Page 108 of Offside Rules

I glance toward the doors, where the line is moving through security. I’ve been looking forward to tonight all day. I’m not ready to start counting how many nights we have left.

"I’m trying to enjoy tonight, Ellie."

She slips her arm through mine.

"Then let’s go watch your man play."

The Hawkeyes are down by one when Wolf catches a pass near the blue line, and I lean forward with my hands clasped between my knees.

"Come on," I mutter.

Wolf sends the puck ahead and follows the play, but the other team gets possession before the Hawkeyes can get a shot off. He turns with them, backing into position as their winger carries it toward the boards.

I recognize the moment he closes the gap.

So does Ellie, apparently, because she stops chewing.

His elbow stays down. His skates stay on the ice. He catches the winger hard enough that I hear the boards from here, and the puck comes loose.

Hunter gets it.

I’m on my feet before I realize I’ve stood.

"Yes!"

Wolf looks toward us as the play moves away. He points his glove at me, then turns back to follow his team.

Ellie grabs my sleeve.

"Did he just point at you?"

I’m laughing too hard to answer properly.

"I think so."

"You think so?"

"He’s demonstrating his excellent behavior."

"He just put a man into the boards."

"Legally."

"That’s Wolf speak for, "I love you"."

"I’m not going there with you."

She laughs, and I sit down with my face warm and a smile I can’t seem to get rid of.

There’s no bet tonight. He doesn’t have to prove anything to me.

He still wanted me to see it.

When he gets to the bench, Hunter says something that makes him look back toward our seats. I lift my cup at him.

Wolf grins before reaching for his water.

I’ve watched him play for years. Usually, I’ve been hoping somebody would knock him on his ass.