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“Hey Mandy, if you and Kira ever want to come to a game, let me know. I can get tickets anytime.”

I pause. “Is this a neighborly gesture, or are you trying to recruit fans?”

He smirks. “Both. I like a loud cheering section.”

“Good to know. And yes, we'd love tickets. You know Kira is a big hockey fan.”

***

Back in my apartment, I toss my hoodie on the couch and sit down with my flashcards.

Except I don’t study.

I stare at the table.

And think about him.

His voice. His smirk. The way his arms flexed while he hit that punching bag. That kiss.

What is happening?

He’s off-limits. He’s Allison’s ex.

But now I kind of want to see him in full gear, crashing someone into the boards.

Kira walks in with a glass of juice and a knowing look.

“You gonna stare at that textbook or call your sister and warn her you’re about to steal her ex?”

I throw a flashcard at her.

She ducks and grins. “I’ll take that as a maybe.”

I smirk. “By the way, I just saw Nate at the gym. He said he can get us tickets to any Acers game we want.”

Kira freezes mid-sip. “Shut up.”

“I’m serious.”

She lets out a high-pitched squeal and throws her hands in the air. “Mandy! You should’ve led with that! This is officially the best day of my life.”

“I figured you'd react like that.”

She bounces on her toes. “We’re going. I don’t care what night of the week it is! If I have to work, I’ll find coverage, call in sick, fake the flu, whatever. I’mgoingto an Acers game.”

I laugh. “He said we could go whenever. Just let him know.”

Kira clutches her juice like it’s champagne. “I’m bringing my dad. My whole family. We’re a hockey household. My dad still wears his old Acers jersey to mow the lawn. This is going to blow his mind.”

“Should I tell Nate to add six tickets to the list?”

“Make it eight. We’ll bring snacks.”

I laugh. “Let’s just start with two for now, just you and me. Maybe after that, I’ll ask for more.”

Kira’s eyes sparkle. “Oh, it’s happening. Maybe I’ll bring my dad next time. My mom would freak out too. Our whole house is basically decorated in Acers memorabilia.”

She winks at me and continues. “And speaking of game invites, how did it feel watching your sister’s ex offer you premium tickets while shirtless?”