Page 54 of Skating to Him

“No, I’ll work it out. I have to fend for myself at some point, and hell, the knee is feeling better already.” I offered a swift grin. I didn’t want to put him out any more than I already had.

“Call me if you need help. I’ll be around.” He pressed a long, slow kiss on my mouth. “I’ll text you later about Dean.”

“Sure.” I planted another quick kiss on his lips. “See you…and, Tyler?”

“Yeah.” He stood, planting his hands on his hips and looking around the room.

“I had a good time today. It was my first real date with a guy, and it was really nice.” I squeezed his wrist. Did he even realize how many firsts I’d had with him?

He bent over, bringing his face close to mine. “We’ll have lots of dates, Rowan.” He ruffled my hair, found his bag by the dinette, and grabbed it. “I’ll see you soon.”

“Yep.” I watched him leave, an ache threading through my heart.

The next day after classes,I was relaxing with a sitcom on the television and my leg propped on the couch with more ice when my phone buzzed on the cushion next to me. I picked it up.

Tyler

I spoke to Dean. He was already thinking about signing you after seeing us play together. You should be getting a call from him soon.

As my pulse sputtered, I tapped the screen on my phone.

Rowan

Are you serious? That’s great. He doesn’t care that I’m injured, does he?

I pursed my lips.

Tyler

Hell no. All hockey players have injuries at some point. And this one isn’t so bad.

I thought back. Tyler was waiting to hear about the Blackhawks.

Rowan

Did he say anything about Chicago?

The three dots danced on my screen, and my heart picked up speed. If he was going to Chicago, we’d have some things to figure out.

Tyler

They’re still talking. He said it’s looking good though.

A few seconds later, my phone buzzed in my hand with a number I didn’t recognize. “Shit.” Was it Tyler’s agent? I paused the sitcom and answered the call. “Hello?”

“Rowan Mackenzie? This is Dean Wilson. I hear you’re looking for an agent?”

“I am.” I sat up straight, my knee pinching. Fuck, not now. “My father’s a lawyer, and he’s been on the hunt for me, but I’m sure he won’t mind me working with you. Not with your reputation.” And working with Tyler? No way would I let Dad sway me against this.

“Good. I take it you’ve already spoken with Tyler?” he asked.

“We were texting when you called.” I bit my upper lip. “He said you’d already been looking at me?” Shit, was I sounding too interested? Should I leave something open for negotiation? I’d leave that for Dad.

“I was. It’s sort of hard not to see you play when you’re partners with my client.” He chuckled. “You two are good together.”

“Thank you.” I smiled into the phone. Damn right, we are. God, if only there was a way we could be signed as a defensive pair… But that wasn’t a typical thing that happened.

“Do you have any questions for me? You’re well into your senior year, and I’d like to get started.”

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