Page 71 of Center Ice

“We’ll be back in a bit, Jessica.” I waved to her on our way out. We got in Jake’s car and I rested my elbow on the center console. If I was having this hard of a time with coming to terms with today, I couldn’t imagine how he felt. Or the rest of the team. None of us were looking forward to this day, but here it was.

I thought things would settle down once Jake and I moved into our apartments, that we would find our own rhythm and slowly strengthen our relationship, but things never went according to plan.

The Pride pulled me into their world, and I’d never been busier or happier. We had girl’s nights and grabbed lunch or went shopping a few times a week. I loved having them in my life, but they were nonstop. Someone was always having a party, dinner, or game night.

Jake had training, practices, and endorsement work that kept his days packed, but at least we got a few hours alone each day before someone called and invited us over.

It felt like the team had been conspiring. They were creating a new normal for us. Helping us feel comfortable in our roles as a couple. It sounded crazy, and I tried to identify exactly what was going on for Jake, but he just laughed. He didn’t think they were up to anything, but he was in denial. I sincerely doubted that Emma and Olli had candles lit and romantic music playing in the backyard every night. It wasn’t just the time they’d invited us over with a few other couples. Also, on the night Jake took me out and told me he loved me.

I smiled just thinking about how perfect that moment was.

Then again, maybe he was in on it too.

Jake parked in front of Noah’s building, and we got out. Everyone was waiting in the lobby when we walked in. I spotted Colby and went to her.

“I can’t believe it’s really happening.” I hugged her and didn’t want to let go. We’d grown close over the past few weeks, and I didn’t want her to leave.

“I know, but Seattle’s a short flight away.” She stepped back but kept her hands on my arms. “And I’ll be back for the weddings.”

“And the games,” I agreed. The best part of the White Caps and Fury being in the same division was that we’d get to play each other often which meant extra visits.

“Right.” She sighed. “I’m going to miss you.”

“Me too.” I moved out of the way so Kendall could say goodbye and went to find Noah. He was with Jake, and they were laughing as I walked up.

“Hey Dani.” Noah gave me a quick hug. “I’m trusting you to take care of my man.”

I smiled. “And you better make sure Colby’s happy without us.”

His grin dimmed. “I’ll try my best.”

Chloe came up to us. “Hey, no sad faces! This is a good thing. Noah’s going to be a superstar on the team, and Colby is going to love Seattle!”

“Right, you’re right,” Noah said, straightening. “I really appreciate you all coming.” He waved Colby over. “We both do. You’ve been teachers and mentors, but more than that, you guys have been our family. I mean that. When I got here, I was practically a kid.”

“No, you definitely were,” Erik called out, making everyone laugh.

I stepped next to Jake and wrapped my arms around his waist while he held me.

“I wouldn't be the player I am without you guys. I never would have had this opportunity if you guys didn’t make me better, and I will always be grateful for that.” Noah cleared his throat, and Colby took his hand.

“You all accepted me and brought me in when I really needed it. I love all of you,” Colby said and wiped under her eyes. “We’ve been incredibly blessed to know each of you. Please take care of each other and come visit.”

Noah nodded. “Okay, no more. We’re going to walk out now, and that’s it. No goodbyes because we’ll be seeing you guys in October.”

Colby and Noah shared a look, then cut through the crowd to the exit. We watched in silence as they got into Noah’s car and drove away. I was so excited for them, even though I would miss them both I knew this was what was best for them. This was the first time I ever saw beyond the newlywed send off. Because of them, I gained a whole family and met the man I wanted to be with, in Indianapolis or Denver or wherever life took us.

Jake squeezed my shoulder, and I looked up at him.

“I love you,” he said, the words just loud enough for me to hear.

“I love you, too.”