Page 83 of Icebound Attraction

My heart sinks at his words and I fight back tears. I was hoping he'd give me a chance to tell him I never meant to hurt him.

“I just want you to understand what really happened.” I beg.

I'm ashamed of myself for begging for the attention I didn't want to give him after my altercation with his ex. He wanted to explain himself too, and I wouldn't listen. So, I'm getting my money's worth!

He shakes his head again and takes a step back, as if to protect himself from me, and I swallow my disappointment.

“Okay,” I murmur. “When you're ready, let me know.”

He nods weakly, opens the door, and disappears from my sight.

I'm left alone outside, and the feeling of helplessness overwhelms me. I'd really hoped to be able to resolve this quid pro quo tonight, but instead the gulf between us seems to have widened even further.

It's with a heavy heart that I head for my room.

***

Over the next few days, I spend a lot of time sorting out my thoughts and thinking about how we got here.

David, the editor-in-chief of the campus newspaper, flouted his authority, and my integrity for that matter, by carelessly altering the article about Liam. He had the nerve to sign my name to that piece of garbage! I'm extremely angry with him, but for the time being, I know he's untouchable. If I go after the editor, I'm going to get shot at point-blank range, because that guy's got connections. And he got his way by laughing in my face!

And what do I look like? Like the girl who knocked down her boyfriend to get some buzz...

I'm stuck between a feeling of shame and helplessness that knocks me out. I can barely concentrate on my classes. Cassy and Maddie can't get me out anywhere. I feel like I'm being stared at and made to look like a horrible person, so I prefer to keep to myself.

It's hard. Very hard.

Finally, I decide that I can't just sit back and do nothing. Liam and I have a history. Our feelings can't just be swept away overnight. Even if I was profoundly stupid to believe, even a little, in the words uttered by the infamous Sara. In fact, it wasn't that I believed her, it was that she hurt me by implying that what Liam did to me, he had done to others. For a moment, I was naive enough to believe that I was exceptional and that we were experiencing all our first times together. But I wasn't a virgin before I met him, and I've had one night stands and relationships too. But... I think I wanted to believe that we were experiencing something new together. Being reminded that it wasn't true hurt.

Poor idiot...

All of a sudden, my ego got the better of me and I braced myself. Now I'm paying the consequences.

So, I take my courage in both hands and decide to go to the last hockey game of the season, which takes place today with his team. It's crucial to his and Chase's future. If they place and win, they'll have a real shot at the draft! There's no way I'm going to miss it! Especially as scouts from all over the country will also be present, and this is their chance to shine after their intensive training over the past few weeks.

This time, no notebook or camera, no, it's okay, I gave it away! Another journalist from the campus newspaper was put on the case, and I'm relieved.

I find a place anonymously in the bleachers, a cap screwed on my head. I look really stupid, but I'd rather go incognito than get kicked out again or feel the stares of the other students weighing on me. Worse, to distract Liam from that fateful moment.

All around me, the atmosphere is electric. Die-hard fans are excited and hopeful.

For Liam and Chase, there's a lot more at stake than just winning or losing. They must be very nervous...

Thankfully, the article doesn't seem to have put a dent in Liam's training, and I commend his fortitude for that!

From the referee's first whistle, the fight is fierce. Their opponents are strong, and it seems they never miss an opportunity to provoke them. But neither Liam nor Chase is intimidated. They fight hard and show why they should play in the NHL.

Every shot, every save, every action on the ice has the potential to decide their future.

Towards the last few minutes of the game, with the score already well in favor of our university team, Liam starts to move. It's as if he's decided not to give up. He steals the puck and escapes with Chase towards the goal. It's a breathtaking moment and the spectators hold their breath. Liam passes to Chase at the last moment. He prepares himself, shoots, and puts the puck into the goal with force.

Shouts are heard everywhere, and I can't help but join in the fun.

They've won the season! It's unbelievable!

Already, many people are rushing to greet their victory. Coach Franklyn is thrilled, I can also see Mr. Turner, and several other journalists. It's great media coverage for them!

Without further ado, I descend a few levels towards the rink, waiting for the euphoria to die down a little before catching a glimpse of my favorite player.

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