Page 135 of Unraveling Rain
He gets up and walks to me. I hug him and let the tears fall.
I tell him everything—how Dennis found out about me through our viral post, how he’s sent more messages since.
Xanders listens without interrupting, his hands holding me steady.
“Are you going to file the court order?” he asks.
I sigh. “Only if he shows up in Azalea Creek. If he keeps texting, I’ll block him.”
He kisses the top of my head, and we stay there, swaying gently as his heartbeat slows.
“Thank you,” he murmurs. “For looking out for me. You put my needs before yours. That’s something only someone selfless would do. I love you.”
I hug him harder.
“I hope you know how much you mean to me, Xander Bazyli González.”
He chuckles, his chest vibrating softly against mine.
“How did you find out my middle name?”
“Your mom told me.”
He nods, a quiet smile forming as we breathe each other’s air.
“I love you too. Forever,” I whisper into his chest.
Xander kisses me once, quick and tender, before sweeping me into his arms and carrying me toward the shower.
Something tells me he’s going to be late for practice today. Hopefully, his coach will let it slide—just this once.
Chapter 34
Xander
True to her word, Rain’s been in Raleigh with me for the past week.
I’m so fucking happy she came back. Coming home to her makes my days infinitely better.
I’m still not thrilled that she hid Dennis’s texts from me, but I get it—it’s a very sensitive topic, and she was trying to protect me.
God, Ilove this woman.
We’ve had two more games—both wins—and tomorrow we fly to Boston for our first away game.
My folks and Gramps will be at the arena, and I’m excited for them to see me back on the ice.
I offered for Rain to fly up and watch the game with them, but she needs to head back to Azalea Creek to check on the diner.
“What are you guys up to today? Think we can have dinner tonight before we head to Boston tomorrow?” Matt asks as we leave the arena and cross the parking lot.
I smile, thinking about Rain working in my kitchen, tinkering with new recipes. Every night’s been a feast—her spin on some old favorites. Then we cuddle on the couch and bingeThe Pitt, the new medical drama we’re hooked on.
“Yeah, I don’t think we have plans. But I’ll check.”
Matt snickers as he heads toward his truck. “Oh, Rain’s got you domesticated. Look at you—checking before committing.”
I laugh and shake my head. “Nah, nothing like that. It’s called common sense. Plus, did you know my girl’s a chef? I’ve beenspoiledthis week.”
