Page 8 of Soulmates and Slapshots (Love in Maple Falls #6)

WESTON

I t’s been gray and rainy all day—hardly the ideal weather for tonight’s highly anticipated event.

The clouds have hung low since the morning, leaving a dreary haze over the town.

Not exactly the backdrop planned for the official Inaugural Bash.

Tonight marks a major milestone for the Ice Breakers.

This black-tie event not only kicks off our season but also gives us our first chance to truly connect with the town’s residents, sponsors, and guests who’ve already begun rooting for us.

Earlier this morning, Coach Hauser gathered the team for a blunt, no-nonsense talk in the locker room. His expression was serious, his voice even more so.

“This is a new team,” he said. “Every eye in that arena tonight will be on you. No screwups. No egos. Be sharp, be respectful, and don’t forget—we’re building a brand here.”

His words continue to replay in my head.

The fact that I have an opportunity to continue to grow my career is really hitting home.

I’m wearing a black tux, slightly tight in the shoulders, and admittedly I’d be thrilled to skip the jacket and tie.

The moment I step inside the arena, I’m floored by the transformation.

The walls are draped with banners in our team colors and sleek decor that gives the space a high-end, polished feel.

Ice sculptures shaped like sticks and pucks sparkle beneath the lights.

The ice is a clever addition to the décor.

Ice for the Ice Breakers is a great marketing tool.

Despite the stunning setup, I feel a rush of nerves. I’ve been to my fair share of black-tie events, but this one’s different. It’s my official debut as an Ice Breaker. With this in mind, I head straight for the bar, hoping a drink might take the edge off.

After ordering a bourbon on the rocks, I glance around and spot a few teammates by the elaborate food spread, which will be my next stop. The table is stacked with hors d’oeuvres, sliders, and a towering cupcake display that will need my attention. There’s always room for cupcakes.

But just before I move toward the food, I catch sight of Fiona.

She’s standing near one of the display tables, deep in conversation with a woman dressed in a bright pink, ruffled dress.

It wouldn’t shock me if she wore it to prom in the ‘80s. If not, it’s a great replica.

And then there’s Fiona, who looks incredible.

She’s wearing a fitted, strapless black dress that hugs her curves and falls just above her knees.

Her hair is styled with soft waves that perfectly frame her face.

I freeze for a second, realizing I’m staring at her. This is starting to become a habit whenever she’s around. Before I can look away, she glances over and catches me. Her face lights up, and she lifts her hand giving a friendly wave.

Shoving my left hand into my pocket, I make my way over.

“Hey,” I say as I approach her .

The woman in pink eyes me up and down with intense scrutiny. I’m guessing she’s the hockey-obsessed aunt Fiona mentioned.

“Hey, yourself,” Fiona says with a grin. “Look at you, all cleaned up and ready to impress Maple Falls.”

I hold out my arms and bow proudly. “It’s all part of the job.”

“Aunt Denise, this is Weston Smith,” Fiona says.

“One of our new defensemen,” Denise interjects.

“Yes. Very good,” I say, trying to hide my surprise.

“I’ve been studying the roster,” she says proudly.

“Really?” I raise an eyebrow. Hmm…well I guess Fiona didn’t exaggerate about her aunt being a superfan.

“I need to know who I’m watching. Stats, skill level—it’s all important,” she continues.

“I agree,” I say, lifting my hand for a high five. She eagerly meets my hand with hers.

“I was very excited to hear my niece met you,” she adds with a wink. “Fiona needs to have some fun on this vacation. She needs to let loose and enjoy herself.”

“Aunt Dee,” Fiona groans, rolling her eyes. “I’m standing right here.”

“I know,” Denise says sweetly.

“And just so you know, I am having fun,” Fiona adds emphatically. “I went to a town council meeting, and I’m helping to save Maple Falls from a billionaire takeover.”

I stare at Fiona in awe. This woman continues to surprise me. “Of course you are. Instead of relaxing, you’re saving a town.”

Fiona grins. “I like to stay busy.”

“I understand. And the Ice Breakers are diving in to help as well. ”

Our conversation is interrupted when Denise gasps. “Oooh, there’s the coach. I’ll leave you two to catch up. Excuse me.”

Before either of us has a chance to say anything, she’s gone, leaving an overpowering trail of perfume behind.

“Wow,” I say, watching her go. “She’s energetic.”

“That’s an understatement,” Fiona says with a laugh. “My aunt is one of a kind. And I already told you what she said about your coach.”

I cover my ears. “Yes. No more please.”

She grins.

“I am impressed she knew what position I play, though.”

Fiona winces. “She probably knows more than that.”

“Really? Is she a stalker? Should I warn Coach Hauser?”

“Maybe,” she says with a giggle.

We both glance over and see that Denise has already cornered the coach. He doesn’t look entirely amused, but he’s handling it just fine. Oh well, I’m sure he can take care of himself.

“So,” I say, turning back to Fiona. “I didn’t think I’d see you here tonight.”

“I wasn’t planning to come,” she admits. “Aunt Dee came storming in and declared we were attending a black-tie event. Luckily, I always pack a little black dress—just in case.”

I try to play it cool, but my gaze drifts to the dress again. “Well, you look amazing.”

She gives a small smile.

“Thanks.”

A brief silence settles between us. It’s not awkward, but there is some intensity. At least I’m feeling it.

“Are you missing New York yet?” I ask casually .

She tilts her head, thinking. “Not really. I feel like I’m finally settling into this vacation.”

“Yeah,” I say. “Maple Falls seems to have that effect. It’s very welcoming—like a home away from home.”

“Exactly. Which makes it even more frustrating to think someone wants to destroy it,” she says, her voice a little quieter now.

“Is that why you want to help all these people you don’t know?”

“Yes. It’s something good to focus on.” She pauses. “I know it probably won’t help, but it keeps me from thinking about what comes next.”

I give her a curious look. “Because of the issues with your job?”

“Yeah.” Her expression changes. “I’m not sure what I’m going back to, honestly. It’s really stressful.”

She doesn’t elaborate, and I don’t push. Instead, I offer her a reassuring smile.

“Well, whatever’s next, I’m betting you’ll handle it like a champ.”

She looks touched for a second then smirks. “I appreciate the peptalk. In the meantime, I’m keeping you from your adoring fans.”

I raise an eyebrow. “Wait—are yousaying you’re not one of them?”

She lets out a soft laugh. “I’ll have to attend a game or two before I decide if I’m officially an Ice Breakers fan.”

“Fair enough.”

“But,” she adds, “I promise I’ll be there cheering you on.”

Something about those words makes my chest tighten. I want her in those stands. And I want her cheering for me .

“I’m glad to hear it. ”

“Weston,” a familiar voice calls. Lucian claps a hand on my shoulder. “Time to go dazzle the crowd.”

“I’m ready,” I say forcing a smile. As much as I want to meet the fans, I’d rather spend the evening talking to Fiona.

“I guess I need to go,” I tell her.

She leans in closer to me. “Duty calls. Have fun.”

The scent of her hair makes me dizzy.

“I will. And I hope I get to see you again soon.”

She smiles then walks away, disappearing into the crowd with that same effortless grace that caught my attention the first time I laid eyes on her.

I’m sure of one thing in this moment. I want more time with Fiona before she leaves Maple Falls.

This town has a serious love affair with hockey, and honestly, it’s amazing to witness.

The energy in the room crackles with excitement, and it’s impossible not to get swept up in it.

Everywhere I turn, people are talking about the upcoming season like it’s a holiday they’ve waited all year to celebrate.

When Troy Hart, the Ice Breakers' owner, steps up to the mic with Coach Hauser at his side, the crowd quiets instantly.

They speak confidently, assuring the crowd they are in for an exhilarating season.

As they finish, the room erupts in cheers and applause, the sound practically shaking the walls.

It’s the official kickoff of the season, and it feels more like a celebration than a press event.

I can’t help the smile tugging at the corners of my mouth.

I wasn’t sure how I’d feel tonight because this is the first time in years I’m not suiting up with the Wolves.

I thought there’d be more sadness and more doubt.

But instead, I feel…charged. The optimism in the room is contagious, and I find myself feeding off it.

I weave through the crowd, shaking hands, exchanging high fives, soaking in the warmth and enthusiasm from fans who already seem to have my back. But even as I’m nodding along and thanking people for their support, my eyes are scanning the room.

I’m looking for Fiona.

It doesn’t take long to find her sitting alone at a table tucked near the edge of the room with a wine glass in her hand. Her effortless elegance radiating as it did earlier in the evening. The quirky aunt and her bright pink dress are nowhere in sight.

I hesitate for a few seconds. I want to go talk to her, but I also don’t want to overdo it.

If I sit down, she might start thinking I’m intentionally following her.

Then again, I haven’t spoken to her since I arrived tonight.

And technically, I am supposed to be mingling with the guests. This is part of the job.

I take that as my answer and make my way to her table. “Is this seat taken?” I ask, placing my hand on the back of the empty chair. “I’m worn out and need a place to hide for a few minutes.”

She grins. “I’m not surprised. Schmoozing with fans seems like hard work.”

I chuckle as I sink into the chair. “It definitely takes a lot of energy.”

“I was actually surprised you didn’t get up there and give a speech,” she says, sipping her drink.

This makes me laugh. “Me? Nope. I leave that to my teammates. Speeches aren’t my thing.”

“Well, you seem to have a lot of people rooting for you,” she says. “There’s a real buzz about the new team. I’m looking forward to seeing a game.”

Hearing this is music to my ears. “I’m grateful for all the support. It’s been awesome to be so welcomed here already. Honestly, I was nervous about the transition.”

“Were you sad to leave your old team?” she asks gently.

I nod. “Yeah. The Wolves were like a second family. I played with the organization for most of my career and my best friend Mac is still on the roster. Leaving them felt like walking away from home.”

“That had to be hard,” she says, her voice quiet. “Starting over somewhere seems terrifying, like leaping into the unknown.”

I meet her eyes. “It really is. But sometimes it’s necessary. And you never know what’ll happen—you might land somewhere even better. Change can be difficult, but I’ve learned it helps me thrive.”

Her expression shifts slightly, something flickering behind her eyes. She looks down at her glass before responding. “That’s a good point.”

Our conversation is interrupted by the sound of her phone ringing.

“Sorry,” she says. “I thought I had it on silent.”

She reaches into her small black bag and takes out her phone. When she looks at the screen, all the color drains from her face. She quickly ignores it and puts the phone back in her bag.

“Do you need to answer it?” I ask.

“Definitely not,” she exclaims. “Anyway, are you ready for your first game?”

Her phone rings again, making her groan. “Sorry. I just need to turn it off. ”

She frantically grabs the phone and pushes the button on the side to power it down.

“Now tell me about your first game,” she demands, clearly not wanting anything to do with the phone calls she just received.

I answer her questions, and while she acts like she’s interested, I have a feeling her mind is on something else. Whatever it is, she’s trying to avoid it. And I’m more than willing to be a distraction for her if she needs one.