Page 44 of Icy Pucking Play

"What?" She starts gathering her things, not meeting my eyes. "Your sister makes good pasta."

"You've been going to family dinners?"

"Just one. Julia insisted after I helped Natalia with that science project about ice density." She finally looks at me, biting her lip. "Is that...is that okay?"

And that's the thing about Sophie Bennett—she fits so seamlessly into my life that sometimes I forget to be scared of it. She's just...there. Like she belongs.

"Yeah," I hear myself say. "That's okay."

Her smile could power the whole arena.

"Good. Because I promised Natalia I'd teach her how to make my mom's famous chocolate lava cakes, and…"

"Well, if it isn't my favorite reporter!"

Every muscle in my body tenses at that voice. At the way Sophie's smile fades slightly.

Clark fucking Ellis.

He's standing at the boards, wearing another one of his too-expensive suits and that pasted-on smile I remember all too well. The same smile he wore when he…

No. Don't go there.

"Mr. Ellis." Sophie's tone is polished and cool. "Practice is over."

"Oh, I know. Just thought we could chat about that article you're working on." He leans against the boards like he belongs there. Like he has any right to be here. "Got some interesting stories about the Daniels family that might spice things up a bit."

I start skating over, but Sophie responds before I get there.

"I appreciate the offer," she says firmly, "but I've got all the material I need."

"You sure about that, sweetheart? Because I've got some real insights into team dynamics that might interest you. About how certain people handle...personal relationships."

My mind travels back in time:

"It's just life, Evan," Clark had said that day, straightening his tie with that same smug expression. "Nothing personal."

As if sleeping with my wife had been a professional decision.

As if destroying my family had been a career move.

The insinuation in his tone makes my blood boil. Before I can say anything, Sophie speaks up again. "Mr. Ellis, I'm going to be very clear. I'm not interested in whatever story you're trying to sell. My feature is about Ryland's journey, not about stirring up drama."

She stands her ground, chin lifted, notebook clutched to her chest like a shield. Protecting my family's privacy. Protecting me.

It makes me want to protect her right back.

"Come on, Sophie. We both know every story needs a little conflict. A little scandal. And I bet your editors would love…"

"Is there a problem here?"

I'm at the boards now, still on the ice, but close enough to see Clark's smile turn sharp.

"Just having a friendly chat with Ms. Bennett here." He straightens his tie—still that same nervous tell. "Reminiscing about old times."

"She said she's not interested."

"Did she? Or are you just afraid of what she might find out?"

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