Page 139 of Faking It With My Pucking Protector
I’ll take it tomorrow.
When I’ve had one more night of sleep. When I feel steadier. When I’m not so wound up, I flinch every time my phone buzzes.
It buzzes now, like the universe is listening.
Jenna:Just checking in. You okay?
I stare at the screen for a few seconds before typing back.
Me:Yeah. Just tired. Going to the game tonight for distraction.
A pause, then another text from her.
Did you take it yet?
My thumb hovers. My fingers shake a little as I type:
Not yet.
She replies instantly.
Okay. I’m here if you need anything. Seriously.
I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding and glance back at the test.
Definitely tomorrow.
Today, I just need to get through the day.
And hopefully watch Jackson’s team win Game 1 of the Final.
By the time evening rolls around, I’ve barely touched the emails. I couldn’t focus long enough to string more than two sentences together. I spent the afternoon moving papers around and making tea I didn’t drink.
Now I’m standing in front of the mirror, trying to decide if I look like someone who belongs in the WAGs section.
I don’t. Not really.
But I go anyway.
Jackson left for the rink hours ago for media, warm-ups, pregame prep. The house has been quiet ever since. Too quiet.
But not for much longer.
The front door swings open a little after three, and I hear the familiar stampede of sneakers against hardwood.
“We’re home!” Liam yells, dropping his backpack like it personally offended him.
Miss Taylor appears behind them, calm as ever. “They have extra energy today,” she says. “If you can believe that.”
“Because it’s Game Day!” Noah crows, making a slapshot motion with his hand. “Right, Ava? Daddy’s gonna crush it!”
Liam jumps in beside him. “We’re allowed to watch the first period, even though it’s a school night!”
“You are,” Miss Taylor confirms, setting the bag on the counter. “Then it’s teeth brushed and lights out.”
“Can we have popcorn?” Noah asks, bouncing like he’s already eaten sugar.
“Only if you don’t spill it all over the couch like last time,” Miss Taylor warns, trying to sound stern but smiling anyway.
