Page 4 of Huge Pucking Play

"It's pretty remarkable," I agree. "They could definitely be doing a lot worse. Those last couple of trades they got made a big difference."

We launch into an animated discussion about the current NHL standings. Garrett's knowledge is encyclopedic, rattling off stats and player names with ease.

"You really know your stuff," I say, impressed.

He shrugs modestly. "I've been around the sport a long time.”

"What do you think about the Bruins' strategy this season? They're converting at an insane rate," I say, leaning forward.

Garrett nods, his eyes lighting up. "It's impressive. Their puck movement is crisp, and Lovitt’s one-timer from the leftcircle is practically unstoppable. But I'm more intrigued by the Oilers' approach."

"Oh?" I raise an eyebrow, intrigued.

"They've been running this clever 1-3-1 formation," Garrett explains, using the salt and pepper shakers to demonstrate. "Davidson quarterbacking from the half-wall, Slovich in the bumper position. It's giving penalty kills fits."

I nod enthusiastically. "I've noticed that! And the way they use Barrett at the point...his ability to walk the blue line and find shooting lanes is incredible."

Garrett's eyes widen slightly, clearly impressed by my knowledge. "Exactly. It's not just about having talented players, it's how you deploy them."

“And some of these players…they are so full of themselves, you know? They act like just because they’re pro hockey players they’re some kind of gods or something.”

A strange look crosses his face, and I wonder if I’ve gone too far.

He changes the subject, and we dive deeper into the nuances of special teams play, dissecting the strategies of various teams around the league. Garrett's insights are razor-sharp, breaking down complex systems with ease.

Just then, the waiter reappears with our food, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. I can feel this glass of wine going straight to my head and I know I need to keep my wits about me.

As soon as I finish my food, I’ve got to come up with a plan to find my friends and fast. Otherwise, I’m going to be sleeping on an uncomfortable chair all night in this incredibly loud casino.

Chapter 2

Garrett

Once I settle the bill, we make our way back into the bustling casino. The vibrant lights swirl around us in a kaleidoscope of colors. The air buzzes with the clinking of coins, the shuffle of cards, and the murmur of excited voices.

Cyn turns to face me, and I know what she’s about to say.

"Well, Garrett, I should probably get going," she says, tucking a stray blonde hair behind her ear. "Thank you for dinner. And for being so kind."

My chest tightens. I'm not ready for her to leave. "Would you like to have another drink? We could play some blackjack or roulette."

She shakes her head, glancing at her watch. "I really should find my friends before it gets too late."

"What's your plan?" I ask, trying to keep the concern out of my voice.

Cyn shrugs, her smile faltering slightly. "I don't really have one. I'll just wander around until I spot them, I guess."

Alarm bells ring in my head. A beautiful woman alone in Vegas with no plan? That's a recipe for disaster.

"That doesn't sound very safe," I say, frowning. "Maybe we could look for them together?"

She hesitates, biting her lower lip. "I don't want to impose on your evening any more than I already have."

I shake my head, stepping closer. "You're not imposing. I'd feel better knowing you're not alone."

Cyn looks up at me, her expression softening. "You're sweet to worry, but I'll be fine. Really."

But I can't shake the uneasy feeling in my gut, which tells me not to let her wander off alone.

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