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I almost told him how I feel.

But almost isn’t enough.

And the longer I hold back, the harder it gets to deny what’s already happening.

I’ve fallen for Beckett Hayes. And this time… I don’t think I can stop it.

Don’t kid yourself Abs, you KNOW you can’t stop it.

***

Jake’s long asleep, snuggled up with Spotty in a tangle of sheets and stuffed animals. I’m sitting at the kitchen table, staring at my laptop, but I haven’t typed a single word.

Beck’s face keeps popping into my head. His laugh. His patience. The way he makes Jake feel special.

And then there’s how he makesmefeel.

Like maybe… just maybe… I can be brave enough to try again.

I press the heels of my hands to my eyes, willing away the ache that’s been building all night.

I can’t.

I’ve barely survived picking up the pieces once. I can’t risk it all falling apart again.

But then my phone buzzes on the table.

Beck:Had fun today. Jake’s a natural. Hope to see you guys at the VIP Kid’s Day.

My heart does a somersault.

I hover over the keyboard, my fingers trembling.

Say something. Say anything.

I type:Thanks, Beck. Jake had a blast.

And then I almost do it. I almost tell him how much today meant to me. How good his hand felt in mine. How seeing him with Jake made me feel things I’ve tried so hard to bury.

But I delete it.

Instead, I send a smiley face and shove the phone aside, my heart pounding like I’ve just faced off against the entire Ice Hawks defense.

You’re playing defense, Abby.

It’s time to stop fearing, to begin a new life. It’s time to let Beck in.

Chapter thirteen

Beck

TheVIPKid’sCharityEvent is buzzing with energy, and I’m doing my best not to let my nerves get the best of me.

Jake’s practically bouncing on his toes beside me, eyes wide as he takes in the massive indoor facility. Tables lined with sports memorabilia for auction, a photo booth decked out with Ice Hawks gear, and a temporary skating rink where the kids are already zipping around.

“This is awesome!” Jake’s grin is infectious, and it’s impossible not to smile back.

“I told you,” I say, hugging him gently. “Wait till you meet some of the other players.”