Page 72 of Puck Right Off

Tristan doesn’t correct him. “No, it’s not because she’s a virgin. It’s because I’m in love with her.”

“Love?” His lips twist in disgust. “With her? Oh, come on?—”

Tristan takes another step forward, pulling me with him because I’m still hanging onto his arm. “I suggest you keep your fucking mouth shut before I permanently ruin your hockey career.” A smirk pulls up his lip. “Although, you may have taken care of that yourself.”

“You motherfucker.” Josh lunges at Tristan, and I take a step back, fearing I’ll get assaulted by Josh again.

But there’s no way Tristan is letting it happen again. In a flash, he grips Josh, slamming him against the wall. “Leave, motherfucker.Now,” he seethes. “Before I break every bone in your fucking body.”

“You’re a traitor. You told Coach I was doing drugs.” He shakes his head. “I fucking trusted you. I didn’t think you’d end up telling on me like a little bitch.”

My eyes widen, shocked by his words.It’s true. He is doing drugs.

“Pack your stuff. Your father is coming to pick you up. We’re done here.” He releases him, his eyes never leaving Josh as he backs up, linking his hand with mine. “I don’t want drugs in my house. I warned you once.”

Josh smirks. “Yeah, I don’t think that’s the real reason. It’s because of her.” His eyes are disgusted as they flicker to mine, then back to Tristan. “You’ll both pay for this. I fucking promise you that.”

Spinning on his heel, he stomps away, his retreating footsteps striking fear in my heart.

Tristan gathers me in his arms. “It’s okay, Jordyn. I won’t let him hurt you.”

I tremble in his arms, remaining silent. He pulls back slightly, his finger beneath my chin, tilting my face so he can look into my eyes. “I’ve got you, kitten. I won’t letanyonehurt you, and I’ll never let them come between us or ruin our dreams.”

Doubt swirls through my veins as I tighten my arms around Tristan’s waist.I hope he’s right.

CHAPTER 44

Jordyn

Aslight smile curls my lips as Tristan places one of my shirts on a hanger. He looks so boyishly cute as he takes in my expression, his brow wrinkling. “What?”

I giggle. “You look so domesticated. It’s hard to believe the guy gingerly hanging up my shirt is the same vicious guy on the ice or throwing punches at my asshole stepbrother.”

Tristan smirks. “What can I say, kitten? I’m a complicated man.” He leans over, giving me a kiss. “I’m mean on the ice, a beast in the bedroom, but always sweet to you.” Brushing a lock of hair from my face, his gravelly tone makes my stomach flutter. “I’ll do anything for you.” Cupping my face, the promise in his eyes makes me shiver. “I love you so damn much.”

I lift onto my tiptoes, wrapping my arms around his neck. “I’m so damn lucky to have you in my life. I love you, Tristan.” Rubbing my nose against his, a soft giggle leaves my lips. “Who would’ve thought the nerdy girl would fall for the hockey captain?”

He presses a soft kiss against my lips, stealing my breath away. “It was inevitable. We’re meant to be.”

I melt against him, every one of my nerves sparking from the euphoria coursing through me like lightning. “You have no idea how much you’ve healed me. I haven’t felt like I belonged anywhere. But the first time you wrapped your arms around me, it felt like coming home.” I tilt my head back, smiling at the love radiating from his eyes. “Wherever you are is home to me.”

“You’re my home.” Loosening his hold, his hands slide to my ass, gently squeezing. “If I get drafted, I plan to finish my education before moving…” His forehead wrinkles with worry. “Would you go with me?”

His words cause my pulse to pound against my neck. I hadn’t given much thought as to what would happen after he’s drafted. But now, it hits me that he’ll need to move, and he’ll be traveling a lot.

Other than my mom and Chelsea, I have no other ties anywhere.

“There’s plenty of online programs and schools.” My gaze lifts to his. “As long as I can afford it…” I bite my lip, hating the fear and hopelessness that wells inside me.

Tristan squeezes my hands, his face darkening. “Money isn’t an issue, kitten. I’m going to take care of you.” His face darkens. “Did you quit working at Sinful Sirens yet?”

I bite my lip, knowing he’s going to be angry. “I feel like I need to do it in person.”

He rolls his eyes and runs a hand through his hair. “So fucking stubborn.” I can practically see his mind whirling. “If you were offered a job at the rec center, would you take it?”

“Of course. But I already applied there. I applied for pretty much everything that was open, but I was too late. Jobs were filled inAugust.”

He nods, his expression contemplative before his brows furrow. “I really don’t like you working at Sinful Sirens.”

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