Page 14 of Pucking the Team

“How the heck did you get into this?”

“My dresser, Casey, did it.”

“Patient woman.”

“He’s a guy, but yeah, he’s patient.”

“Oh, I see.”

“And then, when you get past the waist, where the white silk band is, there’s a zip, but the catch is virtually invisible.”

He came up close, and his warm fingertips skimmed the nape of my neck. “These are so tiny.”

“Do you usually wear glasses?”

“Fuck no.” He laughed. “Wouldn’t be much good at striking if my eyes didn’t work.”

“Striking?”

“Getting the puck in the net. You know.”

“Ah, yes, of course.” I felt the first tiny button loosen.

“That okay?” he asked.

“Yes, thanks. Sorry there’s so many.”

“No problem. I haven’t got anywhere else to be right now.”

The scent of his faded aftershave wafted toward me. It was different to Dylan’s, not spiced but still exotic, sandalwood perhaps. It reminded me of a Calvin Klein advert I’d done for one of their unisex fragrances.

“Gina liked the dress,” he said.

“Yes, she did.” I paused. “Gina. She said she was in charge. Is that right?”

“Sure. Her father owns the club, but he’s retired now, so it’s hers to play with.”

“Play with?”

“Play with, yeah, the family are so rich we are like a goddamn hobby to them, but I’m not complaining. I’m doing what I love, and she’s a cool chick, especially now she’s settled with Dustin. He’s good for her, keeps her grounded, even when shit gets crazy on the ice and in the locker room.”

“They seem like a solid couple.”

“That’s for sure.”

I was quiet as Ben’s big but tender fingers carefully continued to work, skimming against my skin when he undid each tiny crystal. “You must miss home, Ben, six weeks away is a long time.”

“Home is Canada, Toronto, but I’ve lived in Florida for the last few years, playing and practice. So I’m used to being away from home.”

“You got a wife waiting for you in Florida? Kids?”

He laughed. “No, no wife, and definitely no kids.”

“Not your thing?”

“Maybe one day. Theo and I are both single.”

“Two great-looking guys with fan clubs, I find that hard to believe.” I watched two swans flying over the bay, their wings flapping in synchrony. I’d heard once that they mated for life and that they were loyal and faithful to each other. Soul mates. Which was what I’d thought Steven and I had been.