Page 14 of Shadow

Asher forced his gaze to the screen.

The replay showed the goalie’s glove snapping shut on the puck.

“Yeah.” He tried. “Great save.”

Michael’s eyes narrowed.

Just a flicker, but enough.

Thirty seconds through the door and already the mask was slipping.

“You want buffalo or BBQ?” Dani pushed the platter toward him. The wings glistened under the bar lights, the sharp tang of buffalo sauce cutting through beer and fried food.

His stomach turned.

TV announcers called another play, and the crowd noise swelled. Luca Saxon gestured at the screen with his beer. “Blue Ox take this one, they’re going to finals.”

Dr. Kira Yassan leaned into his shoulder. “You’re really getting into hockey.”

“When in Colorado.” Luca grinned.

The crowd roared as the Blue Ox pushed hard and fast.

Asher’s phone buzzed.

Patterson.

Third time in ten minutes.

He pulled it out under the table.

Patterson

Hal’s. Twenty minutes. Come alone.

His jaw locked.

Hal’s Tavern. Eastside dive.

“Everything okay?” Michael’s voice cut through the noise.

Asher looked up and met those dark eyes.

“Work.” He pocketed his phone. “I have to head out.”

“You just got here.” Dani’s smile faded. “Like, ten minutes ago.”

“I know.” He grabbed his jacket and keys. “Something came up.”

Michael stood. “I’ll walk you out.”

Saying no would make it worse.

Asher nodded and slid from the booth. Everyone’s eyes tracked him. “Enjoy the game.”

November air hit the second he pushed through the door. Cold and sharp, the taste of the wind off the mountains promised snow.

Michael followed, his footsteps crunching on gravel. “You want to tell me what’s really going on?”