Page 69 of Head Over Skates

Owen takes one step back and slams the door on Cody’s face. He locks the bolt and the chain, then turns around with a satisfied grin.

Crap, that’s hot.

He’s just standing there casually, like his state of undress isn’t making my legs turn to overcooked spaghetti. I suck in my bottom lip, cataloging every inch of him.

No pucks, no sticks, no goals.

“I think that will do the trick,” he says. “What do you think?”

I think you’re certifiably gorgeous, good sir.

“I uh…” I stutter. “Did you just call me your soulmate?”

21

OWEN

I'm in the middle of practice when I see him skulk into the rink out of the corner of my eye. What the hell is he doing here? My so-called father. He’s not good enough for the title, though. To me he’s just Jed.

I try to ignore him and focus on running drills with the team, but I can feel his beady little eyes watching me from the stands. Just the sight of him makes my blood boil.

Coach finally blows the whistle, signaling the end of the drill. It’s not time to quit, but I tell Coach I need a break. I throw on my blade guards and make a beeline for the locker room, but Jed runs after me in the hallway. "Owen, my boy!" Jed calls out, shuffling towards me.

That familiar anger rises up inside me. I haven't seen or heard from him in years. Not since the last time I sent him packing.

I keep walking, gritting my teeth. Don't lose it, I tell myself. You're not that scared little kid anymore.

"Owen, wait up!" he pants, struggling to catch up. "Just gimme five minutes, okay? Hear your old man out."

"You've got two," I bite out, turning on him.

His watery eyes light up with relief. "Thanks, kiddo. I knew you'd do right by your dad."

"I'm not your kiddo," I snap. "And you sure as hell aren't my dad. Now what do you want? I’m working."

His smile falters briefly before the salesman mask slips back on. "What, a father can't visit his son at work? I was hoping we could go out, get lunch, catch up."

I snort. "The only time you show up is when you want something. So what is it?"

Jed puts on an exaggerated frown. "Now don't be like that. I'm here because I miss you, that's all."

I have to stop myself from rolling my eyes. He's laying it on thick today. I guess that means he's in real trouble.

“Miss me? That’s rich, seeing as you’re the one who left.”

His easygoing facade falters for a moment before the slick smile is back. "C'mon, that's all water under the bridge now. I'm here to make amends. Start over, you and me."

I shake my head in disgust. This man is unbelievable. "You must be delusional if you think I'd give you a second chance. What do you really want, Jed? Money?"

Bingo. His eyes light up greedily before he rearranges his features into a wounded look. "I just want my family back. Is that so wrong?"

"Cut the act," I snap. “How much are you in the hole for this time?”

His shoulders slump. "Look, I just need a small loan to get myself back on my feet. Five grand. Seven tops. I'll pay you back, I promise."

I let out a harsh laugh. "Let’s be honest here. You won’t pay me back. In fact, I can pretty much guarantee I won’t see you again until you need more money."

"Aw c'mon, Owen," he pleads. "Don't be like that. I know we've had our differences, but family looks out for each other. Right?"

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