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I had a picture of him somewhere that I snapped of him standing around during warm-ups before one game after I’d discovered how insanely hot he was. His helmet was off, and he stood with one of his line mates. There was laughter and joy on his face much like I’d seen after the skills competition. The term gangly never entered my mind when I saw him around school either.

Kyle took a moment to focus on his food instead of me. “I appreciate you saying that.” He looked back with a super shy smile before redirecting our conversation. “So you’ve never tried skating again? The Arsenal has days season-ticket holders and sponsors come skate with us. You should totally do that.”

“That’s kind of a bucket list thing I’d have to work up the nerve to do. Not being able to afford sports as a kid is why I set up a foundation to fund after school sports programs. I’d like to help make sure kids who want to play can, regardless of the family’s financial situation.”

Kyle nodded as his face lit up. “I work with organizations like that as often as I can. I was lucky my parents were supportive and had the money.”

The server returned with salads, and Kyle looked contemplative as the plates were set, and we both had fresh pepper added to our greens.

“Did you say you’re here tomorrow?” Kyle asked, a tinge of excitement in his voice.

I nodded. “My flight’s not until seven.”

He reached into the pocket inside his jacket and pulled out his phone. A mischievous glint danced in his eyes as he typed.

“What’re you up to?”

He wouldn’t do anything too crazy, would he? Nerves pulsed through me as I tried to guess.

“If I can make the arrangements, tomorrow we skate.”

Was he serious? He wanted to do more than just dinner? He wants to skate with me?

Oh my God.

NINE

KYLE

WHOA.

Austin greeted me with a crooked smile as I entered the rink.

Honestly, I expected another late showing.

The pristine sheen of the ice indicated he hadn’t been out there yet. He bobbled just a little bit as I approached. Austin radiated determination as he deliberately took measured steps. Walking in skates took some getting used to.

“Laced up, ready to go.” I called out. “Great!”

He shrugged, and we traded a quick hug hello. We’d hugged goodbye last night too, and he felt good. Honestly, I would’ve hugged longer if the Lyft hadn’t arrived. He fit against me so well.

This embrace felt right. I hated that I carried my skates in my left hand, so I couldn’t hold him as tightly as I wanted.

“I wanted to get here on time and get into the skates to see how they felt.” He indicated the skates I held. “Do you take skates everywhere you go? I would’ve thought your gear was on its way back.”

“I keep gear at Bobby’s, so when I’m in town, we can easily play pickup. And I’m super picky about my skates anyway. Total custom fit.”

“Oh, nice. Kinda sounds like a spy though—having gear stashed around.”

I smirked up to him. “Shhhh. Don’t give away my secret.”

We held that look for a moment before I sat on the first row of bleachers. I pulled off my sneakers, pulled on the skates, and started lacing.

“Was your brunch good?”

“Yeah.” I looked up as I finished one skate and moved to the other. “Good food, good chat. I love hanging with my family anytime I can. Bobby and Seb took Mom to the airport, and I came here.”

“I hope this didn’t take you away from them.” Guilt crept into his voice.