Page 164 of Slap Shot

I glance across the kitchen at Madeline laughing at something Lexi is saying. Her shoulders shake, her eyes wrinkle. Her mouth splits into a beautiful grin, andholy shit.

I like her so fucking much.

It’s more than a physical attraction.

It’s more than a crush.

If someone were to try and get my deepest, darkest secret out of me, it would be how much I like her, how much I’m thinking Imorethan like her, but she’s not ready to hear it yet.

Doesn’t change the fact that it’s true.

Down the road, if we got to that point, if I’m lucky enough to have more years with her, I wouldn’t care about a ceremony or vows. I’d care about her.

Spending my days with her and Lucy and another set of dogs we rescue from the shelter. Jewelry wouldn’t matter, but how I feel when I’m around her would.

Like I’m coming home whenever she’s in my arms.

Like everything in life is finally right after being wrong for so fucking long.

My heart thunders in my chest. I’m surprised no one else can hear it. My palms are sweaty, and I wipe them on my jeans.

I know she likes me too, but there’s a big difference in anice fuckkind of way andwant to hang out for the rest of eternity? kind of way.

We’re somewhere in the middle right now, thatI enjoy your company,so let’s keep doing itway of thinking, but it’s soobviousI’m nearly in love with her, I can’t deny it anymore.

“You okay?” Maverick snaps his fingers in my face, and I blink. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“I’m okay.” I down the rest of my water and notice Madeline heading my way. She makes a pit stop at the carbonara and adds a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the top. “Better than okay.”

Maverick follows my gaze and smiles. “Amazing how they make us feel better, isn’t it? I’ll leave you be. Food starts in five minutes.”

Madeline slides up to my side and looks between me and Maverick. Her arm brushes against mine, and it’s silly how fucking giddy it makes me.

“Am I interrupting?” she asks.

“Not at all,” Maverick says. “Hudson and I were talking about whale populations.”

“Whale populations,” she repeats. “I didn’t know you had an affinity for zoology, Hayes.”

“It’s a recent development.” I nod to her empty wineglass. “Want a refill?”

“No, thank you. That was a heavy pour you gave me, and I don’t need to start stumbling.”

“We need you on two feet, Madeline. There’s a game of hide and seek scheduled after dinner, and the first group of people to be found have to eat a bit of the Jello monstrosity Ethan brought,” Maverick says. “It’s a biohazard, so I’d make sure you have a clear head.”

“Thanks for the warning.” She laughs. “I can’t wait.”

Lucy comes barreling into the kitchen. The dogs chase after her, and she’s dragging Ethan by the sleeve. When they get close, he throws the notebook at my shoulder.

“You’ve all been replaced,” he announces. “Lucy and I are best friends now.”

“Did you figure out your favorite hot dog toppings?” Madeline asks, and she nods when Lucy answers. “Diced onions? Good choice, baby.”

“She is so your daughter,” I say.

“If you ever need anyone to watch her, I’m happy to jump in,” Ethan says, and I gape at him. “What? Why are you looking at me like I have four heads, Hayes?”

“I’m impressed. Six months ago, I wouldn’t leave Gus and Millie with you. Now you’re a natural with kids and animals.” I pat his shoulder. “I guess everyone is bound to grow up eventually.”

---