Page 121 of Ice Me Out

“He’s annoying.”

Monica cackled, and Kandace’s eyes widened with wonder.

“Oh, you’re down bad,” Kandace teased.

“I am not,” I huffed.

“Lie better,” Monica remarked.

I sighed dramatically. “He’s bossy, possessive, and obsessive.”

“All good things,” Kandace commented. “What else?”

I stared down at a small rip in my fishnets and picked at it while trying not to smile like a love-struck idiot.

“He’s… the type of guy who finds pleasure in making your day better.”

The alley fell silent as the girls absorbed my confession.

“He’s very affectionate, respectful, generous, and wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s intentional about me, and my mom would’ve loved him.”

Kandace looked startled, and Monica’s mouth formed into a tiny ‘o’.

“Damn,” Monica whispered. “You’re further gone than I originally thought.”

Kandace studied me with freaky cousin-level suspicion. “Nah… you’re not telling me everything.”

I hesitated briefly before spilling the beans. “He’s… a notable public figure.”

Kandace raised a brow. “How notable? Is he another musician? Actor? Finance bro?”

“Hockey player,” Monica blurted.

Kandace’s eyebrows shot up. “Professional?”

“Yes.”

“Am I a fan?”

“You’re not not a fan.”

“Verydian,” Kandace groaned, massaging her eyes with her fingers. “I don’t have time for these fucking games with you. I have a set to finish in case you forgot.”

“She’s being weird because she knows if she says his name out loud that his ass is gonna pop up like Beetlejuice,” Monica chirped.

Kandace laughed softly and shook her head. “So, when do I meet mystery hockey man?”

Almost on cue, my phone buzzed in my fanny pack. I checked my notifications.

Sweet ❤️: I’m here. You have five minutes to get your ass out here or I’m coming in there.

My lips stretched into a wide grin.

“Uh-oh. That means she’s up to no good,” Monica sang.

“You’re gonna meet him now.”

“Can’t wait,” Kandace said, gathering her hair and slipping her mask back on.