Chapter Twenty
DECLAN
“Would you stop pacing? You’re going to put a dent in the carpet.”
“I can’t help it. I want it to be here.”
Alice laughs at me, walking from the kitchen to give me a cup of coffee. “You still have ten minutes before they’re supposed to come.”
“You know…”
“Don’t get any ideas,” Alice says, dropping down onto the couch and kicking her feet up.
Lifting them, I sit next to her and pull them into my lap. “Damn. It definitely would have taken my mind off things.”
Alice sips her coffee, already looking as beautiful as ever. Given that today is my day with the Cup, we were both up before the sun rose. With the season starting in just a few weeks, I’ve had this day in my mind for weeks.
Hell, I’ve been dreaming of this since I was a kid. What kid doesn’t grown up imagining winning the Stanley Cup and getting to have their day with it?
A knock sounds from the front door.
“Thank God.” Leaping over the back of the couch, I swing open the front door.
There it is. In all its glory.
“Mr. Paddack. Hi, I’m John Bellville.”
I shake the man’s hand. He’s dressed in a pressed black suit with a black tie and white gloves.
“Hi.”
Opening the door wider, I beckon him inside. Alice’s eyes track the trophy as it’s brought into the living room and set on the coffee table.
“You’re aware of the rules?” he asks.
“Yes.”
We were all given a lecture from Coach Barney not to do anything to embarrass ourselves—or the team—on our day. Notices also landed in our lockers on clean-out day on how our behavior directly reflects on the team.
It’s why I have an easy day planned.
“Good. Then we’ll have a good day together.”
“You’re here all day?” Alice asks.
“Sorry. Alice, John. John, Alice.” I introduce them, but I don’t take my eyes off the gleaming silver trophy that fills the living room.
“Nice to meet you.”
“You too, ma’am. I’ll be around, but as long as you don’t do anything to damage the Cup, you won’t notice me.”
“I’ll try and keep him in line.”
“Hey.” I glance at her, before looking back at the Cup. “Holy shit.”
“What?” Alice asks, coming to stand next to me.
“There’s my name.”
