Page 63 of The Sin Bin

The intimate comment in such a public setting sent heat rushing to her cheeks. "Thank you," she murmured, hyperaware of how close they were standing, of the curious glances from nearby staff.

"Did you see the article?" Jax asked, his voice still pitched for her ears alone.

"I did," she confirmed, studying his reaction. "Did it bother you?"

"Only the part suggesting this isn't real," he replied, his gaze intensifying. His fingers brushed against hers, hidden from view between their bodies—a secret touch, deliberate and grounding. "The rest is just noise."

Before Lauren could respond, they were called to their positions for the interview. As cameras prepared to go live, Jax's hand briefly squeezed hers, his touch lingering a heartbeat longer than necessary before he shifted into his public persona.

"And we're back with a special announcement from the Charm City Chill," Bill began smoothly as cameras focused on their small group. "I'm joined by defenseman Jackson Thompson and Dr. Lauren Mackenzie of New Haven Emergency Veterinary Clinic to discuss an exciting new community partnership. Jax, tell us about this initiative."

Jax shifted seamlessly into what Lauren recognized as his public persona—still reserved, but more articulate and open than his usual demeanor.

"The team is partnering with Parkside Animal Rescue to bring service dogs in training to home games," he explained. "Fans might have noticed them at our game against Toronto. The dogs get valuable public exposure training, and the arena gets additional support for their security team."

"Dr. Mackenzie, as both a veterinarian and shelter volunteer, how important is this kind of public training opportunity?" Bill directed his next question to Lauren.

Taking a deep breath, Lauren channeled her professional confidence. "It's invaluable," she replied. "Service dogs need to learn to function in high-stimulation environments, and there's nothing quite like a hockey arena for that training. Plus, the public visibility increases awareness of the shelter's adoption and service programs."

"Now, I understand there's a personal connection here," Bill continued, his expression pleasantly curious. "Jax, you've been volunteering with Parkside Animal Rescue for some time, correct?"

"Five years now," Jax confirmed. "Primarily working with dogs that need additional behavioral support or rehabilitation. The shelter does incredible work with limited resources, so this partnership is meaningful on multiple levels."

Lauren admired his poise, the way he kept the focus on the program rather than any personal angle the interviewer might be fishing for. It was all she could do to keep her knees from knocking from the sheer presence of the crowd surrounding them.

"And Dr. Mackenzie, you first connected with Jax through veterinary care for a rescued animal?" Bill prompted.

"Yes," Lauren confirmed, sticking to the simple truth. "Jax brought in an injured kitten he'd found near the arena."

"A fortunate coincidence that's turned into a community benefit," Bill summarized smoothly. "The service dogs will be at all home games next season, and fans can learn more about the adoption program at information tables on the concourse. Jax, Dr. Mackenzie, thank you both. And now back to the action, with the third period about to begin."

As the camera lights dimmed, Lauren exhaled slowly, relieved that the interview had remained focused on the program rather than personal speculation.

"You were great," Jax said as he helped her down from the platform, his hand at the small of her back, steady and warm. "Natural."

"Thanks," Lauren replied. "You clearly have more practice at this than I do."

"Media training is part of the job. Though usually I'm talking about forechecking, not service dogs."

Alicia appeared at Lauren's elbow. "That was perfect," she enthused. "Dr. Mackenzie, I'll escort you back to your seat. Jax, Coach is looking for you."

Jax nodded, his expression shifting back to game-mode focus. Before turning to go, however, he leaned down, his lips brushing against her cheek in a gesture that was unmistakably intimate.

"Still on for after?" he asked, his voice low.

"Absolutely," she confirmed. "Win or lose."

Something in his expression softened momentarily. "Having you here makes all the difference," he said quietly, the words meant only for her. "No matter what happens on the ice."

The unexpected vulnerability in his admission sent warmth blooming through her chest. "Go finish what you started," she encouraged, squeezing his arm. "I'll be watching."

As Alicia led her back through the corridors, Lauren noticed increased attention from arena staff and the occasional fan—curious glances, whispered comments, small smiles. The interview had been professional, but their connection hadn't gone unnoticed.

A group of women in Chill jerseys spotted her, their expressions lighting with recognition. One nudged another, whispering something that made her companion glance between Lauren and the tunnel where Jax had disappeared.

"Guess the secret's out," Alicia commented with a knowing smile. "Fair warning—you might want to lock down your social media profiles if you haven't already. Hockey fans can be... enthusiastic."

By the time Lauren squeezed past knees and boots to reclaim her seat, her phone was buzzing with notifications—text messages from friends who'd seen the interview, social media alerts, and emails from colleagues.

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