Page 51 of Strange Love

The loud chatter of the crowd resonates throughout the arena as we make our way through the throngs of people, dodging elbows and bumping into knees. We weave through the rows of chairs and finally settle into our seats with a sigh of contentment. Bright lights dance and sparkle above us as music flows through the sound system.

A hush falls over the crowd as the lights slowly dim, leaving only a soft glow in the arena. All eyes are fixed on the center of the ice. Natalie jumps up, her face lit up with pure wonder and anticipation. The deep bass of the music begins to throb through the air, setting the stage for what’s to come. Suddenly, a spotlight shines on the Mavericks’ bench, signaling their entrance.

With each announcement from the announcer’s booming voice, another player steps out onto the ice, causing a wave of excitement to ripple through the audience. My heart races with anticipation as they call Corey’s name, and he skates onto the ice. And I’m not alone - my family is as thrilled as we all cheer and clap with the rest of the fans.

At the first sound of the puck hitting the ice, Corey and his opponent spring into action, bodies tensed and sticks poised for control. The clash is fierce, but Corey emerges victorious, his stick guiding the puck to his teammates’ waiting hands. Even without Taz, the Mavericks play with precision and power, executing every play flawlessly. I watch Corey skate with grace and determination, and I’m filled with a sense of pride and joy for all he has accomplished - and will accomplish in his future career. At this moment, he is truly in his element, and there is no doubt that he will achieve all of his dreams.

They dominated the game, winning 6-0 over their opponents. The best part is that Cruz doesn’t see the ice one time.

Chapter 29

“Only Time Will Tell”

Corey - Age 18, 1988

Today was epic. We dominated every aspect, which is not normally the case when we play this team. We’re hyped as we enter the locker room. Cheers and congratulations fill the air. I glance around for Taz, but he must’ve already gone home. I’ll have to call him later and find out what the hell is going on with him, but right now, I’m thinking about only one thing - seeing Ivy.

Throughout the game, I couldn’t help but notice her bouncing around in her seat. Every time we scored a goal, she jumped up and down, pumping her fist. Her face was flushed with energy, and she screamed so loud that I could hear her voice, even with all the other people screaming simultaneously. Her family joined in on the excitement, laughing and high-fiving each other throughout the game. I think I’m going to be able to turn Ivy into a die-hard fan in no time.

After Coach finishes his quick speech, I hurry through my shower and dress quickly. My heart races with anticipation as I hope to catch Ivy and her family before they leave.

When I leave the locker room, she stands to my right, with Natalie and her parents. To the left, my mom eagerly awaits, a proud smile on her face that never wavers whether we win or lose.

With a wide grin, I approach my mom and wrap my arms around her in a tight hug. Her perfume fills my senses, bringing back memories of childhood. She congratulates me on the game, beaming with pride at my achievement.

“Mom,” I say, excitement bubbling, “there’s someone I’d like you to meet.”

Her eyebrows raise in surprise and curiosity as she looks at me quizzically. We’ve never talked about girls before, let alone me introducing one to her. I can see the wheels turning in her head as she prepares for this unexpected meeting. We walk over to where Ivy and her family are standing to make introductions.

I feel a knot in my stomach as I stand between the two most important women. My mom looks at me with a soft yet curious expression while Ivy shifts nervously beside me. We made that stupid pact weeks ago to pretend to be in a relationship, but now I want more than anything for it to be real.

“Ivy, this is my mom, Maggie. Mom, this is my girlfriend, Ivy.” When I use the “G” word, everyone in the vicinity goes wide-eyed.

“It’s lovely to meet you, Ivy,” my mom says as they shake hands.

“It’s very nice to meet you too,” Ivy replies before remembering her family standing idly beside her, watching this interaction. “Oh,” she says with an embarrassed laugh, “these are my parents and my sister.”

Everyone makes introductions and small talk while I wrap my arms around Ivy.

“I’m so glad you could make it to the game,” I whisper with a smile. She’s wearing a black sweater, and her hair is pulled back in one of those scrunchie things. It’s blue, and I take notice of the fact that she’s purposely worn Maverick colors.

Her lips curve into a genuine smile as she gazes at me, her blue eyes shining with admiration.

“Are you kidding?” she exclaims. “That was radical! I can see why you love this so much.”

I chuckle and brush a loose strand of hair from her face. “There’s nothing like it,” I agree, my voice low as I lean and whisper in her ear, “except maybe kissing you.” A delightful shade of pink spread across her cheeks, making her look even more beautiful.

“I’m going to have dinner with my mom, but can we do something tonight afterward?”

She nods, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. How she’s looking at me reminds me of the last time we were together when we’d been making out for what seemed like hours. Our physical attraction is undeniable and only grows stronger each time we’re together. I know she’s feeling it, too, and as much as my body wants to take things to the next level, her boundaries and comfort are the most important things. At the end of the day, I want to spend time with her.

“So, tell me more about this girlfriend,” my mom implores once we’re settled into her favorite steak and seafood place for dinner. Alan is home, but Mom usually reserves these little dinners just for her and me to spend time together and connect, which I appreciate.

“I like her a lot,” I admit as I bite into a warm sourdough roll.

My mom nods and smiles. “She seems sweet, Corey. How long have you two been dating?”

“It hasn’t been long,” I reply nonchalantly. “But there’s something you should know about Ivy.”