Page 35 of If You Love Me

“Geese are always grumpy,” Callie says.

“This is accurate. Maybe it’s because they have to poop so much.”

Callie giggles then grows serious. “You were really great during the last game.”

“Thanks, and no penalty minutes,” he says cheekily, but then his expression shifts. “You know your sister is probably the reason for that.”

“She said you work together a lot because she’s the defense coach.”

His voice drops to a conspiratorial whisper. “What else has she said about me?”

Callie looks to me, as if asking permission.

I tip my head in encouragement.

“That you’re one of the top defensive players in the league and she’s excited about being able to help you harness your potential.”

His eyes flare in surprise, and lift to me. “You really said that?”

“Yeah.” I smile. “I did.”

“Thanks, Coach. That—” He clears his throat. “It means a lot.”

“Lexi’s a great coach.” Callie beams.

“She is,” Connor agrees.

“Right, okay.” I wave the compliment away and nudge Callie. “You have something for Connor.”

“Oh! Right! I made you a card.” She thrusts it at him and ducks her head as he takes it. “I traced you. I’m not that good of an artist.”

“I don’t know if I’d agree with that. Tracing or not, this is pretty darn awesome. And I love the glitter.”

“I wanted it to look like there were sparks coming out of your skates because you’re so fast,” she explains.

“I think you did a great job. Is it okay if I put this in my cubby in the Terror locker room, so I can look at it before every game?” Connor asks.

And oh my God, my heart melts a little. If more people saw this side of Connor, wouldn’t things be different for him? I tuck this moment away, because this is the connection Roman has been talking about. No amount of time on the ice can compare to a human moment like this.

“Oh yes! That would be great.” Callie nods enthusiastically. She rolls her bottom lip between her teeth and looks up at me.

I give her a thumbs-up.

She twists her fingers together. “Would you sign my jersey?”

Another smile spreads across Connor’s face. “Of course. I just need a pen.”

“I have one!” Callie fishes it out of the pocket of her pants. It’s maroon metallic, which I didn’t even know existed until she showed it to me. Connor signs her jersey while Callie stares up at him with stars in her eyes.

When he’s finished, he passes back the marker and holds up the card. “I’m going to put this in my car to keep it safe.”

“Okay. It was really great to meet you. I’ll come see you play this season.”

“I would love that. Thank you for the card, Callie.”

“You’re welcome.”

He gives me a chin tip and a small smile before he heads for the door, waving to a couple of the rookie players as he leaves.

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