“I’ll be fine on the ice.”

We go out as a team and listen to what the plans are for this practice. Shooting goals sounds perfect and I land several pucks in the net as we pass to each across the ice and go in for the kill. It feels good and I grin as I head back to get in line again.

“You seem aggressive today, Miles. Still riding an adrenaline high from the win? Ready to do it again tomorrow?”

“So ready. We’re on fire.”

I smile at Gabe, and he nods at me with an approving grin. I’ve got this.

“I’m glad you got the nanny thing settled. I got a glimpse of them at the game and Lola looked happy. You both deserve that.”

“It’s great having someone I trust that also works well with my family. She can ask for help if she ever needs it and it sure worked out well at the game. I hope Lola comes to more of them.”

“I don’t see why she can’t. She’s going to be a fan of this with more exposure.”

“Absolutely.”

I’ve seen videos of Gabe’s twin boys shooting goals in their basement at just four years old. Will that be Lola later in life?

Coach works the new guys into the lines he sets up, having everyone practice together to find a flow. They pass and communicate across the ice as they move, which is critical in this game.

“Great job!” I see Gabe grinning as he watches and smiles. “We’re going hard for the cup this year.”

There is a chorus of agreement among the team gathered around the bench, and I smile at my brothers. We’re solid, and I am so glad to have them standing behind me.

“Is Del cooking dinner tonight?”

Andrew follows me out to the parking lot several hours later, and I turn to gaze at him.

“I don’t know. Are you hungry?”

“So hungry, and I think she’ll make something healthier than the greasy burger I want to devour. I also don’t get to see my sis as often these days. I am going to send her a text.”

I hope Delilah convinces him not to come over. It’s too soon after what I am calling the incident and we’re figuring out how to be around each other with Lola.

“Yes! She’s making pot roast like Mom does. I am going to eat all of it.”

“You’re coming over?”

“I am. Del says dinner will be ready in about half an hour.”

We drive separately to my house, and I sigh as I walk in through the garage in front of Andrew, keeping it low so he doesn’t hear me. It smells incredible, and I inhale as my stomach growls.

“Sister of mine!”

Andrew steps forward to hug Delilah and I instantly notice the soft green dress that clings to her curves.

“Hey. I’m glad you came over.”

Her eyes say otherwise as Delilah briefly lets her gaze pass over me.

“Lola-bean. What are you up to?”

Andrew walks over to kiss my daughter’s head, and she looks up from her pile of plastic food.

“Bean!”

She holds out a pea pod, and we all laugh, although I force mine.