Page 332 of Playing the Pucking Game

“Ah, how nice of you to join us,” Casey teases, lifting my hand to inspect my new accessory. “He’s so sweet,” she whispers while the guys begin mocking Linc.

“I never thought I’d see the day, but being pussy-whipped suits you,” Kodie announces.

“It’s really beautiful,” Freya says, also inspecting my corsage.

As we enjoy our drinks, more of the team joins us.

Fletch appears with Reese at his side. Killer and Brit are flying solo. And finally, Hayden joins us with a beautiful woman on his arm.

“Whoa, has Marilyn got a girl?” Killer announces loudly enough for everyone in the bar to hear.

We watch as they take the final few steps toward us. Hayden looks incredibly handsome and a lot older in his tux, and the woman at his side is stunning. She’s slim and has flawless porcelain skin. Her hair is dark like Hayden’s, and her dress is the exact same shade of purple as the pocket square he has tucked into his jacket.

“Shut up, you idiot,” Hayden mutters, his cheeks and the tips of his ears both pink with embarrassment. “Everyone, this is Rylee, my sister.”

“I fucking knew it. No way are you ever pulling someone this hot,” Handsy teases.

“Guys,” Hayden warns.

“It’s okay,” Rylee says softly, gripping his upper arm. “I can handle your friends.”

“Hey, Rylee. I’m Parker, and this is Casey and Freya,” I say, introducing the most important people in our group. “It’s so good to finally meet you. I’ve heard many, many amazing things.”

A smile splits Rylee’s face. “He talks about me?” she teases, glancing back at Hayden.

“All the time. I’ve even started reading some of your favorite books.”

She instantly lights up. “Really?”

“Yeah. You’ve got good taste. Your book boyfriends are spot on.”

“Uh…I’m sorry. What was that?” Linc asks.

I chuckle before turning to him and tapping his chest patronizingly. “Sometimes, you just can’t beat a fictional guy.”

He scoffs. “I beg to fucking differ.”

Rylee laughs, instantly fitting in with our group.

“Can we get you a drink, Rylee?” Casey asks.

“Uh, yeah. A fruit juice would be great.”

“You got it.”

As we all stand there catching up with each other, I can’t wipe the smile off my face. I have everything I ever dreamed of—the man of my dreams at my side, a job I never thought I’d land, and the best friends and colleagues I could ever ask for. If this is the best life can offer, I’ll take it.

Two weeks later…

“Is this really necessary?” I ask as Linc slips a blindfold over my face.

“Yep, totally necessary.”

“I told you that I didn’t need anything but a night in with you for my birthday.”

“Yep, I know that, too.”

“So why are we going out, and why are you being all sneaky and shit?”