (devil emoji)
Okay now I’m curious. Take care tonight!
Will do.
I put my phone facedown on the end table and rejoined the banter in the man cave.
Or, well, I meant to, but then the phone pinged again. It wasn’t my teammate this time.
Mom
