Page 5 of Puck and Prejudice

“To the movies, but we went super early in the middle of the week, and the theater was empty. Because of his high profile and the age difference, I wanted to keep things on the downlow until I knew where we stood.”

“I take it that you do know now?”

She nods, smiling from ear to ear. Then she shows me her left hand... and the moonlight reflects off her massive engagement ring.

I jump from my bed, and grab her hand, staring at the ring. “He proposed?”

“Yes! Tonight! It caught me completely by surprise. I know it’s only been a few months, but when you know, you know.”

“Jane…”

“Please don’t say anything negative. I’m really happy, Izzie.”

I can see it in her eyes. Do I think it’s insanity to get engaged to a guy she’s been secretly dating for only a few months? You betcha. But I don’t have the heart to burst her bubble—at least, not right now. Jane is a hopeless romantic. I need to learn more about Chad Bingley anyway. Maybe he is the perfect match for her.

“I wasn’t going to.” I hug her. “Congratulations.”

“Thank you. I can’t wait for you to meet him.”

I step back. “I’m looking forward to it. When are you going to tell Mom and Dad?”

Jane grimaces. “Is telling them after I get married an option?”

I snort. “Nope. Shit. Mom’s gonna go crazy.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of. She’ll get into her over-the-top meddling mode. Chad is super shy, and his upbringing was way less colorful than ours.”

“What do you mean?”

“He comes from an uber-wealthy family, for starters.”

“How wealthy?”

“Grotesquely wealthy. His parents even look down on Chad’s career choice, even though he makes really good money. Imagine what they’ll think when they find out their son got engaged to a lowly flamenco dancer.”

I grab her hands. “Hey. Don’t you dare talk down about yourself like that. You’re not a lowly anything. You’re an amazingly talented dancer, and the best teacher to boot. Chad’s parents are lucky to have you join their family.”

“That’s what Chad said. You’ll like him.”

I smile. “If you love him, then I’m sure I will.”

“When do you think I should tell Mom and Dad?”

“Not sure. Maybe introduce Chad as your boyfriend first before springing it on them that you’re already engaged?”

“Yeah, that’s a good idea. I want you to meet him before anyone else does anyway. Sort of ease him into our crazy family.”

I nod. “That’s a solid plan. I can’t wait.”

ChapterThree

JACKSON

We had a few days off after our Conference Cup win, but the job isn’t done, so we’re back in the training facility. We’re all fired up and ready to do whatever it takes to win the finals.

We have a solid chance this year. Our team is healthy, and it has depth. The quality of players is the best the Miami Lions has ever had, especially Chad. The kid has always been talented, but he’s having a hell of a season this year. His stats are off the charts, and if he doesn’t win the Vezina Trophy, I’ll be shocked.

He’s on fire this morning and has denied all shots on goal so far. I’m playing on the opposite team, and I thought for sure I had a goal, but Chad pulled a move straight out of Cirque Du Soleil, contorting his body in an unnatural way to make the save.

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