Page 176 of Wrong Pucking Jersey

“So, what is my Maddox trying desperately to hide?”

Those words are like a match, lighting up those honeycomb eyes that begin to fill with their own set of tears.

“When everything was finished… contracts signed and final handshakes, I kinda wondered if my dad was proud of me,” he admits as a tear escapes and runs down his cheek until I swipe at it with my thumb. “I just wished I could call him and say I did it. That… I’m really following my dreams, and I’m a captain of a hockey team that has the potential to make it to the top.”

Oh, my sweet Maddox.

“You know he’s proud of you,” I whisper. “You may not be able to call him, but what if we visit? We’d have time after lunch, yes? Not too far from here.”

He thinks about it for a minute before he slowly nods his head.

“I never really got a chance to visit his grave yet,” he admits. “Actually, it’s not like I didn’t have the chance. I… didn’t want to go alone.”

“Then I’ll come with you,” I offer. “I haven’t visited in a while. Hopefully, he won’t mind.”

That makes Maddox smile as he blinks and lets his tears run free.

“He’d be damn happy to see us back together,” he whispers and leans down to press his forehead against mine. “Thanks, Baby Girl.”

“Nurse Johnson at your service,” I tease and close the distance to lightly kiss his lips. “I’m so proud of you, Maddox. So pucking proud.”

He hugs me again, and I let him shed all his tears.

I know this is one of many accomplishments he and the rest of the team will experience, but it’s moments like these that I’m thankful for this internship.

That I can support those I love, front and center.

Tonight kicks off the Strattonville Vipers’ careers.

I’ll get front-row seats while doing my job as their team nurse… and biggest supporter.

Taste Of Victory And Puck Curiosity

~MADDOX~

“Almost,” I breathe as my ears ring from the blood pumping, shrill cheering, and amplified drumming against the boards around us.

I’m breathless, sweat dripping, and my body hurts like crazy because I’m pushing it with everything I have as I race down the ice.

The puck in my possession is ready to hit its mark.

The world is but a blur as my speed becomes my best advantage against the Quebec Penguins. The clock is running out, but this is the final round I know will lead us to victory.

One final move.

I’m close, the goal in sight, and I can see the pure uncertainty in the goalie’s eyes as he prepares to drop down to the ice and stop what could break our tie and lead Strattonville Vipers to victory.

Too bad.

I’ve already won.

I see it.

The exact opening I need to hit this puck and get the goal we need.

I take it.

My mind is fast.

---