Page 3 of Racing Heat

“Nope. No one who would care that I’m standing here on a pier with you right now.” I bite my lip at the boldness of my comment.

“Well, that is certainly good to know. We wouldn’t want to make anyone jealous of the coach who shouldn’t be running or standing here talking to you.”

I laugh. “Yeah, yeah. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that youcouldn’trun.”

“I know you didn’t. I just wanted to tease you a bit.”

We fall into a comfortable silence. I feel his eyes on me, and I turn.

“You should really be looking out at the beach,” I tell him. “It’s a much prettier view.”

“If you say so,” he replies. He looks out at the sea for a moment before looking back at me. “Am I making you uncomfortable by watching you?”

I shake my head. “Nah, I’m good. This is totally normal for me. You have no idea how many Englishmen come and stare at me during my runs.”

He laughs but keeps watching.

“Stalker,” I singsong out.

“I’m not a stalker. I promise you. I had no idea you were out here running.”

I know he didn’t. But I kind of like that we both find solace in running by the ocean. The salt air calms my nerves and makes me feel whole again.

“It’s okay. I know,” I tell him. “It’s so nice out here.”

He nods. “How are finding your time with the Blaze? Are you enjoying the team trainings? August has put together a really nice facility for us, but I’m curious what you all think of it.”

“Since Mac’s the captain, shouldn’t you be asking her that question?”

“I’m asking you.”

Jase’s words cause my cheeks to flush, and I laugh nervously.

“You have a great laugh.” He turns and looks out at the sea.

“Thanks,” I say lamely.

“This is nice, being here with you like this. But I should get going, Cassie. And you might want to get out of the sun. Make sure you hydrate or something.”

I nod as he backs away slowly.

“Maybe don’t run back,” he suggests. “Because I won’t be here to catch you should you fall again.”

“Sure thing, Jase. See ya later,” I call after him.

“I think we’ll be at The Backwoods tonight. You coming?”

“Yep, I’ll be there.”

“Good,” he says with a nod.

“Great,” I reply, flushing under the scrutiny of his stare.

He walks away and I’m left thinking of what a weird but nice interaction that was. Maybe I just need to get laid or something, but I could have sworn he kept checking me out. And why do I hope that he was? And that he’d do it again?

Don’t go there, Cas. That’s not a good idea.

Seeing the pier is getting crowded, I decide to make my way back to my Jeep. It’s time to get out of this heat. It’s making me think about things I shouldn’t be.