Page 43 of Slap Shot Daddies

And I’ll play pretend.

Just like always.

CHAPTER TEN

Reggie

By the time practice concludes,Kenzie’s already vanished.

Again.

I glide off the ice, pushing my helmet back and dragging a weary hand through my sweat-dampened hair, scanning the stands for even a glimpse of her. But the arena is silent and empty, devoid of any trace of the weelass.

Not that I can fault her after the events of last night. Still, there’s something unsettling about the way she hastily bolted out earlier.

I don’t like the idea of her pushing herself to exhaustion, particularly with her injured hand. And the thought of her avoiding us gnaws at me too.

After a quick shower and change, I make my way to Ally’s office.

The familiar clatter of keys greets me as she types away at her desk. When she glances up and spots me, a smirk plays across her lips.

“What’s up, red? Looking for someone?” she teases, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

I roll my eyes but don't bother denying it. “Where’s her vet clinic?” I ask, trying to sound casual.

Ally blinks, then a slow grin spreads across her face. “You gonna show up with flowers? Make a big gesture?”

“Nah,” I reply, smirking. “Just gonna make myself useful.”

She studies me for a moment, amusement dancing in her eyes, then shakes her head with a laugh. She scribbles the clinic address on a bright sticky note and hands it over. “That’s actually really sweet,” she comments, her voice softening.

“Don’t screw it up,” she jests as I turn to leave.

I chuckle quietly to myself.Easier said than done, doc.

I step out into the parking lot, bathed in the warm glow of streetlights, feeling an optimistic buzz coursing through me. The evening air is crisp, a gentle breeze brushing against my skin, invigorating my resolve.

Kenzie's got too much on her plate, and I'm well aware she's the kind of woman who stubbornly refuses to ask for help, even when it's clear she needs it.

I pull out my phone, its screen glowing softly in the dim light, and quickly type out a message to thelads.

>> Heading over to help Kenzie at the clinic. She’s drowning, poor lass.

Braden responds almost immediately, his words practically leaping off the screen.

>> Damn, look at you being a proper knight in shining armor.

Ambrose chimes in with his usual cheeky tone.

>> You’re just trying to get in her pants again.

I snort, shaking my head with a wry grin.

>> Aye, well, maybe I like what’s in her pants. But that’s not the bloody point.

Braden sends back a string of laughing emojis and a quick message.

>> Looooong game, eh?

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