Page 11 of Puck and Run

As I walk into the locker room, my teammates are already buzzing with energy. Ryan glances over at me. “Duke, you seem like you’re in a better mood this morning. What’s up?”

I roll my eyes, laughing it off. “Just had a good night, that’s all,” I say, trying to sound casual.

Simon chimes in, clapping me on the shoulder, “Good for you.” He leans in closer, lowering his voice. “But serious, are you still hung up on that mystery girl?”

I pause, the words catching in my throat. I want to tell them about Tilly —how amazing she is, how she makes me feel —but I can’t betray her trust like that. She doesn’t want her brother to know about us yet. That doesn’t mean I can’t let the guys know a little. “I found her,” I say finally, and their interest piques.

“Dude, who is she?” Ryan asks, leaning in.

I shake my head, a smirk playing on my lips. “Not telling. Some things are just for me to know.”

“Come on,” Simon presses. “You can’t just drop that and leave us hanging!”

“I’m serious, guys,” I say, my tone firm. “It’s not like that. It’s just….complicated.”

They share glances, clearly intrigued, but I can see they’ll let it go for now. I appreciate their concern, but I’m not going to break Tilly’s trust. I don’t want to hide my relationship withTilly, but I respect her feelings. The balance feels precarious, but I know it’s worth it —she’s worth it.

As my skates hit the ice for a mini before-game practice, I push all throughs of the world away, focusing on the ice, the puck, and my teammates. Every shot, every pass —everything flows through me with a renewed energy. Tilly’s smile, her laughter, and the taste of her lips are my fuel.

Chapter Eight

Tilly

The atmosphere inside the T-Town Tornadoes’ rink is electric, the kind of energy that pulses through the air and makes your heart race. I’m sitting in the stands with Paisley and Tuesday, the three of us wrapped up in scarves and team jerseys, cheering on the team. The crowd roars as the players hit the ice, and I can’t help but feel a thrill of excitement wash over me.

“Look at them go!” Tuesday shouts, her eyes sparkling as she points at the ice. “I love hockey games!”

I laugh, glancing at Paisley, who’s bouncing in her seat with enthusiasm. “Me too! I like watching my big brother live out his dream.”

“It is pretty amazing, isn’t it,” Paisley says, pride lacing her voice.

It’s funny to see these two so wrapped up in the hockey season. Paisley was almost a hermit before she met my brother and knew nothing about hockey. Tuesday, on the other hand, had actively detested the sport and its players. Now they are both die-hard fans.

Paisley and Ryan are expecting their first baby in January. It’s one of the reasons I took the job here. I want to be close when my niece or nephew is born. Paisley has already bought a whole array of baby hockey jerseys and Tornadoes merch with Ryan’s number. It’s adorable and a little crazy.

When I see how happy they are I can’t help but think about Duke. Last night was incredible —intimate and sweet. Dinner was amazing and I learned so much about him. The memory of his lips on mine, the warmth of his body next to me, sends a shiver down my spine.

“Are you going to tell us about last night or just keep it a secret forever?” Tuesday nudges me playfully, her eyes glinting with curiosity.

I laugh, shaking my head. “I’m not hiding anything!” But I can feel my cheeks flush. “Okay, fine. We had dinner together and it was really nice. He grilled steaks and made a fabulous salad. We shared an incredible red wine and…” I pause for dramatic effect, “he had this amazing chocolate cake from my favorite bakery.”

“No way!” Paisley squeals, leaning forward. “That’s so sweet. Who knew the Hammer was so romantic? So, are you guys together?”

I nod, the weight of the truth sinking in. “I guess so. But I’m not sure what to do about Ryan. I mean, I want to tell him, but…I don’t know if now is the right time.”

“Why not?” Tuesday asks, tilting her head. “You’re a couple. Your brother should know, especially since you’re dating someone he spends a lot of time with. During the season they will spend more time together than you and Duke will.”

“I just…I want to keep it low-key for now. Duke has a lot going on with the season and I don’t want to add any pressure. Plus, I’m not ready for Ryan’s protective big brother routine.” I groan a little at the thought.

“Ryan’s going to find out eventually,” Paisley says gently. “And it’s better if you tell him. You know how he can be.”

“Yeah, but what if it changes everything? What if it gets weird?” I fidget with my scarf, trying to find the right words.“Duke and I are still figuring things out. I just don’t want to complicate anything.”

Tuesday chimes in, “You know Ryan will just want to know that you’re happy. He’s going to want the best for you.”

“I know,” I say, sighing. “But it’s hard. Keeping it hidden feels safer for now like we’re in our little bubble. And honestly? I love that bubble.”

Paisley nudges me with her shoulder. “You’re being a little dramatic. It’s not like you’re hiding a crime. You’re dating a guy. Yeah, it’s a guy who happens to play for the team your brother is on, but he’s a good guy that your brother respects and likes.”

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