Page 50 of Power Play Pursuit

When I open my mouth, stammering, James glances at me, wearing the same confused look as my mom.

Finally, I croak out, “Um, I’m kind of staying with James until I find a place of my own.” I deliberately avoid looking any of them in the eye, instead focusing on Noah Wilcott, who’s blocking all the shots from the Raptors with dexterity and ease.

“Elizabeth,” Mom says in that tone I know too well, and I know I’m in trouble.

“Sorry.” I wince. “I didn’t think it was a big deal. Rent near the coffee shop is expensive, and James offered to let me stay. I’ve been looking at places these past few days, but it’s not easy to find something that fits my budget.”

“And we’re just friends,” James adds, a hint of anxiety clouding his eyes as my dad’s face turns a dark red.

“Why didn’t you move back home?” Dad asks, his stern gaze focused on me. “You know you’re always welcome with us.”

“I know, Dad. But it’s so far from work. I was staying with Marissa and Aaron for a while, but they’re newlyweds. Plus, James couldn’t be discharged from the hospital without someone to look after him, so it just worked out. Like he said, we’re good friends, and I have my own room,” I add quickly, feeling the clarification necessary.

“All right,” Mom says, surprising me. “That’s very kind of you, James.”

“Please, it’s nothing,” he replies, his shoulders relaxing. “I’m happy to help. And like I said before, it’s good for my mental health not to be alone when I’m out of the game.”

Luckily, my parents don’t push the subject. The warm-ups come to an end, and some of the guys stop by for one last hand shake. Hawthorne even gives my dad a puck as a souvenir.

Leaving the bench, we follow James to the event level again and up to the VIP section. As we approach the suite, a bunch of fans recognize James and clamor around him. We pause so he can take a few selfies with them and, of course, give out a few of his world-famous hugs. I can’t help but feel a pang of jealousy when he hugs a pretty redhead. I mean, sure, we are only friends—we’ve established that numerous times by now—but I have yet to receive a James Adler hug. Although, it might be for the best. I’m not sure I’d survive having his strong arms wrapped around me. Just like the redhead, who’s two steps away from fainting on the floor.

We finally move on, and the VIP suite is fantastic. I can’t believe I’ve never stepped foot in it. The space boasts a large buffet, a full bar, and a dining and lounge area, all decorated in red and black, of course.

“Whoa,” I breathe out as we explore the sprawling suite. Everything looks so fancy, with leather lounge seats and marble accents. “How is it that I’ve never been here before?”

James swings to face me, his eyebrows furrowed. “Wait, really?”

“Never. We always have ice seats.”

“I just assumed you’d come here before the game and during intermissions.”

“Nope. I’m going to have a few words with Marissa and Hayley about this,” I say, my eyes scanning the space.

“It looks wonderful,” Mom gushes. A hostess comes to check our credentials before finding us a table. James shakes a few hands—and gives some more hugs—before we head to the buffet.

The number of choices is overwhelming with everything from salads to cooked-to-order steaks and pizza. I’ve already scoped out the pastry buffet for later.

My parents, who love food just as much as I do, are both ecstatic, their eyes sparkling as they load up their plates.

I walk back to the table first, and James is right behind me.

“Thanks again,” I say as he takes a seat to my left. “This is amazing. My parents are loving every minute.”

“You’re welcome.” His eyes crinkle with a smile. “They’re really nice people. Hope we win to make it a perfect night.”

Right, the game. With everything going on, I completely forgot about it.

My parents walk back to the table, their plates piled high, and sit across from us. As we enjoy our meal, they seize the opportunity to get to know James.

“So, where are you from, James?” Mom asks, forking a floret of broccoli.

“I’m from Chicago originally, but I moved around a lot for work before I eventually settled here with the Raptors a few years back.”

“No plans on leaving the city, then?”

He smiles, glancing at me. “Nope. I love it here. As long as they want me, and I can be of service to the team, I’m staying.”

“You certainly bring a lot to the team,” Dad says with a look of admiration. “Heck of a player.”

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