Trying it on, it’s a bit too small. Seeing there aren’t any others, I walk up to the counter.
“Do you have any other sizes in this one?”
She smiles as she takes the ring from my hand. “I sure do. I can’t keep this one on the floor.”
“Lots of hockey fans, I take it?”
The ring—crossed hockey sticks with a red stone in the middle—drew me in.
“I’m a big fan of the Knights.”
She pulls a tray of rings from behind the counter and offers me two. I try them both on and grab the size I need.
“I like them too.” I smile at her. “Who’s your favorite player?”
“Dax.” Her answer is immediate. Knowing who she is, I’m not surprised. “How about you?”
“I like Hayes.”
“He’s a good player,” she says, giving my ring a last polish, even though it sparkles. “Are you going to watch the game tonight?”
“I’m headed there next. Hopefully that ring will be a good luck charm.”
“If it is, I might have to start making some for the football team.”
“I’ll be sure to report back, but I think I only have it in me to support our hockey team. They stress me out as it is.”
And it doesn’t hurt that I’ve got a thing for one of the players.
“They really do. I love watching him—them play,” she corrects, “but when they’re losing, it’s hard.”
“God, it really does suck.”
“You got that right. Do you care to look around anymore?”
I shake my head, noting the conversation change. “That’s all. I have to head out if I’m going to make it to the game on time.”
“Perfect. Do you want this wrapped up, or wear it out?”
I take the ring from her and tap my card on the reader. “I’ll wear it. Good luck and all, right?”
“You’re all set then. Cheer loud for me.”
I smile at her. “I will.”
Heading out, I put my new jewelry on and snap a picture of my hand in front of the store.A little social media promo won’t hurt.
As I’m messing with my phone, I bump into someone.
“Oh, excuse?—”
Ice slides down my stomach as I see who it is.
Eric. The very last person in the world I want to see.
A smarmy grin comes over his face. “Well, well, well. If it isn’t Miss Rose. What are you doing down in the city?”
I cross my arms, staring up at him. “I live here.”
