Page 41 of Love in Overtime

After a strong effort, the Ice Breakers are defeated by the Canadian Lumberjacks 2-1. I’ve lost plenty of games in my career, and they are never easy, but something about this loss is heartbreaking. Maybe it’s because we’re not playing for standings, glory, or trophies. We’re playing to help children have a better life. I look over to find Blair. She’s on her feet, clapping along with the rest of the crowd. Seeing her lifts my spirits a bit.

We shake hands with the other team, and then Coach gathers us for a quick pep talk. He goes easy on us, but he might be the only one. I spot Zach Hart standing on the sidelines, and he doesn’t look happy. I don’t blame him. Despite our efforts, we didn’t pull out the win.

We skate around the rink one more time before heading to the showers. And we still need to deal with the press, which I don’t enjoy after a win. Facing them after losing takes it to another level.

When I come out of the locker room, Blair is waiting along with several reporters.

“Cooper how are you feeling after that game?” one of them asks.

Seriously? What kind of stupid question is that?

Blair shoots me a look basically reminding me to bepleasant. If she weren’t here, I’d probably call this guy out for his ridiculous question.

“Disappointed,” I reply.What did he think I was going to say?

“After that loss, are you still planning to finish out the Ice Breakers season?”

Another dumb question.

“It’s always been my plan to play all five games,” I tell them.

“Are you worried the Tennessee Wolves will get rid of you after this season? There are several teams who have said they want you to play for them.”

I’m asked this question in every interview, and I give the same answer.

Blair is watching me intently, probably bracing herself in case I say something I shouldn’t. “As I’ve said before, I will play for the Wolves for the duration of my career.”

“Hopefully you guys can pull out a win against the Lumberjacks tomorrow. Now that the Ice Breakers have played a full three periods together.”

“We’ll be ready for them,” I say confidently. “Thank you.”

I glance over at Blair, who smiles proudly.

The reporters continue to shout questions, but I ignore them and head straight for Blair. I consider dropping my gear and taking her into my arms, but it’s not the time or the place.

“How was that?” I whisper.

“Perfect.”

We walk side by side as we weave through the fans. There is a group of Puck Bunnies waiting off to the side. They are probably waiting for Dan, Dawson, or Noah. Although I’m not sure any of those guys are availableanymore. Dan made his intentions known when he blew a kiss in front of thousands of people after scoring a goal. Dawson seems completely enamored with the girl who works at the bookstore. I’m pretty sure Noah is interested in Willa, the photographer, and everyone knows Ted is in love with the girl he claims is his best friend. And then there’s me—the guy who’s falling for his publicist. What has this town done to us?

“I’m very proud of you,” Blair says once we’re away from the crowd.

“Thanks. I’m assuming it’s because of how I handled the press and not the game?”

She shakes her head. “You had some great plays. The other team just got lucky.”

“They worked better together. It was obvious.”

“Only because they’ve been a team longer than you guys,” she reminds me. “Don’t be so hard on yourself. The next game will be better.”

“I wish I had your outlook on everything.”

“We’ll work on it,” she says, nudging me with her elbow.

I clear my throat. “I’m probably going to need a lot of help. That means spending more time with me.”

“I think that can be arranged.”

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