Page 48 of Puck My Life

A hand lands on my shoulder, and I’m spun around.

“You’re here.”

I open and close my mouth, trying to calm my racing heart. I’m not meant to be seeing him like this, but he is so relieved; the warmth that pours off him has me moving into his arms, unable to stop myself.

“Of course, I was going to be here for your first game.”

“I didn’t…”

Mal cuts off, his cheeks going pink.

“You thought I wasn’t coming?”

Why does it hurt that he thought that? I shake it off and force a smile. “Some game.”

“It was a disaster, but I was so busy, I forgot it was my first game. Hey, can you come back with me? I want you to see something.”

I nod, thinking, maybe I should be saying no, but following him back inside anyway because I’m helpless when it comes to him. He turns to me with a smile.

“Just wait here. I’ll be back soon.”

He beams at me, one of those sunshine smiles that hits you right in the chest, making you dizzy. I lean against the wall so I don’t fall.

There’s a group of journalists standing around a couple of guys in suits, and I recognise the Alpha Hoard captain, Remi Sloan. He spots me and raises an eyebrow with a devastating grin.

I glance around, but there’s no one around me. By the time I look back at him, he’s escaped the journalists and his friend and is heading in my direction.

“Hi.”

I have to look up at him because he’s tall. He’s got dark auburn hair and a devastating smile.

“Hello,” I say back with a nervous look towards the team rooms.

“I know that you’re standing here waiting for me.”

I laugh lightly. “I’m not, but it’s cute that your ego thinks every beta is waiting on you.”

He moves even closer. “My name is Remi Sloan, and I don't think every beta is waiting for me, but I do think there’s one pretty omega who should take my arm and come out and let me show you a good time. Totally respectfully.”

He reaches out, shifting my hair behind my ear. It’s a move that leaves me with nothing but amusement. There’s no spark, no butterflies. Nothing.

“How do you know I’m not taken?”

“No alpha would leave a gorgeous omega like you alone in a place like this.”

He’s got aquamarine eyes with dark lashes and skin that’s a couple of shades lighter than mine.

I can count on one hand the times that having a beautiful alpha approach me has happened.

“Let me take you out.”

I waver, tempted. He’s a good guy; he’s got an incredibly good reputation in the hockey world. Known for his decency and kindness. I would be lucky to have someone like him.

“Fuck off, Sloan. She’s not for you.”

I jump, not even realising that Deacon and Mal had come out. They are both glaring at Remi, but Mal goes one better and tugs me to his side. Stamping ownership all over me.

The opportunity is there, and then it’s gone. Remi nods and steps back.