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“There’s nothing to feel nervous about.” He inches closer to my lips. “I promise you’ll like this surprise. It’s really good. More than good actually.”

I smile, relaxing into his touch. “Then surprise me.”

When he kisses me this time, each small wound afflicting my heart heals. His mouth on mine like this, in this place, creates magic.

CHAPTER FORTY-EIGHT

jersey stays

MICHAEL

Twenty-two years old

The start of the season is as overwhelming as it is exciting. But this year, the emotions are heightened. We had an amazing preseason, winning five out of six exhibition games. Our spirits are high, and while we’re all full of superstitions and don’t talk about our chances aloud, I can almost hear the word “hope” in the air when the team gathers in the locker room, on the ice, or during conditioning. Or maybe it’s just me. Maybe it’s because I finally have my girl by my side. In this kind of headspace, nothing could spoil the season for me.

I finally won Isla’s heart for good, and that’s the most important win I’ll ever secure. Coming home to her, sharing meals, talking about anything and everything, and falling asleep holding her tight fuels me with an energy I’ve never before possessed. Suddenly, there’s a voice in my head telling me I can do anything. She’s my motivation, my inspiration, and the only person in the world who knows me inside and out.

I finally got the girl of my dreams, and I’ll never take her for granted, especially after all the time we spent apart.

The regular season starts tonight, the Phantoms playing Pittsburgh, and these days, Isla all but lives on the ice or in the dance studio. I do what I can to support her in every way possible.

And because I’m a lucky asshole, one of the things she needs most is sex. When her stress level gets too high, the easiest way to get relief is by riding my dick. And, like before, every time with her is better than the last. Though secretly, I’d give it up if it meant she could be more relaxed, even if it meant I’d get to come less often.

This morning, she left for practice with Elena before I woke up, but she promised she’d try to make it to the game. I can’t imagine she’ll want to come. This close to the Olympics, her practices take all her energy.

Moments before warm-ups, I linger at the mouth of the tunnel, helmet tucked under my arm, stick in hand, watching the lower bowl fill up.

I find her almost immediately. Center ice, fourth row. She’s flanked by Blake and Elena, but I don’t pay them any attention. All I can think about is Isla and the jersey she’s wearing. The black and purple look incredible on her, but my number 17 is the star of the show. Until I peel it off her later, that is.

“Earth to Thompson.”

The familiar voice sends a shiver down my spine. I blink and turn, and when his identity registers, I stiffen a little. Cade Turner, Pittsburgh’s center. My first rival, not only in hockey, but for Isla’s attention. For years, we didn’t see eye to eye, but eventually, we became somewhat friendly. Mostly because we both missed Isla.

“Hey.” I lift my chin.

“Hi. I said your name four times before you finally heard me.” He tilts his head, studying me. His eyes are the same gray-blue color, but his hair is longer than I remember. “How are you doing?”

“Good.” I nod. “Ready for the season. You?”

“Same. Feels like this might be the year.” He smirks. “The year we’re the ones lifting the Cup.”

“Keep dreaming, bud.” I grin.

Scoffing, Turner shakes his head. “You haven’t changed a bit.”

“Maybe. Maybe not.” I can’t help but peer out into the crowd again.

Beside me, I feel him following my gaze. “You looking for someone?”

“Yeah.” I meet his eyes again. “That’s why I didn’t hear you. Isla’s here.”

He blinks. Once. Twice. “Wait…you and Isla?”

“Yeah,” I say simply, even though I’m celebrating on the inside. “We’re together.”

He lets out a slow breath, then chuckles. “Guess I never really stood a chance. She never had eyes for anyone but you.” He taps his helmet against his thigh, breaking into a genuine grin. “Just makes me want to kick your ass even more tonight.”

Head tipped back, I laugh. “Wouldn’t expect anything less.”