Page 30 of Gamechanger

We started to skate again and rounded the curve in the oval. I spotted Finn laughing at something in his conversation with Quinn.

I slowed slightly, happy to hear any wisdom Axel had to share. "But what if I screw it up?"

"Then you fuck up. None of us are perfect, but you get up, dust yourself off, apologize, and pledge to do better. That's all you can do." He glanced at me, and I saw a rare smile on his lips. "For what it's worth, though, I think the two of you stand a good chance of making it."

As we all met again, Finn skated up to my side and took my hand.

"Thanks," I whispered to Axel.

He nodded and asked his big question of the night. "Alright, who's buying the next round? I need something stronger than cocoa to deal with having to watch Moretti's skating."

We all laughed. It was an alcohol-free, family-friendly event. Axel would have to wait.

As midnight approached, we found a spot on a bench away from the bulk of the crowd. Finn slipped his arm around my waist and leaned his head on my shoulder. Anxiety bubbled just beneath the surface for me. I was one of the luckiest men on the face of the earth at the moment, but my inner demons wouldn't let me enjoy it in complete peace.

"Any resolutions for the New Year?" Finn asked as I watched his breath form puffy clouds in the cold air.

I should have considered the question for longer, but I blurted out what first came to mind: "Work harder, be better, and figure out how to deserve you."

Finn frowned and faced me. "Moose, you don't have to—"

The crowd interrupted us with the final countdown. "Ten!"

"Nine!"

Trying to address Finn's concern, I started, "I just mean—"

"Eight!"

"Seven!"

Finn shook his head. "You're already—"

"Six!"

"Five!"

The crowd's energy intensified, but I could only concentrate on Finn's stare.

"Four!"

"Three!"

I took a deep breath. "I-"

"Two!"

"One!"

"Happy New Year!"

The words didn't come. As massive cheers erupted around us, I pulled Finn close and kissed him. Confetti flew, and the crowd began to sing "Auld Lang Syne."

I focused on the lingering taste of cocoa on Finn's lips. He cupped my cheek gently.

When the kiss finally ended, his eyes shone like the brightest stars in the night sky. "Happy New Year, Moose."

"Happy New Year." I did my best to force a broad smile.

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