Page 44 of Pucking Rebound

But I know all too well that nothing lasts forever.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Jordy

Stretching my left hamstring, I stare at Wade, who is pulling on his protection gear in preparation for tonight’s game.

“Just fucking ask whatever it is you’re desperate to, Jordy,” he grumbles.

I grin. He’s a grouchy bastard at times.

Moving over to my right I stretch out my other hamstring. “So, how did the Kali thing come about then?” I ask, curiously.

Wade looks over his shoulder at me, avoiding eye contact, as if too shy to share his good news. I’ve never seen him like this before.

“The night you told me I looked at her as if she was already mine and I’d lose her if I didn’t make a move.”

I knew it.

A baritone of congratulations from everyone around the locker room makes Wade finally look up.

“Nice one.”

“Fucking happy for you, man.”

“It’s about damn time.”

“Thanks.” He blushes. Fucking blushes.

“You’re smitten.” I fuck with him a little.

“The man is in love, boys.” Spike, our team captain, starts whooping, while everyone else joins in, cheering because they are happy for Wade. We all are.

“So, when’s the wedding?” I ask above the celebratory shouting, hugs, and back slaps Wade’s receiving.

“I’m thinking the sooner the better. Next year?” he replies with a straight face.

“Holy shit. You’re serious?” I stand to my full height, shaking my legs out before I walk over to him.

He nods as if considering what he’s going to say next. “I fucking love her,” he admits, finally standing taller as if fueled by confidence. “She’s the one.”

I hold my hand out at the same time he does, and we give each other a bro handshake and one-armed hug.

“Can I be your best man?” I ask, slapping his shoulder twice before releasing his hand.

“Obviously. Along with Ezra and Myles.”

I knew he’d want to include his best friends. “The three amigos.”

“The three fuckwits, you mean.” He throws his head back laughing before he stops dead. “Fuck don’t let my plan slip. I’m going to ask her on Christmas Day.”

Eyes wide, I reply, “Holy shit, you’re like a real-life Casanova.”

“I just know she’s the one.”

“She’s beautiful, Wade. And extraordinary.” Perfect for him. I don’t tell him, but I never really liked his ex, Amelia. I always got the impression she never wanted to come to any of the games and wasn’t supportive of his career. She reminded me of Sienna in many ways. I didn’t see it then, but I do now.

“Cheers, Jordy.” Like he knows he’s hit the jackpot, he looks so fucking smug. “I don’t know what she sees in me.”

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