Page 30 of Broken Promises

Princess

You want to tell me what was going on with you before I got there?

No.

I was having an off night. Being on my old home ice was weird. Having to shoot against Finn was even weirder.

That was part of my problem, so I’m not lying. I just think telling her the real reason was how much my heart hurt from missing her should be an in-person conversation.

I didn’t even think of that.

It’s okay, Princess. Seeing you was the perfect distraction.

I still can’t believe you were there. Top five best nights of my life.

What’s number one?

Hasn’t happened yet.

You’re going to get the cup this year. I can feel it.

I smirk. I agree with her, but that’s not what would take the number one spot.

Don’t jinx it!

The bus comes to a stop at the private airstrip. Our team plane is waiting.

I have to board now. Call me after tomorrow’s show?

I will. Good night, hockey boy.

Good night, Princess.

“Did she like them?” Ben asks. He’s standing in the aisle waiting for me.

“I didn’t send them. She’s not ready to see them yet.”

Ben’s brows furrow as he tries to make sense of what I’m saying. “I don’t understand women,” he grumbles.

“Me either, my man,” Martinez says, holding out his fist for Ben to bump. He does before shaking his head and leaving the bus.

“How many more days?” Gideon asks, following me off the bus and straight onto the plane.

“Ten. She’ll be at the New York game next week, but then she goes straight home from there, and we’re on the road for three more days.”

“Maggie wants to get together for dinner whenever you’re both free. She said to invite you to our place. Apparently, Willa was telling her all about how the two of you almost burned down a forest more than once trying to cook hot dogs.”

I bark out a laugh. “Yeah, neither of us should be responsible for cooking if you want to be able to eat it.”

“So, you’ll ask her?” he asks, stopping in front of his usual seat next to Ivanov, who is somehow already asleep.

“Sure. Just tell us when.”

He pats my shoulder and takes his seat. I find mine next to Ben. He’s back to editing on his tablet. I put my headphones in and close my eyes.

Ten more days until I tell Willa how I feel.

FIFTEEN

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