“That would be awesome.” He passes over his ball cap, and Flip pulls a Sharpie out of his pocket. He signs stuff for the rest of the guys—with the hand that was between my legs—and by some miracle, we manage to escape my apartment building without another fan run-in.
“You really might need to come up with a disguise nowthat we’re out in the open,” I say once we’re in his car and he’s navigating Friday evening traffic. “Or I can just meet you off campus or in the parking lot, like I was supposed to.”
“I can handle a few fans,” Flip assures me. “And the novelty will wear off.”
I hope he’s right, because spending the rest of the semester being the hot topic on campus does not seem fun. “Things amp up during playoffs, though,” I remind him.
“We’ll figure it out.” He threads his fingers through mine. “There’s a treat for you in the glovebox.”
“Because the dress that showed up at my apartment wasn’t enough for tonight?”
“I wanted us to match and I didn’t want it to be something you had to worry about since I know the workload this semester is intense.”
“I love the dress.”
“So do I.” He winks. “Check the glovebox.”
I pop it open. “Mini Stroopwafels! Did you go to the Dutch Toko again?”
“I did. But there’s more in there. I meant to bring it up with me and give it to you while I was in your apartment, but I forgot.”
“In too much of a rush to get to me?” I tease.
“Exactly.”
My heart stutters as I pull out a small, wrapped box. “What’s this?”
“You’ll have to open it to find out.”
I carefully peel away the wrapping paper. Inside is a blue box. My stomach tightens as I lift the lid. “Phillip, this is beautiful.” Nestled in the cushioned velvet is a pair of jewel-encrusted ballet slippers on a white gold chain.
“I saw it and thought of you,” he replies, his smile soft.
“I love it so much.”And you, I want to say, but it feels toosoon, and too scary a thing to admit. “I’ll wear it all the time.” And when I miss him, I’ll have a little piece of him with me.
“I’ll help you put it on once we’re parked.”
He pulls into the arena lot and finds a spot. I unclasp the necklace and move my hair aside so he can fasten it. He presses his lips to my nape before sitting back. “Let’s see.”
I finger the delicate charms. “It’s gorgeous.”
“You’re gorgeous.” He kisses me softly. “Wait here and I’ll come around and get you.” I stay where I am while he rounds the hood. How did this become my life? I have the most amazing, thoughtful boyfriend.
Flip links his arm with mine, guiding me inside. The arena is decorated like a high school prom, complete with balloon arch for photos. The younger players wear pretty dresses and suits.
I spot Brody and Rix right away, along with Tristan and Quinn. He’s brought a date tonight; the same woman who came to Connor and Dred’s wedding. I didn’t have much of a chance to talk to her, but she seems nice. She’s tall with pale blonde hair and a girl-next-door vibe. I’m grateful to have friends here, so it won’t be totally awkward. Flip takes me over to where Brody and Quinn are talking to the coaches.
“Hey, Tally.” Brody gives me a quick side hug.
“Vander Zee?” A man in his mid-thirties turns to me.
“That’s right.” I lift my hand in a wave.
“Is this your date?” the man asks Brody.
I swallow my hysterical giggle. I’m pretty sure Brody and I both want to disappear.
Brody tucks his hand into his pocket. “Uh, no, we’re just friends.”
