Page 51 of The Final Draft

I slap his arm in fake admonishment. We approach a door that saysCredentials onlywhere two burley guys block the access.

“Hey guys, sorry about the loss tonight,” Julian says as he approaches.

The taller of the two responds. “Happens.” He half shrugs. “At least it wasn’t the Kings. Those assholes destroy a locker room when they win.”

Julian chuckles. “Sounds about right. Hey, this is Cartwright’s little sister, Harper. She wants to see him before he leaves.”

The other guard gives a skeptical appraisal as he looks me up and down, his eyes focusing on my jersey. “He kicked our ass.” He crosses his arms, blocking our entrance. His kind eyes soften his tough-guy act.

“Sorry, kinda.” I smile sweetly, batting my eyelashes.

Julian chides me. “No, you aren’t.”

“He’s still doing media, but you know the way,” the shorter guard tells Julian as he opens the door. His heavy New Jersey accent makes me giggle.

We walk down a back hallway past several doors that go to training rooms and offices. As we walk past the Demons’ dressing room, I’m surprised to hear music and laughter. They lost a game, but spirits seem to be high. Is that Jack singing some country song about breaking hearts? That guy is adorable. I can’t wait to check my social media feeds to see if I’m right.

“Rather go in there?” Julian asks, quirking his eyebrow at me and bumping shoulders.

I smile and take his arm. “I’ve got more than I can handle right here.”

We take another turn and are outside the visiting Renegades dressing room. The beats are pumping when Julian cracks the door open. With that smack down of a win, I’m not surprised.

“Wait here. I’ll let Lawson know where to find you. You okay for a minute?” He looks up and down the hall, but we’re alone.

“Yeah, fine, thanks.” I’ve spent more hours than I can count waiting in arena hallways like this. Does Julian think this is new for me, or is he being polite?

My phone vibrates in my bag, and I pull it out to find a text from Zac.

Going out with the boys. You’re invited when you get back to the city.

I’m tired, but enjoy yourself and I’ll take care of Noodle.

Is the girl you gave Harvard’s number to psycho?

I don’t think so.

Too bad. HAHAHA

“At least you’re dressed appropriately tonight.” Lawson picks me up and swings me around. He’s still in his sweaty gear, and between his skates and pads, he’s a giant.

“Eww, you stink” I squirm out of his arms. He kisses me on my head and gives me a Lawson look of approval.

“Hey, I’m glad I could see you tonight before we head out. I miss you, Harps. But you seem okay. You’re okay, right?” He gives me his caring-brother stare, and I ignore the sweat and smell for another hug. He spent half the day yesterday asking me the same thing.

“I’m good. Really. You seem to be bonding with your new team.”

“Yeah, it’s a change, but they’re good guys. They haven’t hazed me or anything.” Lawson is one of the most respected guysin hockey. I’m sure the younger guys are excited to play with him and learn from one of the greats. “I’m glad you weren’t alone tonight. You and Decker seem more friendly since last night.” He’s questioning me, and rightfully so. Thank goodness he's letting me talk instead of his usual overprotective inquisition.

I look down and consider how I want to answer that when the devil himself steps out of the dressing room. “Hey gorgeous, I see you found him. Great game, man. You were on fire.” Julian is all calm and relaxed as I’m twisted up trying to decide how to answer Lawson’s question.

Julian reaches for my hand, and I glance at Lawson’s face. He’s watching every move.

“Um, thanks. What’s going on here?” Lawson isn’t upset. I’d describe it as confused, with a sprinkle of uncertainty thrown in for good measure.

“Yeah, well.” I stumble over my racing thoughts. I’m not sure what to say. What is going on with us?

“Well, we’ve been hanging out a little, and honestly, I’d like it to be more,” Julian says matter-of-factly. Has he lost his mind? My brother is still hyped on adrenaline and carrying a hockey stick. He could kill him. Julian looks at me for approval and I’m stunned. He squeezes my hand, signaling he’s not done. “We’re friends for now. But Harper calls the shots. She knows where I stand.” Julian leans in, and Lawson mirrors the movement. “She’s amazing.”

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