Page 35 of Now That We Don't Talk

MAC

“It’s official.” I hold up my phone, grinning. “She said yes.”

Our table erupts in cheers. I don’t think any of us are surprised, but it’s still good to know our plan went off without a hitch. Dallin raises his drink high, his expression beaming.

“To Kyle and Addi, and a lifetime of love and joy,” he toasts.

“I’ll drink to that,” I say, lifting my own glass and tapping it against his.

Across the table, Vivian exhales dramatically, her shoulders visibly relaxing. “Whew. I’m so relieved.”

Katie gives her a curious glance. “Why? Did you think it might not happen?”

Vivian hesitates for a second before cringing. “Honestly…it crossed my mind. I didn’t want to say anything and stress you out.”

“Ugh. Kyle would’ve been devastated,” Katie groans, pressing a hand to her chest. “I don’t even want to think about it. My poor brother has been a wreck for days.”

I shake my head, setting my glass down. “Come on, there was no way she was saying no. Can you imagine any woman not wanting to spend the rest of her life with my best friend?”

Dallin smirks, swirling his drink. “No way. The guy’s a stud. And his sister is the hottest woman I’ve ever met.”

I chuckle, raising an eyebrow. “Good answer.”

“Aww…” Katie murmurs, leaning into him, “You are the sweetest man I’ve ever met.” She presses her lips to his cheek then nuzzles his jaw with her nose.

I cup my hands around my mouth. “Get a room.”

“Seriously,” Vivian chimes in, shielding her eyes with her hands. “We’re eating here.”

I grin. “Anyway, tonight is about Kyle. He is a stud, and let’s be honest, I taught him everything he knows about impressing women.”

“Oh, gross,” Katie groans, wrinkling her nose. Vivian snorts loudly, covering her mouth. “Please. Make it stop.”

Dallin holds up his fist, and I bump it without hesitation. “The ladies do love hockey players.”

Vivian arches her eyebrow. “Why does everyone think that? You guys are constantly slamming into each other, you’re covered head to toe in padding, and no one can even see your faces when you’re playing.”

I fold my arms. “Huh. I thought you didn’t know anything about hockey?”

She rolls her eyes. “Just because I don’t watch the sport doesn’t mean I’m oblivious to the layers of padding and helmets you guys wear.”

I smirk, leaning back in my chair. “Sounds like someone’s been studying up. I’m impressed.”

She groans, tossing a napkin at me. “Can you have a conversation that doesn’t revolve around hockey?”

I pretend to think it over. “Not often.”

Katie laughs then tilts her head. “Do you ever get tired of it?”

“Tired of hockey? Never.”

“No,” she clarifies, her tone more thoughtful. “Tired of going from city to city, living out of a suitcase. Tired of being away from your family and friends for most of the year.”

I pause as I contemplate her questions.

“That part is tough. Being home has reminded me of everything I’ve missed—Kyle falling in love, meeting the woman he wants to spend his life with. It makes you realize how much life keeps moving, even when you’re not around.”

Katie reaches across the table, giving my hand a reassuring squeeze. “Luckily, time doesn’t matter when it comes to real friends. Kyle’s loyal to a fault. Years could pass and he’d still be here for you and everyone in his life.”

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