Page 181 of Cold As Ice

“Hey, you good?” Austin asked me as Ella showed everyone her ring.

They’d all celebrated Saturday night at the engagement party but since unfortunate events had overshadowed their happy news the last few days, I’d talked Kayleigh into letting us host a small party.

It was nothing too elaborate. Just some cakes and soda and good company.

“Yeah, I’m okay.” I laid my hand over his arm and leaned back against him as we watched Imogen soak up the attention.

“This was a nice idea,” he added, pressing a lingering kiss to my neck. My eyes shuttered as I sucked in a shaky breath.

“It was the least I could do.”

“Okay, everyone.” Kayleigh appeared with a tray of pink plastic champagne flutes. “My license doesn’t cover alcohol but since this is a private event and you’re celebrating, I figured one glass of champagne couldn’t hurt.” She handed them around, giving Imogen her very own flute filled with grape soda. “Would anyone like to say a few words?”

“I will.” Austin stepped around me. “I know I’ve been a miserable shit the last few months. I’ve struggled watching you all find your way and figure out that there is more to life than hockey.”

“Don’t let Coach hear you say that,” Aiden snorted, earning him a round of laughter.

“But I think I can finally say, I get it.” He took my hand in his, squeezing gently. “Connor, Ella, congratulations. You deserve a lifetime of happiness together.”

“Thank you,” Ella smiled.

“And, I may have some news of my own,” Austin added.

“We already know you’ve switched sides,” Noah laughed.

“True. But no, it’s not that.” He glanced down at me, and the air shifted, the tether between us tightening. “I’ve decided not to pursue a contract after the season ends.”

“The fuck?” someone said but I didn’t know who because I was too lost in the intensity in Austin’s gaze.

Of the love shining there.

The promise of a future together.

“I’m staying in Lakeshore,” he said, finally looking at his friends again. “I’m going to talk to Coach Tucker and Coach Walsh about getting into coaching.”

“Good for you, man.” Mason was the first to congratulate him. “I know a team who would be happy to give you some experience.”

“Oh, Austin.” Rory hugged him. “I’m so happy for you.”

I let go of his hand and gave them a minute, scooping Imogen up into my arms. “How’s your special drink, princess?”

“I wikes the bubbles.” She smacked her lips together and I smiled, searching her face for any hint of trauma. But she seemed fine.

In fact, she’d barely asked about Warren or what had happened.

“What’s wrongs, Mommy?”

“Nothing baby. I just love you sooo much.” I kissed her forehead.

“I woves you too, silly. And wook, Mommy. Wook at all our new friends.” She grabbed my cheeks and turned my head to the group.

Austin spotted us and frowned. “Okay?” he mouthed, and I nodded, holding back the rush of tears. He said something to Rory then headed in our direction. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, I’m fine.”

“And how’s my special girl?” He held out his arms for Imogen and she went to him.

“I wike your friends, Austins.”

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