Freya: They haven’t been?
Parker: Nope. You’re the only one I know of who’s gotten inside the goalie’s lair.
I stare at the message, unable to believe the words. But then I think back to some of the things he said earlier. I was so nervous at the time, most of his words didn’t really register. But…
“Shit.”
In my purse sits a key fob that allows me entry into Cole Hansley’s life.
One that he doesn’t allow others into.
Why me?
I’m just a heartbroken girl who lives next door to his coach. What the hell has he seen in me that’s led me to be invited into his life? Into his home?
Casey: I bet there’s a lot more to Handsy than meets the eye. He only shows the guys what he wants them to see. Can’t lie, I’m curious as fuck to know what makes him tick.
My heart rate begins to pick up. Is that going to be me? Am I going to find out? Or is he going to be just as closed off with me as he is with everyone else in his life?
Freya: He’s probably just really boring and spends all his time at home watching documentaries.
As I type the words, they feel wrong. But I don’t know what else to say. I didn’t see anything today that leaves me suspicious about how Cole lives his life outside of the hockey limelight.
Parker: Maybe…
Casey: Or maybe not.
“Ugh,” I complain, annoyed that they’ve planted these curiosities in my head.
Freya: I’ve got an early start in the morning. And I’m yet to figure out what to make for breakfast. I’ll talk to you both tomorrow x
Parker: Night x
Casey: Sleep well x
Closing our chat, I pull up my favorite recipe site and begin scrolling through breakfast options.I might have already made a meal plan to work from, but I can’t stop myself from searching for more ideas.
I make a short list and then spend most of the night tossing and turning, continuously changing my mind about which one he’ll like the most and how to ensure I hit all his macros.
Honestly, each dish looks delicious, and I’m sure he’ll love each one. But I need to get it right. I need him to wake up and know he hasn’t made a mistake by hiring me on a whim.
6
COLE
I’m alerted the second Freya arrives at my apartment the next morning by my cell lighting up with a notification. I’ve been on the exercise bike in my home gym for almost an hour. I’m not going fast, or really pushing myself, but I had to do something. I tossed and turned all night. It was as if today was the first day of a new school year, and I was anxious as fuck. Only, I’m a fully grown fucking adult. Right now, my life is stable. My position with the Vipers is as secure as it can be; my stats speak for themselves. I’ve had more shutout games this season than I’ve ever had. I know where I stand; I know the challenges that lie ahead. The only new thing in my life that I don’t have entirely figured out is her.
Freya Price.
Tapping on the notification, I wait for the camera to open as my legs slow to a snail’s pace. A smile twitches at my lips as I watch her fumbling with her key fob, some grocery bags, and her purse.
I should probably go and help her, but my ass stays firmly planted on the seat.
She’s pulled her hair back into a high ponytail, but unlike yesterday, she’s dressed casually. I take in her pale-yellow T-shirt, skinny jeans, and sneakers. I barely know this woman, but even through the screen, I can tell she’s feeling more relaxed today.
I watch until she disappears, leaving me with the fading sound of her making her way to the kitchen.
My stomach growls in anticipation, and before I know it, I’m climbing off my bike and marching across the room.
