Page 66 of From Ice to Home
His expression softens, and for a brief moment, there’s a glimmer of respect in his eyes. He gets up to leave, digging his hands into his pockets.
“Welcome to the Rangers, Hannah. I hope you find your place here. Just remember, we’reallin this together.”
15
HANNAH
It’s game night.
Growing up, sports were a constant in our house. With three brothers playing football and a boyfriend bound for the pros, it was inevitable. I’m no stranger to the adrenaline, to the energy that seeps into your bones the minute you step into the arena, to the pulse of anticipation building with each passing second.
But since Lucas and I broke up, hockey has been little more than background noise—something I avoided more than I followed. Now, stepping into this arena, it all comes rushing back…in overdrive.
Because this isn’t just any game. It’s theNHL playoffs, and the stakes are so much higher.
Lucas isn’t just a guy fighting for a championship. He’s not just the small-town hero anymore.
He’s one of the best athletes in the country. And I’m here as his wife.
Father, thank you for bringing us here, to this place. Please, keep Lucas safe on the ice. Keep his mind still and focused on You. We will give You all the glory, no matter the outcome.
Lucas spent most of the afternoon with his team, going through all the usual pre-game routines. Moving forward that could change, but for now he’s keeping the coach and the manager happy after everything we put them through this past week and a half. That means he arrived at Madison Square Garden with the team, while I took the car service he arranged for me.
It’s all still so new. The reality of it all presses in as I step out of the car and approach the entrance. The moment I step inside, the energy hits me full force—electric and consuming. Thousands of fans filling their seats, the low hum of anticipation building to a roar. It burrows deep, setting my nerves on fire.
The player’s family, girlfriends and now…wives are assigned a luxury suite for the game. My stomach knots at the thought. I don’t know these people. They don’t know me.
And yet here I am, about to step into their world.
Before entering the suite, I take out my phone, hoping Lucas might still get a chance to read my message before the game.
Are you ready for the game?
Born ready, Sanders. Are you settled?
Almost. You know this will be the first time I watch you play. You know…live.
I’ll do my best to impress then. I can’t wait to look up and see my girl in my jersey, cheering me on.
I think you mean your wife.
I love hearing that.
You know what I mean.
Got to go. Coach is giving the talk.
Wait…
Check your bag. Front pocket.
A few minutesgo by and I hope he still has enough time to do this one last thing.
You remembered.
How could I forget? Enjoy the game, Luke. I’m praying for you. Be safe.
Always xx
