19
COLE
While our opponent’s goalie had a tough time of this match-up, my end of the ice had been pretty quiet, allowing me a very quick stop at Parker’s trainer’s table before getting re-dressed into my game day suit and heading up to the suite where I know I have two people waiting on me.
That in itself is mind-blowing.
I have people waiting to see me. To congratulate me on another shutout.
“Fucking hell,” I mutter, dragging my shower-damp hair back as I set my sights on the door ahead.
“Are you okay?” Monroe asks beside me. I’d forgotten he was there.
“Yeah, of course. Everything is great. You played a good game tonight.”
At my praise, he lights up like a freaking Christmas tree. “You think?”
“Yeah, Marilyn. I had an easy night thanks to you guys.”
“Well,” he says, his cheeks blazing. “We’re just doing our job.”
Reaching out, I rub my knuckles over his head, messing up his hair.
“Hey,” he complains. “What if there’s a hot girl in there?”
“Any girl in that room is somehow related to your teammates. Probably for the best you’re not looking your best,” I tease.
“Why? Do you think I stand a chance?”
“Christ,” I mutter.
“I’m joking. I don’t want anyone’s sister.”
“Good,” a deep voice grunts from behind us.
Monroe startles, gazing back at Rett like he just hung the moon.
“Great game, man,” I say as we approach the door.
“You really were incredible tonight,” Monroe gushes.
Rett turns to look at him, his brow creasing before he continues forward, throwing the door open and disappearing inside.
“What?” Monroe asks when I continue to stand there, watching him.
“Have you got a crush on Rett?”
Horror covers our rookie’s face. “What? No. Of course I don’t have a crush on him. He has a penis. I’m not…I don’t…fucking hell.” He pauses, seemingly collecting himself. “I just respect him as a player. I’m honored to share the ice with him.”
“Uh huh.”
“I’m honored to be beside you, too, Hands.”
“Sure you are. You don’t blush like that when you look at me, though.”
“Sorry, but I don’t want to be a goalie when I grow up. I want to be a D man like Donnelly.”
I smile at him, loving his enthusiasm and commitment to improving his game. I remember what it felt like to be a rookie.To feel like you have everything to prove to ensure you get to keep your place.
