Page 36 of One Pucking Life

“True,” Jaden agrees, nodding. “He’s a hell of a guy.”

“You’re welcome over any time,” I tell him, grinning. “I’m sure he misses hanging out with you, too.”

“I know,” Jaden says, raking a hand through his hair. “We’ve just been trying to give you two time to settle in. Max isveryserious about your schedule.”

I laugh. “That’s for the baby—to keep her happy and rested. Max is free to keep whatever schedule he wants.”

“Making this work is really important to him,” Anna adds. “We didn’t want to get in the way.”

“I promise you wouldn’t be. I mean, the baby’s in bed by seven. Max has plenty of time.”

Another guy joins us, tall and gorgeous—like the rest of them—and I’m starting to wonder if being absurdly attractive is part of the team’s contract.

He smirks. “Eh, we see enough of him at practice and on the road anyway, but I can see why he’s keeping you to himself. He failed to mention his new nanny was a total smoke show.”

“Sean,” Jaden groans, punching him in the arm. “Knock it off.”

“Sean, huh?” I arch a brow.

He winces. “Logan, actually. ‘Sean’ is a nickname. One I’d prefer to bury.”

“Laney!” a voice calls, and I turn to see Cade—Iris’s husband—joining the group.

“Hey, Cade.”

“Good to see you,” he says before addressing everyone. “I’ve known this girl forever. Beckett and Iris have known her even longer. They’ve been friends since elementary school.” He calls over his shoulder, “Feltmore!”

Beckett joins us with a smile. “Laney, it’s so good to see you. And thank you for bringing our guy back to life. Seriously.”

Over the next few minutes, I’m introduced to the rest of the team, their dates, and a very enthusiastic equipment manager named Eddy. I’m overwhelmed in the best way by how kind and welcoming everyone is. I hate to admit it, but Iris might’ve been right—I was too judgmental. These people are warm, real, and genuinely seem to like one another.

Most of them are married and clearly in love. Iris always said they were like family, and now I see what she meant.

They rapid-fire questions at me—about my job, my life, how I got into this line of work. I try to sound as interesting as possible, but after a while, I realize they’re not just being polite. They’re actuallyinterested. They make me feel included and seen. And with each new smile or friendly comment, a quiet fondness settles into my chest.

Across the group, I catch Iris’s gaze. She lifts her glass and gives me a knowing smile as if to say,told ya.

Max joins us, and of course, Caroline becomes the center of attention. She's immediately passed around and doted on, especially by the women. Soft coos, big smiles, and more than one, “she’s just perfect.”

“You okay?” Max leans in, voice low near my ear.

“Yeah.”

“Sorry. Coach Albright isn’t usually that chatty, but get a few drinks in him, and he won’t shut up,” he says with a grin.

“No worries. Iris made sure I met everyone. It’s been fine.”

Across the group, Bash calls out, “You know it’s past seven,” with a pointed glance toward the baby.

“All schedules can be broken for special occasions,” I reply easily.

“He’s right,” Max says, eyeing Caroline. “This is going to throw off her sleep.”

“She’ll be fine,” I say, nudging his arm and motioning toward the circle of teammates beaming at his daughter. “It’s good they get to see her. She’s clearly the MVP tonight.”

“Yeah,” he agrees, and his voice softens.

We stand there in quiet, comfortable silence, watching Caroline soak up love from every direction.

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