I offer him a small smile. “Is it?”
“Of course, it is. I didn’t think I’d ever see you again.” He pauses. “Do you live here, in Jersey?”
“She lives down Beaker Street,” Dominique blurts out from behind me.
My head whips around to glare at her.
Stephen grins and shoots her a wink. “Good to know.”
“I’m the best friend.” She holds out her hand, and he gives it a firm shake. “Dominique.”
“Pleasure to meet you, Dominique.”
She offers her hand to Chance, but he remains unmoving like a statue, dark eyes boring into mine.
“No? Okay, then.” Dominique drops her hand and moves to stand beside her husband. “Another time maybe.”
Stephen rolls his eyes. “Don’t take it personal. He’s a dick.”
That snaps Chance out of his trance. “Fuck you.”
Stephen grins. “See?”
I can’t help the chuckle that escapes me. “Just like old times.”
Before my brain can register what’s happening, Stephen rushes forward and engulfs me in his embrace, squeezing hard and lifting me off the ground. “It’s so fucking good to see you again, pretty girl.”
“Oxygen,” I choke out, tapping his shoulder.
“Shit, sorry.” He drops me back down and holds me out at arm’s length. “I’m just happy to see you.”
“I’m happy to see you too.” My gaze flicks over his shoulder. “And you.”
A muscle in Chance’s jaw twitches. “Nice to see that you’re okay.”
I don’t miss the undertone in his words.
He was worried about me.
Of course, he was. I left without an explanation, completely ghosting the two of them.
I step around Stephen’s giant body, and move toward Chance. He doesn’t budge, but he lets me unfold his arms and step into his chest. I raise my hands around to the back of his neck, and hug him.
“I’m sorry,” I whisper.
Slowly, his arms come around me, and he holds me. His body practically vibrates against mine, years of anger, hurt, and confusion rolling off him in droves.
Why did I think my leaving wouldn’t affect them the same way it affected me?
People around us have noticed the two hockey stars, and we’ve garnered a small crowd.
“Can I have your autograph?”
“Can we take a picture?”
“Philly sucks!”
I pull back, and clear my throat. “You guys should head back inside before it gets crazy out here.”
