Luke

Luke

Two years after winning the cup, I retired. So did the rest of the guys. And now, this is our routine.

Jackson and Zach stand at attention, playing assistant coach—even though Noah does just fine. And why wouldn’t he? He’s a starter on the Sleet now. He doesn’t need help.

Ash and I just enjoy sitting here, watching the chaos, then going home to our child-free, wife-centered lives.

“Ash.” Meghan turns to face us from her spot with Natalie a few rows ahead. “Can you go get the extra marshmallows from the car?”

Ash groans, but we all know he’s going to do it.

He’d do anything for her. Just like how he’s facilitated the girls’ illegal hot chocolate distribution.

Sitting between Meghan and Natalie is a two-gallon thermos with a spout. Accompanied by paper cups, sprinkles, and a dwindling bag of marshmallows.

I get up with Ash and move down to sit next to my wife.

My shoulder bumps hers. “What’s the flavor this week?”

Natalie smiles at me. “Snickerdoodle.”

I hold out my hand. “Load me up.”

As she pours my cup, I take a deep breath, enjoying the scent of chocolate and cinnamon mixed with the nostalgic scent of a hockey rink.

There’s something about it.

The ice.

The chilled air.

It’s always going to feel like home.

No matter where life takes us.

No matter what we accomplish.

No matter where we go.

This will always feel like home.

Taking the cup from Natalie, I move it to my far hand so I can pull her into my side.

I turn my head, pressing my lips to her hair. “I’m so fucking proud of you.”

My wife tips her gaze up to meet mine. “Because of the flavor?”

Her green eyes are full of soft humor.

But she knows.

She knows that the world is better with her in it.

I hold her tighter. “Because of everything.”