Page 67 of Off The Rush
“Thanks for helping,” I say softly, slicing vegetables while Luka works on marinating the chicken.
“Of course,” he replies, his gray eyes meeting mine with a flicker of warmth. “Anything for you, Emma.”
As we cook side by side, Luka’s mood finally seems to improve. By the time dinner is ready, he even cracks a small smile.
“Guys, dinner’s ready!” I call out, setting plates on the table. Alec and JD join us, still grumbling under their breaths about Kenny. Despite their lingering annoyance, I appreciate their concern for my well-being.
We dig into our meal, conversation strained at first. Luka and I exchange worried glances, knowing that dwelling on the situation won’t do any of us good.
“Hey,” I say suddenly, forcing brightness into my voice, “aren’t you guys playing a big game next week?”
“Damn right,” JD says, perking up a bit. “It’s gonna be the match of the season against the University of Holden Eagles. Right before winter break. You’ll be there?”
“Of course. Tell me about it,” I reply with a smile.
As they begin discussing their upcoming match, the tension around the table dissipates. Their enthusiasm for the game is infectious, and soon enough, we’re all laughing and joking like nothing ever happened. It’s not that we’ve forgotten what occurred, but it feels good to focus on something positive for now.
As the conversation flows, I can’t help but feel grateful for these incredible guys. They may be overprotective at times, but I wouldn’t trade them for anything. It’s good to know I have three terrifyingly strong hockey players standing behind me.
Chapter 29
The heat blasts from the vents in the coffee shop where we’re seated, laughter bubbling between us as Luka tells a hilarious story. The four of us - Alec, JD, Luka, and me - are lounging in our chairs, sipping on coffees.
“Hey Emma,” Alec says suddenly, leaning forward to catch my gaze. “Your Spring Showcase is only in a month. You’ve been practicing often. Do you feel ready?”
I can’t help but feel a pang of nerves at the mention of the showcase. My last performance didn’t go exactly as planned, thanks to Alec’s interruption, and this one has so much riding on it. There will be scouts from all the major shows which could make or break my future music career.
“Uh, yeah,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady. “I’m feeling… hopeful.” The word comes out more like a question than a statement, and I force a smile onto my face.
“Hopeful?” JD asks, raising an eyebrow. “That doesn’t sound too convincing.”
“Come on, Emma,” Luka adds, his gray eyes filled with concern. “You can tell us if you’re nervous.”
I sigh, knowing they won’t let it go until I admit the truth. “Okay, fine. I am nervous. After what happened last time, I can’t help but worry that something might go wrong again.”
“Hey,” Alec says softly, reaching across the table to give my hand a reassuring squeeze. “You’re going to do great. I promise I won’t barge in and interrupt it.”
I roll my eyes.
“Of course, Alec has to be there,” I say, trying to lighten the mood. “But what about you two?” I glance at JD and Luka, my eyes pleading. “Would you come as well? It would mean a lot to me.”
“Absolutely!” JD exclaims, grinning ear-to-ear. “We’re all dating, remember? We wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
“Definitely,” Luka agrees with a nod, his intense gray eyes softening. “You can count on us.”
I let out a sigh of relief, feeling grateful for their support.
A familiar figure approaches our table. My heart sinks when I see Rachel Sanders. She has eyes that always seem to be sizing up her competition. I can feel my stomach twist into knots as she saunters over, a smirk playing on her lips.
“Hello, Emma,” Rachel purrs, her gaze flicking between me and the guys. “And hello to your… friends.” The way she says ‘friends’ makes it sound like a flirty word.
“Hi, Rachel,” I manage to choke out, hoping she didn’t overhear our conversation about all of us dating.
“JD, isn’t it?” she says, turning her attention to him. She leans in just a little too close, making me cringe inwardly. “I’ve seen you play hockey before. You’re quite talented.”
“Thanks,” JD replies, sounding uncomfortable. He glances at me, then back at Rachel, clearly not interested in her flirtatious advances.
“Careful, JD,” she continues with a teasing smile. “You might make Emma jealous.”
