Page 92 of Playoff

BLAKE: Love you.

She doesn’t respond, and it’s kind of a bummer.

It feels like she’s slowly slipping away, and I’ve barely gotten her back.

I have to do something.

I just wish I had a clue what that something is.

I have a lot to make up for with Rowan, and I’m willing to do almost anything.

Almost.

Walking away from a contract with the Phantoms?

That might be asking too much.

But the alternative is…fuck.

Letting her go isn’t part of any damn plan.

TWENTY-NINE

Rowan

There arethree days between games five and six because of a scheduling conflict at our arena, and it’s nice to have that extra day. I’d originally planned to spend it with my dad, but he signed up for some celebrity houses tour and I have no interest in that. I’m trying to decide whether or not I want to sneak in a quickie with Blake, take a nap, or catch up on errands when Harper’s name pops up on the screen of my phone.

“Hey,” I say by way of greeting. “What’s up?”

“I have a question,” she says.

“Sure.”

“How would you like to go to the spa with a group of us this afternoon? Saylor had to bow out—something to do with Canyon’s niece—so we have an open spot. And everything was prepaid, so if no one goes, that money goes to waste. I’d love for you to join us. My treat.”

“Oh… I don’t know.” I’m startled. I’ve never hung out with Harper socially before, other than a party at her house once, buta spa day sounds wonderful. I could really use a day away from everything hockey and Blake-related.

“Come on,” she cajoles. “Ninety-minute massage, a facial, mud bath…champagne…”

“Oh, well, now you’re talking,” I laugh. “Champagne will get me every time.”

“Great. I’m leaving here in ten. Meet me up at my office and we can go together.”

“Sure. See you then.” I disconnect and take a minute to text Blake, letting him know I’ve got plans. Then I head up to Harper’s office, where she’s packing up her things.

“You’re ready?” she asks. “I’m so glad you can come with us.”

“Me too. I’ve been working so hard with the guys, a massage sounds wonderful.”

“That’s why I offered.” She smiles and then we head out to the parking lot. “You want to ride with me? I can drop you off here when we’re done?”

“Sure. Thanks.” I get into her car, and we chat as she pulls into traffic.

“I figured all of us ladies could use a relaxing day. I’m sure being a professional athlete is tough—Gabe certainly works his ass off—but it’s hard on the people around them too. And I don’t just mean the WAGs. Support staff, like you and Bristol, Autumn—we all put up with a lot.”

She has no idea.

I wish I could tell her about Blake and me.

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