Page 22 of Soulmates and Slapshots
She tilts her head, thinking. “Not really. I feel like I’m finally settling into this vacation.”
“Yeah,” I say. “Maple Falls seems to have that effect. It’s very welcoming—like a home away from home.”
“Exactly. Which makes it even more frustrating to think someone wants to destroy it,” she says, her voice a little quieter now.
“Is that why you want to help all these people you don’t know?”
“Yes. It’s something good to focus on.” She pauses. “I know it probably won’t help, but it keeps me from thinking about what comes next.”
I give her a curious look. “Because of the issues with your job?”
“Yeah.” Her expression changes. “I’m not sure what I’m going back to, honestly. It’s really stressful.”
She doesn’t elaborate, and I don’t push. Instead, I offer her a reassuring smile.
“Well, whatever’s next, I’m betting you’ll handle it like a champ.”
She looks touched for a second then smirks. “I appreciate the peptalk. In the meantime, I’m keeping you from your adoring fans.”
I raise an eyebrow. “Wait—are yousaying you’renotone of them?”
She lets out a soft laugh. “I’ll have to attend a game or two before I decide if I’m officially an Ice Breakers fan.”
“Fair enough.”
“But,” she adds, “I promise I’ll be there cheering you on.”
Something about those words makes my chest tighten. I want her in those stands. And I want her cheeringfor me.
“I’m glad to hear it.”
“Weston,” a familiar voice calls. Lucian claps a hand on my shoulder. “Time to go dazzle the crowd.”
“I’m ready,” I say forcing a smile. As much as I want to meet the fans, I’d rather spend the evening talking to Fiona.
“I guess I need to go,” I tell her.
She leans in closer to me. “Duty calls. Have fun.”
The scent of her hair makes me dizzy.
“I will. And I hope I get to see you again soon.”
She smiles then walks away, disappearing into the crowd with that same effortless grace that caught my attention the first time I laid eyes on her.
I’m sure of one thing in this moment. I want more time with Fiona before she leaves Maple Falls.
This town has a serious love affair with hockey, and honestly, it’s amazing to witness. The energy in the room crackles with excitement, and it’s impossible not to get swept up in it. Everywhere I turn, people are talking about the upcoming season like it’s a holiday they’ve waited all year to celebrate. When Troy Hart, the Ice Breakers' owner, steps up to the mic with Coach Hauser at his side, the crowd quiets instantly. They speak confidently, assuring the crowd they are in for an exhilarating season.
As they finish, the room erupts in cheers and applause, the sound practically shaking the walls. It’s the official kickoff of the season, and it feels more like a celebration than a press event. I can’t help the smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel tonight because this is the first time in years I’m not suiting up with the Wolves. Ithought there’d be more sadness and more doubt. But instead, I feel…charged. The optimism in the room is contagious, and I find myself feeding off it.
I weave through the crowd, shaking hands, exchanging high fives, soaking in the warmth and enthusiasm from fans who already seem to have my back. But even as I’m nodding along and thanking people for their support, my eyes are scanning the room.
I’m looking for Fiona.
It doesn’t take long to find her sitting alone at a table tucked near the edge of the room with a wine glass in her hand. Her effortless elegance radiating as it did earlier in the evening. The quirky aunt and her bright pink dress are nowhere in sight.
I hesitate for a few seconds. I want to go talk to her, but I also don’t want to overdo it. If I sit down, she might start thinking I’m intentionally following her. Then again, I haven’t spoken to her since I arrived tonight. And technically, Iamsupposed to be mingling with the guests. This is part of the job.
