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Resolved, I’m just going to have to talk to Lilly about this myself and see if there’s any way I can help her figure out how she can spend her days in the hospital with Aiden.
“Lilly said she had a really great time last night.”
His words jar me from my thoughts. I smile. “Yeah… she seemed to enjoy herself. I think a true hockey fan has been born.”
“She said she got to meet a lot of your teammates and even some of their wives and girlfriends. Said that you did pictures and autographs with people. Oh, and she loved the game too. Lilly said that she’ll take me as soon as I’m able to go.”
“Did she tell you that I’ll get you both seats in the owner’s box?” I ask.
Aiden’s eyes get so big I’m afraid they’ll pop out of his head. “That would be so cool. My friends will be so jealous.”
“Maybe you can bring a friend or two,” I suggest. “I can swing a few more tickets.”
At least I hope I can. Our beloved team owner has made it clear to everyone that she’s always ready to help us out and I assume swinging owner’s suite tickets is an easy ask.
“Can I ask you a question?” Aiden’s expression has turned serious.
“Yeah, man.”
“Do you like my sister?”
I’m a little taken aback, not just by the question, but by the vibe within it. His tone is hard and unyielding, as if he’s trying to be a protective brother but he’s not quite sure how to do it.
I find it endearing and terrifying all at once. I know I have to tread carefully. “Of course I like your sister. She’s an amazing person.”
“Yeah… but do you like her as friends or… more than friends?”
I push away all the thoughts I’ve had over the last few days that focus strictly on how beautiful Lilly is, how easy it’s been to be in her presence, and even all the times that I touched her when I truly didn’t need to. I shove it all away and concentrate on my deepest desire to help this family so that when I give Aiden my answer, I do it with a straight face. “Just friends, buddy.”
His expression turns crestfallen and his gaze drops. “Oh.”
Placing a hand on his shoulder, I ask gently, “Were you hoping it was something more?”
Aiden shrugs but remains silent.
“I just met your sister, Aiden. And right now, I’m focused on trying to help her, you and your dad.”
His head lifts, his eyes searching mine. “But I don’t understand… she’s pretty.”
“Very pretty,” I agree. Truly gorgeous.
“And smart and super sweet.”
“I totally agree.”
“Then what’s wrong with her?” he asks, glaring at me. “And if you say one thing, I’ll hit you.”
It’s a struggle to keep a straight face but I manage. “There’s not a single thing wrong with Lilly. She’s perfect as near as I can tell.”
“Then why don’t you like her as more than friends?” he demands.
For a horrible and long few seconds, I can’t think of a single reason why I don’t like her as more than a friend. Had I met Lilly under different circumstances, I’m quite sure I’d have asked her out on a date.
I wait for something to come to me that explains to Aiden why you can’t force these things. When my mind remains blank, I know the best thing I can do is turn it back on him. “Why is this so important to you?” I ask.
His head drops again and he fidgets with a button on my coat. “Because I want Lilly to have something good and well… you’re good. Great, even.”
Christ, this fucking kid is something else.
