Page 124 of My Ex's Brothers

I look at Amelia who is playing with her daughter. Tripp joins in, making faces and doing all sorts of things to make both of them laugh, and then Amelia kisses him, laughing as she does so.

And I think I get it.

I think I understand what Dane means.

“Maybe it’ll be mine too,” I say. “I mean…Tripp’s going to try out. I’m sure he’ll make the team.”

“He’s young. He can travel and be the hot, young, rich hockey player.” Dane laughs. “I just want to be a dad.”

I can’t help the smile that crosses my face. Does he know something I don’t?

“Well, I hope you get the chance,” I say, and he looks at me with wide eyes. “I mean, it’s either you or Tripp. I’m fixed.”

Dane blushes six shades of red.

“Good talk, Dane,” I say with a laugh as I finish the dishes.

“Thanks,” he says, heading over to the couch. When he sits beside her, I watch his smile light up. Lyla reaches for him. Amelia kisses him before handing her off, and I think I know exactly what I want to do.

I’m going to play the home game, and then I’m coming home.

For good.

Because I’ve finally found the home I’ve always wanted.

26

AMELIA

I let out a deep breath,stilling my nerves. Tonight is the home game.

I don’t know why I’m so nervous. It’s not like I haven’t been to a game. I’ve been to plenty. But this feels bigger.

Dane and Richie are playing, but Tripp is technically my date. It’s the first official date we’ve gone on, which feels both strange and not strange at all.

“Pretzel?” He offers me part of his giant pretzel as we sit in the seats.

I tear off a piece and smile. “Thanks.”

We settle into our seats which are right up against the glass. The arena fills up quickly, as Tripp and I devour our box of popcorn, pretzel, and nachos.

“What?” I ask, mid-pretzel bite.

“Nothing, I’m just…really glad we’re doing this,” he says. “A date.”

I grin. “Me too. Maybe one day after work I’ll be able to swing by and watch you practice.”

“Really?” His eyes light up, and my heart warms.

I nod. “Absolutely. And you know…” I nudge his shoulder. “The university has free childcare for its employees. So…I could just pick up Lyla after you’re done.”

“I’d like that,” he says thoughtfully. “Just tell me when, and I’ll make sure I stretch right in front of you. Show off all these perfect muscles and?—”

“Oh stop,” I tease him. He grabs me, pulling me close and kissing me. I startle for a moment, but ease. He tastes like salty nachos and beer mixed with sugary kettle corn.

I giggle as I kiss him back, teasing his tongue with mine.

The lights dim and flash and I know it’s time. Tripp lets go of me, cheering and jumping as the music starts. A moment later, the Badgers all skate out, and I search the ice for the Rose brothers.

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