Page 45 of Hat Trick
Men come and go. Love is fleeting, and I don’t believe in romantic soulmates.
I believe in platonic ones though, and these girls are mine.
“Are you excited for your date?” Madeline asks me. “What’s his name?”
“It’s not technically a date. Just a hookup.” I smile and switch my beer out for water. I don’t want to be tipsy when I leave. “And his name is Dan. I think he lives in Boston? I can’t remember. It’s not important for what we’re doing.”
“Can I ask a personal question? I’ve been friends with you all for almost a year now, but I want to make sure I haven’t missed something,” she says.
“I’m an open book. You can ask me anything.”
“You mention hooking up with guys, but nothing about relationships. Not that there’s anything wrong with that,” Madeline hurries to add. “I didn’t date anyone for years before Hudson and I got together, so I don’t mean for it to sound like I’m accusing you of missing out on something great. I’m curiouswhyyou don’t date.”
“In my twenties, I was in a relationship that didn’t work out,” I answer with a shrug. “It boils down to not wanting to be disappointed, and I’ve found that men constantly disappoint me. I’ve always been happier on my own, and I don’t want to rely on someone else to make me happy. I like sex though. I like being able to express myself in the bedroom, and I’m a firm believer that you don’t need to be in love with someone to be physically attracted to them. Maybe one day I’ll settle down, but for right now, I’m having fun. And there’s nothing wrong with that.”
“Our girl is a free spirit.” Piper loops her arm around my waist and puts her head on my shoulder. “It’s going to take a special guy to tie you down.”
“Men have one-night stands all the time, and they’re considered kings of the world,” Maven chimes in. “When women have sex with multiple people, we’re considered sluts. Why? Why is there such a double standard?”
“I could write a thesis on that question,” I say. “I’m convinced it comes down to the power dynamic. A lot of men have a problem with powerful women, and women who are in touch with their sexuality are powerful. It’s all bullshit if you ask me.”
“I love that you do what you want,” Madeline says. “I respect your extracurricular activities, and I hope you’re getting the best dick of your life.”
That makes me giggle, and soon, we’re all laughing. Emmy wipes under her eyes, and we eventually stop when a nearby table glances over at us like we’ve lost our minds.
“I needed this,” she says. “The season is underway. Maverick and I are getting ready to spend seven and a half months apart while also trying to have a baby. Laughter is very necessary.”
“Anything to report there?” Maven asks gently, and Emmy shakes her head.
“Not yet. I’ve never been patient a day in my life, so this isreallytesting me. I’m trusting everything will work out in the end, no matter what that looks like.”
“We’re here,” I say. “If you ever need anything.”
“I know you are, and I love you all for it.”
“We need a toast before everyone gets on with their night.” Piper lifts her glass, and we all follow suit. “To incredible women. To friendships. To a special love no man will ever give us.”
“Cheers,” I say, knocking my drink against theirs, my heart full and eternally grateful for the path my life has taken.
The guy I’m supposed to be working with doesn’t want to see me, but my girls do, and that’s all that matters.
SIXTEEN
RILEY
Puck Kings
Easy E
I can’t believe we have a four-game road trip next month. Doesn’t the NHL know we’re the reigning champs?
Sully
We’re not the same team we were when we won the Cup.
Me
That’s my fault.
