"That was one time."
"It was two times if we count the Holden fight."
"We're not counting the Holden fight. That was a misunderstanding."
"A misunderstanding that resulted in you throwing punches on the ice."
"He started it."
"You're proving my point."
He laughs again. "Okay, fine. You win. You're the rational one."
"Thank you." I sit up to look at him. "Now promise me you'll actually think about dev camp. Really think about it. Not just react."
"I promise."
"And you'll talk to Coach about it?"
"I will."
"And you won't make any permanent decisions about your hockey career while you're angry?"
"You're very bossy right now."
"I'm looking out for you. There's a difference."
"I know." He cups my face. "And I appreciate it.”
I kiss him, slow and deep, hoping he can feel how sure I am. I want him to know I believe in him, that I trust he’ll find his way.
When we finally pull apart, he's looking at me with something like wonder.
"What?" I ask.
"Nothing. I just…I don’t want to lose you. You ground me. That little knot of nerves that’s always present relaxes when I’m with you.”
My heart does a little dance in my chest. “I’ll be with you for as long as you’ll have me.”
Chapter Six
DECLAN
Aweek.
It's been a week since I walked out of my father's hotel suite—seven days of radio silence. No calls. No texts. No passive-aggressive emails.
Nothing.
I check my phone compulsively anyway. Not because I want him to reach out. But because the silence feels wrong. Like the calm before a storm.
He always has the last word. Always needs to reassert control. The fact that he hasn't suggests he's planning something bigger than a phone call.
Or maybe he's actually done with me. Maybe I pushed too far. Said too much. Finally crossed the line he can't forgive.
I tell myself I don't care.
I'm lying.
