Page 13 of Rookie Attraction

“I mean it. I can see how much you’ve improved. And that’s why you’re here. You’ve got what it takes,” I insist. “And I count myself lucky to work with you.”

Finn makes a funny squeaking noise in his throat.

“Stop, I’m going to geek out again.”

I can’t suppress another bark of laughter, and fuck, that feels good. Don’t think I’ve done that in over a month.

“Geek away,” I insist.

Following our teammates, we step out of the rink and head down the chute to the locker room.

“What are you doing after the team photos?” he asks me.

“I’m heading to my new condo. It’s a place called Bayside.”

“Seriously? Several of the guys on the team live there,” Finn explains. “In fact, I’ve got a unit in the same building. I moved in yesterday.”

Is that good or bad? On the one hand, I’ll see familiar faces around. On the other, my personal life might not stay personal for long. Not that it’s a secret anymore, but…

“Nice building?” I ask.

“It’s sick. The views are killer.”

“I’m looking forward to getting settled and experiencing the neighborhood.”

“You want to grab a coffee or something later?” Finn asks. “Wait, no, ignore me. You’ve got shit to do—I mean stuff to do. Of course you do. Moving in and all that. You’re busy.”

Not really, since I had my move arranged. But Finn’s rambling is back, and it proves difficult to resist.

“My stuff’s already there,” I admit. “It’s only picking up the keys. I’ve got time for coffee.”

It’s the least I can do. He’s made this day a lot easier than I’d anticipated.

“Cool. Awesome. Wow, that’s amazing.” Finn comes to a sudden stop and grabs my arm. “I’m kind of overwhelmed by the city. Is that weird?”

I glance down at his hand, but he pulls it back quickly.

“Shit, sorry.”

“No worries. And New York’s a lot for anyone. Damien mentioned that you grew up on a farm in Nebraska, is that right?”

“Yeah, just outside Omaha. I’ll always be a small-town guy at heart, but I love experiencing new places.”

New York is going to eat Finn alive if he’s not careful. I don’t know him well enough, but I feel oddly protective all the same.

“My only advice is to have fun, but in moderation. It’s easy to get caught up in the nightlife, but remember to think of your body and what’s best for your game. Save the wildest antics for the off season.”

I did my share of partying, but those days seem far away.

“I’m not a big drinker anyway,” Finn adds. “Or clubber. My dance moves are severely limited. Unless I’m buzzed, then look out.”

I want to laugh again but I settle for a smile.

“Thanks for the warning,” I tease.

“I’m serious, my elbows should be registered as lethal weapons.”

Okay, I can’t hold back a chuckle at that.