“Si.” My eyes get wet. "I love you so much. And you’re being so patient."
"I love you too." He kisses my forehead. "Even if you're making me wait to put a ring on it."
"You can still buy the ring. Just don't propose yet."
His eyebrows lift. "You want me to buy a ring?"
"I want you to be ready when I am." I grin at him. "Plus, I have opinions about what kind of ring I want. We should probably discuss that."
"You have opinions about your engagement ring?"
"Obviously. It's going to be on my hand forever. I should like it."
He laughs, the tension breaking. "Okay. Tell me about this ring."
Grinning at him, I lean my head against his chest. I’m not ready yet, but Silas’s excitement pushes me that much further along.
Chapter Thirty-Eight
Silas
The locker room buzzes with pre-game energy. We're playing Colorado tonight. Playoff implications, national broadcast, the whole deal. Coach Cross stands at the whiteboard, marker in hand, running through the game plan one more time.
"Silas, you're shadowing their first line all night. I don't care if Rzeznik takes a shit, you're in the stall next to him. Got it?"
"Got it."
Hunter grins from across the room. "Defense Daddy's gonna shut them down."
"Shut up," I mutter, but there's no heat in it. The guys have been calling me that since some TikTok went viral last month. I hate it. Scout thinks it's hilarious.
My phone buzzes. I check it even though I shouldn't.
Scout
Good luck tonight, baby. Sable and I will be in our usual seats, wearing your jersey, cheering on the most amazing d-man in the league. Go be intimidating.
Me
You're wearingmy jersey, huh?
Scout
#12. With your name on the back. Everyone's going to know I'm yours.
Heat flares through my chest. Three months ago, Scout wouldn't have been caught dead advertising that we're together. Now she's sitting in the family section wearing my number like she's proud of it.
Me
You're perfect. Love you.
Scout
Love you too. Now go win this game.
I pocket my phone and finish taping my stick. The ritual settles me. Heel to toe, no gaps, perfect spiral. My shoulder's been feeling good lately. Scout's mobility work is actually helping, though I'd never admit it to her smug face.
"Five minutes!" someone shouts.
