Page 89 of Now That We Don't Talk

We place our breakfast orders, our conversation flowing effortlessly as we talk about the party last night and the way everything seemed to fall perfectly into place.

“So, I told my teammates about you,” I say casually, adding a packet of sweetener to my coffee.

She arches her brow. “Oh really? And what exactly did you say?”

I smile as I lean back in my chair. “Just that you were a huge fan of mine.”

She rolls her eyes, her expression changing into a scowl. “You did not.”

I chuckle. “Yeah. I’m kidding.”

“Good,” she says. “But just so you know, I’ll make sure I set the record straight when I come to Tennessee.”

I don’t even try to hide my excitement. “I love hearing you say that. In fact, I want to start planning—if you’re ready.”

Her face lights up, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she nods eagerly. “Yes, I’d love to. In fact, I was just thinking—I probably do need your autograph.”

A rush of excitement surges through me, making my heart race. This is what I’ve been waiting for—the beginning of something real. The next chapter of our story is finally unfolding, and I can’t wait to turn the page.

“It’s good to be back,” I say, stretching my arms overhead. “I’ve missed beating you on the court.”

Kyle scoffs, flipping his racquet in the air. “Well, you’ve been too busy with yourgirlfriend.”

I smirk. “Ah, and the pot meets the kettle. You’re one to talk—engaged and up to your neck in wedding planning.”

He grins, shaking his head. “You’re right. But seriously, how’s it going with Vivi?”

I let out a slow breath. Just the thought of her makes me giddy—it’s kind of embarrassing.

“Better than I ever could’ve imagined,” I finally say. “We’ve talked about it a lot, and I think we’ve got a solid plan for when I leave—lots of quick visits here and there, at least in the beginning. And I’ll be back here more than I have in recent years, so you’d better get used to seeing this face on a regular basis.” I flash a grin.

Kyle nods. “I know I’ve said this before, but I’m sorry about how I acted.”

I shake my head. “You don’t have to say anything. And honestly, you had every reason to be concerned. I know Vivian is probably too good for me.”

Kyle arches a brow. “Probably.”

I roll my eyes but can’t help laughing. “Anyway, I’ve never been happier.”

“Good. Now enough of the emotional stuff, let’s do this.” He heads onto the court, bouncing the ball against the ground.

“I’m ready,” I announce.

And I am ready—ready for whatever lies ahead. The highs and the lows—because with Vivian by my side, I know anything is possible.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

VIVIAN

I’m dating a professional hockey player. Who am I? Honestly, I don’t even recognize myself anymore.

I’ll never say it out loud, but I think I’m beginning to understand all the hype. The sport is fast-paced, energizing, and maybe a little addicting. I can’t wait to attend my first game proudly wearing my Mac Evans jersey, immersing myself into a world I never dreamed I’d be a part of.

Wow. How things have changed.

“What do you think of this style?” Addi asks, holding up her laptop so we can see the image of a rose-colored bridesmaid dress.

We’re gathered around Laura’s dining table after our rescheduled girls’ night, except this time Katie’s mom also joined us. She spent most of the evening asking me about Mac. I have no doubt she’ll report back to his mother—and I don’t mind one bit.

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