Page 106 of The Enemy Face Off

"I'm glad," Amiel says with a smile.

"Me, too," Courtland throws in. "And speaking of things going well…"

I roll my eyes.

Amiel looks between us. "What am I missing?"

"Lori Connors!" Courtland squeals, his voice rising an octave or two.

I groan.

"You'd think Taylor Swift was coming to town given how excited you are over my sister's book signing that isn't for a while yet," I say.

"Doesn't matter. I'm still marking off the days on my calendar, and you can't stop me."

I look at Amiel pleadingly. "See what I've been dealing with."

"He's allowed to be a fanboy." She scoops up her pile of books and smiles. "Just like you're allowed to be happy that you're in a relationship with a grumpy goalie."

I grin.

Well, when she puts it like that.

I sit on the edge of the couch, staring at the TV screen, my heart pounding in my chest. I take a big bite out of one of Amiel's delicious caramel cupcakes I bought on the way home and let out a moan. She is one seriously talented baker, and when a girl needs to comfort eat, you can't go wrong with one of her treats.

The sight of Milo standing at the podium, surrounded by cameras and microphones, fills the screen. He's so composed, every inch the professional athlete.

Not sure why he seems so calm and I'm not.

This is a good thing, I remind myself.A really good thing.

He begins to speak, his voice steady and strong. I already know what he's about to say—he's stepping back, leaving the game he's loved for so long, to spend more time with his children.

My heart swells with admiration for what he's doing, but there's also a sting of guilt. I know how much hockey means to him, how it's lifted him up in some of his darkest times, and the thought of him giving that up is a lot to take. Yes, he's giving that up for Josie and Jonah, but I factored into the decision as well. I hope he doesn't end up resenting me for it.

And then he finally drops the big news.

"I've decided that it's time to step away from the game I love."

I turn the volume up, my eyes glued to the screen, my mouth chomping down on the cupcake.

"Hockey has been my life for so many years. It's given me incredible opportunities, unforgettable memories, and the chance to compete at the highest level. I've shared the ice with amazing teammates, played for incredible fans, and been part ofan organization that's supported me every step of the way. But as much as I love the game, my priorities have shifted."

He takes a breath and smiles, and I can tell he's thinking about Josie and Jonah. "My kids are growing up fast, and I don't want to miss out on any more moments with them. It's time for me to be there for them in the same way hockey has always been there for me."

He takes another breath and squares his shoulders. "There's also someone very special in my life, and I'm ready to focus on building a future together."

I almost choke on my cupcake. Whoa.

A wave of warmth rushes over me, and I can't help but smile. I was not expecting him to mention me. It feels a little surreal.

"This isn't goodbye to hockey completely. The sport will always be a part of who I am, and I'll continue to support the game in different ways. But for now, it's time to hang up my skates and focus on the most important team of all—my family and the person who means the world to me. Thank you to everyone who's been a part of this journey with me. I appreciate your understanding and support, and I'm excited for what the future holds."

I lean back on the sofa and let out a long breath.

I'm happy Milo made the announcement, and I definitely think he made the right decision, one made out of love.

I find myself daydreaming about the future, wondering what might come next.

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