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ONE

ETHAN

As I turned onto the long, tree-lined driveway to the Montgomery place, childhood memories flashed through my mind. I hadn’t been out here in six years, not since the funeral for Nicolas’s mom. When I was a kid, though, and all the way through high school, this was one of the places I hung out, especially in the winter.

Nicolas was a couple of years older, but we’d met because his dad coached hockey and through that we became friends. The pond here wasn’t too deep and usually provided playable ice for three months, more or less. Anyone who knew the Montgomerys and played hockey took full advantage of the outdoor playtime.

Hockey and school were my primary focuses back then. One fed the other.

I needed good grades to stay on the team.

I needed to be a great player to get into a college with a top hockey program.

The end goal was an education and the chance to go pro.

The work had paid off. I put college on hold after my first year to play. And last week I’d wrapped my fifteenth NHL season with a conference final loss in the Stanley Cup playoffs.

As much as I loved playing, returning to Maplewood for the summer was something I looked forward to. Although I preferred it when I came back in July rather than May or June.

Nicolas sat on the porch swing, looking toward the pond in the distance. It reminded me of his dad sitting there, coffee in hand, watching us play. In the winter when the trees were bare, he’d had a perfect view.

The house looked great, even better than the pictures he’d sent along a month ago. The two-story mid-century-modern-inspired house had been well maintained, and I intended to keep that tradition up.

Nicolas came off the porch as I got out of my SUV. He appeared haggard and older than I would’ve imagined. At his temples, gray flecked his auburn hair, and dark circles under his eyes suggested he wasn’t getting enough rest. His attempt at a welcoming smile didn’t mask the weariness in his movements.

“Ethan, it’s good to see you.” He gave me a warm hug. “I really could’ve met you in town.”

“I couldn’t wait to come out here, especially on a gorgeous morning like this.”

Summer started tomorrow and even though it was a little warmer than usual, the sky was crystal blue and the breeze was just right, making it an ideal day to make my first visit back.

Sadness tinged Nicolas’s eyes. “I’m glad you wanted this place. I know you’ll look after it. Dad smiled when I told him you were the buyer.”

That meant a lot.

Nicolas’s father had struggled since his stroke a couple of years ago, so seeing his dad smile must’ve been a relief for Nicolas. I hoped it’d let him release some of the stress he carried.

I nodded. “It’ll be in good hands. And there’ll always be a room for you and Angel when you visit. In fact, I hope you can get here during the holidays for some hockey.” I gestured with my head toward the pond.

“Let’s make that happen. As long as you promise not to trounce me too badly.”

“A friendly pickup game is yours anytime you want it.” I clapped him on the back as we headed inside.

As we crossed from the foyer into the living room, one of the floorboards creaked just like it always had. Entering the space, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia at the sight of the stone and wood-paneled floor-to-ceiling fireplace. My heart ached for Nicolas, having to give up this place.

I knew from the pictures I’d seen that the kitchen had undergone a radical transformation. Gone were the vintage wood cabinets and patterned linoleum floor in favor of sleek walnut cabinetry, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, but the pendant lights over the island and the starburst wallpaper reminded me of the kitchen where so much hot chocolate had been served.

“The place looks wonderful. Seeing it in person is…” I didn’t have the words to describe my feelings to him. “I honestly can’t believe I get to live here.”

“I think it was meant to be. Elena hearing about it from Janice and then telling you. We didn’t expect to sell so quick and easy.” Nicolas paused and looked at me. His eyes glistened as he blinked and struggled to hold back his emotions. “It really helps.”

“I’m glad.” I drew him into another hug since it looked like he needed it.

I released him as there was a knock on the door. “That must be the notary. I’ve got everything on the big table. I’ll be right back.”

I nodded and headed into the dining room. I traced my fingers over the smooth surface of the weathered oak table. The view through the tall windows out to the woods captivated me, just like it always had.

I greeted Ms. Easton as Nicolas took a seat and started signing. She took out her notary supplies as I sat in what was my usual spot.