Page 112 of Faking It with the Forward

“What about basketball?” I ask.

“If your heart is set on basketball, then this may not be the right program for you, but you’re a damn good trainer, and I’ve witnessed firsthand that you have a knack working with the knuckleheads that make up the NHL.” His eyebrow arches. “Including your boyfriend.”

Reese.

“Did he have something to do with this?” I blurt. “Because if he did—”

“Absolutely not,” Parvi interjects. “The farm team has a collaboration with NYU. When they called to follow up on your references, Coach Green and I realized this may be the perfect opportunity for you. You’ll go to school part-time and learn on the job training with the team.”

“I applied to NYU, but I haven’t heard back.”

Professor Parvi shuffles a few things around her desk and picks up an envelope. The logo for New York University is stamped on the corner. “We arranged with the program to notify you early and in person.”

She stretches her arm across the desk and I take the envelope. “You’re serious.”

“I know it may not be what you had planned,” Coach Green says. “It can take a little longer because you’re dividing your time, but it’s a good way to get on the job training while also receiving your degree. Bonus, it’s in the Northeast.”

Where I can be close to Reese. The expression on his face tells me he knows that.

“This is amazing,” I say, allowing the information to slowly sink in. “I don’t know how to thank you.”

“Help those boys get to the Stanley Cup,” Coach Green says. “That’s how you can express your gratitude.”

I’d like to think he’s kidding, but I know he’s serious. The Stanley Cup is no joke.

When I exit the building, the acceptance letter in my hand, I’m surprised to see Reese’s car by the curb. My boyfriend leans against the door, all tall and sexy, waiting for me.

“You didn’t have to wait,” I say, walking up to him.

“I knew you were nervous.” He tilts his head, looking at me in that way that tells me he sees me—all of me. “Everything okay?”

I smile up at him. At my future. At this man I love so much. And tell him unequivocally, “Everything is perfect.”

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