Page 64 of Ice Ice Maybe
“A surprise vow renewal ceremony for me and your father,” Mom continued. “I want to marry him again.”
I turned to Nolan. “I knew it!”
“It’s perfect because our anniversary falls on a Saturday this year,” Mom said excitedly. “We can make it a big celebration, and I’d love for you two to be a part of it and help me plan it.”
“Mom, I would love to,” I said, my heart warming at the idea. “Of course, anything to help. It sounds like fun!”
“It sounds amazing, but how does your vow renewal help get Mr. Dalton on my side?” Nolan asked.
“Ah, that’s the beauty of it!” Mom replied with enthusiasm. “When he finds out that you two practically planned the entire thing, he’ll see how well you work together as a team. Plus, he’ll realize how much you care about the family, Nolan, considering you’re taking the time to help even with your busy schedule.”
“That’s true,” I agreed. “And Dad’s always been a sucker for grand romantic gestures. Seeing you put in the effort to make their anniversary special will earn you some brownie points.”
“Well, in that case, I’m happy to help,” Nolan said.
Something occurred to me and I sat up. “Mom, are you sure Dad can’t hear you? We don’t want to ruin the surprise.”
“Don’t worry, honey, he’s been out for a couple of hours,” Mom assured me. “Oh wait, speak of the devil. I hear him coming in right now. I better go. See you at the game!”
The call ended abruptly.
I turned to Nolan, crossing my arms and flashing him a playful smirk. “Well, well, it looks like you dodged quite the bullet there, mister. No need to marry me after all.”
For a moment, it appeared he might brush it off with a joke. Instead, his lips curved into a soft smile as his eyes met mine.
“It’s probably for the best,” Nolan said, his voice low and warm. “My heart couldn’t handle that level of happiness.”
Before I could process his words, he winked and sauntered toward the bathroom, leaving me frozen in place. The door clicked shut behind him, and I blinked rapidly, my mouth hanging open.
Wait a minute …
Did he imply what I think he implied?
Chapter Seventeen
Nolan
As we entered Bridgestone Arena for the hockey game against the Predators, I felt a shift in my reality. This time, Zena and I weren’t entering as two people on a mission to satisfy Mr. Dalton’s demands. We were a couple, plain and simple, and the thought made my heart race faster than any hockey game could.
The arena was a sea of gold and navy blue, buzzing with energy and anticipation. But all I could focus on was the warmth of Zena’s hand in mine as we made our way to the private suite. I glanced at her, catching her eye, and we shared a smile that spoke volumes. No pretending. No act. Just us.
Stepping into the VIP suite to watch the game, I was again reminded of how different our worlds were. The room was filled with people who looked like they’d stepped off the cover ofForbesmagazine.
“Who are all these people?” I whispered to Zena, trying not to look as out of place as I felt. “I didn’t expect this many people for a road game.”
She leaned in and whispered back, “VIPs and sponsors, mostly. Some of our advertisers have corporate offices in the Midwest and on the East Coast. We try to arrange tickets for them when we can.”
I nodded, watching Mr. Dalton work the room like a seasoned politician. He was in his element, shaking hands and slapping backs. It was impressive and not something I would ever feel comfortable doing.
I was about to ask Zena if she wanted a drink when the suite door opened and a familiar face walked in. It was Officer Waterman, the man who had hauled Mr. Dalton off to jail just days ago.
I leaned in close to Zena and said in a quiet whisper, “I still wonder if your dad bribed that cop for a get-out-of-jail-free card.”
“Actually, I was curious about that too, and I asked Mom about it,” she said.
“And?” I prompted, intrigued.
“Turns out, there’s more to the story. Officer Waterman is originally from San Diego. He and Dad went to high school together.”
