Page 129 of Puck Me Secretly

I put my hand on my chest. “I can’t even express how I feel about Max. But there’s something you should know. My father would not approve.”

“You’re worried about his career.”

“Hockey is his life.”

He smiled, his blue eyes crinkling. “That’s where you are wrong. Hockey is his job and there are far more important things in this world than our jobs.”

My eyes blurred with emotions. “I don’t want him to have to choose.”

He patted my hand. “Let Max make that decision. The only thing you need to decide is how you really feel about him.”

“Is it that easy?”

“It is if you let it be.”

CHAPTER 45

After the game,I left Max’s uncle in the green room so he could meet up with Max. I didn’t want to bring any more attention to Max or myself, so I slipped away before Max showed up. I knew it’d be a couple hours before Dad finished partying with his friends, so I made myself a drink and used that time to think.

I had been born to two loving parents who did everything they could to give me a stable and loving environment. No matter what happened in my life, no matter how big my screw-ups, I always knew they were standing strong behind me, protecting me.

As much sympathy as I had for Max’s mom, I still couldn’t forgive her for abandoning Max.

I moved to my computer. Feeling like a stalker, I went online, and searched him as far back as I could, studying social media pictures, trying to get a glimpse of his social life. Had he ever had a serious relationship? I found an embarrassing amount of photos of him with puck bunnies and scantily clad women, but there was no evidence he had dated anyone. The only bonds he seemed to make were with his teammates. They were his family.

My feelings for Max were getting so big, so strong, they scaredme, but it seemed impossible that Max might feel the same way. I vowed that no matter what happened, I’d do anything to protect his heart.

My phone buzzed.

Max: Why didn’t you stick around?

Me: Trying to be incognito

Max: My uncle can’t stop talking about you and that T-Bone steak he ate

Me: Ha! Really?

Max: Yup. Thanks for that.

Me: It was my pleasure - honest

Max: You still want to go on a date?

Me: Yes! When?

Max: We have a home game on Friday. How about after the game?

Me: That works

Max: Any chance you could spend the night?

I squeaked. I could ask Ola to cover for me. I could tell my parents I was spending the night with her to avoid questions.

Me: I think I could make that happen

Max: The dirty things I’m going to do to you

Me: Promise?

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