Page 142 of Cross Check

GE

I’m going skiing with Ethan, Connor, and a couple of the rookies out in Colorado, actually.

AG

Nice! We’ve had a lot of snow this year, so you’ll have some nice powder.

GE

Gnarly!!!

Am I speaking like a Coloradan?

AG

You’re speaking like something, that’s for sure.

FORTY-FIVE

AMELIA

FEBRUARY, THREE SEASONS AGO

Snow has been falling for hours, and I take it as the perfect excuse to stay wrapped in a blanket on the couch where I’ve spent the majority of my week. The All-Star break has been relaxing, and I forget how nice it is to sleep in the same bed for longer than one night.

Stifling a yawn, I rest my head on the cushions. A midday nap sounds like the best way to spend my afternoon, but a text message distracts me from closing my eyes.

GE

I’m stuck in Denver another night because of this blizzard.

I could sit in the lobby of my hotel while they get a new room ready, but hanging out with you sounds way more fun.

If you’re free, that is! Sorry. Shouldn’t assume you’re not busy!

I smile and sit up, pulling my feet under me. Grant has been up in the mountains with his teammates the last couple of days. They spent their break at a cabin where they skied and snowboarded, and I’ve gotten dozens of photos of him in his goggles and bright winter pants.

My favorite was a selfie he captured on the slopes, an arm out at his side and his head tipped back with a grin. He wrote life is worth living!!! under it, and I saved it as his new contact photo.

It doesn’t surprise me that his flight is canceled because of this rough weather, and my thumbs fly across the screen as I type out a response.

Me

I guess we can.

GE

Jeez, Lia. Don’t sound so excited about it.

Me

We should absolutely hang out!!!!!! I can’t wait!!!! Come over whenever!!!!

GE

I’m going to pretend that wasn’t sarcasm and you’re excited to see me ;)

Me