Page 113 of Hockey Boy

He studies me, his lips pressed together in earnest consideration. “Do you want to be with me?”

“Yes.” There’s no hesitation in that answer. “But you want?—”

Aiden presses his finger to my lips. “You.I want you. We can figure out the rest along the way. You don’t want kids? Fine. I’m an awesome uncle. Not sure marriage is for you? That’s okay too. I make an excellent roommate, and I’m pretty sure I proved to you last night that I’m an amazing lover.”

He presses his lips against mine, and I relax against him. How is it that my mind and my body settle so easily when he’s near?

“There’s no rush for me, Lex. I love you. I’m not going anywhere. Years ago, you gave me what I needed by walking away. Let me give you what you need by staying. You have me by your side for as long as you want me—fake weddings, real ones. I’m down for it all.”

My heart floats in my chest as I think of all the possibilities. Of all the fun we could have. A lifetime of it. “We’ll need to really sell the engagement.”

Aiden’s smile is blinding. “You leave that to me. Just promise me one thing.”

“Anything,” I whisper.

“You’ll be in my jersey at the home game on Friday night.”

Robert: Just confirming our session for this evening.

I winceat the text from my therapist. For once, my life is going perfectly. I don’t want to focus on the bad right now. And every time we talk, that’s where the conversation leads. Plus, I’m busy tonight. But it’s a good thing. A great thing, really.

Me: I’ve got to get ready for my game.

Robert: I understand, but this is the second time you’ve canceled. I would love to help you process what happened at your last game.

Me: Tomorrow. I promise.

I switch over to my family text.

Me: I need everyone at the game tonight.

Brooks: Wouldn’t be anywhere else.LOL.

Me: Ha. I’m serious.

Gavin: Why text all of us? Beckett’s the only one you need to confirm with. Obviously, I’ll be there too.

Me: Because I mean everybody. Millie, Sara, Liv, the kids. Team meeting at the game.

Beckett: Whoa. Only I get to call team meetings.

Me: So call a damn team meeting.

Beckett: You could ask politely.

Me: Just ducking be there. All of you.

Brooks: Everything okay?

Me: I’m good. Very good. And for some reason, I want my annoying-ass brothers and their families there to see how good.

Beckett: We’ll be there.

Brooks: Like I said, I wouldn’t be anywhere else.

Gavin: if you need anything…

Me: I need you to find a reason to get Lennox in the box during warm-ups.