Page 331 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

"There are." I don't hesitate, "including one remarkable sports medicine therapist who refused to let me negotiate with my rehabilitation plan."

The reporter laughs. "That sounds like someone who deserves a thank-you."

"She deserves a lot more than that."

I don't say anything else. I don't have to.

***

A few minutes later I leave the ice carrying my helmet beneath one arm.

The hallway outside the locker room is quieter now.

Most of the postgame crowd has already drifted toward the exits.

As I round the corner, I see them waiting. Mom hugs me first, then Dad claps one hand against my shoulder. Coach's wife beams. Then everyone seems to find a reason to step back at exactly the same time.

Almost as though they planned it. Annette stands a few feet away wearing my jersey, her hands tucked into the pockets.

She smiles. "I thought you played pretty well."

I laugh. "Only pretty well?"

"I don't want your ego getting out of control."

"I appreciate your restraint."

She walks toward me, stopping just out of reach.

“So,” she says. “First game back.”

“Apparently I still remember how to play.”

“Barely.”

I laugh. “There she is.”

Her teasing fades into a smile. “You were good tonight, Jamie.”

“Felt good.”

“I could tell.”

I reach for her hand. “I saw you up there.”

“You looked for me.”

“More than once.”

“I noticed.”

For a moment the hallway disappears.

The cameras. The reporters. The cheering fans. Everything.

It's just the two of us.

I lean down and kiss her softly.