Page 57 of Penalty Kill

I’d been prepared for a long discussion, so her quick acceptance wasn’t something I was ready for.

“Really?”

She smirked. “Yes, as long as you still mean it when the time comes.”

Letting her go. I didn’t want to, but I knew better than to try to trap her. The thought of her leaving was enough to break me. I survived Olivia leaving. I knew it was ultimately for the best. That wasn’t the same with Sydney. It would devastate the boys. None of us would be the same.

“I promise.”

“Okay.”

She turned to look up at the TV, and I let the conversation die. Soon the boys were asleep in her arms, and I checked my phone. It was almost time for morning skate before tonight’s game.

Coach Romney told me I could skip to be with the boys or Sydney if needed. I couldn’t bear to leave her side, and it didn’t seem like the boys were going anywhere for a while, either.

“You should go.” Her voice was quiet.

I shook my head. “I’m missing the game.”

“Don’t.”

I looked at her, and she gave me a stern look. “Why?”

“The team needs you.”

“You need me.”

She smiled. “I’ll survive for a few hours.”

“It’s okay. I already talked to Coach.”

“Brandon, please go. They already took enough from us. Don’t let them take this game too.”

I didn’t want to admit she had a point, but it was true. Those leeches had done enough damage. I wouldn’t be able to let it go if the team lost without me.

“Are you sure?”

She nodded.

“I’ll see if I can get someone to watch the boys.”

“Already done,” she whispered.

There was a gentle knock on the door and Emma walked in. “Oh, this is the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen.”

She pulled out her phone and took a picture of the boys sleeping with Sydney before looking at me. “Go. I’m here. I’ll take care of them.”

I smiled and stood up, giving her the chair. “Thank you.”

She waved me off and sat down. I leaned over Sydney and brushed her hair back. “Promise you’ll be okay?”

She nodded. “We’ll be fine.”

“Okay.” I stared into her tawny eyes, memorizing them before stepping back. “I’ll be back tonight.”

They wished me luck, and I decided I’d win the game for her.

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