"Or something," Aidan says with a snort, getting a piece of bread lobbed at his head.
The idea of going on the road with them is at once overwhelming and exciting. Five men and one me in one small space.
But… the opportunity to get to know them better when they're out on the road under high-pressure situations isn't the worst idea. And I have to admit, I'm already starting to miss them just thinking about them being gone.
"I'd be willing to try that," I say, deciding to take it slow. "It sounds fun."
Their faces all brighten, even though I can tell they're trying not to spook me too much. It's kind of endearing.
"When we're home, we should probably have some one-on-one time," Dmitri reasons. "So you can get to know us as individuals, too. Zayn might not hold up well under scrutiny."
"Oh, fuck off," Zayn grumbles at his deadpan joke.
I can't help but chuckle.
"Like dating," I say, reframing it in more familiar terms. "Just... with five of you instead of one."
"Exactly," Aidan agrees enthusiastically. "Five times the date options!"
"Five times the scheduling nightmares," Zayn counters dryly.
"We'll make it work," Dmitri says with confidence.
I take my first bite of the lamb and have to stifle a moan. It's perfectly cooked, tender and flavorful, with herbs and spices that complement rather than overwhelm.
"This is amazing," I tell Jax and Aidan, who exchange pleased glances.
"Wait till you try the potatoes," Aidan urges. "Secret recipe."
I comply, sampling the golden-brown potatoes that somehow manage to be crispy on the outside and creamy within."Oh my god," I manage around the bite. "If hockey doesn't work out, you could definitely open a restaurant."
"I've been telling him that for a while" Darren says, nudging Aidan with his elbow. "The rookie's got skills beyond the crease."
The conversation flows easily after that, shifting to lighter topics. They tell me stories about road trips and team pranks. I share anecdotes about particularly demanding customers and my sister's attempts to set me up on blind dates.
"So your sister," Aidan says, reaching for seconds, "what is she going to think about this arrangement?"
I consider the question seriously. Jessica has always been supportive, but this isn't exactly a conventional situation.
"She'll probably be surprised," I admit. "But she already knows I'm seeing Darren, and she met all of you after the game. She already likes you."
"I guess the VIP box worked its charm," Zayn says with a grin.
"It definitely did on her husband, Luke," I say with a laugh. "He's the hockey fanatic."
"The important thing," Jax interjects, "is that we want to be respectful of your existing relationships. Family, friends. This arrangement doesn't have to be public yet if that makes you uncomfortable. If it adds too much pressure."
I appreciate the consideration, but I find myself shaking my head. "I'm not ashamed of this," I say firmly. "Sure, it's unconventional, but I don't want to hide you guys away like some dirty secret."
"Good," Dmitri says simply. "No hiding."
Those simple words settle anxiety within me I didn't even know I was holding onto.
These men aren't hiding anything, from each other or from me. They just want to move forward, exploring this connection we all feel, with all the cards on the table. It's new. Refreshing.
And I desperately hope I'm not setting myself up for another disappointment.
Chapter
