Page 78 of Across the Boards

“Just checking.” He raises his hands in mock surrender. “And for the record, I’m completely on board with traditional dating. Dinner, movies, museum visits—the whole nine yards. I’ll even bring you home by curfew and shake your father’s hand.”

“My father lives in Tucson, but I appreciate the sentiment.”

His expression turns more serious. “There is one thing we should probably discuss, though.”

“What’s that?”

“Miami’s coming to town on Thursday. Jason will be here.” He watches my reaction carefully. “I’m guessing Kelly or Wilson has already texted him about seeing us together at the gala.”

The mention of Jason courses unpleasantly through me. I’d been so focused on Brody that I’d temporarily forgotten about my ex-husband’s impending visit.

“Probably,” I admit. “The hockey world’s gossip network is terrifyingly efficient.”

“It is.” Brody’s expression is unreadable now. “I just want you to know that I’ll be professional on the ice. Whatever personal feelings I might have about him, I won’t start anything.”

The implication being that Jason might. “Is that likely to be an issue?”

Brody hesitates, clearly weighing his words. “Jason has a reputation for targeting guys he has personal issues with. Nothing blatant enough to get penalized, just... extra physical. Especially if he thinks it might get under someone’s skin.”

“And me being involved with you would give him plenty of motivation,” I conclude, understanding dawning.

“Maybe.” Brody shrugs, trying to look unconcerned. “Or maybe he’s moved on completely and won’t care. I just wanted you to be prepared, in case there’s any... tension during the game.”

I appreciate his honesty, even as anxiety begins to coil in my stomach. This is exactly what I was afraid of—being pulled back into hockey politics and drama, having my personal life become fodder for locker room gossip and on-ice rivalries.

“I understand if this complicates things for you,” Brody says quietly, noticing my expression. “If you want to take more time, or even step back completely until after the Miami game?—”

“No,” I interrupt, surprising myself with my vehemence. “I’m not letting Jason dictate my life anymore. That’s what he’d want—to know he still has that power over me.”

Brody’s expression brightens. “So we’re still on for traditional dating?”

“Yes.” I steel my resolve. “But I’d like to add one condition.”

“Name it.”

“I want to come to the Miami game.”

His eyebrows shoot up in surprise. “You sure? I thought you’d want to avoid any potential drama.”

“I’m sure.” I straighten my shoulders, feeling more certain by the second. “If Jason’s going to make this a thing, I’d rather face it head-on than hide. Besides,” I add with a small smile, “someone has to make sure you maintain that professionalism you promised.”

Brody grins, delight replacing his surprise. “I’ll get you the best seat in the house. Though fair warning—Sarah will probably insist on sitting with you, and she takes game day very seriously. Expect themed outfits and excessive cheering.”

“I can handle Sarah.” I glance at the time, realizing I’ve been here longer than I intended. “I should get going. I have work to finish tonight.”

“Of course.” He stands, gathering our plates. “Thanks for coming over. And for giving me another chance.”

“Thanks for the omelet. And the honesty.”

He walks me to the door, maintaining a respectful distance that wasn’t there last night. It’s both a relief and a subtle disappointment.

“So,” he says, leaning against the doorframe. “Traditional first date. How does Wednesday sound? Night before the Miami game, so my schedule’s clear.”

“Wednesday works.” I hesitate in the doorway, feeling like something more should be said but unsure what. “Good luck with your film study.”

“Thanks.” His eyes crinkle at the corners when he smiles. “I’ll need it. Martinez is on a hot streak—five goals in the last three games.”

The casual mention of Jason’s hockey prowess still feels strange, but less painful than it once did. “I’m sure you’ll figure out how to shut him down. You’re pretty good at what you do.”

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