Jabari
I wake up the next day, whistling a mindless tune. My date with Val was perfection, so nothing can ruin my day. I don’t even care that I’ll be sitting with the other injured players instead of on the bench ready to jump into the game.
My phone rings, and I answer it, hoping it’s Val.
“Hello?”
“Hey,” Val says hesitantly.
My brows raise at her tone of voice. “Everything okay?”
“Do you listen toIce Moments?”
“Yeah, Dean and Blaze are hilarious.” Though it’s been a minute since I’ve listened to the all-things-hockey podcast. I don’t want to hear what the hockey world has to say about my condition.
“They were apparently talking about you last night since you released the statement. Then they showed a photo of us at Le Pavillon.”
“I didn’t even see anyone take a picture of us.”Of course you didn’t,Crank. Forget you don’t have the eyesight to spotfans and whatnot?
“Neither did I.”
“Do they know who you are?”
“I wouldn’t care if they did. That’s not the problem.”
I sink onto the bed. “What is?”
“Jackie saw.” Val pauses, then clears her throat. “She’s making a big stink with my family. I’m on my way back to DC to deal with the drama.”
The worst thing Jackie could do is create drama for Val. My peace-loving girlfriend just wants everyone to get along. Her sister, however, is about as attention seeking as anyone can get.
“Are you okay?”
“I will be. I have nothing to be ashamed of. Plus, maybe we can finally clear the air around your breakup with her.”
I wince. “I hate that I put you in this position.”
“You didn’t. Jackie’s lies did.”
Well, I can’t argue with that. “Do you want me to come with you?”
“Didn’t Morgan schedule you to meet with a bunch of donors?”
“Yeah, she did, but...” I run a hand down my face. “I want to do something, Val. I can’t let you face the dragons alone.”
“I love that you want to help, but trust me, this is for the best. I’ll go in, tell the truth, and then hopefully by the time you’re ready to be introduced as my boyfriend, they’ll welcome you with open arms.”
Boyfriend? Did she sayboyfriend? “I’m ready now. I’ll even make a post about it if you’ll let me.” Nothing can wipe the sappy grin from my face. I’m gone over this woman, and I don’t even care.
A low giggle reaches my ears, and my chest swells. I’m glad she can laugh during a difficult moment like this. Val deserves the world, and I’ll do my best to give it to her.
“We can go public after I calm my family down. I just wanted you to know before I leave.”
“I’ll miss you.”
“I’ll miss you too,” she replies softly. “And I’m sorry I fell asleep.”
“Don’t be. I got to hold you in my arms.”
