Page 66 of Our Hearts to Break

No matter how often I repeat the mantra, I don’t believe a word. My life without River is not a life.

Parker meets me on the front porch before I get too deep into my thoughts. Wearing black joggers and a hoodie, he tucks his hands into his pockets and smiles.

“I wanna talk to you about something,” he says as he walks down the stairs. “Come for a walk with me. It’s important.”

ChapterTwenty-Three

RIVER

Today marksthe start of my professional hockey career. All of the years of busting my ass have finally paid off. I dreamed of this moment. But I miss Nate and my teammates. I miss the familiarity of my old life.

I was a big fish in a small pond at Kingston University. Now, I’m a nobody. A player with no pro stats or recorded accomplishments. No adoring fans who wear my jersey to every game.

One day, they will.

As I head into the rink, hockey bag slung over my shoulder, I grab my cell phone. Nate has already texted ten times.

He even called twice.

Considering I last saw him less than two hours ago, I worry how he’ll fare without me. His first night alone might send him over the edge.

I scan the new messages he sent in the past ten minutes and sigh.

Nate

I moved my stuff into your bedroom.

Nate

It smells like you.

Nate

I’m not washing your sheets.

Nate

Parker’s pissed because your room is bigger than his. He wanted it. I told him to fuck off.

He snaps a picture of him in my bed, head tilted back on my pillow, his blond hair a mess.

River

How are you feeling?

Nate

My ribs are sore.

River

How are you emotionally?

Nate

I feel like you took a part of me with you.

River

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