Page 126 of The Best Friend Power Play

"Right," I interrupt. "This is hockey. Not exactly a contact-free sport."

"It's not. But that's part of being a hockey player's girlfriend. Or daughter, too, in my case. You have to pray the people you love don't get hurt and be super grateful they have access to the best doctors if—when—they do."

The arena lights dim, so we stop talking, focusing on the LED light show in front of us. The announcer's voice booms over the speakers as he introduces the LA Swifts and lists off all the players. Evie loses her mind when Fraser's name is called.

Good thing one of us has the ability to remain composed.

"At defense…number 44, Culver Palladino!"

I don't know what comes over me, but I start jumping up and down and screaming at the top of my lungs. My display makes Evie's lunacy pale in comparison.

Evie looks over at me and smiles proudly. "I'm such a good teacher."

I blow a strand of hair out of my mouth. "Yeah. Maybe you are."

The other team—the Seattle Steelers—and their coaching and support staff are introduced, then we rise for the national anthem.

The game is set to start soon, and I can't believe how jittery I am. I really want Culver to do well tonight and have a great season.

These past few days, I've been reflecting.

Yes, it's going to be hard adjusting to living alone with Culver traveling for the next eight or so months.

But he's been nothing but supportive and focused on me for the past three months. Part of being in a relationship is balance, and now it's time for me to support him in his career the way he's been here for me this summer.

I tap my foot and cross my fingers. Please let Culver have a good, injury-free game tonight.

23

Culver

It's good to be back on the ice.

It's even better being back on the ice knowing the person I'm in love with is in the stands.

I get it now—why it's such a big deal for players when their girlfriends come to watch them play, especially in the early stages of a relationship.

It's special.

I mean, over 18,000 people have jammed into the stadium tonight, but all I care about is Hannah.

She's here.

She's mine.

And I'm hers.

Words I didn't even dare to dream and now…now they're a reality.

They're my reality.

I've somehow wound up with the best woman in the world, and she's here watching me play.

My whole body is thrumming with adrenaline as the referee drops the puck for the opening face-off and play commences.

I drown out the cheering crowd and get in the zone, all my focus and determination zeroed in on the job at hand.

I'm skating well and moving freely as I make my first pass to Donovan.

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