Page 79 of Pucking the Team

Alex is right, I would love to do something like this. But I swallow down that desire. I can’t chase a dream like that without drawing negative attention to myself.

“I’m flattered, Alex,” I tell him. “Truly. It means the world to me that you think so highly of my analysis. But…” I take a shaky breath. “I’m not ready to consider this step yet. I need time to process.”

Disappointment flickers across Alex’s face, but he quickly masks it with an understanding nod. “Of course. Take all the time you need. Just know that I’m in your corner, no matter what you decide.”

He pulls me into a hug, his strong arms enveloping me. I melt into his embrace, inhaling his intoxicating scent of sandalwood and musk. It smells like home, and I lean into it.

I’m reminded that I actually have people in my corner, for the first time in years.

I have people who are supporting me, people who are becoming my family.

Maybe, just maybe, with the guys at my side protecting me and lifting me up…this is something I should consider.

CHAPTER 35

RYAN

Emma and Lukas both look stunning in the sunset light of South Beach, like a painting come to life.

The sky is filled with streaks of brilliant orange and pink over the endless ocean as we walk along the pristine white sand. The salty sea breeze rustles Emma’s silky chestnut hair and Lukas’s golden waves.

I could get used to the vibe of mid-February in Miami, especially considering how brutally cold and gray it is back in the Midwest. We’re here for a game but I’d definitely like to come back here in the off-season. Explore the city a little more. Explore these two a little more too, maybe.

We find a little beach-front seafood shack with twinkle lights strung up and grab a table. I can’t take my eyes off Lukas as he laughs at something Emma says, his emerald gaze sparkling. Three months ago, I wanted to punch that pretty face. Now, I just want to kiss it. And I’m allowed to.

Wild.

“What are you smiling about over there, Ry?” Lukas grins at me knowingly. He reaches over and takes my hand, lacing our fingers together. My heart flips in my chest.

“Nothing. Just thinking how crazy it is that this is real.” I bring his hand to my lips and press a soft kiss to his knuckles. “You and me. And Emma. All of us together like this.”

“It feels right though, doesn’t it?” Emma smiles sweetly, rubbing her foot against my calf under the table. “Like it was always meant to be this way.”

“Definitely,” I agree, swallowing hard. The enormity of my feelings hits me like a body check to the chest.

I’m completely in love with both of them. Head over skates, no doubt about it.

Wanting to lighten the mood before I get too sappy, I change the subject. “So Em, Alex mentioned you might be interested in moving into video coaching. What’s that about?”

She bites her lip, looking uncertain. “I don’t know. I mean, I’d love to do it, but people would probably just assume I got the job because of my dad. Call me a nepo baby again or whatever.”

Lukas scowls. Emma told Lukas and Slade the truth about her dad last month, so now we all know.

“Screw what other people think,” Lukas says, passion in his voice. “Em, you’d be incredible at it. Ryan and I have seen your genius for analyzing plays firsthand. If it’s what you want, go for it.”

“Exactly,” I nod in agreement, squeezing his hand. “We have your back, and none of us will let anyone give you shit. You’ve more than earned it on your own merit.”

Emma looks between us, her blue eyes shining with emotion. “You guys…thank you. That means everything to me, having your support.”

She leans over and kisses me softly, her lips warm and sweet. Then she turns and does the same to Lukas. Watching them together sends a bolt of heat through me.

“Always, baby,” Lukas murmurs against her mouth. “We’ve got you. In everything.”

Under the table, he slides his other hand up my thigh, teasing. I inhale sharply. Oh yeah, it’s going to be a very good night. And many more to come with these two by my side.

As we finish our dinner and settle the bill, I find myself reflecting on how much things have changed in such a short time. Just a few months ago, I never could have imagined being here, on a romantic date with Lukas of all people. Let alone being in a polycule together.

But now, I can’t picture my life any other way. With Emma and the guys, I feel like I can finally let my guard down and just be myself.

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