We slide into the backseat, and I place the bouquet between us to create a respectful distance.
“Where’s Chase?” I ask as the driver pulls away from the curb.
“He’s flying out later because he’s got to head to California to report to his team.” Chris settles back against the seat. “I’m heading to New York,” he says quietly.
“For the Huntington Breakers?”
His face lights up. “Yeah. It’s official now. Signed the contract last month.” He grins. “It’s not where Chase is, but it’s a good team with Scotty Hendricks, and a great opportunity.”
“That’s amazing, Chris.” I mean it. “You’ve worked so hard for this.”
“Thanks.” The grin softens into something more genuine. “It feels good, you know? Finally, having a plan. Knowing where I’m supposed to be.”
Knowing where I’m supposed to be.
Must be nice.
The car merges onto the highway, and I lean against the window, looking out the glass at the farmland, feeling a little sad about how things ended with St. Michael’s. I did have some friends, and things were starting to calm down, but it just didn’t feel right anymore. Even going back now wouldn’t be the same. Everyone is gone.
Chris breaks the silence by clearing his throat.
“You okay?” His voice is gentle. “After last night?”
Last night.
My stomach tightens. I can’t believe he’d ask me that, but then again, he might’ve been the brother I was confiding in last night, so I can’t blame him for checking in.
“I’m fine,” I lie, not wanting to delve into the details. We’ve talked about our exes before, but after everything that happened between us, it all feels a little different now.
“Honey.” The way he says my name makes my throat tight.
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Okay.” He doesn’t push. Doesn’t demand explanations he has every right to ask for. Just accepts it and moves on. “Are you excited for the cruise?”
“I guess.” I turn and give him a small smile. “Olivia can’t make it, so I’m going solo now.”
“Ah.” He sucks in a sharp breath. “I’d offer to go, but I’m a little busy,” he jokes.
“Don’t worry. I’m pretty sure there’s a Bailey Hill tribute act playing. I don’t want you sobbing into the cheeses all night.”
He lets out a low chuckle. “I think I’d get over it pretty quickly.” He looks at me, his eyes skimming over my face.
“You know, I think a solo cruise will be good for you actually,” he says.
My eyes narrow. “Why?”
He shrugs. “You need to get away from all of this.” He flits his hand in the air. “You’ve been running from things for a long time and as good intentioned as your friends are, I don’t think they’re helping the situation.” He glances down at my lap where I’m toying with my fingertips. “Maybe this is where you finally figure out what you’re running toward instead of what you’re running from.”
“Or maybe I just keep running in a different direction.”
“Maybe.” He shrugs, his eyes connecting with mine. “But at least it’s a direction you chose.”
“Yeah, you’re right.”
By the time we get to the airport, Chris has told me all about his new teammates and the house he’s staying in until he finds his own place. Things only start to feel weird when we’re standing at the curb, ready to say goodbye.
Chris hands me my suitcase and then pulls his bag over his shoulder.
