Page 118 of Wild About You
Everly and I throw our arms up as we scream with the rest of the fans. I don’t think it will ever get old watching Tyler play hockey. I know what it means to him and how hard he’s worked. Being here to witness it is one of the most fulfilling things to ever happen to me.
Tyler points to Everly, just like the guys before him, but he lingers on her just a little longer. Then he winks at me.
“Are those guys friends with your brother?” Stephanie asks, pointing to the guys wearing Sharp jerseys. They’re still standing and cheering even as the rest of the crowd has quieted down.
“I don’t think so,” Everly says, and looks at me.
I shake my head. “I don’t know them.”
Stephanie lets her gaze go back to the guys and she smiles, small at first but it grows like she’s slowly realizing her son is a famous hockey player.
Tyler has her smile.
40
DAMN STRAIGHT
TYLER
By the timeI cool down from the game and am ready to leave the arena, I have a text from Piper.Waiting for you xo
“Heard anything?” Declan asks.
I grab my bag and shoulder it. “They’re still here so I guess we’ll know soon enough.”
Outside of the locker room, we follow the hall down past the media to an area where family and friends wait for us.
With every step, my pulse kicks back up like I’ve just stepped off the ice. Not knowing has been the worst. I can deal with whatever happens, I just need to know. Look at me, I’ve become a planner. A guy who needs to know what’s what so he can get his family calendar in order.
Piper stands a step ahead of Everly and my mom.
“You were amazing tonight.” She hugs me quickly and I place a kiss on her lips.
“Thanks, baby.”
My mom comes forward next. “You were…” She pauses. “Congratulations, Ty.”
“Thank you.” My throat tightens. I can’t remember the last time she came to a game.
“How’s it feel to be back on top?” Everly asks with attitude, one hand on her hip.
“Feels pretty good,” I say. “Did you have a nice day?”
“I did. Mom helped me pick out a few things for my room here.”
The words register too slow and I’m just catching on when Declan lets out a whoop beside me.
“You’re staying, Little Sharpie?” he asks.
“Yep. As long as it’s still okay with Ty.”
I’m flooded with relief and happiness. The words come out gruff. “It’s still okay.”
I meet my mom’s gaze. “You signed off on this?”
“The time here has obviously been good for her.”
“She saw my report card.” Ev beams.
