Page 44

CHAPTER 44

Jordyn

A slight smile curls my lips as Tristan places one of my shirts on a hanger. He looks so boyishly cute as he takes in my expression, his brow wrinkling. “What?”

I giggle. “You look so domesticated. It’s hard to believe the guy gingerly hanging up my shirt is the same vicious guy on the ice or throwing punches at my asshole stepbrother.”

Tristan smirks. “What can I say, kitten? I’m a complicated man.” He leans over, giving me a kiss. “I’m mean on the ice, a beast in the bedroom, but always sweet to you.” Brushing a lock of hair from my face, his gravelly tone makes my stomach flutter. “I’ll do anything for you.” Cupping my face, the promise in his eyes makes me shiver. “I love you so damn much.”

I lift onto my tiptoes, wrapping my arms around his neck. “I’m so damn lucky to have you in my life. I love you, Tristan.” Rubbing my nose against his, a soft giggle leaves my lips. “Who would’ve thought the nerdy girl would fall for the hockey captain? ”

He presses a soft kiss against my lips, stealing my breath away. “It was inevitable. We’re meant to be.”

I melt against him, every one of my nerves sparking from the euphoria coursing through me like lightning. “You have no idea how much you’ve healed me. I haven’t felt like I belonged anywhere. But the first time you wrapped your arms around me, it felt like coming home.” I tilt my head back, smiling at the love radiating from his eyes. “Wherever you are is home to me.”

“You’re my home.” Loosening his hold, his hands slide to my ass, gently squeezing. “If I get drafted, I plan to finish my education before moving…” His forehead wrinkles with worry. “Would you go with me?”

His words cause my pulse to pound against my neck. I hadn’t given much thought as to what would happen after he’s drafted. But now, it hits me that he’ll need to move, and he’ll be traveling a lot.

Other than my mom and Chelsea, I have no other ties anywhere.

“There’s plenty of online programs and schools.” My gaze lifts to his. “As long as I can afford it…” I bite my lip, hating the fear and hopelessness that wells inside me.

Tristan squeezes my hands, his face darkening. “Money isn’t an issue, kitten. I’m going to take care of you.” His face darkens. “Did you quit working at Sinful Sirens yet?”

I bite my lip, knowing he’s going to be angry. “I feel like I need to do it in person.”

He rolls his eyes and runs a hand through his hair. “So fucking stubborn.” I can practically see his mind whirling. “If you were offered a job at the rec center, would you take it?”

“Of course. But I already applied there. I applied for pretty much everything that was open, but I was too late. Jobs were filled in August.”

He nods, his expression contemplative before his brows furrow. “I really don’t like you working at Sinful Sirens.”

“I know. I’m going to quit, okay? I promise.” Standing on my tiptoes, I give him a kiss.

“Good.” He squeezes my ass before turning back to the laundry, grabbing another shirt.

I shake my head as I watch him, a grin on my face. Reaching into the clothes basket, I’m astonished when I pull out a pair of small, navy reindeer socks. Turning to him, I hold them up, my brows raised.

Tristan blushes, a wry smile on his face as he scratches the back of his neck. “Those were my sister’s lucky socks. We always got each other a silly gift for Christmas, and that was my gift two years ago. She wore those socks at every competition, calling them her lucky socks.” He swallows hard, his eyes misty. “When I returned to the ice for the first time after my hiatus, I tucked those socks inside my pads for good luck.”

I clutch the socks to my chest. “Oh my God. That’s so sweet.”

“They’re my lucky socks now. I was so nervous when I played my first game, but I was on fire that night. We slaughtered the other team. Now, I keep them on me every game I play.” He shrugs his shoulders. “What can I say? Hockey players are superstitious.”

A broad smile spreads across my face. “I tuck my Strawberry Shortcake doll in my backpack whenever I have a test in a class or any other time I need some luck.”

Tristan’s smile matches mine as he pulls me into his arms. “You’re my lucky charm now.” He nuzzles my neck, making me giggle. “Will you do me a favor?”

“Of course.”

He chuckles, pulling back with sparkling eyes. “Wear those socks and my jersey to my game next weekend.”

“I’d be honored.”