“Yeah, we beat your family, so I’m feeling better about myself.”
I laugh. “You did have two professional hockey players on your team, so I wouldn’t get too excited.”
He lifts both shoulders, scanning the facility. When he looks at me again, his expression is stony. “Listen, I’m only going to say this once and then I’ll drop it.”
My insides twist into knots, but I nod and give him my full attention.
“Five years ago, I explained what to do when it came to Adeline. I told you what regret feels like. Watching the person I wanted most start a family with someone else? I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. And JJ, you did that to my daughter.” He lets those words hang between us, and all the lightness I’d found only moments ago is gone in an instant. I did do that to Adeline. And I can’t even imagine what it must have felt like for her. Probably a little like I’m feeling now. Beckett steps closer. “So be very sure that your concern is real and not just jealousy. Because Adeline deserves to be loved. Maybe it won’t be this guy, but it will be someone, and you’re going to have to get on board with that.”
My heart thrashes wildly at the thought of anyone else with her. At the idea that any other man could love her the way I could. But somehow I remain completely calm as I say, “I just want her to be safe.”
Beckett nods. “Then we’re good.”
TWENTY-FOUR
ADDIE
Twenty-One Years Old
Salt Lake City, Utah, Olympics
JJ: Not that you need it, but good luck today.
Me: Thank you again for coming yesterday. It meant a lot to me.
JJ: You mean a lot to me. We’ll talk soon. Go focus.
JJ: Holy shit, Addie Angles! A goddamn shutout!
Me: Ahhh! It was wild!
JJ: Call me whenyou can.
Me: Tried calling but it went to voicemail. Heading to bed.
JJ: Sorry, I forgot to charge my phone. Game tonight, but I’ll call you after.
Me: Ah, sorry I missed your call. Was super loud in the Olympic village. Tomorrow?
JJ: Sorry I was short on the phone. I’m irritated. Not at you. At this situation. I miss you. I’m proud of you. And I hate that I’m not there to watch you kicking ass. Adeline, your photo is everywhere! There are grumbles in locker rooms. Two fucking shutouts during the Olympic games? You are incredible and I’m a dick.
Me: you’re not a dick. I’ll be home in a week. Is it bad that I can’t wait? I want to enjoy this. I’ve been working toward it for my whole life, and now…I feel like…
JJ: I know. But I’m not going anywhere. Promise. Enjoy this.
“Time to go.”My roommate’s voice sounds in one ear as the familiar robotic voice telling me to leave a message plays in the other.
Shit. Yet another day without talking to JJ. These two weeks should be the most joyful time in my life, yet I’m nothing more than a pathetic girl wondering if the boy she likes really likes her.
It’s disturbing.
But it’s JJ.
And two weeks ago, he almost kissed me.
It was the first time he’s ever truly surprised me. I’d given up hoping that one day he would see me the way I see him. That one day he would want me.
And I’m so damn nervous that he only did it because he was jealous. That it was an irrational reaction to the idea that Ryan—my freaking coach—had any interest in me.
