Page 113 of Broken Hearts
“True.”
Elias and I don’t get the luxury of believing we’re untouchable. We know better, but anyone that gets close to us has to accept that too and that can be a really hard thing to admit.
“What if he can’t get over this? What if he doesn’t come back?”
“Then Rickie really is a dumb hockey player.” Elias takes my hand. It’s so weird being here with him, skating, like we’ve done it a million times before. “Do you want to meet Taylor?”
“Oh my gosh, really? Is it weird if I ask her for an autograph?”
He laughs under his breath. “Oh, she’s going to love this.”
* * *
Mavand I climb back into his SUV. We’re only a few hours from Rhett’s house and the nerves and anticipation slam into me.
“This was an awful plan. How did I let you talk me into this?” I ask Mav when we’re on the freeway.
“It’s a great plan and I talked you into it.”
All too soon the signs for Rochestertown start appearing indicating we’re close.
“Maybe we should wait until tomorrow. He could still be busy or, I don’t know, out with friends.”
“Really?” Mav asks with a chuckle. “No can do. I’ve gotta be north of the city for dinner. I have just enough time to drop you, say hey to Rhett, and get back on the road.”
“You’re leaving me?”
“Relax. I’ll be back later tonight.”
“What’s north of the city?”
“The Wildcats. My team.” He taps the Wildcats hat resting on the dash. “Forgot I was a big shot pro hockey player, didn’t you?” He winks.
“I don’t think you get to call yourself a big shot pro hockey player until you play an actual pro game.”
He grins.
“Do they let you drop in and practice during the Valley off-season?”
“Nah, just have a meeting with the coach and my agent.”
I’m too worried about seeing Rhett to pry, but a few minutes later Mav asks, “Wanna know a secret?”
I nod.
“I’m not going back to Valley next year.”
“Why not?”
He shrugs a big shoulder. “It’s time. We won a national championship. There’s no topping that.”
“Wow. Does anyone else know?”
He shakes his head. “It’s our little secret.”
I blow out a shaky breath as he exits the freeway.
He takes his eyes off the road for a second to look at me. “You’re gonna be fine.”
