Page 21 of Heart of a Defender

The game continues, but I can’t focus on it. My eyes keep drifting back to Zach and how he holds himself with determination in his every move. He’s more than just a player. He’s a protector, a defender.

When the final buzzer sounds, signaling the end of the game, the crowd erupts in applause. The Saints won, but I can only think about getting to Zach. I push through the throng of people, making my way to the locker room area.

I flash my press badge at security and scramble toward the locker room. As I reach the corridor, I see him. He’s standing there, talking to one of his teammates, a towel pressed to his bloodied nose. When he glances up and sees me, for a moment, everything else fades away–the crowds, the noise, and any lingering doubt.

I rush to his side, my heart in my throat as I catch a whiff of his blood and sweat. “Are you okay?”

“Just a few bruises.” His voice is rough but filled with relief. He nods as a small smile tugs at his lips.

How on earth can he smile when he’s bloodied and bruised? I reach for him but pull back, afraid I’ll grab a sore spot or worse.

“I’m so sorry this happened,” I whisper, my voice thick with emotion. “This is all my fault.”

“None of this is your fault.” Zach reaches for me, and I step into his arms as relief floods through me. “Mark had it coming. Any prick who thinks he can mess with the woman I love is on notice right now. I’ll fight for you, Madison. Every day, every time.”

I bury myself in his chest, allowing his words to soak into my skin, heart, and lungs. Tears sting my nose and eyes, but I don’t care if I cry. It isn’t weakness. It’s love.

“I love you, Zach Brooks.” I blink back the tears and throw my arms around his neck.

He lifts me off the ground, planting a bruising kiss on my lips. He’s salty and sweaty, but he’s mine, and I’m never letting him go.

***

Zach

After a quick shower and Q&A session with the press, I make a beeline to Madison at the back of the room. She’s more than someone I care about. She’s my family, someone I’ll protect no matter what. Mom and Lauren have taught me that family always comes before self.

The press gave me a good grilling about the scuffle and if it was worth the time I lost in the penalty box. If I hadn’t made the last shot, we would have lost the game. Was the fight worth risking losing the game? Damn straight. If standing up for what’s right disappoints fans or tarnishes my reputation, so be it. We’re all Saints on this team, but we aren’t angels. Fans look up to us and emulate us, but that doesn’t mean we’re perfect or will always set the best example.

Tonight, I fought for the woman I love, and I’ll never be ashamed of that.

“What do you say we get out of here?” I grab Madison by the waist and pull her into my chest. I hold her close, soaking in the warmth of our embrace with her steady heart beating next to mine. “I’d like you to meet my mom. Beating cancer makes her the fiercest fighter I know.”

“I’d love that.” Madison’s eyes sparkle when she smiles, lighting up my world with renewed energy and joy. “Did she teach you that right jab trick?”

She snickers as she loops her arm around my waist, and we’re exactly where we’re meant to be, by each other’s side, ready to face the world without guilt or apology.

EPILOGUE

THE SCOOP

***

Madison

I sit at my desk, the soft glow of my laptop screen illuminating the room. The cursor blinks, waiting for the words that will bring this story to life. The last several weeks have been a whirlwind of emotions, and it’s time to put everything into words. I take a deep breath and start typing.

***

The Heart of a Defender: The Real Zach Brooks

By Madison Collins

When I first received the assignment to cover the Sable Creek Saints and their star player, Zach Brooks, I expected to find the typical sports hero—talented, driven, and perhaps a bit arrogant. Instead, I found a story of resilience, sacrifice, and an unexpected love that changed everything.

Zach Brooks is more than just the heart and soul of the Sable Creek Saints. He is a testament to the power of family, loyalty, and determination. Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to support her children, Zach learned early on the importance of hard work and dedication. His sister, Lauren, has been his unwavering support, and together, they have faced challenges that would have broken many.

On the ice, Zach is a force to be reckoned with. His skill and leadership have brought the Saints to new heights, but his off-ice persona truly sets him apart. Zach’s commitment to his family and community shines through in everything he does, from his involvement in local charities to how he supports his teammates.

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