“And?”
“And she’s important to me.”
“And?”
I let out a frustrated sigh. “And nothing. That’s it.”
Genna studies me for a moment longer, then shrugs. “Okay. If you say so.” She glances over at Paul, who’s now looking in our direction. “I’m going to go rescue my boyfriend from Kade’s stats talk. Just ... think about what I said, okay?”
Before I can respond, she’s gone, weaving through the crowd toward Paul. I’m left alone by the window again, my thoughts a jumbled mess.
Am I catching feelings for Cheyenne?
The idea seems absurd. She’s been part of my life forever. She’s... Cheyenne. But then I remember how my gut twisted when I saw Nate touching her arm. How my day suddenly brightened when she agreed to have hot chocolate with me after the game. How I can’t seem to stop seeking her out in a crowded room.
My eyes drift back to the hallway just as Cheyenne emerges. She pauses, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear as she scans the room. When her gaze meets mine, she smiles—a small, private smile that feels like it’s just for me—and my heart does a weird stuttering thing in my chest.
Oh.
Oh snap.
Genna’s right. I am catching feelings. The realization should terrify me. I don’t do feelings. I don’t do relationships. I flirt, have casual flings, and post photos with models on Instagram. I have a reputation to maintain.
But watching Cheyenne make her way back through the party, stopping to chat with everyone, bringing that smile with her wherever she goes...
For some reason, I don’t even feel terrified.
I feel like I’ve been sleepwalking and someone finally woke me up.
I take another sip of my drink, considering my options. I could ignore whatever this is. Pretend it’s not happening. That would be the safe choice.
Cheyenne’s not some random girl I met at a bar—she’s a permanent fixture in my life. If I screw this up, I ruin more than just a potential relationship.
But as I watch her from across the room, I know ignoring these feelings isn’t going to be as simple as I’d like.
“You need a refill?”
I turn to find Nila beside me, holding a pitcher of whatever holiday punch they’ve concocted. I hold out my cup, grateful for the distraction.
“Thanks,” I say as she tops me off. “Great party.”
“I’m glad you’re enjoying it.” She follows my gaze to Cheyenne. “She’s something special, isn’t she?”
I don’t even bother pretending I don’t know who she means.
“Yeah,” I agree quietly. “She is.”
Chapter Sixteen
Cheyenne
As I stand in Cam and Nila’s packed living room, surrounded by hockey players and their significant others, I can’t help but feel a strange sense of freedom. For the first time in years, I’m at a Christmas party without Garrett analyzing my every move, without his disapproving glances whenever I laugh too loudly or join in on a silly game. It’s just me, my ridiculous sweater, and a room full of people who seem genuinely happy to see me.
“More eggnog?” Nila appears at my side, holding a pitcher.
“Yes, please.” I hold out my cup, watching as she pours the creamy mixture inside. “This eggnog isamazingby the way. I think I’ve had three cups already.”
“Secret family recipe.” She winks. “And don’t worry, there’s plenty more where that came from.”
