Page 20 of Soulmates and Slapshots
“Because of the bird?”
“Exactly.”
I shrug. “Why not? Maybe saving the bird means saving Maple Falls.”
“Stranger things have happened.”
“I can do some research,” I tell her. “It’s not like I don’t have the time.”
“Are you sure?” she asks. “Aren’t you technically on vacation?”
“You sound like my aunt.”
She winces. “Yikes. Although Denise Hale is a firecracker, so maybe it’s not a bad thing.”
I giggle. “She keeps pushing this whole ‘relaxation’ thing. I can only lounge around for so long before I lose my mind. It’s totally out of character for me not having stuff to do.”
“I get it,” Mabel says with a knowing nod. “Anyway, if you’re serious, it’s called the Blue Rock or something. I’ll ask my friend Willa for more info. She knows a lot about it.”
“Perfect.”
I have zero knowledge about birds—but hey, it’s never too late to start.
CHAPTER 7
WESTON
It’s been gray and rainy all day—hardly the ideal weather for tonight’s highly anticipated event. The clouds have hung low since the morning, leaving a dreary haze over the town. Not exactly the backdrop planned for the official Inaugural Bash. Tonight marks a major milestone for the Ice Breakers. This black-tie event not only kicks off our season but also gives us our first chance to truly connect with the town’s residents, sponsors, and guests who’ve already begun rooting for us.
Earlier this morning, Coach Hauser gathered the team for a blunt, no-nonsense talk in the locker room. His expression was serious, his voice even more so.
“This is a new team,” he said. “Every eye in that arena tonight will be on you. No screwups. No egos. Be sharp, be respectful, and don’t forget—we’re building a brand here.”
His words continue to replay in my head. The fact that I have an opportunity to continue to grow my career is really hitting home. I’m wearing a black tux, slightly tight in the shoulders, and admittedly I’d be thrilled to skip the jacketand tie. The moment I step inside the arena, I’m floored by the transformation. The walls are draped with banners in our team colors and sleek decor that gives the space a high-end, polished feel. Ice sculptures shaped like sticks and pucks sparkle beneath the lights. The ice is a clever addition to the décor. Ice for the Ice Breakers is a great marketing tool.
Despite the stunning setup, I feel a rush of nerves. I’ve been to my fair share of black-tie events, but this one’s different. It’s my official debut as an Ice Breaker. With this in mind, I head straight for the bar, hoping a drink might take the edge off.
After ordering a bourbon on the rocks, I glance around and spot a few teammates by the elaborate food spread, which will be my next stop. The table is stacked with hors d’oeuvres, sliders, and a towering cupcake display that will need my attention. There’s always room for cupcakes.
But just before I move toward the food, I catch sight of Fiona.
She’s standing near one of the display tables, deep in conversation with a woman dressed in a bright pink, ruffled dress. It wouldn’t shock me if she wore it to prom in the ‘80s. If not, it’s a great replica. And then there’s Fiona, who looks incredible. She’s wearing a fitted, strapless black dress that hugs her curves and falls just above her knees. Her hair is styled with soft waves that perfectly frame her face.
I freeze for a second, realizing I’m staring at her. This is starting to become a habit whenever she’s around. Before I can look away, she glances over and catches me. Her face lights up, and she lifts her hand giving a friendly wave.
Shoving my left hand into my pocket, I make my way over.
“Hey,” I say as I approach her.
The woman in pink eyes me up and down with intense scrutiny. I’m guessing she’s the hockey-obsessed aunt Fiona mentioned.
“Hey, yourself,” Fiona says with a grin. “Look at you, all cleaned up and ready to impress Maple Falls.”
I hold out my arms and bow proudly. “It’s all part of the job.”
“Aunt Denise, this is Weston Smith,” Fiona says.
“One of our new defensemen,” Denise interjects.
