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“You’re a good-looking, successful guy. Why wouldn’t she want to be with you?”
“Did I mention, she doesn’t know who I am?”
“What the fuck, dude? Tell me you didn’t give her a fake name.”
“I gave her my real name but she doesn’t follow sports at all.”
“Are you sure she’s not bullshitting you about that? People who don’t follow hockey can still see us on the news or social media.”
Rubbing the hair on my jaw, I replay the moment we met. There wasn’t any hint of recognition there. And the subsequent times we went out there’s been no visible reactions to make me think she’s aware of who I am. Even when I told her what my last name is, she didn’t blink.
“No, there’s no way. I can tell she’s being honest.”
“Why haven’t you told her what you do for work? Or maybe I should ask what she thinks you do?”
“I haven’t told her because I like knowing she’s dating me for who I am and not how much money I make or which team I play for. When we talked about work, she asked if I was a trainer and I said that’s one of the hats I wear.”
“You know the longer you go without confessing the truth, the more pissed off she’s going to be when you finally have that conversation, right?”
“Yeah, I realize I’ve pushed it as long as I can. I’m thinking of inviting her to the banquet.” Every year we have a dinner for all the team members and their families after the end of the regular season.
“And tell her there?” He gives me a look like I’m certifiable.
“No. I’d explain everything before that night.”
He laughs. “Yeah, and then there’s no way she’s coming with you. Besides, even if she wanted to attend, that could be an uncomfortable situation to thrust someone in, especially someone who’s not familiar with hockey.” He makes a good point.
“Yeah, you’re probably right. I really want to bring her, though. Evie’s different from the women who hang around us after the games and in the bars.”
“I’m glad you met someone nice.” His tone sounds wistful.
“Thanks. It might be time for you to settle down. I mean, you’re not getting any younger.” I grin at him.
“Don’t remind me.”
“About settling down or that you’re old?”
“Both.” He laughs.
I notice Cate rising from Ryder’s lap. I elbow Kaiden’s arm so he can watch how this unfolds. Ryder stands, taking hold of her hand, and leads her to the back hallway. This isn’t anywhere near the first time we’ve seen him do this with Cate or some other puck bunny. I’m not judging him for taking what’s offered, but I’ve never been the kind of guy to go for the hockey fangirls. I’ve always been a relationship kind of guy. I want marriage and a family like my parents have.
“Bathroom sex. Classy,” Murphy says, and we laugh.
“He better wrap that rascal,” I say.
“He does,” Kaiden states.
“How do you know?” Murphy asks.
“I’ve spoken with him about it. He’s young, dumb, and full of cum. I wanted to make sure he wasn’t careless and putting his health in jeopardy.”
I laugh. “Aww, Dad, that’s so sweet.”
“Shut up,” Kaiden growls.
“He really loves us,” Murphy says, winking at me.
Kaiden shakes his head. “Don’t be too sure about that.”
