Page 76 of Icing the Play

“What?” I leaned over, reading the name on the call. “Dean Wilson? Isn’t that the agent who’s looking at you?”

“Yeah.” He hopped off the stool and paced the room, walking past the patio doors to the sunny backyard. “Hello?” He held his bangs off his forehead. “Yeah.” Nodding, he planted a hand on his hip as he paced in front of the television. “Yes, Neuman and I are getting along really well.” He breathed in deeply, his gaze winding to mine. “You…you are?”

“Holy fuck.” With my heart thrumming in my ears, I jumped from my stool and strode to Myles, grabbing his biceps. I wanted to hear this fucking conversation.

“Yes, if it’s the same contract you drew up for my brother, I’m sure it’s fine. I don’t think my dad needs to see it.” His wide gazelocked on me. “Thank you. I’ll talk to you soon.” Gaping, he ended the call.

“Well?” I squeezed his arm. “You have an agent?” He was happy, right?

“I, I do.” As a grin wrinkled his eyes, he jumped up and down. “I have a fucking agent, and he said he’s got some prospects for me.”

“Bring him over here, Cooper. I can’t leave the stove, and I need to give that little fucker a big hug and a kiss.” Ace held his arm out and flipped another pancake.

Zoma clapped and squealed. “I’m so happy for you, Myles. I knew things were going to happen for you.”

I hauled Myles into the kitchen and, with a growl, Ace wrapped Myles in a bear hug and lifted him off the floor. “I love you, man.” He planted a harsh kiss on his cheek. “I knew you could do it. Can’t wait to see what scouts come around.”

Wrapping his arms around them both, Zoma hugged them.

“Thanks, guys.” Myles sniffled.

As they freed Myles, he rubbed his eyes. “It’s all because of Cooper. We have sex before every?—”

“Uh, Myles.” I slapped my palm over his mouth. Jesus, did he tell themeverything? With a stuttered chuckle, I said, “We have a little pregame ritual.”

Ace stared at me and then at Myles. “I don’t think I want to know.” Turning back to the stove, his shoulders shook. “No, you can keep that to yourselves.”

With a short giggle, Zoma held the back of his hand over his mouth. “I can only imagine. Now, help me set the table.”

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

MYLES

Afew weeks had passed since Dean signed me, and I’d scored goals in every game. I’d never played this well before, and I knew why. Cooper. He was my good luck charm and my constant cheerleader. When we were both in town, he was at my Friday night games and helped me ice injuries and heal in between. Plus, he had some training techniques he’d taught me in the gym, and I swore it helped.

After winning the game on a Saturday night with a goal I’d sunk in the first period, I went through my post-game routine and stretched my hamstring on a foam roller. My knee had been bugging me lately, but it was nothing some ice and the roller wouldn’t solve.

My phone buzzed next to me. As I picked it up, I set the roller aside and sat cross-legged on the mat. It was Dean. Kind of late, wasn’t it? “Hey, Dean.”

“Hi, Myles,” he said, “I have news.”

“Yeah?” With my heart thumping, I looked around the room. Some guys were on stationary bikes while others walked on treadmills or stretched. “Good news, I hope.”

“Oh, it’s good news. There was a scout at your game tonight checking on Neuman. I guess he liked what he saw from you,too.” His smile carried through the phone. “He’s from the Seattle Kraken.”

“No shit?” Clearing my throat, I lifted my brows. “I mean, really? That’s great, eh” My gaze flicked to Neuman slowly pedaling on a bike. What if I got picked by his scout? I might get to live close to where I grew up. I could visit Vancouver all the fucking time. I’d be able to show it to Cooper.

“Yes, he’s going to be at the game in Omaha, and he’d like to meet you. I’ve already cleared it with your coach.”

“Great. Is there anything you want me to do to prepare?” I wanted to pump my fist, but not with everyone around. I’d do it when I told Cooper. Too bad he was out of town until late tonight.

“Just be yourself and keep playing like a pro. Bring questions you have. I know a lot of the guys go blank in front of a scout and forget to ask anything.”

“Sure thing. I’ll write out a list.” Fuck the roller. I was too pumped for it now. I stood. Tyler would be here this week, so I could tell him in person.

“Okay, and let me know if you have questions for me before you see him. I’m sure you’ll think of something.” He chuckled.

“I will. Thanks so much, Dean. I really appreciate this.” I strolled toward the locker room. It was time to go home and have a little celly with a beer on the couch. My breath snagged. If I got this contract, I would come out to my family. It would be time.

---