Nodding, I study my locker, the hockey gear, the memorabilia I’ve collected through the years. I understand what Dad’s saying. I still love hockey, but I’ve found something I love more.
“You okay, son?” Dad’s still on the line, and I snap out of it.
“Yeah, this was really helpful. Thanks, Dad.” I turn over all that he said. “Why were you thinking I called?”
Another deep laugh. “I thought you’d gotten somebody pregnant.”
“Nah, I leave that for Haddy,” I joke.
“You’d better get out there. We’re all going to be watching and cheering for you.”
“Thanks. Tell Mom I said hey—and to hide behind the post.”
“She watches in the kitchen with Thomas.”
I grin, picturing the two of them crowding around Thomas’s portable, old-school black-and-white television, complete with antenna. His lucky TV.
“We’re definitely winning tonight.”
We didn’t just win, we closed out the series. We won both games, which means we’re facing Edmonton again for the Western Conference Trophy. The Slicks took it last time, but we won’t let it happen again.
It’s a challenge I’ll save for next week.
Tonight when I looked up into the stands and saw her there in my jersey cheering for me, my emotions were all twisted up inside.
It’s happening. We’re almost there, but with an ache, I know. I’ll have to make this final push without her.
“It’s not goingto be the same without you here.” Haddy’s arm is around Dove’s waist and her head is on her shoulder.
“I know,” Dove pouts, reaching for Gina’s hand.
Gina takes it while holding Maddie’s shoulder. “You know I’ll be in touch. We’ve got to talk wedding plans!”
“I can’t wait.” Dove smiles, squeezing my cousin’s hand.
They’ve all stopped by the house to say their goodbyes tonight, since Dove is flying out before dawn tomorrow. A pit is in my stomach, and Gavin and Owen hang with me, watching the scene.
“Yay!” Maddie hops forward taking Dove’s hand. “Mama G said we’ll see you as soon as Daddy finishes hockey, because they’ve got to get married real quick.”
Owen clears his throat, shifting his stance, and we all look from him to Gina and back.
“What does that mean?” I ask, brows furrowed.
“Maddie!” Gina steps forward quickly, placing her hand gently over the little girl’s mouth, and giving Dove asheepish glance. “Sorry… I was planning to call next week and talk about it. I know that’s awfully close to harvest.”
“We can figure it out,” Dove says, tapping her fingers under her eyes. “I’ll be so happy to see you again.”
“What’s the rush, Geeg?” Haddy cocks an eyebrow at her. “Something you want to share with the group?”
Gina’s cheeks flush hot pink, and she shakes her head. “It’s Dove’s night.”
“Mama G sat on Daddy’s lap and kissed him,” Maddie announces. “Now they’re going to have a baby!”
Gavin coughs a laugh, and I press my thumb and forefinger against my cheeks to hide my expression.
“Madison Birgitte.” Owen’s voice is a low scold, and his daughter looks up at him confused.
“What are you talking about, Mads?” Gina’s voice is too high.
