Page 50 of Hooking

“So, how long has your relationship been going on? I know that there was some buzz earlier this season about a rumored child with someone else,” Lucas says as he eyes us cautiously.

I look at Cassidy and smile softly, not breaking our eye contact once. “Truth be told, we never really had a relationship. I mean we did hook up in Mexico when she invited me on what was supposed to be her honeymoon. We were going to give this a real try when we got back, but all that other stuff happened. So, I guess you can say it’s been ten weeks now.”

“And you’re sure this one’s yours?” the team lawyer interjects, and I clench my fist under the table, quickly breaking eye contact from Cassidy.

“One thousand percent,” he says, through gritted teeth.

The lawyer nods before snapping what I can only guess is a file containing our team contracts, closed. “Well, both of their contracts were signed before you implemented the no-fraternization clause, so they aren’t in violation. However, we do wish that you would have told the team of your relationship sooner, so we could have been ahead of any scandals.”

“Noted.”

“Well, in that case, I think we’re good. Talya, I’m sure you’ll release a sweet little post about their relationship on the team page at some point.” She nods as she gathers her belongings. “Congrats to you both. And we will be in touch if needed.”

The three of them move to stand, but Mr. Richards stays planted to his seat, stroking his stubbled chin. Everyone moves to leave, but Mr. Richards stops Channing and me. “Sit.”

We both resume our seats as we wait for Mr. Richards to start talking. “Cassie, well, I shouldn’t say I’m surprised by this, but well… I am. I thought I had warned you well enough.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner—” I start to say as he raises his hand to stop me.

“I’m not mad or disappointed. Well maybe disappointed a little,” he says, sitting forward and placing his elbows on the table. “I owe Celeste a thousand bucks betting against you guys.”

I shouldn’t be surprised by his approval, but I can’t help the look of shock that appears on my face. In all the years I’ve known Wade Richards, he’s never been a betting man. Hell, that man is firm and serious with everything he does. So, the fact he took this bet is surprising.

It’s Brooks. He has to be softening him. That and well, since Camden had been born ten years ago.

“So, with that being said, Channing, I expect you to still be on your game a hundred percent of the time. We all want another Cup this year, so don’t let me down.” Channing nods in his direction as he focuses on me now. “Have you told your parents about this little one? Because your father is one of my closest friends, and I can’t keep something like this from him. He’d kill me.”

I smile when he mentions my parents. They may have been in different tax brackets, but they built a bond like no other. I think that’s because my parents never really cared that they had money. They just wanted the best for me.

“They know. They weren’t ecstatic about her at first, knowing the circumstances, but they came around. Pretty sure they’ll be spending more time in Seattle again once she arrives.”

He smiles at me before pushing to stand. “Good. Well, that is all from me. You two take it easy. We’ll talk soon.”

Chapter 25

Pregnancy Journal Entry

Thirty weeks pregnant:

Weight: officially the size of a beluga whale

Cravings: everything.

New developments: heartburn from hell

We made it to thirty weeks, little love, despite the on and off contractions. And I don’t mean Braxton Hicks. I was nervous there for a moment when the doctor told me my cervix dilated. I mean it’s okay since we’re quickly approaching our due date. But still, I’d like you to cook a little longer.

I had an ultrasound last week to check on your growth since they officially diagnosed me with gestational hypertension and what do you know, the old wives’ tales were right. You already have a ton of hair. I couldn’t stop talking about it when they pointed it out on the screen.

I can’t believe in just ten short weeks, you’ll be here. Thank goodness for that too. Your daddy has playoffs coming up. His team is once again making a run for the Stanley Cup. Oh, how cute would it be to get a picture of you sitting in the Cup.

Anywho, we can’t wait to meet you, baby girl. We still have yet to decide on a name for you. I just hope we can agree on one before you decide to make your grand entrance.

Until we meet.

Love you always,

Mama

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