Page 56 of Across the Boards

“It’s the twenty-first century. Of course you cook.”

“Bold assumption, Waltman.”

“Fine, you cook hockey puck pancakes and protein shakes. Better?”

“Much more accurate,” I admit. “Though I really do make decent bolognese.”

“Prove it,” she challenges.

“Is that an invitation to cook for you?”

She considers this, head tilted slightly. “Maybe it is.”

Before I can process the implications of this development, Sarah approaches with a triumphant expression. “Good news, Elliot! You won the book collection.”

“What?” Elliot looks genuinely surprised. “But I was outbid when I checked last.”

“Mysterious anonymous donor added to your bid at the last minute,” Sarah says, not even attempting to look innocent.

“Sarah...”

“What? It wasn’t me.” Sarah’s expression is pure innocence. “Though the handwriting on the bid sheet does look suspiciously like Tommy’s...”

Elliot turns to me with narrowed eyes. “Did you put Tommy up to this?”

“I plead the fifth,” I say, trying to look as innocent as Sarah.

“You’re both impossible,” she sighs, but her smile gives her away. “Thank you. It’s a wonderful collection.”

“Consider it a ‘congratulations on surviving your return to hockey society’ gift,” I tell her.

“Is that a standard gift-giving occasion?”

“It should be. Right up there with birthdays and anniversaries.”

As the evening begins to wind down, with auction winners collecting their prizes and guests starting to depart, I find myself reluctant for the night to end. Despite the watchful eyes and subtle digs from Jason’s allies, it’s been a remarkable evening—mainly because of the woman beside me, who handled everything with grace and strength.

“Ready to head out?” I ask as she stifles a yawn behind her hand.

“More than ready,” she admits. “These heels were a mistake after hour three.”

“I could carry you,” I offer with exaggerated gallantry.

“Try it and die, Carter.”

“Just a suggestion.” I place my hand at the small of her back as we say our goodbyes to Sarah and Tommy, both of whom look disgustingly pleased with how the evening has gone.

“I expect full details tomorrow,” Sarah tells Elliot, hugging her tightly. “Every juicy bit.”

“You’ll get the PG version,” Elliot promises.

“I’ll get the full director’s cut or I’ll tell Brody about the karaoke incident in Vegas,” Sarah counters.

Elliot narrows her eyes. “You wouldn’t dare.”

“Try me,” Sarah says with a wicked grin.

“Fine. Coffee tomorrow. Limited details.”

---