Page 148 of Suck My Puck

“Don’t say that,” Del says.

“Helping Lucas is way more important than hockey,” Xander says.

“Yeah, come on, man. You’re not just a goalie to us. You’re our friend. We’re here for you no matter what,” Theo says.

My teammates’ words hit me square in the chest. The feeling settles right where my heart is.

I’m more than just a goalie. I’m more than a save percentage, more than a salary, more than hockey.

I’m their friend. I’m someone who can help a kid in need.

The feeling builds until I feel the hot prick of tears in my eyes.

I sniffle. “Thanks, guys.”

I don’t miss the emotion that flashes in the eyes of Del, Xander, Theo, and all of my other teammates.

They hug me and pat my shoulders, then they all go back to their lockers and finish getting dressed.

When I walk out of the locker room, I head to the entrance of the arena and see Bella sitting on a bench with Maizie.

She walks up to me and pulls me in a hug. I close my eyes and sink into her embrace.

“How did it go?” she asks.

“Really well. Coach Porter and the guys were supportive.They’re good with whatever I need to do to help Lucas.”

She beams, her eyes teary. “That’s amazing, Braden.”

I kiss her. “It is.”

I hold her tight, warmth and comfort coursing through my body. For the first time in a long time, it feels like things will be okay.

Chapter 52

Bella

When I wake up, I’m facing the bedroom window. Snowflakes are falling and the sky is a beautiful gray-blue color.

It’s Christmas morning and it’s snowing. I smile at how perfect it is.

I roll over to check on Braden, but his side of the bed is empty. I sit up and hear a soft shuffling noise just outside the bedroom.

A second later, the door opens. Braden stands there with a tray in his hands, looking so damn sexy in gray sweatpants and a white t-shirt.

He grins at me. “Merry Christmas, pretty girl.”

He walks over to me and sets the tray on the bed. There’s a big mug of coffee, a small cup of milk, a bowl of fresh berries, and a plate of cinnamon rolls.

He sits on the edge of the bed and I grab his face and kiss him. “Merry Christmas,” I say against his mouth.

I glance down at the tray. “You got me cinnamon rolls?”

He smiles. “I remember you saying that it’s your traditionto eat them on Christmas morning, but you haven’t done it in a few years.”

My heart aches in my chest at how thoughtful it was of Braden to surprise me with my favorite Christmas breakfast.

I grab a cinnamon roll, my mouth watering at the sweet, sugary aroma. “This smells amazing. Did you bake these?”

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