Page 78 of The Game

“Really? And how would you mesh that into the coffee mix?”

“A hockey/coffee themed logo to start. Then maybe hockey themed drink names. The decor could go along with the theme, but I haven’t come up with a name yet.”

“You seem to have put a lot of thought into this.”

I nod. I have. Hockey has been on my brain a surprising amount lately.

“Maybe I could even make the aprons look like jerseys and all the staff could have numbers. I guess I better hire some hockey fans.”

He leans forward, hands clasped in front of him on the table as if he’s super invested in my idea. “They’d have to be in the colors of the local team, though. Where are you planning on setting up this shop?”

“Undecided. But I’ve been doing my research in Detroit. Close to home, still has some growing areas with decent rent, and endless potential. I’ve been applying for business grants and some of them are intended for local Detroit businesses, but nothing is set in stone for me yet. I could potentially go anywhere.”

“It’s definitely a hockey town, so that would work. The Wheelers have a solid track record and they’re doing well right now.”

I nod. I’ve been keeping up with hockey lately, and even before I met Cole, Jordan had me watching Aspen’s games with her. It’s actually a pretty addictive sport. Once you get started, it’s easy to get sucked into the action. But watching someone you know play is next level. Someone you care about, even if it’s taken a while to admit it to yourself.

I hesitate, nibbling on my fingernails. “How about you? Any idea where you’re going to end up?” I know this is a bit of a loaded question, but now that I’ve gotten past my fear of letting him in, it’s an important one. This thing between us is new, but it feels serious. Like I could end up with him, but his future is uncertain. The draft is unpredictable.

The same barista stops by to replace the number on our table with our drinks. The red mug looks small in his large hands as he lifts it up to take a sniff. “Smells like fall.” He moans as at his first sip. “That is really fucking good.”

“Almost as good as an orgasm?” I ask.

“Fuck no.” He shifts in his seat. “But good.”

I figure he doesn’t want to answer my question, so I leave it be, inhaling my cappuccino. It’s smooth and light, the espresso balances out the sweet milk and the foam is chef’s kiss. Dense and creamy, no big air bubbles. Yum.

“I was drafted by Colorado after my freshman year, and I thought I’d snag a contract by the end of second or third year. Honestly, I wasn’t even planning on finishing college. But they released me after the incident, and I moved here to finish up and prove myself. Ultimately, I’m glad I did. The Lightning have helped me become a better player, but now I’ll graduate without a contract, so my career is up in the air.”

“That’s tough.” My dream is tough, too. Starting a business is never easy, but at least a lot of it feels more in my control than his. He can play his best, try his hardest, and still not get drafted by an NHL team. “Why did they release you?” From what I’ve seen, he’s a fantastic player. Seems weird that they wouldn’t retain the rights to his contract.

He shrinks back, nibbling on his lower lip. “I guess they didn’t consider me a good prospect anymore after I left Tampa. Anyway, the team is only getting better and better, and even my work with Hail is helping me be a better team player, so I’m hopeful I’ll still be drafted.”

I’m reminded that I still don’t know why he left Tampa. Feels like there’s more to the story than trying to get away from his cheating ex. But it doesn’t seem like something he’s ready to talk about, so I don’t want to push him, especially after he planned this dayfor me.

“You will. You’re an incredible player. I heard Beau talking about how you’re on track to be the top scorer in the division.”

The tension on his face softens. “I’m hovering there in the top three. I’m really hoping for Detroit. The Wheelers are my team, and nothing would be better than to be able to wear their jersey one day.”

I nod. He would look amazing in red. I’m nibbling on my fingers again to stop the question from coming out. I really want to know where he thinks this thing between us will go. What if he ends up across the country next year? What does that mean for us?

But our relationship is so new. It’s too soon for such a big question. I don’t think I’m ready to face that yet, and I’m definitely not ready to bring it up with him. He’s got enough to worry about.

“That was my best date ever.” My eyes are shining, and my brain is packed with ideas, so I’m scribbling in a glittery pink notebook on my lap on the car ride home.

His hand has been glued to my thigh since he started driving, but he lifts it to flick the pink, feathery topper. “Nice pen.”

“Thanks. Inspiration comes in many forms. If a feathery pen and a glittery notebook keep the ideas flowing, then I’m going with it.”

“You do that. I prefer something a little more manly, maybe a blue pom pom, but I understand the appeal of the pink.”

I’m practically purring when his hand lands back on my thigh, thumb rubbing in small circles.

“It was my best date, too,” he admits in a voice so soft I’m not sure he even wants me to hear.

“Really? Big fan of coffee shops?” I tease.

“Big fan of you.”

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