Page 121 of Off The Rush
“Absolutely,” I agree, feeling a surge of pride for them. “You guys have worked so hard for this. I know you’ll kill it.”
“Thanks, Emma,” Luka says quietly, his gray eyes meeting mine. “Your support means everything to us.”
We chat about the playoffs some more, discussing strategies and analyzing their previous games. I can see the fire in their eyes – the passion and dedication that have brought them this far. As much as I love music, I’ve also come to appreciate the world of hockey through these three incredible men.
I can’t ever tell my brothers that I now prefer hockey to football. They will throw a fit.
“And speaking of exciting things,” I continue, “I want to accept that summer singing program in New York!”
“Of course you do! You should,” Luka exclaims, his eyes lighting up.
“New York, huh?” JD muses, a thoughtful expression on his face. “You know, we could probably come to stay with you for part of the summer. We have our conditioning to follow until August when the team meets up again.”
“Really?” I ask, delight filling me at the thought. “I would love that. Are you sure?”
“Trust me,” Alec says with a confident grin, “we can train anywhere. Most of the summer workout programs are pretty flexible. Plus, it’s New York – there’s bound to be plenty of places for us to skate.”
“Besides,” Luka chimes in, “we wouldn’t want to miss the chance to be with you. We can all go in together on a place.”
Alec looks nervous.
“I think we can cover you if your dad keeps being an asshole. I know you’ll be good for it once you’re a big professional hockey player,” I say teasingly to Alec.
“Then it’s settled,” JD declares, his eyes sparkling with determination. “We’ll come stay with you in New York for part of the summer. It’ll be an adventure for all of us.”
As we sit together, basking in the glow of our shared happiness, I can’t help but think how incredibly fortunate we are. Despite the challenges and uncertainties thrown our way, we’ve managed to navigate them together, growing stronger as individuals and as a unit.
Their coach was fired and Rachel and Kenny were expelled. Hate didn’t win.
With these incredible men by my side and the promise of exciting new experiences on the horizon, I know that whatever the future holds, we’ll face it head-on – as long as we have each other.
The front door clicks open, and Tessa’s bubbly laughter fills the room as she strolls in, her eyes lighting up when she sees me sprawled across Alec, Luka, and JD on the couch.
“Well, if this isn’t a picture-perfect moment,” she teases, shaking her head with a fond smile.
“Hey, Tessa!” I call out, feeling a warm blush rise to my cheeks. The guys chuckle and wave as they try to shift into more comfortable positions without dislodging me.
“Look what I just finished!” Tessa exclaims, holding up a stunning dress that perfectly captures her unique sense of style. It’s a vibrant red number, with intricate lace details and a daring, low-cut back. “What do you think?”
“Wow, Tess, it’s absolutely gorgeous!” I gush, momentarily distracted from my embarrassment as I admire the handiwork. “You’re so incredibly talented! Would you consider making me a dress?”
“Of course, Em!” Tessa beams, clearly pleased by my reaction and request. “I’d be honored. Just let me know what you have in mind, and I’ll make sure it’s perfect.”
“Make it sexy!” Luka chimes in.
“By the way guys, Tristan just told me he’s transferring here next year! He’ll be playing on the football team. Isn’t that great?” I say.
The guys and Tessa are genuinely excited which makes me even more happy to have my little brother here with me.
The laughter from our previous conversation still lingers in the air as Luka’s phone pings, breaking the comfortable silence. He looks down at his screen and then back up at us, his gray eyes sparkling with mischief. “Hey, the team is out for a drink. What do you guys think? Wanna join them?”
“Sounds fun,” Alec agrees, stretching out on the couch and sending a playful grin my way. “What about you, Emma? Up for a little night out with the gang?”
I glance over at Tessa. “Sure, why not? Tessa, want to come with us?”
She looks unsure.
“Come on, Tessa,” I coax, nudging her playfully. “You deserve a break after all your hard work on that dress.”
