Page 100 of Mine to Take

“Looks like he gave you something to wear tonight.”

I glance down at the Wildcats jersey with his name and number stamped across the fabric. That’s all it takes for warmth to gather in my chest.

Other than my brother’s, I’ve never worn another player’s jersey.

Holland’s eyes turn somber. “You have to tell him, Will. There’s no way he won’t discover the truth. And then…” Her voice trails off as she jerks her shoulders. “I’m afraid of what will happen when he does.”

Everything inside me deflates like an overfilled balloon pricked by a pin.

“I’ll confess everything tonight.” I straighten my shoulders and attempt to put on a brave face. “And if he doesn’t understand, then it’s his loss.”

Even as I force out the last part, I’m none too sure if I believe it.

I can only hope that Maverick proves me wrong.

29

Willow

Hours later, Holland and I push our way through the crowded arena. Some of the more devoted fanatics have painted their faces orange and black. Just like weeks ago, people are decked out in Wildcat gear and sporting their favorite player jerseys. It would be hard not to notice just how many girls are wearing the same one I am.

When jealousy tries to rear its ugly head, I stomp it out before it can take root.

It’s not just university students who’ve shown up to support their hometown team. People come from all over the state to watch the Western Wildcats play. Especially now that we’re deep in the season and the playoffs are right around the corner. They have an amazing record, and everyone wants to watch them win and be part of their story.

Cool air slaps at our cheeks as we step inside the arena. That’s when the Jaws theme song erupts from my pocket. With a frown, I pull out my phone and stare at it. Mom’s name flashes across the screen.

A smile trembles around the corners of my lips as I hold up the device and shake my head. “Really?”

Holland grins as her eyes dance with humor. “What? It’s funny.”

I arch a brow. “I doubt Mom would think so.”

“Becks doesn’t find much funny, now does she?”

True statement.

The woman needs a life.

Maybe then she would stop trying to commandeer mine.

When the phone continues to ring, Holland holds out her hand. “Please let me do the honors. Think of it as an early birthday present.”

I twist away, giving her my back before answering the call and blurting, “Hi, Mom. Can’t talk. We’re at a game. Love you.”

Then I disconnect before shoving the cell back into my pocket.

“You’re going to catch hell for that,” she sing-songs before adding, “You didn’t even thank her for the care package that was dropped off yesterday. Please let her know that I enjoyed the homemade cookies.”

With a snort, my gaze scans the raucous crowd as I search for our seats. “I’ll be sure to do that.”

It’s strange to sit in the home team section and not with the visitors. This is the first time I’ve attended a Wildcat game with the sole purpose of supporting them and not East Town.

It shouldn’t come as any surprise that the student section is packed. Holland glances at our tickets before pointing to the one filled with a sea of orange and black. “Looks like we’re over there.”

I loop my arm through hers and steer her through the mass of excited fans. It took a lot of cajoling to talk my bestie into attending the game. This is the last way she wants to spend her free time. And I can’t blame her for that. There’s one hockey player in particular she can’t stand and does everything in her power to avoid.

Bridger Sanderson.

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