“And because you and George couldn’t agree on a menu,” I add.
Penelope waves her hand dismissively. “Details.”
Linc nods toward his waiting teammates. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.”
As Linc disappears with his team, our group begins navigating toward the exits. Lea, finally off the phone with Declan, wraps an arm around my shoulders as we walk.
“So,” she says with a sly smile, “how does it feel to be dating a professional hockey player?”
“Pretty surreal,” I admit. “But how about you? How does it feel to be dating a rising art world star?”
“Pretty incredible,” Lea’s face softens with pride. “His pieces are already getting attention from some serious collectors.”
“Well, look what the cat dragged in,” a familiar voice interrupts.
Mike strides toward us, his athletic gait showing no hint of his previous injury. After redshirting most of last season, he’s ready to go for his repeat senior year, looking powerful and focused. There’s a pretty brunette on his arm whom I vaguely recognize from campus.
“He played great,” Mike says, giving me and Lea a quick hug, then holds up his phone, his expression a mixture of disbelief and amusement. “Hear the news?”
“What news?” Lea asks, her protective sister instincts immediately kicking in where her brother is concerned.
“Just broke twenty minutes ago,” Mike scrolls through his phone. “Coach Barrett is out. Turns out the Athletic Director noticed he was mailing it in…”
Our group erupts in exclamations and questions. But, as they chatter, I find myself smiling at how much has changed in just one academic year.
I began my freshman year a ball of nervous and positive energy on the surface, but beneath it I was afraid to trust anyone. Now, after meeting Lea, Linc and the rest of my friends, I’m ready for next year with more hope and confidence. And with a hot as hell boyfriend who’s tearing up the NHL, while still making time to FaceTime me every night before bed.
“Happy?” Lea whispers, noticing my expression.
“Ridiculously,” I confirm.
