Page 78 of Risking the Pucking Defense

But eventually, the dots start bouncing, and I stare anxiously at the screen, waiting to see what he has to say.

Hayden: Rylee’s care was expensive. I help my parents out every way I can.

“Shit,” I breathe, my chest tightening.

Hayden: Hockey has always been my dream. But knowing that if I made it, I’d be able to help them after everything they’ve done for us. Well, it means everything to do.

Hailee: You’re an incredible son and brother, Hayden. I hope you know that.

I picture him blushing, and damn it, I wish I could see it in person.

Hayden: It’s the least I can do. They deserve the world.

Hailee: So do you.

Hayden: Is that right?

Hayden: Honestly, I was just going for heaven. Felt like I got pretty close earlier tonight.

Hailee: You’re trouble.

Hayden: You love it.

“Shit.” I think…I think I might.

Hayden: I’m gonna crash. Been a long week. Speak to you soon?

Hailee: Goodnight, Hayden. Sleep well x

I stare at that little kiss I absently added to the end of my message for the longest time, to the point I startle when Hayden’s reply pops up.

Hayden: Goodnight. Dream of that distracting man in his tux. Something tells me that he’ll be thinking about you…

23

HAYDEN

Iwalk into the arena wearing my game suit, trying to keep my head high and not allow myself to slump under everything that’s threatening to keep me down.

I should be buzzing. It’s our first exhibition game of the preseason, and we’re playing on our own ice.

The last time we took to the ice, we were playing in the Stanley Cup Final. Fuck, that was everything. Well, almost. Just like tonight, I didn’t have everyone I needed in the crowd.

Tonight, my parents are here. I’m fucking stoked they made the journey, but also…

“Fuck,” I grunt, dragging my hand down my face before shoving the door open and stepping inside the building.

Rylee might not have made it to many games in person since I signed with the Vipers. But if she wasn’t in the crowd, then I knew she was watching from home. It made a difference.

Her support always made a difference.

She’s still there. She’s still supporting you, a little voice says on repeat as I make my way toward where the rest of the guys will be getting dressed for warmup. I’m not late, not quite, but something tells me that I might be the last in. And the second I step into the dressing room, I discover I’m right.

“Hey, you alright, man?" Rett asks, squeezing my shoulder the moment I drop into my stall beside his.

“Yep, ready to get this show on the road.”

“Fuck, yeah,” Killer barks. “We’re going all the motherfucking way this year, boys.”