Page 169 of Slap Shot

“I’ve got you,” Hudson says gently. I open my eyes and turn my chin so I can see him. “Hi, Maddie.”

“Hi, hockey guy.” I sigh, relaxing into him. “That was… magnificent.”

He kisses my cheek, lips smooth and warm. “Are you okay?”

“You just made me come in a closet, Hudson. I’m better than okay.”

He laughs and carefully puts my underwear back in place. He lowers my skirt and rubs my knee. “I wanted to make sure. Was the hand thing all right?”

“Yeah.” I grin. “It was more than all right.”

“Noted.”

“Do you want some help with?—”

“You didn’t feel me finish in my pants again?” he asks, and when my mouth pops open, he grins. “I’m kidding. I have some control over my bodily functions. Yes, I want help, but no, not right now. I don’t think I can be as quiet as you.”

“I’m happy to give you a?—”

The door to the closet swings open, and I blink at the bright invasion of light.

“There has to be someone in here. God damn skates.” A hockey stick goes flying, and Maverick appears around the shelving unit. “Aha! Found you fuckers. You lose, Huddy Boy.”

“Nah.” He looks at me, his grin even brighter than before. “I definitely won.”

FORTY-NINE

HUDSON

Puck Kings

Me

Tonight is the night, y’all.

Easy E

For what? Are you losing your virginity?

G-Money

Pretty sure he’s having more sex than you right now, dude.

Me

Thank you for your fascination with my love life, Ethan, but no.

I’m going to show Madeline and Lucy the sign language I’ve been learning.

Mavvy

Hell yeah, man!! I’m so pumped for you!

Mitchy

Dude. That’s awesome. Are you excited?

Me

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