Page 9 of One Night with my Best Friend's Dad

Mac’s hand slips from my arm, and he stands to leave. I can’t help but watch him go, my heart aching—longing for the love I thought I found in him and the fear I have at hurting those around us.

I suck back a sob as a wave of anxiety washes over me.

But I’m saved by the sound of a glass clicking. I glance up to see Oliver standing beside Connor with a piece of paper in his hand.

I’ve never been so glad for a distraction.

I focus on Oliver, Connor’s best man, as he clears his throat and unfolds the piece of paper.

“Alright, folks, gather ‘round,” Oliver says, his voice booming through the reception hall. “It’s time for me to embarrass our groom a bit.”

The crowd chuckles, and I smile, despite the turmoil in my heart.

“Now, I’ve known Connor since we were both rookies on the ice,” Oliver begins, a mischievous glint in his eye. “And let me tell you, this guy’s always been a bit of a puck hog.”

Laughter ripples through the room, and Connor mock-glares at his friend.

“But seriously, Connor’s dedication to the game is unmatched. I remember this one time, we had a big game coming up, and Connor was so focused on practicing his slap shot he forgot to put on his pants before leaving the locker room.”

The room erupts in laughter, and I can’t help but join in. Connor’s face turns beet red as he yells, “That’s a lie!” But he’s grinning from ear to ear. "We all did it to see who'd last the longest in the cold."

"Don't believe him, folks." He turns to the bride. “And Piper,” Oliver continues, “I hope you know what you’re getting into. Living with Connor is like living with a human Zamboni. He’s always cleaning, always perfecting, always smoothing out the rough patches.”

Piper yells. “I know!”

Oliver smiles as he continues, “But I guess that’s what makes him such a great player...and an even better friend.”

Oliver’s voice softens even more, and I can see the genuine affection in his eyes.

“Connor, buddy, you’ve always had my back on the ice, and I know you’ll have Piper’s back for life. You two are perfect together, like a well-executed power play. So here’s to the happy couple.” He lifts his glass higher. “May your love be as smooth as freshly resurfaced ice, and may your life together be filled with hat tricks, I mean babies, and victories!”

The room raises their glasses in a toast, and I join in, pushing aside my worries for a moment to celebrate my best friend’s happiness.

I glance at Piper as she grins when Connor kisses her lips before he grabs the microphone and announces. “Hopefully, we’ll make one of those many babies tonight.”

“Connor!” Piper admonishes.

I can’t help but laugh, as do the other guests.

I stroke my stomach again, knowing this baby is going to change everything. Piper especially.

I know she’ll be angry when she finds out I had a one-night stand with her father, and although I don’t want to lose her friendship, I have to do what’s right for the baby, because this child deserves both parents in their life.

Chapter 4

Mac

Christmas lights twinkle overhead, casting a warm glow on the revelers below. The scent of pine and cinnamon hangs in the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of wedding cake.

The room is buzzing with energy as I survey the scene with a smile tugging at my lips.

Piper, my little girl—though not so little anymore—beams with joy next to her husband, Connor. Their Christmas-themed wedding party is in full swing, and the energy in the room is electric as the dance floor comes alive.

“Mac! Get over here!” Anton, my brother, shouts from the dance floor. He’s attempting to dip Scarlett, the barely legal daughter of our team’s lawyer, and his best friend, and failing miserably. They collapse in a fit of giggles, ending up beneath a sprig of mistletoe.

Scarlett’s eyes flick upward, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

Anton shakes his head.

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