Page 172 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

"You have."

Before he can answer, another familiar voice interrupts. "There he is."

Toby Donovan walks toward us carrying three paper cups of coffee as though they weigh nothing at all. "I figured Captain would forget to eat."

"I already did."

"I know."

Toby hands him a cup before offering one to me. "Annette, right?"

I smile. "That's me."

"It's good to see you again. I've been meaning to thank you."

Jamie looks confused and I ask for what.

Toby answers, "For convincing him he isn't indestructible."

Jamie groans.

"Oh no."

"Oh yes."

Toby grins broadly. "We've been trying for years."

"I was never that bad."

Three nearby voices answer at once. "You were."

Jamie shakes his head. "I walked into that one."

"You've been walking into quite a few lately," I observe.

"I've noticed."

Toby laughs so hard he nearly spills his coffee. "I like her."

Jamie gives me an exaggerated look of betrayal. "I thought you were on my side."

"I am." I smile sweetly. "I'm also on the side of objective truth."

"That's a dangerous combination."

"So, I've been told."

Before the conversation can continue, Caleb Hart joins us, quieter than Toby but no less observant.

He nods politely.

"Annette."

"Caleb."

"Thanks for getting him back."

The words are simple. Matter of fact. There is no exaggeration in them. Only gratitude.