Page 108 of Saddle Storm

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Don’t worry—he’s not coming back here.

Storm’s words have been haunting me for days.

The guy is from Blue River Springs. I feel it in my gut and I can’t let it go.

Who is he, Storm?

My chest has been burning with the secrecy. The slip.

I’m ready to make this woman my life and she can’t give me a fucking name.

The media’s been quiet the last few days so it’s a good sign that Harvey’s keeping it all at bay. In the meantime, Storm and I agreed she wouldn’t come to more games—not until I’m playing at least. By then, she’ll know she doesn’t have to worry about Max thinking this is temporary.

She’ll know I’m not leaving her ever again.

And then to hell with what the media says. They can all zoom in on the diamond I intend to put on her finger. On the name across the jerseys they’ll be wearing. The name I’ll give them both.

It doesn’t matter who he is, Bumble Bee. Because you and Max are mine now. To love and protect.

And I’m not letting some deadbeat—

My phone pings and my heart skips a beat. I’m suited up and meeting Coach and others to get out on the ice while the boys warm up.

It’s a picture of Storm and Max in their jerseys on the couch with a bowl of popcorn.

Storm: Max is allowed one Hershey Kiss every time you come on the screen.

My stomach flips and I can’t help my grin as I type back.

Silas: And what kind of kiss do I get every time I come on the screen?

Storm: One I’ll unwrap for you when you get home.

Silas: I’m coming over?

I don’t bother with emojis, she’ll know I’m teasing.

Storm: Too presumptuous?

Silas: No such thing. I’ll be there.

My stomach twists because I want to end with an I love you, before taking my place in the stands. But the first time I say those words to her, I want my arms around her. To assure her that she’s safe to love me back. And that it’s never too presumptuous to expect me to come over because I’ll always be coming home to her.

The lights dim as we take our places and the arena gears up for puck drop. My seats are empty but they won’t be for long. Soon enough they’ll belong to the two most important people in my life.

I sneak a glance at my messages with Storm again, to that picture of her and Max on the couch—for once wishing the cameras would sweep in my direction.

Before I close it, I catch a new message from Jasper. I haven’t heard from the guy in years, and he’s texted twice in the past week.

The first time saying it’s been forever and heard I’m back in town. The second, asking for tickets to tonight’s game. I ignored that one too.

Prepared for another eye-rolling message, I click it open.

Jasper: Lookin’ sharp out there, man. Let’s catch up tonight.

I’ll pass.