Page 55 of Melt His Heart

We discuss how I can cleanly finish a few of my weaker jumps in the new programs ahead of the competition, and how we’ll be shifting focus to that for a bit. The work I’ve been doing with our new choreographer has been going great. At first, the change in dance styles was a bit tricky to get down. I couldn’t find my usual flow, but I really do want to challenge myself and try something unexpected of me. After skating in the same style for years, I’ve been hungry to expand my range. So I’m just glad it’s all coming together.

Carson and his team are still within their time when our meeting is done. We’re sitting by the rest area as we wait. I watch them score up the ice, practicing their drills. Their own coach watching them intensely.

“I know you don’t keep up with hockey much, but they traded one of their players recently.” Coach says.

“Oh, really?”

“Yeah, they brought in Avery Wilson from San Jose; he’s the one talking to their Captain right now. Good trade, I’d say.” He nods.

I look over to Carson, and he’s definitely talking to a player I’ve never seen before.

He’s really pretty for a hockey player, more like a model. His skin a deep golden tan, hair cut short, making his jawline stand out. He’s a bit shorter than Carson, but not by too much. I watch as he smiles widely after Carson says something to him.

I wonder if they’ve played each other often?

Chapter 18

It’s the night of the gala, and I’m nervous to say the least. Carson told me a car will be coming to pick me up to take us to the venue where it’s being held. He also filled me in a bit more about what the gala actually is for, and apparently, the league gets together, and they all choose a charity to donate to.

I give myself one last look in the mirror. I think I’m satisfied; my hair took forever. Thank god, I didn’t have to fuss over what to wear this time. Carson is really the sweetest because he made sure I had a very nice suit. Though I did tell him it was totally ok and I could just buy one myself. He insisted that because he invited me, he wants to make sure I’m fully taken care of. I pull my arms through my black trench coat and adjust my collar before heading out.

My phone chimed with his text that he was downstairs some time ago, and I don’t want to keep him waiting. I rush down to the lobby and spot him through the glass windows.

Oh, I’m not going to survive tonight; my virginity might not even make it through the ride. He’s standing by the door in his tuxedo, that perfectly clings to every curvature of his body, his raven hair loose around his face.

“Hey.” I greet him, trying to act completely normal, but my palms are growing warm by the minute, and I think I need about ten gallons of water right now.

“Hey.” He smirks, opening the door for me.

“You look pretty.” He whispers into my ear, stopping me as I climb into the car, and I look up at him. The smell of his cologne lacing around me delicately. The same one on his hoodie, sending shivers down my spine.

“Thanks,” I mumble shyly.

“Of course.” He says softly.

Help me. Please.

* * *

We arrive at the venue, and though I’ve gotten a bit used to crowds and socializing, I’m still nervous. I would mostly always try to avoid these types of engagements, saying that I’m too busy with training, and it usually worked. So I haven’t attended many of these events. Carson looks over to me as we’re entering and smiles.

“I’m right here, ok. Let me know if it’s too much.”

“I’m ok.” I smile, and he winks at me.

We make our way into the main ballroom, there’s a huge stage and tables set with designated seating in front of them. The setting is quite beautiful and elegant. The other side of the hall is filled with people talking and sipping their wine; probably making connections, an art I never quite mastered. A server comes around, and Carson grabs us both a glass of wine. He hands me one and starts to sip his.

“Thanks. I’m going to need it.” I laugh.

“You’ll be fine.” He says, wrapping an arm around my waist.

I’m looking over at Carson when someone approaches us, and he drops his arm suddenly, straightening up a bit. I turn my attention to the newcomer. A familiar face.

“Hey there, Captain.” He says with a charming smile. It’s the new player, Avery, was it?

He’s even prettier up close and without all that hockey gear on. He’s also wearing a very well-tailored suit that fits his lean frame well. He gives me a glance and a small smile before turning his attention back to Carson.

“Hey. How’s it going so far, make any new friends?” Carson laughs.