Page 100 of Expose on the Ice

“Boring,” Jess singsongs. “Anyway, we need to celebrate! Drinks tonight?”

I look at Carter, who nods enthusiastically. “Sounds great, Jess. We’ll see you there.”

As I hang up, Carter comes around the counter and pulls me into a hug. “I’m really proud of you.”

I bury my face in his chest, overwhelmed by the support I feel. “Thank you,” I say. “For everything.”

CARTER

I arrive at the Frost Giants’ practice facility, ready for the first practice of the new season, feeling a lightness in my step that I haven’t experienced in years. The weight of my secret has been lifted, and with it, a newfound openness has blossomed within me.

“Morning, Debbie,” I say to the receptionist, flashing her a genuine smile. “How’s that grandson of yours doing?”

Debbie’s face lights up. “Oh, Carter! He’s just started walking. I swear that boy’s going to be an athlete just like you.”

I chuckle, picturing a miniature hockey player toddling around Debbie’s living room. “Well, make sure you bring him by. We’ll get him on skates early.”

As I make my way to the locker room, I’m stopped by a group of fans on a tour, hungry for autographs. In the past, I might have brushed them off, but now I enjoy the interaction.

“Hey guys,” I say, reaching for the proffered pens and jerseys. “Excited for the season?”

A young boy, no more than ten, nods enthusiastically. “Yeah! You’ll win the lot!”

I grin, ruffling his hair. “We’ll do our best.”

Entering the locker room, I spot Tank lacing up his skates. I walk over and slap him on the back. “Ready to show these rookies how it’s done, old man?”

Tank looks up, a momentary flash of doubt crossing his face right before he lets loose a big grin. “I can still skate circles around you any day, Knox.”

“Yeah, yeah,” I laugh, settling into my spot next to him, punching him playfully on the arm to show him everything is forgiven. “Just try to keep up, alright?”

As we hit the ice for practice, I can feel the difference in the team’s energy. In the past few months, following all the turmoil, we’ve come together. There’s a new level of trust, a sense that we have each other’s backs.

Coach Carson puts us through our paces, and I push harder than ever. The new season is bristling with promise, and I’m determined to lead from the front. And, for once, that’s theonlyreason I’m working my ass off. I have nothing left to run from and nothing left to hide.

After a grueling but satisfying practice, I shower and change, my mind already on the meeting ahead. As I walk out of the locker room, I catch sight of my parents waiting in the lobby.

My steps falter for a moment, the sight of my father outside of a prison visiting room still surreal. But then I see the proud smiles on both their faces, and my hesitation melts away.

“Mom, Dad,” I say, pulling them both into a hug. “Ready for that coffee?”

Their smiles light up my spirit like only Lily could.

LILY

I push open the door of Lola’s, a cozy Italian restaurant Carter and I like. The familiar scent of garlic and tomato sauce washes over me as I scan the room, my heart skipping a beat when I spot Carter at our usual corner table.

He stands as I approach, pulling me into a warm embrace. “Hey, beautiful,” he murmurs against my hair.

“Hey yourself, superstar,” I reply, pressing a quick kiss to his lips before sliding into my seat. “How was practice?”

“Fine, Tank was back…” Carter’s eyes sparkle as he hands me a menu I don’t need to look at. “How was your day?”

I grin, unable to contain my excitement. “Amazing. After the Frank expose, the Times has picked up my next piece.”

“That’s fantastic, Lil,” Carter says, reaching across the table to squeeze my hand. “You’re really making a difference.”

“Thanks,” I say, feeling a blush creep up my neck. “How was coffee with your parents?”

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