Looking for You (Oh Captain, My Captain #1) (4 page)

Chapter Six

Ellie

“Let me get this straight. You went on a date, and you’re going out on a second date?” Lacey’s face expresses pure shock.

I nod. “My lunch date with Hudson was amazing. He was kind, initiative, and funny. Even though I didn’t mean to tell him everything about my past, I actually didn’t feel bad about it. He seemed to really care.”

“I’m so proud of you. I mean it. But why are you having a date on a Friday afternoon?”

“Well, I think you’re right. He has to work on Saturday, so I’ve taken Friday off to spend it with him.” I can’t believe I’m going on another date with Hudson again.

“So, what does he do?” Lacey inquire.

“I’m not sure. When he showed up, he was dressed nice, but not overly done up.”

We sit there drinking our wine. I know Lacey is thinking about something because her face is all scrunched up.

“What are you thinking?” I ask her.

“I’m just surprised that he hasn’t told you what he does for a living. I mean that is usually one of the first questions that I ask.”

“Well, I’m not like you. I don’t care what he does. He seems nice, and the fact that he doesn’t want to go to fancy restaurants or nightclubs, makes me happy.”

Lacey just shakes her head. “Have you ever been to a nightclub?”

I don’t want to answer her, because the truth is, I haven’t.

“Okay, that’s it. I’m taking you to a nightclub on Saturday,”

I groan.
There’s no way I’m going. No way.

“I have to go. I will let you know how the date goes tomorrow.” I give her a hug and head home.

When I get home, I finish up some paperwork that I have to get to Jeffrey, before he blows a gasket. It’s then I notice a text from Hudson.

Hudson: I need your address if I’m picking you up tomorrow.

I didn’t think about that. Should I give him my address? I remember my aunt always told me to be cautious, but I don’t get a bad vibe from Hudson. I take a deep breath and text my address before I lose my nerve.

Hudson: See you at noon?

Me: Sounds perfect.

My hands are shaking a little bit. Hudson is coming to my house. I look around. My house is small. It’s a single floor, with two bedrooms. I have a small front and backyard, but my favorite thing is my porch. I can sit on the porch and watch the world around me. Kids riding their bikes. Wives power-walking with their strollers. It’s therapeutic to watch.

I head for the shower, and then to bed. I have a big day tomorrow.

~ ~ ~

Just like our lunch date, my whole body is trembling. I put my frizzy hair in a ponytail and put a little bit of makeup on. I’m wearing a pair of running pants, a tank top, and a lightweight jacket. I slip my tennis shoes on, as there’s a knock on my door. He’s here. I stare at my door, like it’s the portal to the underworld. He knocks again, and I open the door.

Hudson stands on the other side. He’s in basketball shorts, and a hoodie with a Viking helmet on it. I can’t help my eyes as they wander up and down his body.

“Hey, Ellie.” His voice is smooth, and I bite down on my lip.

“Hi, Hudson. Would you like to come in? I need to grab my pack in the kitchen.”

He walks into my house. It makes me realize that no male has ever been in my house. I shut the door and head towards the kitchen. I pick up my backpack and finish putting supplies in it.

“What’s that?” Hudson asks.

“Oh, there are several bottles of water, granola bars, first-aid kit, emergency battery for the phone, a flashlight, rope, and a couple other odds and ends.” I shrug like it isn’t a big deal.

“Wow, are you prepared for zombies too?”

I don’t look at him, because I’m blushing. I like to be prepared for everything. I’ve done it all my life. I like to know that if something happens, I will be able to deal with.

“I was joking, Ellie. I like that you’re ahead of the game.” He touches my shoulder, and I give him a small smile.

“Are you ready?” I try to push my embarrassment away and think about the day ahead. He nods, and we head out. I follow Hudson to his truck and notice that the back of his hoodie has the number fourteen on it with his last name: KING on the top. He must be part of a company baseball team or something like that.

He opens the door for me, and I climb into his truck. When he jumps in on his side, he asks where he is going, and I point to the left. He asks me about work, and I go into detail on how the Portland contract is taking over my life. Our company will not only be supplying to several doctors, but I’m working on adding a couple clinics too.

“Wow, sounds like you’re going to be there more often than you thought.”

“Yep. My boss told me I would be too. It’s fine, though. It’s not that long of a drive.”

I listen to the music that is faintly playing, as I direct him to the trail at the end of town. It doesn’t take long to get there, because the town isn’t that big. Hudson parks the truck, and we head up the trail. Not that I would tell him, but the pepper spray is in my front pocket.  I don’t think that Hudson will harm me, but just to be safe.

“Okay, are we running or hiking?” I turn to look at him just as we reach the beginning of the trail.

“You run this?”

I look down the trail. It’s narrow and rocky in some parts, but overall it’s easy.

“Sure, why not? Are you not a runner?”

“No, I mean, I run, but in a different fashion.”

I look at him confused. “What?”

“Nothing, never mind. How many miles do you run?”

I shrug. “Maybe ten or twelve miles.”

By the look on his face, I don’t think he could run that long.

“How about we just walk for a few miles? You know, just enjoy nature,” I finally suggest.

“Yes, let’s do that.” He grabs my hand, and we begin to walk the trail.

We don’t say anything. I’m still in shock that he is holding my hand. They’re rough, and when he runs his thumb over my knuckles, it sends a tingle through me.

“Hudson,” I clear my throat. “Is there a reason you didn’t want to run the trail? I mean you seem pretty fit.”

“Well, I worked out with a couple of buddies last night and overdid it a little. Besides that, I can’t enjoy your company if you’re running laps around me.” He winks, and my heart skips a beat.

“Why didn’t you say anything? We could have done something else.”

“Nah, I like this, but just not running. Do you want me to carry the backpack?”

I adjust the strap and shake my head. “No, I like the weight.”

We walk further up the trail, in silence. I love the sounds of nature, especially in the spring. The squirrels are hopping from limb to limb. The birds are chirping loudly. It’s so peaceful.

Hudson is still holding my hand, but I realize that he’s limping a bit. I don’t want him to be in pain because of me.

“Hey, want to take a break and have a little lunch?”

“You have lunch in there.”

“Sort of,” I say. I let go of his hand and shrug off the pack. I pull out a blanket that I had packed and unroll it on the ground. I sit down, grab two bottles of water, and a couple of the granola bars. I notice that Hudson is still standing.

“What?”

“I was just waiting for you to pull something else out of your magic bag, Hermione.”

I throw my head back and laugh at his Harry Potter reference, as he sits down next to me.

“I didn’t peg you to read Harry Potter.” I bump his shoulder, handing the items to him.

“Don’t be too impressed. I saw the movies, I didn’t read the books.”

“Well, I haven’t seen the movies, but I read all the books. So, I guess we're even.”

“You don’t watch TV a whole lot, do you?”

I shake my head. “Just the news, every once in a while. I mainly read books. I guess I sound like a nerd.” I hang my head, picking at my granola bar.

“Nope, TV is overrated. You know,” he shifts next to me, “I never asked if you play any sports in school?”

I giggle. “Absolutely not. I have no coordination at all. I’m surprised I made it this far in my life without breaking a bone.”

He slightly chuckles next to me. “Um, you watch any professional sports?”

I shake my head. “I think professional athletes are way overpaid. They think of themselves as celebrities, and they should be thinking about all the kids that look up to them.”

“I don’t think all professional athletes are like that,” he says quietly.

“Well, from what I see they are. Just another reason why I don’t watch them.”

We were quiet for a moment, and when I look over at Hudson, he almost looks sad.

“Hey, I never asked you what your major was in college?” I try to sound cheerful. I’m sure I offended him in some way. I bet anything that he is a raging sports fan.

“I majored in architecture.”

“Oh, you’re an architect!” I finally figure out what he does. It‘s like a lightbulb going off. It all makes sense. Downtown Portland has been constructing new buildings all over the place. That must be where he works and knew about Jim’s because it’s all right there.

“Well, I guess you could call me that. I haven’t designed my own building or anything.”

“Don’t worry I’m sure you will soon enough.” I rub his back. I didn’t even realize that I’m soothing him, until he smiles at me. Immediately, I drop my hand, and I feel my neck get red. “Um, ready to head back? I figure by the time we get back we will have about five miles in.”

“Sure, why not?” He stands, holding his hand out for me. I take it as he pulls me up.

I turn to get the blanket, when my foot gets caught on a small rock, and I trip. Luckily, Hudson’s reflexes are quick, and he grabs my arms, pulling me towards him. We have never been this close. I hold onto his muscular arms, and my breath catches. I look into his chocolate brown eyes as they dip down to look at my lips. Instinctively, I lick them. I’m not sure what the hell I’m doing when I see him lean into me. I quickly devise a plan to turn my head, and he could kiss my cheek instead. That’s not what happened. When I turned my head, I end up whipping him in the face with my ponytail.

“Ouch.” He grabs the side of his face, as I gasp.

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to do that. I,” I stop because I didn’t want to say that I’m not sure if I’m ready to kiss him, yet.

“Ellie, its fine. It’s my fault. I forgot my manners again.” He steps back from me. My face is so red I’m about to burst into flames. I’m not sure what to say or do at this point.

“Let me help you pack the bag.” Hudson shakes out the blanket, while I gather our trash.

We head back on the trail, going back towards the car. Hudson still holds my hand, even though I almost blinded him with my frizzy ponytail. Not much is said as he drives back to my house. I’m pretty sure this could be the worst date in history. If he ever calls me again, I’ll be lucky.

When we get to my house, he walks me to the door. I’m not sure what I’m supposed to say or do.

“I’m sorry about the whole hitting you in the face,” I stumble on my words.

“It was a first for me, that’s for sure,” he chuckles.

“Um, would you like to come in? I could make us something to eat.” I bite my lip because I see the sadness in his eyes.

“I would love to, but I really have to get back into the city. Sorry.”

“That’s fine, I understand. Thanks for a great day.”

“No, Ellie. Thank you.” He smiles brightly at me and walks away.

He didn’t kiss my cheek like he had before. My heart races a bit, because I’m pretty sure that this will be the last time I see him. God, I’m such a dork. I don’t want this to be the last time I see him.

“Hudson,” I call out before he gets in the truck. I drop my pack and jog to him. “I really am sorry about everything. I’m a klutz.”

“Ellie, it’s really okay.”

I clear my throat. “I did have a great time. Thank you.” I know I have to do it before I lose my nerve. I place my hands on his arms, stand on my tiptoes and kiss his cheek. I probably should have kissed him on the lips, but I don’t want to rush anything. Even if this is a goodbye kiss.

I step back from him and head into the house.

Chapter Seven

Hudson

I had decided to tell her about my job, which is one reason why I felt good about wearing my hoodie. But then she said what she did about pro athletes, and I completely chickened out. Then I went to kiss her and her hair smacked me in the face. She’s much shyer than I originally thought. I didn’t want to freak her out again, so I didn’t kiss her cheek when I was leaving. Then she surprised the hell out of me by coming up and kissing
my
cheek.

I have no clue what to think of this girl. I’m so thankful that I’m about to have dinner with my sister. Maybe she can give me some insight. We’re eating across town at her favorite restaurant. She always makes me take her there whenever I come to see her. I’m almost to Seattle and before we go eat, I’m going to shower and change. It’s not a bad drive, but then, driving and traffic don’t bother me at all. Either way, I’ll get to where I’m going at some point.

When I finally get to Whit’s place, I hold my hand up to knock on the door when it opens and a guy is standing on the other side. Who the hell is this?

“Oh, hey. Whit,” the guy calls over his shoulder. He holds out his hand, almost towering over me with his height. I already don’t like him. “You must be Hudson. I’m Drew.”

Whitney pops up behind me, looking a little nervous. I reach out and shake his hand to keep from being rude. “Nice to meet you.” I tilt my head to look at Whit.

“I’ll see you later, Drew,” she tells him before looking to me. “Perfect timing. We just finished studying.”

Studying? On a Friday? I’ll believe that, but only because it’s better than the alternative. Drew says something about how it’s nice to meet me and then waits for me to step aside so he can leave. I wait just a few seconds before I do so. I may be shorter than he is, but that doesn’t mean anything. My sister grabs my arm and drags me inside.

“Since when do you study here, Whit? Doesn’t the campus have a library?”

Whitney shakes her head, completely ignoring me. “How did your date go? Or better yet, go take a shower and you can tell me all about it at dinner.” She shoves me towards the bathroom.

“How did
your
date go?” I ask just outside of the bathroom.

“Perfect. Happy now?”

“Nope.”

Once I get my shower and change, we take my vehicle to the restaurant. It’s not until after we order drinks that we actually start to talk. Before I forget, I tell Whitney to stop telling Mom about me.

“Do you know that I had to listen to her talk about grandkids again because of you? We don’t need to get her hopes up that I’m about to marry somebody until it actually happens.”

Whit laughs. “She asked how you were doing, so I told her. You should have called her sooner and then she wouldn’t have asked me. So how did it go?”

Without really meaning to, I fold my arms over my chest. “Good.”

“But? Have you told her about your job yet?”

I shake my head. “I was going to, but she doesn’t particularly have the highest regards for pro athletes. She thinks I’m an architect.”

“How in the world did that happen? Hudson, wait. Are you telling me that you wore a Portland Vikings hoodie with
your
name and number on it and she still doesn’t know what you do?”

Sighing, I tell her what happened. “I told her what I majored in and she came to that conclusion.”

“And you didn’t refute it?” Her voice drips with disbelief.

“Sort of?”

“What do you mean ‘sort of’?”

“My exact words were: I guess you could call me that. But anyway, I don’t know what she thought about my hoodie. She didn’t ask about it and she says she doesn’t follow sports at all.”

Whitney folds her arms over her chest as well and leans back in her chair, eyeing me suspiciously. “I don’t believe it,” she finally says. “Your clothes were evidence enough. How does she not know, Hudson?”

I feel like I should defend her. “Because she was actually telling the truth and really doesn’t care about sports? Whit, she thought my last name was Hudson and when I told her what it really is, there were no signs of recognition at all. She doesn’t know. I don’t want to tell her either.”

“Okay,” she leans forward, resting her elbows on the table, “let’s say for a moment that she honestly doesn’t know. Just because you don’t
want
to tell her, doesn’t mean that is a reason not to tell her. You’re already messing it up by omitting the basics of information.”

Her words brew in my mind. She’s partly right. Something so basic as my job, shouldn’t be so difficult to tell someone. But it isn’t like I have a regular desk job either. Before I can answer her, a girl walks up to our table, excuses herself, and then asks for an autograph with a ridiculous grin on her face. She’s really excited about me being here. I sign her paper and when she walks away, I look at Whitney, who has a smug smile on her face.

“See? You aren’t even in Portland, Hudson. I still think she has to know
something
at least.”

Narrowing my eyes at her, I ignore her comment. “There is something I want your opinion on. She’s a shy girl, like really shy. Ellie blushes at the littlest things.” I pause, debating if I should actually tell her about the almost-kiss. “She tripped and when I caught her, I went to kiss her and she turned her head so fast her ponytail whipped forward and hit me. I don’t know. She seems to plan for every possible ‘what if’ and she was that shy to turn away from me. I have been giving her a kiss on the cheek, though, and when I didn’t because I didn’t want to make her uncomfortable or anything, she kissed me. On the cheek,” I add. Whitney is trying not to laugh, probably over the kissing mishap. “What am I supposed to do about that?”

“Are you telling me that you are so used to girls throwing themselves at you, that you honestly don’t know what to do with a girl who has decent morals?” She raises her brows to dare me to object to what she said.

“That’s not what I meant.”

Whitney smiles like she has an evil plan. “I think the
only
way I can help you with your girl problems is to meet her myself.”

“No,” I interrupt before she can go any further. “You would scar her for life! The answer is hell no, Whit.”

“Oh, c’mon, Hudsy.” She laughs, and if she thinks she can convince me by teasing me with my mother’s nickname for me, it’s not going to work. “But seriously, I can help you better if I meet her and see what she’s like for myself.”

I groan. I really, really think this is a bad idea. But when she adds that she won’t give me her opinion on this at all anymore, I mumble, “Fine.” Whitney grins victoriously, but before she can say anything, I add, “You, under no circumstance, can talk about hockey. Understood? Ellie isn’t going to find out from you.”

Whitney nods and my stomach sinks. This isn’t going to turn out well. I need advice though. I still don’t think I should tell Ellie just yet either. She seems to like
me
as I am to her right now, not to mention what she said about pro players is ingrained into my mind. Telling her would alter her perception of me, and I’m not ready to let that go. We’re having fun. Why mess that up?

We spend the rest of dinner talking about Whitney and her schoolwork. I pay for dinner and on the way to her house, she asks when she’s going to be able to meet Ellie. Instinct tells me to say never ever ever. Instead, I tell her that I’ll let her know. The entire drive home, I’m wondering how in the world I’m going to be able to pull this off.

~ ~ ~

Our game tonight is at home, one of my favorite places to play. Home games have such a different atmosphere than away games. Our fans are here and they are loud, excited, and greedy for some hockey. One way to explain it is that it’s like having a ton of clones of my mom, my biggest fan, cheering us on. Moms are always the loudest, the most outspoken, and the best fans ever. Playing home games with our fans is sort of like that. So when we skate out onto the ice, the arena erupts with screams, clapping, and so much noise. Happiness settles in my heart. This is where I’m supposed to be. This is home.

My mind pushes Ellie, my sister and how she’s supposed to meet her, and every other thing but hockey out of my mind. Nothing exists but the sounds of skates slicing into the ice, pucks being hit by sticks, some deflecting loudly off the glass or the posts.

Tonight, we’re playing the Indiana Mustangs and their captain is Brody Ross. Talk about focusing on the game, that guy is serious and focused when he steps onto the ice. I met him once and he was pretty easy going and funny, the complete opposite during a game. It should be a good, tough match up.

They are a force to be reckoned with and the game flies by too quickly with a 2-0 loss. When I finally make it home, my phone lights up with a missed text from Ellie. I change, fall into my bed, and then text her back.

Me: Sorry, just getting home. Have a good day?

Part of me thinks that Ellie is a really innocent girl and she’s probably already in bed. She proves me wrong when she responds.

Ellie: It was a day. You?

Me: Could have been better.

A win would have been really nice. My thumbs hover over the unfinished text. Might as well get this over with.

Me: Would you like to have dinner with me and my sister next week?

Ellie: Um, sure?

Me: Bring the spray. Not for you. For me, so I can keep my sister in line. haha jk

Ellie: Should I be nervous?

Yes, yes you should. That’s what I want to say, because hell, I’m nervous. Instead, I tell her that there is nothing to worry about. I even go as far to say that it’ll be fun.

Fun. Hell. Same thing, right?