Page 352 of Starting Lineup

There’s only a few minutes left on the clock before the next break before third period. Both teams put their all into the game.

The players bunch up near center ice along the boards, fighting for the puck. Easton provides support, then races down the ice when his teammate passes the puck to him.

My heart leaps into my throat.

“Go, Easton!” Asher and I shout.

I reach across his lap to take Mrs. Blake’s hand. Two guys converge on Easton, but he’s faster.

The opponent’s goalie dives into a split to block the shot he takes, looking around in bewilderment when the lamp lights up.

“Oh my god!” I leap to my feet, squeezing his mom’s hand. “He scored!”

The jumbotron plays a repeat of the goal, slowing it down as the arena erupts in excitement.

Mrs. Blake pulls her hand free to press her fingers to her mouth, eyes shining with elated tears. Asher throws his fists in the air, chanting his brother’s name.

Easton laps the ice. The jumbotron follows him, capturing his grin when he slows in front of our section, pointing up at us. His eyes lock on me and he blows me a kiss.

“Maya, look! We’re on the big screen.” Asher points at the jumbotron.

My cheeks heat at the sight of us shown next to the camera angle of Easton on the huge monitor hanging above the ice.

The sports commentary on Mr. Cannon’s radio filters through the clamor of the fans.

“An excellent play from promising rookie and number one NHL draft pick, Easton Blake. We got the chance to have a few words with him before the game. He told us he’s got his dad with him tonight, a longtime inspiration for him, as well as his family and fiancé cheering him on in the audience.”

My head whips to the side. Did the commentators call me his fiancé?

We’ve talked about marriage before—murmuring to each other late at night before we fall asleep, on our walks through the city to explore the area where we live together, and over chicken nuggets.

But technically we’re not engaged yet.

Neil Cannon laughs. “Not holding back anymore, kid.”

I turn my attention back to the ice, laying a hand over my rapidly beating heart. I can’t stop smiling.

To the world, he’s making a name for himself as the rookie to watch this season.

To me, Easton Blake is always going to be the cocky hockey captain that tossed me over his shoulder the night I danced on the bar and stole my heart.