Page 31 of Cross Checks

“It might be fun to be with a celebrity,” Hank grinned.

The post-game energy still buzzed through my veins when Hank and I stepped into Lou’s, joining a big crowd in a celebratory mood. Amid the hum of conversations and clatter of balls on the pool table, we found a booth near the back corner.

Hank slid in across from me, his eyes bright with excitement. “Wow, I bet at least half of the crowd is here because they saw the game and aren’t ready to go home yet.”

“We do have amazing support here in town. I’ve talked to some of my buddies who play for other teams about the Cold Pines fans, and they have nothing to compare with it. This little town is special.”

Hank flagged down a server, and we ordered piles of wings and fries, the perfect post-game feast. A pitcher of beer would be the ideal accompaniment to wash it all down.

While waiting for the food, we chatted about the game, discussing Hank’s favorite plays and laughing about Jensen’s little celebration dance when he scored a goal. It was an easy and comfortable conversation.

When the food arrived, we dug in. It hit the spot. I was always hungry after a hard-fought game. Halfway through our impromptu meal, I spotted a group of fans glancing our way.

My stomach suddenly knotted. I hadn’t considered how Hank and I might look to the casual fan. Would they figure out our relationship was more than just friends?

One of the group, a young guy in a Cougars jersey, approached. “Hey, Chase, great game tonight. Would it be okay to take a selfie?”

I hesitated and looked at Hank. He gave me an encouraging nod.

“Sure thing,” I said. Smiling into the camera, I winced when another group member snapped a photo that took in the entire scene, including Hank.

More fans soon joined us, all asking for photos and autographs. It was familiar territory, and my nerves eased off. Everyone was respectful, and I basked in their excitement at interacting with a player from their favorite team.

As the last fan walked away, I exhaled long and low.

“That wasn’t so bad, was it?” Hank asked.

“Not at all,” I admitted. “I think I was just nervous about how people might react seeing us out together like this.”

Hank reached a hand across the table and covered mine. “They’re your fans, Chase. They love you for who you are on the ice, and I’m pretty sure they only want the best for you off the ice.”

“Thanks, Hank. I appreciate that.”

After we finished up the last of the beer, I suggested a walk along the waterfront. The night air was crisp and cool with a hint of frost. We walked side by side along the boardwalk, edging the water.

Although it often teemed with tourists during the day, the waterfront was serene. The moon cast a silver glow over the waves in the distance. I listened to the faint lapping of water around the boardwalk and boat docks.

“After two and a half years, I still love it here,” I said, breaking the silence. “When I was a kid, I dreamed of someday living by the ocean.”

Hank smiled. “It is beautiful, almost as beautiful as you.”

I laughed, experiencing a rush of affection. “Smooth talker.”

We stopped and leaned against a railing as we gazed across the water. A single fishing boat sat anchored some distance offshore. Hank’s hand found mine, and he gently waved our fingers together. It was a warm, reassuring sensation.

I turned to face him and debated whether to throw caution to the wind. Before I could resolve the issue, Hank pulled me closer, cupping my cheek with his free hand.

Our lips met in a tender, moonlit kiss, soft and slow. The kiss lingered, neither of us wanting to be the first to pull away.

"Thank you for supporting me tonight," I said softly. "It meant the world having you there cheering me on."

Hank brushed his thumb along my stubbled jaw. "Are you kidding? Watching you out there—so passionate and skilled—it only made me admire you more."

I exhaled. I was exactly where I wanted to be with the man who set my heart on fire. I held his hands as we turned back toward the shimmering sea, content to be together without needing more words.

Chapter10

Hank

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