Page 10 of Shot on Goal at a Second Chance
I shoot him a querying look.
“A suggestion, if you’re interested.”
“Go on.” I shift on the couch to face him.
He turns toward me, causing his knee to press against mine, reawakening the swarm of bees lodged in my stomach. “I think I know exactly who you need for the job. But he’s on the young side.”
I fight the urge to glance where our legs touch, but there’s no escaping the sensations coursing through me. “Former hockey player?”
“Yes. Recently retired.”
“Who?” His warmth seeps through my linen slacks, making it hard to focus. I put my food container on the table and use the opportunity to shift my leg away from his.
His gaze drops to where we were touching for a moment, but he continues. “Gabe Markelson.”
“Didn’t he play for the Sharks?”
“Briefly. Until his last concussion.”
“Why do you think he’d be a suitable fit?”
“Because I saw how he influenced his team. Their coach still says he was one of the best captains he ever saw.”
“Takes more than just being a good captain.”
“The Sharks made the playoffs his first year.”
Those bees migrate to my head, buzzing with excitement. “Can you put me in touch with him?”
He leans forward, his arms resting on his legs. Hisexpression turns eager as anticipation sparks in his eyes. “How about I arrange a meeting?”
I’ve fought every step to get where I am now. I struggled to be heard, dealt with overbearing cronies convinced their way was the only way, and established myself in this industry. The last thing I need is another man trying to control my career. Or my life.
Ready to be done with this interview—conversation, or whatever it is—I get to my feet. “I can handle this myself, Zach.”
He reaches up and catches my arm. “I know you can, Becks. I just want to help.”
I can’t look away from the way his fingers wrap around my wrist, pressing my skin like a brand and marking me as his, just like when I used to wear his jersey.
My crush argument flutters to the ground and dissolves, revealing the truth.
I still have feelings for the man who broke my heart.
CHAPTER 6
Zach
Rebecca stares at my hand wrapped around her wrist as if she’s conflicted. But then I catch a glimpse of the hurt I caused her all those years ago.
I quickly let go. “Sorry.”
My chest tightens, and I hate myself for ever hurting her to begin with. Right after I got called up to the NHL, I showed up on her doorstep with flowers and a ring. Her father told me I’d only cause her more pain if I tried to make things work with his daughter because I’d need every bit of my focus directed at my shot at the Stanley Cup. He spoke from experience, citing the cost his marriage had paid in chasing his dream.
And I believed him—believed I wasn’t man enough to do both well. So, out of respect, I honored his request to let her go, even though it gutted me, and I suspect he never told her. But that was then. This is now, and she’s right here with nothing standing between us. Somehow, I have to find a place in her lifeagain.
But what if her father’s words still hold true? I may not have grueling practices every day, but during hockey season, I’m on the road, reporting on the games and analyzing stats and player standings. Should I keep our interactions on a professional level and give up the idea of winning her back?
She clears her throat and then appears thoughtful. “How soon could you arrange a meeting?”
