Page 46 of Soulmates and Slapshots
“You’re wondering why I would spend that kind of money,” I say gently, offering him a way out. “Especially given everything I’ve told you.”
He gives a small nod. “Yes. I mean, I don’t want toassume anything, but you’ve told me what’s going on with your job, and?—”
“I know,” I say quietly, cutting him off with a small smile. “And I appreciate your concern. But I promise you I didn’t empty my savings account for this. Despite how it looks, I’m not completely reckless.”
He exhales, his shoulders easing as some of the tension leaves his body. His eyes still linger on mine. Clearly he has more he wants to say.
“I didn’t expect it,” he admits. “You kind of blew me away.”
“Good,” I say. “It was actually kind of exhilarating.”
A grin spreads across his face. “I know the feeling. Thank you again.”
I smile. “You’re welcome.”
As we eat, our conversation flows effortlessly. We replay the evening’s events, chuckling over the fierce, almost bidding war that broke out between a few of the more competitive women. It was dramatic, but it only added to the fun of the night. He tells me about their recent away games and some of the explosive moments and close calls. I hang on every word, loving how excited he gets when he talks about hockey. There's a natural ease between us, like we have a history with each other that doesn’t make sense. I’ve heard other people talk about this but never experienced it myself. I’m already looking forward to the next time we’ll be together.
I never thought I’d say this, but I’m absolutely captivated by these Maple Falls town council meetings. This is better than any show on TV. All we’re missing is the popcorn.
The highlight of the night is the jaw-dropping reveal of a time capsule discovered in the basement of the haunted house at Maple Fest. Talk about being in the right place at the right time. It’s not just an old box—it’s a treasure trove of Maple Falls history. You can feel the energy shift in the room the moment it's mentioned. Bailey, who’s been passionately vocal since the last meeting, is practically glowing as she argues for the importance of preserving the town’s heritage. And with this discovery, her case is stronger than ever.
As the council deliberates, the tension is at an all-time high. Aunt Dee and I grab each other's hands, sitting on the edge of our seats as we watch it all unfold. The room is packed full of nervous energy, and I’m just as invested as the people who live here. When the final vote is called, I hold my breath.
And then—it happens. It feels like it’s all in slow motion as it registers in my mind.
The council unanimously votes to designate the area as a protected historic district. For a split second, there’s nothing but silence. Then the room erupts in cheers and applause. I leap to my feet, unable to contain my excitement, and join the celebration sweeping through the town hall. Aunt Dee dabs the corners of her eyes, and Bailey looks like she’s about to burst with joy.
The only person not celebrating is Alexander MacDonald’s representative who sits still, obviously shocked by what just transpired. I don’t envy him. Delivering this news to his boss won’t be easy.
This makes me wonder…why hasn’t MacDonald shown up to any of these meetings? If he truly cared about Maple Falls, wouldn’t he be here fighting for what he wants? His absence speaks volumes. I imagine as a billionaire he’s involved in many different business endeavors so it would be impossible to be everywhere. But this is exactly why he should leave Maple Falls alone. The people in this room care about this town, it’s their home and hopefully it will stay that way for a long time.
CHAPTER 15
WESTON
It’s game day, and for some reason, the nerves are hitting harder than usual. I always get a little anxious in the hours leading up to a game. Honestly, any player that says they don’t is probably lying. But today it’s more intense, like there’s a weight pressing on my chest I can’t seem to shake.
I head to the arena earlier than normal, hoping that a little extra time on the ice will settle me. Sometimes just skating and the sound of blades cutting through the rink is what I need to clear my head.
Honestly, I’m ready to have my moment. The one that proves to everyone including Coach Hauser, the Ice Breakers organization, the fans, and my teammates that I belong on this team. I want to feel like I’ve earned this jersey and my place in the league.
Not being enough has always been my biggest fear. And as every game passes without that defining play, the pressure builds.
Moving to Maple Falls was supposed to be just another stop on the journey. But it’s been more than that. This placeis my home now, and meeting Fiona has added to that feeling. I didn’t see her coming, and now I can’t imagine this chapter without her in it. Still, even with her in the stands, I know I need to do something on the ice that tells me I truly belong.
I change into my gear, going through the motions I’ve done more times than I can count. Before heading out to the ice, a message from Fiona pops up on my phone.
Good luck tonight. You will be awesome. I’ll be there cheering the team on.
I exhale, which releases a bit of the tension. Her message is a reminder that people believe in me even when I’m not sure I believe in myself.
Thanks. I needed to hear this. Not feeling very confident at the moment.
The truth is, I’ve never cared about being thestar. It’s not about having the spotlight or the headlines. What I need is to stop feeling like I’m constantly playing catch up. Like I’m always one step short of the player I should be.
When I was called up from the minors to the Wolves, I thought that would be my moment. But it never quite came together there. Then I was traded, giving me another chance to prove myself. And here I am, still waiting.
But I think I’m done waiting. I know I’m a good player because I wouldn’t be here if I wasn’t. It’s time to show everyone I’ve got what it takes.
