Page 76 of Released from the Sin Bin

Carter glares at his brother from across the rink before checking in with me with a slight dip of his head.

This is only a practice.

These guys are way more hot-headed when it’s game time, but I can do this. I played in co-ed teams all throughout high school. I can take them.

“Sorry about Braydon.” Alex skates over after checking in with all the guys as their captain. “I had Luca on speaker earlier warning all the guys not to mess with you.”

“Great,” I laugh.

“We were thinking of going out tonight for a drink, and to watch Luca’s game. Kandi’s coming too. I didn’t know if you could since you’re our coach now.”

I used to hang out with Luca’s best guy friends all the time with him, which always included Alex and Finn. Coach and I already discussed it, and as long as it doesn’t affect me working with them on the ice, I can still be friends with them.

“Yeah, that sounds like fun. Text me about it later.” I keep our interaction short to take my new job seriously. I really want this to work out.

I may not be playing, but being out here on the ice feels right. This is my home.

“Cool,” Alex says before joining the others to help the freshman out with some skill work.

As awkward as I felt at the start, I’m excited to be helping these guys out.

As long as there’s hockey, everything will be ok.

I will be ok.

Chapter 18

Carter

Willa did an amazing job on her first day with the team.

I was ready to stand up to anyone who dared to disrespect her, but she handled herself well. Especially against my asshole little brother. I’ll kick his ass at some point for that.

Me: Congrats on your first successful day.

I text her to let her know I’m not upset in the slightest. I felt horrible when she accused me of not being happy for her. I am happy for her. I was just selfishly upset for what I’d be losing.

Willa: Come celebrate with me?

I can’t help but think of the way I want to celebrate, but Willa doesn’t mean that. Unless… the girls’ hockey team is away today. That means Willa’s house will be pretty empty.

She said we couldn’t have sex anymore, but she could’ve changed her mind.

Me: What kind of celebration did you have in mind?

Willa: Food.

Willa: Drinks.

Willa: Just come over.

Oh fuck, she definitely changed her mind.

I scramble out of bed to get dressed. I have no idea why I’m so excited, but I’m desperate to get laid. It’s an addiction to Willa slapping me around. I can’t wait to get my face smacked by her.

Throwing on a T-shirt and jeans, I check myself out in the mirror and fix my hair. What am I doing?

It’s not a date. I should’ve kept my sweats on. Too late.

---