Page 228 of Risking the Pucking Defense

Reaching for his hand, I lace our fingers together and squeeze, silently letting him know that his dad is right.

“Yeah, you were amazing,” I say, looking him dead in the eyes.

“Aww,” Trudy breathes across the table.

We get lost in our little moment, but it’s broken when Hayden’s new fan approaches the table.

“Uh…hi. Are you sure it's⁠—”

“Of course,” Hayden says, looking up at the kid who’s probably fourteen, fifteen at most.

If it were possible, I’m pretty sure he’d have literal stars in his eyes. The way he looks at Hayden like he’s the most amazing person in the world is…well, I hope he sees even a bit of that on my face when I look at him, because it’s exactly how I feel.

“Mom, have you got a pen?”

“Oh, yeah.” Trudy rummages in her purse before passing a Sharpie over.

“Where do you want it?” Hayden asks before signing the fabric that the kid is wearing.

“I’m gonna make my dad stop at the store for a frame on the way home. This is going on my wall,” he says, practically bouncing with excitement. “Thank you so much. I can’t wait for the next game.”

“Same, man. It’s going to be such an incredible season.” As much as Hayden wants to mean this, the words are said through gritted teeth. Without Killer, will it even be possible?

“We’re gonna do it this year, I just know we are. Thank you so much. I’ll never forget this.”

We all watch as he runs back to his table and proudly shows his dad.

“Aw, Hank. Our boy is famous.”

“Tru, are you crying?” Hank mocks.

“No, I’ve just got something in my eye,” she argues, making us all laugh as she not-so-discreetly wipes her eyes with her napkin.

“Okay, just how much food did you guys order?” I ask in horror as even more plates arrive.

As far as I understand it, they started long before I got here, but it just keeps coming.

“Blame Mom. She got excited,” Hayden quips.

“Guilty,” Trudy says with zero regret. “The reviews and recommendations were too good to ignore.”

“It’s delicious,” I say, reaching for another cheesy croquette. “Did Hayden tell you that he’s been baking?” I ask.

“No, he didn’t.” Trudy looks at her son, hungry for more information.

“I’m experimenting,” Hayden says shyly.

Damn, I love this side of him.

“Your cinnamon buns are the best I’ve ever eaten,” I tell him honestly. His first batch was good. But his second and third were even better. “It’s a good thing he’s got me into Pilates, or I’d be out shopping for new clothes.” I laugh.

“Baking and Pilates?”

“I can’t always be on the ice or annoying Hailee,” Hayden reasons.

“I guess not.”

“And Pilates is great for my strength.”