Page 35 of Risking the Pucking Defense

“You absolutely need to add it to your list. So, what did I miss? Other than the wedding of the year.”

Both of them turn their attention to me, seeing as I’m the only one around the table who attended.

“It was good.”

They both blink and lean forward.

“Good?” Jude repeats.

“Lincoln Storm married his best friend’s little sister. His athletic trainer. The love of his life, and it was…good?”

I roll my eyes. “If you cared about it so much, maybe you both should have cancelled your plans and attended.”

“Or they could have given us a little more notice,” Jude deadpans.

“Love waits for no man,” Brooke teases.

“If that’s the case, where the fuck is my man?” Jude announces. “I’m waiting.”

“Maybe that’s the problem. Stop waiting. Get out there and sow your oats,” Brooke encourages.

He shakes his head at her.

“The photos looked incredible,” he says, avoiding commenting on her previous statement.

“It was a fantastic day. They both looked so happy and⁠—”

“Do not forget the other epic event. Rett and Bea. Holy hell. I did not see that coming at the end of the season.”

“Yep, that too. So, can we get to it before the others join?” I ask, attempting to get to work.

“Where’s Katie?” Jude asks, referencing my senior manager who should also be here with us.

“Has problems with her childcare. She’ll be here as soon as she can.”

“Right. Let’s get down to it then,” he says, rubbing his hands together, eager to embark on a brand-new season.

Our media day is next week, and we’ve been working on plans for it all summer. Today, we’re nailing down the final details with everyone before sending out schedules to the guys.

“Right, yes. Media day. How freaking fast has this come around? I’m not sure I’m ready to press play on the Vipers machine again.”

“Buckle up, Brooke. It’s about to go from zero to sixty,” Jude comments. “I’m so ready to have the guys back. I’ve missed those assholes.” He laughs.

My stomach knots. As much as I’m ready to dive back into the thick of it, I can’t deny that I’m nervous.

I haven’t heard from Hayden since he dropped me off at home three days ago.

While there’s a big part of me that’s relieved he didn’t turn up that night as he threatened, I can’t deny that I’m not a little disappointed. And that’s a huge fucking issue.

I enjoyed hanging out with him a little too much at the wedding, and now I keep finding myself thinking about him. Wondering how he’s doing, if he’s managing to get some rest, if he’s finding a way to prepare for the season. Mostly, I’m just worrying about him. If he hasn’t told the guys yet, is he dealing with everything on his own? Are Rett and Bea checking in on him, or should I?

So yeah, I’m excited to get the show on the road, but I’m terrified of looking Hayden in the eyes and discovering that he’s been drowning with no one there to keep him afloat.

Our day is full-on, but by the time everyone leaves, I’m confident we have everything nailed down and that the day will run smoothly, allowing us to get all the information and footage we need to ensure media day is a success.

When I step back into my office, I’ve got a headache, a gentle pounding at my temples, and a to-do list as long as my arm.

I drop into my chair with a sigh and close my eyes for a moment.