Page 161 of Pucking Tangled
There was no need for labels or titles.
It wasn’t a portrait of a couple. It wasn’t a “family photo.”
It was a moment captured in color and light and longing.
It wasthem.
And anyone who looked at it would know—this was not five people simply sharing space.
This was five hearts woven together, brushstroke by brushstroke.
A work of art from a man who, Owen knew, often thought he didn’t have the words.
“I thought maybe one day,” Waylon said, his voice low and rough at the edges, “when we’re older, and you forget what this felt like, you could look at that and remember.” He gestured toward the painting.
“I won’t forget,” she said.
Waylon continued studying her. “No?”
She shook her head. “Because I’ll have all of you. I’ll havethis.Every day.”
“Andthatright there is why we thought it was time wehad a room. One place for all of us. Our place,” Casey said gently.
“Complete with that soaker tub you love so much,” Owen added.
Mia’s eyes filled with tears. “You guys,” she sniffled. “I love you all, so much.” She turned and hugged each of them, one by one, like they’d given her something precious instead of just new furniture and a shared closet.
Owen stood back for a moment, taking it all in.
The space was beautiful, sure. But it wasn’t the bed or the soft lighting or even Mia’s reaction that got to him.
It was the way everyone justfit.
He wasn’t a captain here. He wasn’t a disappointment or a secret or a son with frayed ties and too many closed doors behind him.
He wastheirs.
“Would any of you be upset if I wanted to climb in that bed and take a nap?” Mia asked, already taking off her shoes.
“Hell no, baby.” Waylon shook his head.
“We should probably shower first.” She bit her lip. “Wash off all those airline germs before we touch those fresh sheets.”
“I agree,” Luca smirked, pulling his shirt over his head.
Owen laughed. “You go ahead. I’ll join you all in a minute.”
They all disappeared into the en-suite while Owen pulled out his phone.
The screen was filled with missed texts—team stuff, a few memes from their goalie—but he bypassed them all and opened the thread with his sister.
Owen: Home safe. Everything’s good.
Tessa: I’m so glad. Tyson and I were just talking about you this morning. He said to tell you he still owes you $50.
Owen: He does. I’m not letting him off the hook just because he “forgets.”
Tessa: How was Texas?
