Page 91 of A Whole New Trick

I don’t believe her, but I don’t argue. Our relationship is notthereason I will refuse any trade put in front of me, but it is a big reason.

My life is good in Dallas—too good to give up. And while hockey is my dream career, it’s not forever. I’ve known that since I entered the league. There’s a time limit on how long I’ll be able to play, and while I’m not ready to hang up my skates, I’m even less ready to give up the life I’ve built for myself in Dallas.

If the Ranchers force my hand, I’ll have a tough decision to make, but my gut tells me what it will be.

I just hope I can live with the fallout.

29

MORGAN

“Can you relax?Your fidgeting is spiking my anxiety.”

I look at Joshua seated next to me on the couch in Carlee and Corey’s apartment. “What?”

He looks pointedly at my bouncing knee.

I plant my heel on the ground. “Sorry.”

“Why are you so nervous? The Ranchers are winning.” He points meaningfully at the score on the bottom of the massive TV screen.

I couldn’t say no when Carlee proposed hosting a small watch party for game six of the Western Conference Finals at her place, inviting a small group of friends to support Dane from afar. But I wish I had.

I’ve done a good job holding myself together around Dane and others lately, but the façade often cracks, especially when I’m not mindful of keeping my guard up.

Watching the game makes me nervous, not just because I want the Ranchers to win but also because so much remains uncertain about Dane’s career.

After seeing his reaction to the trade news at my parents' house, I no longer believe he wants to be traded, as I originallythought. He’s been so angry ever since, and he’s adamant that he won’t play for another team.

While I want to support Dane no matter what, I can’t see him actually calling it quits. He’s at the peak of his career. He’d be a fool to retire with so many good years left in him. And he’s bound to realize that once the fire of his anger subsides.

When he does, I know where that will leave our relationship. With each game that brings the Ranchers closer to the end of the season, the end of our relationship draws closer as well.

Which is why I’m an unstable mess on the inside, barely holding it together around my friends.

“Hey,” Joshua’s voice softens. Concern flickers over his handsome features. “Where’s your head at, Morgan?”

“What?” I blink, realizing I’d zoned out. I can only imagine what my expression looked like to make Joshua so worried. “Nothing. Sorry. It’s been a long day.”

“Why don’t I believe you?”

Because you know me.

The rest of the small gathering is hanging out in the kitchen, digging into the Oreo Delight Carlee made for her niece and nephew. Eli is here, too, watching the game, as well as Abby and Andy, while Carter and Valerie are out on a date.

Dane’s brother had been anxiously watching the game next to me until the Ranchers went up by three in the third period. Now, he’s content to watch from afar, keeping an eye out for any miraculous plays by Colorado that could result in them winning. But with three minutes left, there’s little chance of that happening.

“Morgan?” Joshua presses. “What is it?”

I sigh. I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to share what’s going on in my head with someone. And Joshua’s proven himself a great listener throughout our friendship.

“I’m worried about Dane,” I confess.

“About winning the game?”

“No, about the trade rumors.”

“Ah.” Understanding fills his gaze. “I’ve heard he’s pissed about it.”

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