“How was your week?” I ask him. “Beyond the obvious hockey stuff.”
“It’s good,” he says. “Now that we have a new coach, it’s like a totally different team. We hang out on the road, go out and do things when we have time, joke around in the locker room. And the best part is that we’re winning now. We had one tie and one loss, which happens, and I feel like we’re starting to find our footing.”
“That’s great. I’m sorry I didn’t watch the games. The first one, I didn’t even think about it, to be honest. And then Jayne mentionedit for the second game, but by the time I got Joey to bed, I fell asleep. I was going to watch today but my friend Holly called and we wound up talking for a while.”
“That’s okay. It’s not required.”
“I want to watch you play, but I think it’ll be easier if you’re with me—which I know is impossible. I just don’t know anything about hockey.”
“We can watch another game together first, if you want. I’ll point out the basics. Then maybe you can come to a game. It’s a lot more fun in person.”
“I’d really like that.”
“Speaking of which, I have a proposition for you.”
“Sure.”
“The All-Star weekend is coming up weekend after next. I’m not playing, but Coach asked a few of us to go and make an appearance. Speak on a few panels, maybe sign autographs. The day before the game itself is what’s called Fan Fun Fest, and it’s a carnival theme. Games and carnival food with a hockey theme, along with guys from all over the league participating, speaking on panels, etcetera. I thought you and Joey might want to go with me.”
“Oh.” This feels like it came out of nowhere but I can’t deny the flutter of excitement. “But Joey?—”
“Like I said, family-friendly. He can come. I bet he’ll have a blast. I just don’t know if you can get off work. We’d have to leave Thursday the seventh. We’d get home Sunday.”
“That’s winter break,” I say with a laugh.
“So, the stars are in alignment. Is that a yes?”
“Are you sure you want to bring me to something so…public?”
“Of course. Why wouldn’t I?”
“That means we become a couple. Officially. People will see us together.”
“Is that a problem for you?” he asks quietly. “Because it’s not for me. We’re dating. I don’t really give a shit who knows. And the details are no one’s business but ours.”
I don’t even have to think about it. “Yes,” I say softly. “I’d love to go with you.”
“Awesome. I’ll book our flights and hotel.”
“Where is it?” I ask, since he didn’t mention location.
“St. Louis.”
“I’ve never been there.”
“Oh, cool. We’ll make time to get over to the arch. If we’re in town, you have to go up to the top. The view is spectacular.”
“I’d like that.” I pause. “Do I have to wear anything special?”
“Not at all. Jeans. Whatever you’re comfortable in. It’s going to be chilly even though we’re inside. The ice is always fairly cold.” He cocks his head. “Do you skate?”
“I mean, can I skate around in a circle? Sure. But it’s been years since I’ve done it.”
“How about Joey?”
“Not yet.”
“I can help him.”