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GARRETT

My grip on my suitcase tightens as I wait for the elevator doors to open.

Nerves flutter in my stomach, worsening as I finally step out and turn toward the apartment I’m about to enter.

Just like the last time I was here, no one knows.

Shame burns through me. But at the same time, I know I did the right thing.

Honestly, I should have done it months ago.

I haven’t been happy since…well, since the excitement of moving to New York wore off.

The job that I thought was going to be everything I ever wanted turned out to be anything but. I didn’t want to quit, though. I wanted to make it work. I was desperate for it, desperate to not have to return home with my tail between my legs.

But a year later, that’s exactly where I’ve ended up.

I should have told my family what I’ve done. I should have warned them.

But that would mean they’d ask questions, and…

I just want to move on.

My dream life has turned into nothing but a fucking nightmare. But I’m over it. It’s done.

And if I learned anything during my time in New York, it’s that the place I really want to be isn’t the city that never sleeps.

It’s the city that has my heart.

Los Angeles.

My entire life is here. My sister is here. And most importantly, my team is here.

Watching hockey in New York just wasn’t the same. I’m a Pacific Division fan through and through, and nothing will ever change that.

I pause at Sienna’s front door and inhale a deep breath.

The last time I turned up unannounced, I walked in on my sister getting freaky with her hot hockey boyfriend.

Hopefully, today will be different.

Instead of barging right in, I take it slow, listening for groans and heavy breathing.

There isn’t anything.

In fact, I soon discover that the entire apartment is empty.

“Huh,” I huff, abandoning my luggage against the wall before marching toward the wall of windows that showcases the twinkling lights of the city beyond, including those that adorn my favorite building—Crown Arena.

The home of the LA Vipers.

The thought of being able to go to games regularly again has those nervous butterflies turning into excited ones.

This is why I need to be here.

There’s hope here. There’s color.