Chapter 17

CHAPTER 17

King

A s I park down the block from Brienne Norcross's mansion, I join the line of luxury vehicles already on the street. The frigid air seeps through my coat, nipping at my skin as I quickly get out and circle around to Willa's side. I open the door for her, and she steps out like a vision in a sleek, dark green dress that hugs her curves with a sophisticated black coat that I helped her into earlier. Her hair is elegantly pulled back, showcasing her graceful neck and delicate earrings that glint in the soft light.

Our hands interlaced, we make our way toward the opulent Norcross home, our breaths visible in the crisp night air. Willa's hand feels warm and comforting in mine, and I give it a gentle squeeze. "You look absolutely stunning tonight," I tell her with a sincere smile.

"Thank you," she replies, a small grin playing on her lips. "And you clean up pretty nicely yourself."

I took way too much time on my appearance tonight, making sure not a single hair was out of place, breaking down and shaving despite the years it takes off my face, and fretting over the best cologne. I rifled through my closet for fifteen minutes, comparing all of my suits to try to figure out what would look best. Christ, I might have turned into a girl but for some reason, I want to impress Willa tonight. I want her to see me as sophisticated, a side she hasn't really seen yet. Through my years in the league, I've rocked a formal event a time or two.

As we approach the towering house, she admits, "I'm a little anxious, though."

I stop and turn to face her, concern etched on my features. "Anxious? Why?"

She hesitates before meeting my gaze. "I guess because this is really stepping all the way into your world."

I frown, not understanding. "But you've been to a game, seen a practice, met my mates and their women."

"Yes, but this is an official, mandatory player get-together and everyone will be here. And you're bringing me, and I know you guys don't just bring casual dates to events like this."

"Who says?" I tease.

"Kiera told me, plus… I know you, King. You'd never bring a casual date to a private dinner with the team's owner and that means this isn't casual. My agreeing to come means that I can't keep this casual and it scares me a little."

Her admission fills me with joy even as it causes her angst, so I keep it light. "Oh, so you're saying all my nefarious tricks are working?"

She blushes but laughs, giving me a playful nudge. "Maybe. But let's take it slow and see how things go."

"Absolutely," I assure her, lifting her hand to my lips and pressing a tender kiss to it. "We'll take things at your pace."

Together, we reach the double doors up a wide portico and are welcomed in by a staff person. My eyes are immediately drawn to the massive chandelier above the foyer, its sparkling lights illuminating the entire space that oozes opulence and luxury. Every detail in this place seems meticulously crafted, from the inlaid marble floors to the hand-carved moldings, adding to the grandeur of the moment. It's my first time here and I have to work not to let my jaw sag in astonishment. I see Willa's eyes are just as wide as mine.

The house is filled with the buzz of lively chatter and laughter. We shed our coats and walk around, greeting teammates with drinks in hand and checking out the various rooms. There's a large formal room filled with antique furniture and heavy oil paintings, a den with wide masculine leather couches and a roaring fire, a library with rolling ladders to reach the books, and off to the left is a huge ballroom that's empty except for guests standing about.

Rafferty greets me with a hearty pat on the back and turns to Willa with a smile. "Even better to see you." He takes her hand and kisses her knuckles. I want to punch him but don't, knowing he's probably doing it to push my buttons. It's forgiven when he turns to me and says, "You're a lucky guy."

"Don't I know it," I reply, slipping my arm around Willa's waist.

We mingle with other guests before making our way to the impressive buffet. Rows of tables are adorned with high-end gourmet dishes, including dainty appetizers, juicy beef tenderloins, perfectly cooked scallops and an assortment of artisanal cheeses. We fill our plates and look for a spot to sit.

Penn is in the formal living area, holding a drink and no food, so I head that way. He's only here because Brienne made attendance mandatory and he looks utterly uncomfortable. I lead Willa over and we perch on chairs kitty-corner to him.

"What's up, man?" I greet him as we take our seats.

"What's up?" he says, looking neither relieved nor put out to have company.

I introduce him to Willa and she shakes his hand, leaning forward from her chair. Willa and I have talked on more than one occasion about my concern for my teammate and she jumps in to start a conversation, "Enjoying the party?"

He shrugs, letting out a noncommittal grunt. "It's all right."

Willa calls him on it. "You're not a fan of these types of events?"

Penn shakes his head. "Not really."

"Well, at least you have good company tonight," I say, cutting a glance toward Willa.

Penn only lifts his chin in acknowledgment but says no more. Christ, it's like pulling teeth with him so I know Willa won't begrudge me talking hockey just to get conversation rolling.

"What do you think about the game against the Rebels tomorrow? They've come on strong this year and their first line has been dominating the last two weeks."

I would think Penn would be happy with my choice of conversation, given that he doesn't like to get personal and well, hockey's the only thing he'll really talk about.

But he's strangely reserved and merely says, "It's going to be a battle."

"Kasparitis is going to come after you tomorrow."

He's the first-line defenseman on the Rebels and he's known for being a mean son of a bitch. Penn shrugs. "Not worried about him."

"Yeah, McLendon is the bigger threat," I agree. He's the other first line defenseman and while he's not mean like Kasparitis, he's wicked quick and light on his feet. For a player like Penn, who pins much of his success on his speed, it makes him a formidable opponent. "But I've got your back. Don't worry."

"Not worried," he says flatly and then to my surprise, he actually changes the subject away from hockey by looking at Willa. "What do you do for a living?"

My head spins with his contrary nature but at least he's made the effort to include Willa, although I get the distinct impression, it was specifically to turn attention away from the game. Pick a lane and stay in it, dude.

"I'm a doctor," she replies, and they launch into a conversation about family medicine. I listen, noting that Penn's not overly invested in what Willa's saying. I'm fucking stumped as to what makes this guy tick and how to reach him, but at least for now, he's talking.

After a while, Brienne's voice cuts through the noise, calling everyone into the main foyer. The room is spacious enough to accommodate all of us comfortably, with a grand staircase leading up to the next level. She stands on the fourth step so everyone can see her.

"I just want to take a moment to express how proud I am of this team," Brienne begins after we're all gathered, her voice carrying throughout the room. "You have all been playing exceptionally well, and I couldn't ask for more. As you know, I've been traveling, but rest assured, I've been watching the games while on the road. I will admit, though, it's wonderful being back home and I'll be in the owner's box tomorrow to cheer you on."

Everyone applauds, invigorated by the owner's love of her team.

"I also want to thank Drake for supporting me these past few weeks while I've been away." She glances at her fiancé, who stands among the players with a look of admiration in his eyes. "Not only am I the owner of the Titans and the CEO of Norcross Holdings, but I've been working on a new sporting venture that I'm extremely excited to announce tonight. I know this may come as a shock, but I've acquired a Formula International race team that was based in London, and it will now be known as Titans Racing."

A deafening silence drapes the room because there was never any indication that Brienne wanted to expand her empire into other professional sports. Willa nudges me and I look down at her, shrugging in response to her questioning gaze. "Norcross Holdings will take over at the start of the season in March, with headquarters located both in the UK and Pittsburgh. I want you all to know that the Titans hockey team will always be my top priority and I'm in the process of hiring a team principal who will handle the entire racing operation. It's my hope that the city of Pittsburgh will add to its illustrious reputation of producing the finest in champions, whether it be football, baseball, hockey or now… FI racing. I hope you will all support me in this new endeavor, but know that my heart is always and forever with Titans hockey."

The room erupts in cheers and applause, and Brienne's eyes shine with emotion as she takes us all in. I don't know much about FI racing, but I figure that's going to change, if only to support Brienne.

Drake climbs the steps to hug his fiancée before addressing everyone. "I'm incredibly proud of Brienne and I think you will all agree, there's nothing she cannot accomplish."

More rousing cheers and a few wolf whistles.

Brienne gazes at Drake with adoration, her warm smile lighting up the room. He leans in and gives her a kiss before turning to us. "And that's not the only surprise we have tonight." An excited buzz ripples through the crowd because Drake looks like he's about to pop with more news. "We were originally planning a summer wedding, as you all know, but with the new FI team, our schedules won't allow it. So we decided to go ahead and get married, and that's the real reason for tonight's get-together."

There's another moment of shocked silence that almost seems awkward, then the room explodes in a wave of celebration.

Brienne holds up her hands for silence and when she has all our attention again, she says, "If everyone can make their way to the grand ballroom, you'll find we are setting up for a shotgun wedding. It will start in about thirty minutes."

Drake and Brienne disappear up the stairs. Willa and I exchange grins before joining the crowd heading toward the ballroom. The night has taken an unexpected turn and I have to marvel at how Brienne and Drake are pivoting to accommodate more of their dreams.

As we enter the large room with a black-and-white tiled floor, I'm astonished to see the room is now filled with neatly arranged rows of chairs facing a magnificent lattice arch adorned with vibrant flowers. While Brienne made her very brief announcement, an army of people was setting this up behind the scenes.

Staff members scurry around, adding even more floral arrangements to enhance the already stunning display. The air is thick with the sweet fragrance of blooms and excited chatter among the guests. We mingle, talking about the new race team. Some players pull out their phones and google the British Formula team while others talk about the sport with some knowledge.

We're given a five-minute warning by a minister in a navy blue suit to take our seats and then Drake is walking down the aisle, followed by his three boys. They're all wearing matching tuxedos and the boys wave at the guests as they troop by.

When they're settled under the arch to the left of the minister, soft music fills the room, setting the perfect ambiance for the occasion. All eyes turn to see Kiera, Drake's sister and Brienne's maid of honor, as she makes her way down the aisle in a gorgeous sapphire blue gown. Obviously, she was in on this secret and I glance over at Bain to see a knowing smile on his face as he watches her with the eyes of a lovesick puppy.

Finally, Brienne makes her grand entrance in a breathtaking wedding dress, escorted by Callum Derringer. The gown is a work of art that drapes gracefully over her figure. I don't know much about wedding fashion, but it's truly stunning. Covered in tiny, sparkling beads that shine as she moves, it's both sophisticated and sexy. The top part bares her shoulders and hugs her frame but the skirt is full and layered, flowing gracefully with each step she takes. A long train trails behind her, not too over the top, but just enough to make her look like a queen. Her veil is thin and airy, held in place by a small but dripping-with-diamonds tiara, and it drapes down her back, completing the picture of wealth and elegance.

As she walks toward Drake, my attention focuses on him and I can't help but smile at the utter love and devotion I see there. While all other eyes are on Brienne, I watch Drake and the myriad of emotions swirling within his gaze. My hand reflexively squeezes Willa's and I risk a glance over at her. She watches it all with interest, a light smile on her face, and I wonder what she's thinking. Is she swept away in the romanticism of it all or is there a part that's too jaded to appreciate it?

Callum Derringer, dressed in a sharp black suit, stands tall and proud next to Brienne, guiding her with a firm yet gentle hand down the aisle. She glides forward with poise and grace, her eyes locked on Drake's handsome face. He stands at the altar, his long hair pulled back in his trademark queue and his blue eyes sparkling as they roam all over his soon-to-be wife. When Brienne reaches him and the boys, Callum hands her over with a smile before stepping back to watch.

The minister eases forward, his warm voice filling the room. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of Brienne Norcross and Drake McGinn," he begins. "Their love is a testament to the strength of connection, understanding and unwavering support. Today, they stand before us to declare their love and commitment to each other."

Drake takes Brienne's delicate hands in his own, never breaking eye contact. The minister nods, signaling for him to begin his vows.

"Brienne," Drake starts confidently but with a hint of emotion in his voice. "From the moment I met you, you were a thorn in my side." Everyone laughs because it's common knowledge that their first—and their second—meeting did not go well at all and Drake was an ass to her. I make a note to tell Willa that story. "But I know I was equally a pain in your ass, and then somehow, you became my everything. With you, my world changed forever. You are my partner, my confidante, my best friend. You have shown me what true love is and have given me the greatest gift—your heart. I promise to stand by your side through all of life's challenges and triumphs. To love you fiercely, support you endlessly and cherish every moment we share. I am so blessed to call you my wife."

Glancing around, I see many guests dabbing their eyes and even Brienne has a slick sheen in hers. She squeezes Drake's hands, gathering her composure to speak her vows.

"Drake," she begins, with a strong sense of determination. "You have brought so much joy and love into my life. You are my rock, my safe haven, my greatest adventure. With you, I have found a love that is steadfast and true. I promise to love you with all my heart, call you on your bullshit when it rears its ugly head, support you in all your dreams, and stand by your side through every challenge we face. You are my soulmate, and I am honored to be your wife. Together, we will create a life filled with love, laughter and endless possibilities."

Then Brienne releases Drake's hands and turns toward his sons. She squats in her dress and opens her arms to them. Without hesitation, they walk into her embrace. She kisses each one on the cheek through her sheer veil and leans back. "And I promise that I will love you boys with my entire heart. There is nothing I won't do for you, no villain I won't protect you from, and I'll always be the one who gives you candy behind your dad's back."

The boys giggle as the crowd laughs.

When Brienne straightens, the minister smiles warmly at the couple. "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Drake, you may kiss your bride."

Drake lifts Brienne's veil with tenderness and leans in to kiss her. Their lips meet in a sweet yet lingering embrace, symbolizing the everlasting love between them. The room erupts with jubilant shouts and clapping, everyone celebrating the newlyweds.

What follows is the party to end all parties and it's a good thing we don't have a game tomorrow. We're directed to the backyard where a massive white tent has been set up. It's heated inside, the ceiling hung with thousands of small twinkling lights that create a dreamlike aura. A band has set up on a small stage adorned with fairy lights, there's more hot food than could ever be consumed, even by a professional hockey team, and a long table showcases an extravagant wedding cake flanked by rows of sparkling crystal champagne flutes. An open bar on the opposite end is ready for business.

My hand instinctively finds Willa's as we make our way into the tent. She looks at me with shining eyes and exclaims, "That was so impulsive and beautiful! I can't believe they just announced their FI team news and then casually tied the knot."

Shaking my head, I can't help but be amused. "I don't think there's anything casual about it but still… giving up the big wedding celebration had to have been a tough decision."

"Wouldn't have been a tough decision for me," Willa says as we accept champagne flutes from a waiter.

"What do you mean?" I ask, watching as she takes a delicate sip. I find myself sidetracked by those lips.

She shrugs, looking around with interest at the massive flower arrangements, beautifully set tables and parquet dance floor. "It's just… the big wedding is sort of a wayward fallacy. It's supposed to represent that you put all this time, effort and money into making a big deal out of a union that statistics say probably won't last. So why bother?"

I cock an eyebrow. "I didn't know you were quite that jaded."

She looks at me and blinks in surprise. "I don't think I'm jaded."

Chuckling, I shake my head at her. "Says the woman who only wants a casual relationship because she got burned by an asshole husband."

I expect her to deny that but instead, she pins me with a solemn look. "One could hardly blame me."

Her words sting a little because while she's opened herself up to me far more than I thought her capable, it's a reminder that she's not seeking a long-term commitment. Willa is a day-to-day type of woman right now.

That's a problem because I'm already looking down the road. How can we be successful when our individual attentions are focused on two different things?