Page 51 of Securing the Pucking Rebound

“It’s not what you really want?”

“It’s not about what I want. It’s Bea’s business. It’s her baby. I’m just her manager.”

“I think you’re more than that.”

Now it’s my time to shrug.

“Maybe. I’m gonna float the idea tonight. See what she thinks.”

As I say that, my cell buzzes to let me know that someone is here to see me.

“Hi Harold,” I say when the call connects. “Yes, thank you. I’m feeling much better.” I eye Calvin as I say those words. I haven’t said anything about being sick to our concierge.

Calvin face is pure innocence as I permit Harold to let Bea up.

“You should go,” I say once I’ve disconnected the call.

“Anyone would think you’re embarrassed by me,” he accuses with a smirk.

“Or maybe you’re too used to women showing you off like some kind of trophy.” I don’t mean for it to come out as bitter as it sounds.

Calvin’s eyes widen. “You sound a little jealous there, darlin’. If you want to show me off to the world, I’ll play the part.”

“Hell no, I’m not a puck bunny.”

“Never said you were.”

I narrow my eyes at him as a knock sounds on my door.

“I’m nothing like that,” I state as I get to my feet and move to let my best friend in.

No sooner have I opened the door does Bea throw her arms around me. “I’m so glad you’re better. I’ve missed you.”

“Whoa,” I cry when her belly hits mine. “You’ve grown.”

“Don’t,” she warns. “I swear, I woke up yesterday morning and suddenly I’m pregnant.”

“I hate to break it to you, but you’ve been pregnant for a while now,” I laugh.

“I brought Chinese. What?” she asks, catching my grimace before I turn to lead her deeper into my apartment.

“I’ve eaten way too much takeout this week,” I mutter as her footsteps follow me deeper into my apartment.

“At least you’ve been eating. You—” Her words cut off the second she spots a certain hockey player sitting on my couch.

Bea and I might have talked briefly over the last couple of days, but it’s mostly been work-focused.

“C-Calvin?”

“Hey,” he says with a smile. “Don’t tell me, Rett is already complaining that I’m late.”

“Um…” She hesitates, looking between the two of us suspiciously. “Yeah, actually.”

“Impatient asshole,” Calvin mutters as he gets to his feet.

“Breakfast in the morning?” he asks me as Bea continues to watch us.

“I can’t. I’m heading to the salon early to get caught up on things.”