Inked In Love

Twenty Nine

Twenty Nine

I have a habit of avoiding people—by people, I mean Theo.

"You've been real jumpy lately, Coach," Jenny said from across my office desk. We were reviewing next week's schedule, since she'd be out for a few days to get her wisdom teeth removed—a memory I'd rather not relive.

"I'm not jumpy," I defended. In truth, I was just on high alert in case Theo decided to stop by.

Jenny gave me a knowing look before going back to her laptop. Ever since Theo confessed that he'd missed me, I hadn't been able to stop thinking about us, about what might happen now. Could I really trust him not to change his mind again?

Michelle was out of the picture, or so it seemed, but she was never the real issue.

Jenny and I headed out to the pool where the guys were putting in extra time for an upcoming meet.

"Stop giving Hallie a hard time, Scott. Let her check your arm," I called out, already impatient. Poor Hallie she was experienced, but dealing with the guys required serious nerve. Bryony wasn't as bad as she'd been when I first started, but I could tell they still tested her.

Scott reluctantly let Hallie examine his arm. "It should heal in about a week," she said, "but you're going to have to sit out this weekend's competition."

Scott looked pissed.

I shrugged. "It's your own fault," I told him. He hated hearing it, but he knew I was right.

Before Hallie left, I asked, "Can you check on Thomas too? I want to make sure he's good for next week." She nodded and gathered her things to head out.

Hallie was a breath of fresh air—she loved her job and didn't seem bothered by anything else. Surprisingly, she got along with Michelle quite well, which I didn't expect. I had advised her not to let Michelle take advantage, but they seemed to click in a way that Tina and I never did.

Ten minutes later, I locked up the office and headed out. Bryony and Scott were leaving together when I spotted Theo leaning against my car.

"Careful, you'll dent her," I teased, nudging him to the side.

Theo grinned. "Right, my big muscles are no match for your car," he joked, stepping back.

I tossed my duffel bag into the trunk when he asked, "Are you busy tonight?"

I glanced at him, noticing that familiar, charming smile. "No. Who's asking?"

He shoved his hands into his pockets. "I want to show you something. It's about an hour's drive."

I thought about it for a moment. Maybe now was the time to stop avoiding him. Besides, I could use a night to enjoy myself.

"Is it worth my precious time?" I teased, though I'd already made up my mind.

Theo raised an eyebrow, still smiling. "Depends if you like it. But, come on, I'm surely worth your time."

My smile faltered. "You'll have to wait an hour, I need to stop by my house first."

He looked relieved, and his worried expression morphed into a grin. Was he really that nervous I'd say no?

"Alright, I'll come by at six," he said, leaving the question open.

"Sounds good," I replied, slipping into the driver's seat.

Before I could close the door, Theo leaned in. "Oh, and Elle... this is a date. Don't get it twisted" He winked and closed the door, running off before I could respond.