Page 72 of Ice Devil

“Evidently, he got himself into a political mess. And in truth, he was the hockey aficionado.”

At least that was the truth coming from Matt’s mouth. Ding. Ding. If I wasn’t careful, I’d have an entire wall full of kewpie dolls. “Why do I have the feeling our parent company is considering making a purchase? So I’ve got two carrots dangled in front of me. Running a branch not doing well and being a permanent member of Sports Today. If all goes well.”

“I knew nothing would fool you. They are great opportunities. Your salary will be in the high six figures. With the right contract, you can jockey for stock incentives as well. Imagine what your life could look like this time next year.”

“In exchange for what, selling my soul regarding shifters?”

“Hell, no. You’re going to Portland, my dear. Why do you think? The only reason the Hellions were in the playoffs in the first place is because of the Kendrick brothers. Everyone acknowledges that. We have two exciting sets of brothers who are shifters. Four teams vying for the Stanley Cup. Do you know how many wagers are on the Kendricks to take the win? This is huge and we’re on the cutting edge of being a part of something amazing. Whether the Hellions or the Wild Dogs win, that will make three years of a team with shifters on the roster. That is amazing.”

He was so excited I wasn’t certain he wasn’t about to jump out of his skin.

“And all I need to do is to fill in for Wally while he’s going through his mental breakdown?”

“Well, and convince Beck to join. That’s it.” I knew that grin. It was the one that was certain he’d found the right button to push. “I didn’t think you’d mind spending some mandated time with him.”

I glanced out the window, my stomach churning. “Are you certain this is on the up and up?”

“Absolutely. You’ve seen their show. You know how they handle themselves. You’ll fit in just fine. Go for it. What do you have to lose?”

That was the question and in truth, one I didn’t necessarily like.

Let’s just say I had difficulty trusting people.

CHAPTER 16

Beck

Fuck.

Hockey sticks were flying, smashed against the boards, every player, and even the referee. It was a damn free for all after Ford had been hit then tripped on purpose. He’d smashed his head with enough force his helmet had flown off.

I’d been privy to the start of the fight. I’d gone into protective mode, coming out swinging alongside the other players. Within seconds, everyone had rushed onto the ice.

The crowd was booing in the background. There were more than a few fights in the stands. That’s what happened when you had a homecourt advantage.

Ripping off my gloves and tossing them, I flew into the melee, the kick of adrenaline from intense rage on high.

Within seconds, I had the bastard responsible by the neck, squeezing while he fought me with everything he had.

The fight was brutal, fists flying, teeth cracking.

Even a stream of blood flew by my head, landing on the asshole’s face and jersey. The guys on the team were pissed. Granted, I was too, but as soon as the asshole grinned, I could tell the entire scene had been a setup. The bastards had wanted to get under our skin.

I threw up my hands just as the coach’s angry face hit the periphery of my vision.

“Beck. For the love of fuck,” Coach Griffen hissed as he grabbed my jersey, swinging me around. “Calm the fuck down. We can’t have you kicked off the ice.”

I took gasping breaths while still glaring at the asshole. There was no doubt he’d planned the damn attack. Clever asshole.

“That motherfucker was told to board Ford.”

“By whom?”

“The other coach.” I ran my arm across my face, hissing while offering my middle finger.

The coach shook his head. “Did you suddenly have access to a private conversation?”

As soon as I opened my mouth, he arched a brow.