He tilts his head. “Why are you here, Leo?”
My heart kicks against my ribs as I open my mouth, ready to say the most terrifying words of my life. “Because I love Victoria, and I’m here to ask for her hand in marriage. I know you might not think I’m good enough for her, but I swear, I’ll spend my life proving I am. I’ll take care of her, make her happy, and never stop fighting for her. And if that’s still not enough—if being with your daughter means losing my place on this team—I’ll walk away and play somewhere else. But know this—” I lean forward, holding his gaze. “I’m not just asking. I’m willing toearnyour approval. As a player. As a man. And most of all, as the person who loves Victoria more than anything in this world... even hockey.”
For a moment, Coach Jenkins says nothing. Then he rests his elbows on the desk and folds his hands. “I have something to confess, Leo. And you can never—never—tell my wife.” He pauses, his expression unreadable. “I didn’t pair Victoria with youjustbecause of your probation.”
I blink, my frown deepening. “Sir?”
“For years, my daughter has been unhappy. Figure skating has brought her so much anxiety, chipping at the joy she once had for the sport. I watched it drain her, little by little, every time she stepped on the ice. But the last time I saw her truly happy... was when she was with you.”
I shake my head. “I thought you pressured her to break it off?”
He exhales, rubbing his hand along his jaw. “That was my wife’s doing. Victoria’s mom was the one who made up that story about ruining your career. I always felt guilty about my silence in the matter, but our marriage hasn’t always been easy. I think my wife didn’t want Victoria to follow the same path she had. But Victoria isnother mother.” He pauses for a beat. “I’d hoped working together during your probation might bring back the smile I missed seeing on my daughter’s face.”
“So, this wasn’t about punishing me?” I ask, remembering how he drilled that point into me.
“I did want you to learn something,” he admits, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips. “But more than that, I wanted to see if there was still something between you. I stood by in silence once when I shouldn’t have, and I wanted to make it right. If that meant throwing you together and seeing what happened, then so be it.”
I blink, stunned by his admission. “You’re quite the matchmaker, Coach.”
“I know.” His smirk grows wider. “Don’t think you’ll get off easy in practice, though. You’re still one of my best players. As long as you put my daughter first, I’m willing to give you a chance.” He stands and extends his hand. “You have my blessing to marry Victoria.”
I clasp it firmly, and for the first time in my life, I have the ridiculous urge to hug the man—and I’m not even the hugging type.
“I can’t believe I’m saying this,” he admits, looking me over with approval, “but you’ve changed since I put you on probation. You remind me of someone...”
“Who?” I ask.
His grin shifts into full-on proud dad. “Me.”
I let out a surprised laugh. “Is that why you accepted my leave of absence request?”
He shakes his head. “No, you can thank Victoria for that. She made it clear how much it mattered to her. And at the end of the day... she’ll always be my little girl.”
THIRTY-NINE
victoria
One Month Later
Itighten the laces on my figure skates one last time. My heart bounces wildly in my chest as I wait for the announcer’s voice to call me onto the ice. Just as I take a deep breath, my phone buzzes in my hand.
Leo
As my favorite skater, I’m already giving you a ten out of ten in every category. Including “Best Legs.”
Victoria
Pretty sure that category only exists in your dreams, Ego.
Leo
Then I’m officially submitting it to the judges. Now show everyone what I already know—you’re unstoppable, beautiful, and about to take my breath away. Just like you always have.
I smile to myself, barely able to contain my excitement. I’d expect to be nervous at Nationals or even the Olympics, which I’ve dreamed about since I was little. But this time, I don’t have any reason to be anxious—not when my entire cheering section consists of friends, family, and the Crushers’ hockey team. Even Leo’s parents showed up for the event.
For the first time, I’m not skating to prove anything to anyone. I’m skating for the people I love.
Suddenly hands come around my waist from behind, and Leo’s mouth presses against my ear. “I know I’m supposed to leave you alone while you prepare for your routine, but I had to kiss you one last time for good luck. And I can’t do that in a text message.”
