Page 66 of That's Too Pucking Bad

I stride onto the ice, feeling lighter than I have in ages. The sound of skates carving through the surface and the smell of fresh ice mix together like a good cocktail, and I can’t help but grin. The guys are already warming up, but I’ve got a spring in my step that’s impossible to ignore.

“Hey, Coburn! You actually look happy today,” Caleb calls out, raising an eyebrow as he glances my way.

“Don’t get used to it,” I say with a chuckle, shrugging off his comment.

“Seriously. Hey, what the fuck happened?”

“Just slept well for the first time in forever,” I reply, which is true. I’m not about to spill the details, though.

“Damn, you must’ve had a hell of a wet dream,” he laughs, shooting a puck at the net.

“Yeah, something like that.”

“Was it the blonde?”

I shake my head. “No.”

As practice kicks off, I’m in my zone, moving with purpose, the puck glued to my stick. Each pass and shot feels electric. I catch a glimpse of Caleb watching me from the corner of my eye, and I can tell he’s trying to figure me out. Good luck with that, buddy.

After practice, I head back to my place. The mansion looms, as big and empty as ever, but I’m in a good mood, so I push through the door with a grin.

I quickly shower, letting the water wash away the sweat and the intensity of the ice. As I dry off, I start thinking about where to take Remy for dinner. Maybe a nice little spot downtown? Somewhere cozy? I can already picture her laughing over a shared milkshake.

My phone buzzes, and I check the message. It’s from the jeweler. The three Van Cleef bracelets are ready for pickup. Perfect timing.

I throw on a fresh T-shirt and jeans before heading out. The drive to the jewelers is quick, and I’m practically buzzing by the time I get there.

I walk in, and the clerk hands me the box with the bracelets inside. “Here you go, Mr. Coburn.”

I open it, and there they are. Elegant and beautiful.

The first one is a classic Alhambra bracelet in a deep green, perfect for Maya. The second is a stunning piece in blue with white mother-of-pearl accents, also for Maya. And the last one—a gorgeous bracelet with a pink motif, just for Remy. The pink pops, and I can already see it wrapped around her wrist.

I pull out my phone and snap a quick pic, picturing her smile when she sees it.

After I grab the bracelets, I drive over to Maya’s place. I knock on the door, and she opens it, instantly beaming when she sees the box in my hand.

“Zane! What’s that?”

“Bracelets,” I say, handing her the green one. “For you.”

She gasps, eyes lighting up. “Oh my god! I love it!” She slips it on, admiring it. “This is beautiful! Thank you!”

“Just wait,” I say, holding up the blue one. “This one’s for you, too.”

“Two? You really didn’t have to—”

“I wanted to,” I cut her off, smiling. “You helped me with Remy.”

“Dude, you’re the best! Thank you!” She beams, holding the two bracelets up to admire them. “I’m gonna wear these all the time! They’re perfect.”

“Glad you like them,” I say, feeling a warmth in my chest.

“Okay, now what’s this one for?” Maya asks, eyeing the pink bracelet with curiosity.

“This one’s for Remy,” I say, holding it out carefully. “I hope she likes it.”

“Oh. She is going to freak,” Maya says, biting her lip. “But first, you need to find out if she even likes jewelry.”

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