Page 23 of These Pucking Boys: Part Two

“Nope.”

Besides thefactmy father is a psycho who will do anything to drag me back to New York. Not that Larry is interested in that.

“Maybe he’s gay and in love with you,”Larry deadpans.

I snort. “Sure. That’s it.”

“I take it the answer is still no. You won’t play for the Bobcats.”

“That’s right.”

“You’re gonna piss off your boss.”

Yeah, Doug Fontaine would make money if I accepted the trade, and it would allow him to bring in new blood. “I don’t care.”

“Noted.”

This conversation has made me fucking pissed, and I’dratherend it. “Is there anything else you need to discuss with me?”

“Yes, but I can tell you’re in a shitty mood. We can discuss it during our meeting this week.”

“Great. Can’t wait.” I don’t hide the sarcasm.

“Jake, you’re an ass. You’re lucky I like you.”

I laugh. “You like the money I make you.”

“Duh? Is there a difference?”

I end the call without replying. Then I stare at my phone, frozen.

Fuck it. I’m already angry as hell. I might as well call my father back and yell at the bastard.

CHAPTER 12

RYAN

Ispend almost two hours at the vet, and even though I volunteered so June could spend quality time with Jake and Lachy, I’m a little annoyed. We’re busy during hockey season, and now I want to spend every single minute of my days off with June. When I’m not with her, the darkness returns to my chest. I remember about my fucked-up life and the decision I have to make.

My brother expects me to put the past behind me andgosee Mom. Deep down, I know he’s right. I’ll regretit forthe rest of my life if I don’t make peace with her. But it’s easier said than done. Every time I think about her, all the pain from the past comes back with a vengeance. I see Dad heartbroken, cradling a bottle of whiskey as he sobs over the loss of his marriage. Seeing him in so much painis whatmade me vow to never fall in love.

Then I witnessed Lachy go through the same bullshit when Lorena betrayed him, which served to reinforce my commitment to stay single forever. But I didn’t expect to fall in love with June.She came into our lives like a soft summer breeze, and my vowwent upin flames.

My phone rings, and the call connects with my car’s audio system. It’s my brother. My jaw locks tight. It’s likeI summoned him with my thoughts by thinking about our parents.Idebatefor a couple seconds not answering him, but that won’t do me any good.The doubt and the guilt will keep festering in my chest.

“Hello?”

“Ryan, I just heard about what happened. Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. I wasn’t on the plane.”

“I know that. Unlike you, I keep tabs on my family. You got hurt in the last game.”

“I keep tabs on you, too,”I retort. “I just have less time.”

“I’m a surgeon resident,” he grits out. “I can’t remember the last time I slept for more than three hours straight.”

I knew my excuse was weak and wouldn’t hold. My brother works way more hours than I do for a fraction of what I make.“That’s why God invented coffee.”

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