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“Actually,” Beck interrupts, his tone casual but curious, “I’d love to show you both around the arena sometime. If you’re interested.”

Jake’s eyes widen. “Really?”

“Really.” Beck’s gaze flickers to mine, and for a moment, the world tilts.

I swallow hard, nodding. “That…would be great.”

“Cool.” Beck grins. “I’ll make it happen.”

As we walk away, Jake bounces with excitement, and I can’t help but wonder what I’ve just gotten myself into.

And why does part of me already want more?

Chapter two

Beck

Ishouldbeheadingout by now. We just won another home game, so all is well. My usual post-game routine is clockwork—quick media interviews, a cool-down stretch, a shower, and I’m out of here before the arena empties. But tonight?

I’m still here.

Because Jake and Abby Price are still here.

I glance over to where they’re standing by the player benches, waiting patiently while Spotty sniffs every square inch of the rubber matting. Jake’s animatedly recounting Beck’s third goal to his mom—complete with dramatic reenactments—and Abby’s eyes are glued on him, her smile soft and full of love.

They’re different.

Most of the fans I meet fall into two categories—starstruck superfans or parents dragging their kids through meet-and-greets while checking their phones. But Jake? He’s all heart. And Abby…

I can’t quite put my finger on it, but something about her has me hooked.

Maybe it’s how she watches Jake with such quiet devotion, or the way her laughter feels unfiltered and real. Or maybe it’s the way her eyes—warm hazel flecked with gold—linger on me when she thinks I’m not looking.

Whatever it is… I’m not ready to say goodbye yet.

“Hey, Jake!” I call out, my voice carrying over the low buzz of post-game cleanup. “You ever seen the players’ locker room up close?”

Jake’s head snaps up, his eyes going wide. “Seriously?”

“Seriously.” I grin. “Want a tour?”

“YES!” Jake practically jumps out of his skin, and Spotty barks his approval.

I glance at Abby, raising an eyebrow. “What do you think? Up for a behind-the-scenes tour?”

Abby hesitates, her lips tugging into a half-smile. “As long as Spotty doesn’t destroy anything.”

“Eh, the place has survived worse.” I flash her a reassuring smile. “Come on. I’ll make sure he doesn’t get into too much trouble.”

“Famous last words,” she murmurs, but there’s a flicker of warmth in her eyes as she nods.

“Alright then.” I clap my hands. “Let’s go.”

The moment we step into the locker room, Jake’s eyes go as wide as saucers. “Whoa…” He spins around, taking in the rows of wooden stalls lined with gear, the team’s logo emblazoned on the walls, and the scent of leather, sweat, and fresh tape hanging in the air.

“This is… awesome,” he breathes, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Glad you think so,” I say with a chuckle. “Come on, I’ll show you where the magic happens.”