Page 107 of Pucking Tangled
I’m proud of her—to know her, to love her
I’m proud to call her mine.
Ours.
You’re welcome to say whatever you want about me.
But keep her name out of your mouth unless you’re going to speak it with the respect she deserves.
And, uh, Mom. Dad. I’m sorry you found out about Mia like this, but I can’t wait for you to meet her. I love you guys. I’ll call home soon.”
He didn’t wait for the replies to flood in. He just copied the link to the live stream and posted it everywhere he was supposed to and logged right back out.
Then he left his room and walked back down the hall, crawling back in bed with Mia and holding her close as she continued to sleep.
Owen
He wasted no time. He hit the button and began to speak.
“Judging by the comments I’ve seen today, you all already know that I’m Owen Hawk. Team Captain for the Lancaster Barn Raisers. You know my stats, the awards, myrecord. What you don’t know is that I’m in love with a woman who reminds me every day what strength looks like. Her name is Mia Abbott, but you already know that, too.
And before you go starting any other rumors, yes, I still love Casey Novak. I love them both.
I will not tolerate the public twisting something good and consensual into something cruel.
If you came here for gossip, I’ve got nothing for you. But if you’re looking for a man who’ll protect thepeoplehe loves, you found him.
And Iwillprotect them at all costs. All day. Every day. On and off the ice.”
They could take it or leave it. He was unapologetically in love and would never hide it again.
Waylon
Waylon picked at his cuticles while he waited for everything to load.
He was still reeling from the bullshit the press and internet strangers were putting Mia.
Fire blazed in his eyes as he watched himself on the screen and the little button flicked red.
Recording. Live.
“Waylon Ryan. Defenseman. Fighter. And loudmouth, according to most.
And this ismytruth:
I’m crazy about Mia Abbott.
She’s smart as hell, funny, and the only person who’sever made me want to be better without asking me to change.
I don’t give two shits how many people think it’s weird, or wrong, or wild. What’s wild is the way she loves all of us without ever making any of us feel like less.
You don’t have to get it. But youwillrespect her. Because if you don’t, I will find you. And I will make sure your wifi connection doesn’t survive the week.”
There was so much more he wanted to say, but he knew if he did, he’d end up banned and probably even fined from the league. Hell, this recording already skirted the line of what was appropriate. He didn’t care.
He hit end and waited for the video to post. Then he closed his laptop.
Fuck anyone who thought they could steal the happiness that lived in this house.
