Page 42 of Snowed In With the PUCK

Jessica

It’s the afternoon ofChristmas Eve, and the Avalanche law office is a strange blend of holiday cheer and underlying tension. There’s a Christmas tree in the corner, lights twinkling between professionally wrapped gifts that have clearly been sent in by clients. Cookies, some Christmas-themed sparkling juice, and other festive decor fill the space, making it look like any other office holiday party.

Except this one is different. This one feels like a weight sitting on my chest, suffocating the warmth out of the holidays.

I take a sip of the sparkling juice, holding the cup just long enough to avoid making eye contact with anyone. My boss, Jason, stands at the other side of the room, watching me with an expression that makes me feel like I’m one wrong move away from being called into a disciplinary meeting.

He finally makes his way over, a stiff smile on his face. “Jessica, I know this is not the best time, and I know you and Eric are going through… something.”

I look anywhere but at him. Obviously, Allison has revealed Eric’s little crisis from their private conversation that sent the media racing around with photos of the two of them. His crisis about our fake dating. Heck, it was my crisis too; I just didn’t go blabbing about it the way he did. I press my lips together. I’m not mad at him deep down. I’m hurt. I can’t let myself feel that so I go for anger instead.

“It’s the holidays and people will expect something from the two of you on social media. Unfortunately, we do need to talk about Eric.”

Here we go again.

I set my cup down, bracing myself for the conversation I’ve been avoiding. “What about him?”

Jason gives a short laugh, but there’s nothing funny about it. “What about him? The media is eating this up, Jess. The whole thing with Allison blew over fast, but the rumors about you two ending things? They’re swirling. You have to convince Eric to continue the façade.”

I stare at him, resisting the urge to narrow my eyes accusingly. “I told you before, Jason. I’m not sure that’s something I want to do or even could do, if I wanted.”

His smile fades, and his voice hardens. “It’s not about what you want, Jessica. This is your job. We both answer to the Avalanche. To Kip. You’re a part of this organization, and we need you to play your part. Eric is a huge asset to the Avalanche. His image matters, and so does this charade. He’s been performing well on the ice, and we don’t want him distracted.”

I bite the inside of my cheek, forcing myself to keep quiet while he continues.

“There’s even talk about a California team trying to poach him. Has he said anything?”

I shake my head, surprised to hear this.

“You know what that means for us, right? He hasn’t signed his trade deal yet, and we need to ensure his commitment to Colorado.” Jason’s eyes widen slightly. “We can’t afford to lose him. You need to keep him close, Jessica. Whatever it takes.”

My stomach clenches. Spying on Eric? Again? I’ve done enough of that to last a lifetime, and it’s not something I’m proud of. Thankfully, my version of “spying” was just listening to him and not uncovering anything of importance to the Avalanche.

“I’m not going to spy on him,” I say firmly, trying not to scowl.

Jason’s brows knit together in frustration. “Jessica, this isn’t a negotiation.”

“Yes, it is. And I’m not doing it.” My voice is calm, but inside I’m boiling. “I’ve done everything you asked of me so far, but this? It crosses a line. And I doubt very seriously that he’s going to leave Colorado to run off to the Cali team. Honestly, Jason.”

But still, my heart clenches. Would Eric abandon me, abandon the team, like that?

Jason stares at me, and I can see the anger rising behind his eyes. For a moment, I expect him to snap, but instead, he takes a step back, running a hand through his slicked-back hair. “Fine,” he says slowly. “But remember, Jessica, this is a team effort. We can’t afford to have you getting sentimental about this.”

“I’m not sentimental,” I lie, though even I can hear the weakness in my voice.

He gives me a cold, knowing smile. “Good. Then keep it that way.”

The conversation leaves a bitter taste in my mouth as I make my way out of the office, leaving the holiday party behind. I’m not in the mood to stick around and pretend like everything’s fine. I’ve been pretending for long enough.

It’s a relief to step outside into the crisp Denver air. The cold feels like a wake-up call, the kind that reminds you of what’s real and what’s not. I have bigger things to focus on, like the community center’s Christmas Eve event that I promised to attend. It’s become a tradition for the community. Kathy andLaura invited me to join them, and despite everything going on in my head, I’m glad for the distraction.

By the time I arrive, the service is just beginning. The community center is packed, with people filling every row of folding chairs. The smell of pine trees and candles fills the air, and the gentle hum of Christmas carols echoes through the space. Kathy and Laura wave me over to where they’re sitting, saving a seat for me.

I slip in next to them, grateful for the familiarity of their company. Kathy is beaming, probably still high on the holiday cheer and her recent trip to Italy, while Laura looks relaxed and happy. They’re both staying at another shared property the Stantons once invested in together when still married. It’s on the other side of Denver and, from what I hear, a modern home with all the tech advancements.

We exchange hugs before settling into the service, the soft holiday lighting illuminating the faces of those around us.

As I glance around, I notice some of the Avalanche players scattered throughout the room. Most are seated with their wives and kids, looking surprisingly at ease in this peaceful setting. It’s nice to see them in a different light, away from the intensity of the ice rink.

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