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He steps closer, his warmth wrapping around me even before his arms do.

“Abby…” His voice is barely above a whisper as he presses his forehead against mine.

“I’m scared, Beck,” I admit, my voice trembling slightly. “Scared of making the wrong choice. Of uprooting Jake. Of losing…”

“Me?” he finishes softly, his thumb brushing against my cheek.

My throat tightens, and I nod.

“I don’t want to loseus,” I whisper, my heart pounding so hard I swear he can hear it.

“You won’t.” Beck’s voice is filled with quiet conviction. “No matter where we end up… I’m not going anywhere without you.”

His words ease some of the tension in my chest, but I know the final decision still looms over us.

“What about you?” I ask softly, my voice barely above a whisper.

“What do youwant, Beck?”

For a moment, he doesn’t answer.

And that silence?

It says more than words ever could.

Chapter nineteen

Beck

I’vefacedsomeofthe toughest defenses in the league .I’ve stood in front of roaring crowds with seconds on the clock, knowing the outcome of the game was riding on my stick. But none of that compares to the weight pressing down on me now.

This decision isn’t about a championship or a contract. It’s aboutthem.

Abby. Jake.

My family.

It’s the day after our cookout. I run a hand through my hair as I sit on the edge of the bed, staring at the glowing screen of my phone. My agent’s number is at the top of my call list.

All it will take is one call. One conversation.

“Beck Hayes signs with Boston in a blockbuster deal.”

I can already see the headlines. Hear the buzz. Feel the adrenaline rush that comes with knowing I’d be competing for the Stanley Cup again.

But when I close my eyes…

I don’t see the ice.

I see Jake’s grin when he scores a goal in the driveway. I see Abby’s eyes when she looks at me like I’m her safe place. I see Spotty sleeping at my feet while Biscuit, Mitts, and Hat Trick keep a watchful eye.

I seehome.

And darn it… I’m terrified I’m about to lose it all.

“Beck, look!”

Jake’s excited voice pulls me out of my thoughts as I step into the backyard. He’s practicing his slapshots again, with Spotty acting as his unofficial goalie. The Dalmatian isn’t exactly NHL material, but he’s enthusiastic enough to keep Jake on his toes.