Page 12 of My Athlete Neighbor

"Marcus said Coach completely overhauled their defensive strategy," Pauline commented as Kane's line changed. "See how they're positioning differently on the blue line?"

Allison nodded, trying to focus on the technical aspects rather than the way Kane's butt looked as he leaned forward on the bench, listening to Coach Vicky's instructions.

The period ended scoreless, but the Chill had dominated possession. Coach Vicky looked pleased as she followed the team down the tunnel, already talking strategy with Kane.

"Check this out." Pauline thrust her phone at Allison as the Zamboni circled. "The neighbors are going crazy. Mr. Collins says he can feel the luck in the building."

The chat messages scrolled past:

Mrs. Peterson:Just finished Jax's scarf!

Jenny:OMG did you see Kane's wrap-around attempt??

Mr. Chen:My lucky bamboo plant is pointing towards the TV. Very good sign.

Martinez Family:Abuela lit the special candles! Goals coming in 2nd period!

"It's like a superstition support group," Allison muttered.

"Speaking of support..." Pauline's voice turned sly. "Kane's playing amazing tonight. Must be because his lucky charm is here."

"The team's playing well because they're talented and well-coached."

"Uh huh. Is that why he keeps looking up here between shifts?"

The second period started before Allison could argue. The game's intensity ratcheted up as both teams created scoring chances. Coach Vicky called out line changes with precision, matching personnel to situations.

Halfway through the period, Kane gathered a pass at center ice and accelerated. He split the defenders with a burst of speed that had the crowd rising, deked left, then snapped a shot over the goalie's shoulder.

The arena erupted. Kane's teammates mobbed him against the glass as the goal horn blared. When he finally emerged from the celebration, his eyes found Allison's. His smile was brilliant, private despite the thousands watching.

Pauline grabbed her arm. "Did you see that? That was totally for you."

"It was for the team." But Allison's cheeks were warm.

The chat group exploded:

Jenny:KANE!!!!

Mrs. Peterson:The lucky socks are working!!!

Mr. Collins:My bookie says thank you

Martinez Family:GOOOOOOOOAL! Abuela's candles never fail!

The Chill carried their 1-0 lead into the third period. Coach Vicky had them playing a tight defensive system, protecting the advantage. Kane's line continued creating chances while being responsible in their own end.

"Liam says the team feels different," Pauline said during a TV timeout. The local television studio carried all home and away games. "More confident. Like they believe they can win now."

Allison watched Kane direct traffic during a penalty kill, pointing out positioning to his teammates. The final minutes were tense. The Bombers pulled their goalie for an extra attacker, but the Chill's defense held. When the final horn sounded on their 1-0 victory, the celebration roar could have been measured on the Richter scale.

"Party at my place," Pauline announced as they gathered their things. "Max is at Grandma’s tonight. The whole team's coming. You have to join us."

Allison hesitated. The thought of Kane fresh from victory, adrenaline-flushed and happy, was tempting. But she could already imagine the knowing looks, the whispered comments about Michael Warrant's granddaughter and the lucky puck.

"I should get home," she said. "Early story time tomorrow."

"But—"

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