I’m not like them.
I’m not like them.
I’m not like them.
A hand drops on my shoulder, and I jump.
“Hey, you okay?” Kaz jars me out of my thoughts.
No.“Yes.” I force a smile.
“I’m not comfortable with the grinning or small talk, but I always make time for fans.”
He’s mistaking my smile for what it really is, a shield to hide my real identity.
“They supported me when I was playing, and now they support my charity. I’d never turn them down.”
He has such appreciation for people.
“Well, all these photos are going to keep me busy tomorrow at work.”
“I’m impressed,” he says.
I tilt my head to the side. “Impressed?”
“It’s a weekend, you’re not on the clock, but you were all business there.”
“You have no idea how much I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. It doesn’t bother me one bit to take photos with your fans on a Sunday to share on your socials. Plus, I was able to remind all those fans about the fundraiser.” I lift my hands up. “Talk about double duty.”
He chuckles.
“All right, my work here is done.” I rub my hands together. “Let’s go back to your place.” I make to turn around.
He clamps a hand on my arm. “Not so fast, Goldilocks. Our start time might’ve been delayed, but you’re getting that sweet ass of yours on the ice.”
Crap.
Chapter 45
I’m Rose and you’re Jack
Kazimir
Iskate backwards, looking over my shoulder, as I weave in and out through kids and adults on the ice. A few of them wave. All of them are grinning ear to ear. I jerk my chin in response.
I return my focus to my student.
Harley is gripping both my hands to the point of cutting off my blood circulation. She’s as wobbly as a newborn giraffe.
“Relax,” I say. “It’ll be a lot easier if you don’t lock your knees.”
“I’m going to die. No, I’m going to fall, crack open my skull, bleed all over this ice, then die.”
“You’re wearing a helmet.”
“So, what?” Her eyes are glued to her feet. “This is ice. Ice kills.”
I suppress a chuckle. “You’re doing great, Harley.”
