ã€ŠThe $18 billion wife he abandonedã€‹ 18 year 1 Sidelined Sidelined Emma Carter¡¯s butt had gone numb from sitting in the same cushioned seat for three hours. Not even the luxury boxes at Boston Arena had chairsfortable enough for the marathon that was yoff hockey. The crowd roared as the final buzzer sounded¨CBoston des 3, Montreal 2. She stood and stretched, watching as her husband Jack scored the winning goal in overtime. The fans stomped and chanted his name, their hero on ice. Emma smiled, genuinely happy for him despite everything else. ¡°Mrs. Reynolds? Would you like me to call your car?¡± the suite attendant asked, already gathering her empty water bottles. ¡°Not yet, thanks. I¡¯m heading down to congratte the team.¡± Emma grabbed her purse, a simple leather tote that shed hriously with the designer outfits of the other hockey wives. The attendant¡¯s smile tightened. ¡°Oh, I believe there¡¯s a private team celebration tonight. yers only¡± Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text from Jack: ¡°Don¡¯t wait up. Team party at Murphy¡¯s. She read between the lines. Don¡¯t show up. Don¡¯t embarrass me. Again, ¡°Right. Of course.¡± Emma forced a smile. ¡°I¡¯ll take that car now.¡± in Three hours and two unanswered callster, Emma sat cross¨Clegged on their king¨Csized bed,ptop open to a spreadsheet that tracked the household budget. Jack made millions, but old habits die hard. Her grandfather had taught her to watch every penny, even when you had billions of them. The front door mmed downstairs. Emma closed herptop and took a deep breath. ¡°Em? You still up?¡± Jack¡¯s voice echoed through their too¨Cbig house, slightly slurred. ¡°In the bedroom,¡± she called back, slipping on her sses like armor. Jack appeared in the doorway, still in his game¨Cday suit, tie hanging loose around his neck. At thirty¨Ctwo, he was in his hockey prime¨Csix¨Cfoot¨Ctwo, shoulders like a coat hanger, jawline that could cut ss. He¡¯d been gorgeous when they met in college. Now he was *sculpted*. ¡°Helluva game, huh?¡± He grinned, running a hand through his dark hair. ¡°Did you see thatst goal?¡± ¡°It was amazing. Emma smiled genuinely. ¡°That spin move was insane.¡± Get full chapters from Find¡ïNovel ¡°Coach said it¡¯s going on the season highlight reel,¡± Jack loosened his tie further but didn¡¯t move to take it off. He just stood there, swaying slightly. Emma¡¯s stomach knotted. Something was wrong. ¡°You okay?¡± she asked. ¡°Yeah. No. I mean¨CJack reached into his inside jacket pocket and pulled out an envelope. ¡°I need to talk to you about something.¡± ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Emma nodded toward the envelope, though she already knew. The same dread she¡¯d been feeling for months crystallized into something solid and cold. ¡ª ?? m2 R < Jack to the top the herds were theforter and bumped against her knee ¡°Dovera papers,¡± he said, his voice oddly five. My terepre draw them upst week? En dat the ag ter name was typed on the front in cold, official letters She should cry the thought distantly the should be shocked instead, the felt like shed teen watching this train approach for ¡°Were you going to discuss this with me first, or just throw legal documents at my face? The words came out Eater than she fest Jack had the decency to look ufortable for about half a second ¡°Look, we both know this isn¡¯t working¡± He gestured between them ¡°You¡¯re you, and fm.¡± ¡°You¡¯re what, Jack?¡± ¡°Tm Jack Reynolds now He squared his shoulders. Tve got endorsement deals. Magazine covers. I need someone who understands this lifestyle? Emmaughed, she couldn¡¯t help it. This lifestyle? You mean the one where I¡¯ve supported you through three team changes and two injuries? Where I¡¯ve moved cities four times in six years? That lifestyle?¡± ¡°See, this is what I mean: Jack pointed at her usingly. ¡°You¡¯re always keeping score.¡± ¡°I¡¯m a numbers person. Sue me Emma picked up the envelope but didn¡¯t open it. ¡°The thing is,¡± Jack continued, pacing now, I¡¯ve met someone who gets it. She understands the demands, the spotlight.¡± Emma¡¯sugh turned hollow ¡°Wow So there¡¯s already a recement. Who is she? Let me guess¨Cone of those j******** models who¡¯s beenmenting on your photos? Jack¡¯s silence was answer enough. ¡°How long?¡± Emma asked. ¡°Does it matter?¡± ¡°It matters to me Jack sighed dramatically. ¡°A few months. It just happened.¡± Emma stood, suddenly unable to have this conversation in the bed they¡¯d shared for eight years. Things don¡¯t just happen, Jack. You make choices.¡± ¡°Fine. I chose someone who makes more sense for me now.¡± He threw his hands up. Tm not the same guy who married you in college. I need¡¡± ¡°More?¡± Emma supplied ¡°Different.¡± Jack softened his tone, as if that made it better. ¡°You¡¯re smart, Em. Too sma for this world, honestly. But you don¡¯t fit anymore. You hide at games. You wear Target when everyone else wears Prada ¡°I like Target,¡± Emma said, knowing how ridiculous this argument was bing. ¡°The settlement¡¯s fair,¡± Jack continued, nodding at the envelope. ¡°The house, a million cash, alimony for two years while you find yourself or whatever.¡± ?? ||| Sidelined. Emma clutched the envelope tighter, crumpling it slightly. She thought about all the things Jack didn¡¯t know- about her family, her grandfather, the trust fund she¡¯d never touched, the shares she owned inpanies whose names would make his head spin. Her phone rang, cutting through the tense silence. Her grandfather¡¯s photo lit up the screen. Jack rolled his eyes. Emma snatched the phone. I should take this.¡± ¡°Of course you should.¡± Jack grabbed a duffel bag from the closet¨Calready packed, she noticed. ¡°I¡¯ll be at the Ritz until I find a ce. Mywyer¡¯s number is in there. Don¡¯t make this messy, Em.¡± As Jack headed for the door, Emma called after him: ¡°Jack?¡± He turned, hand on the doorframe. ¡°Your career high record is twenty¨Ceight goals in a season. My grandfather made twenty¨Ceight million dors st week¡°.¡± She smiled sweetly. ¡°Just keeping score.¡± ¨C Jack¡¯s face contorted in confusion as she answered the phone. ¡°Hi, Grandpa,¡± Emma said, watching her soon¨Cto¨Cbe-ex¨Chusband walk out. ¡°Yes, I saw the game. Listen, I think I¡¯m ready to take you up on that job offer after all.¡± The job Jack thought was just some entry¨Clevel position at Mitchell Industries¨Cowned by her grandfather, Franklin Mitchell, billionaire and majority owner of the Boston des hockey franchise. As the front door mmed shut, Emma finally opened the envelope. Beneath the legal jargon was one simple truth: Jack Reynolds had just made the biggest mistake of his career. Hi guys. I do hope y¡¯all enjoy this story just like the others, thank you for your continuous support. Remember I love reading yourments A Triple G # 18 year 2 Hidden ys Emma stepped out of the taxi in front of Mitchell Tower, a gleaming seventy story monument to her grandfather¡¯s business sess. Sunsses firmly in ce, she¡¯d swapped yesterday¡¯s jeans for a simple navy dress. Her divorce papers¨Cto¨Cthe¨Cface makeover. The security guard nodded as she entered. ¡°Morning, Ms. Carter¡± She smiled at the use of her mother¡¯s maiden name¨Cthe one she¡¯d been using professionally for the past year. As far as anyone knew, Emma Carter was just another employee at Mitchell Industries, not Emma Mitchell Reynolds, granddaughter of Franklin Mitchell and soon¨Cto¨Cbe¨Cex¨Cwife of hockey star Jack Reynolds. The executive elevator whisked her to the top floor. No scan, no keycard needed¨Cit recognized her face. Money couldn¡¯t buy happiness, but it could buy really cool tech. Franklin Mitchell¡¯s assistant¨Ca perpetually frazzled man named Walter who¡¯d been with him for thirty years- jumped up when she arrived. ¡°He¡¯s waiting for you, Ms. Carter. Can I get you coffee?¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine, Walter. Thanks.¡± Emma paused outside her grandfather¡¯s office, collecting herself. Don¡¯t cry. Don¡¯t break. Taking a deep breath, she pushed open the heavy oak door. Franklin Mitchell sat behind a desk the size of a small boat. At seventy¨Ceight, he still came to the office daily. even though doctors had been telling him to slow down for a decade. His white hair was immactelybed, his bow tie perfectly centered. The only concession to age was the oxygen cann in his nose, connected to a discreet tank beside his chair. ¡°There¡¯s my girl.¡± He beamed, pushing himself up with surprising strength. Emma crossed the room and hugged him, careful not to squeeze too hard. He smelled like peppermint and old books. ¡°Sit, sit.¡± He gestured to the chair opposite his desk. ¡°You look like hell, Emmy¡± Emmaughed despite herself. ¡°Good morning to you too, Grandpa.¡± ¡°I¡¯m old. I get to skip pleasantries. He studied her over his sses. ¡°So he finally did it?¡± ¡°Last night.¡± Emma sank into the chair. ¡°How did you know?¡± ¡°Because I know everything.¡± Franklin tapped his temple. ¡°And because his agent called our PR department asking how to handle press for a friendly divorce.¡± Emma¡¯s eyebrows shot up. ¡°Already? The papers aren¡¯t even signed¡± *Jack moves fast. On and off the ice.¡± Franklin¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Ungrateful little pissant ¡°Grandpa!¡± ¡°What? I¡¯m not wrong.¡± He shuffled papers on his desk. ¡°I¡¯ve never liked him.¡± ¡°You came to our wedding.¡± ¡°I gave a speech!¡± m R 14 ¡°You told him if he hurt me, you¡¯d make sure his body was never found¡± Franklin shrugged. ¡°I stand by that.¡± Emma rubbed her temples. ¡°Please tell me you¡¯re not actually nning a murder ¡°Of course not.¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°Too messy. Tax audit is much more effective¡± ¡°Grandpa.¡± ¡°Fine, fine.¡± He smiled, but it didn¡¯t reach his eyes. ¡°I called you here for something else, anyway¡± He opened a drawer and pulled out a man folder, sliding it across the desk. Emma took it, noting the Mitchell Industries logo embossed on the front. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± ¡°Your future.¡± Emma opened the folder to find organizational charts with sticky notes marked ¡°sign here.¡± financial statements, and a stack of legal documents Follow current nov?ls on F?ndNovel ¡°You¡¯ve been working in management for a year now,¡± Franklin continued. ¡°Learning the business from the inside. It¡¯s time to stop hiding, Emmy.¡± Emma flipped through the papers. ¡°You want me to take over thepany? Now?¡± ¡°Not all at once. But yes, eventually.¡± Franklin¡¯s expression softened. ¡°I¡¯m not getting any younger, kiddo¡± ¡°You¡¯re fine,¡± Emma said automatically. ¡°I spentst Tuesday in the hospital.¡± He tapped the oxygen tank. ¡°Didn¡¯t tell you because you were dealing with enough.¡± Emma¡¯s throat tightened. ¡®Grandpa¡¡± s time to start the transition. proven yourself¨Cquietly building that downtown revitalization project, restructuring the pension n.¡± ¡°No one knows that was me,¡± Emma said. ¡°I¡¯m not dying tomorrow. But I¡¯m not immortal either.¡± He leaned forward. ¡°It¡¯s You¡¯ve ¡°Exactly. You¡¯ve been doing the work without the credit Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled. ¡°Just like I did when I started. But now it¡¯s time for Emma Mitchell to step out of the shadows.¡± Emma ran her fingers over the papers. ¡°What about the hockey team?¡± Franklin grinned. ¡°Thought you might ask about that.¡± He pressed the inte, ¡°Walter, send him in.¡± The door opened, and Emma turned to see who ¡°him¡± was. Her first thought: Tall Her second thought: Really tall. Her t third thought: Sweet baby Jesus on a hockey stick. The man who entered looked like he¡¯d been carved from granite by an artist with a thing for sharp angles. Six¨Cfoot¨Cfour at least, with shoulders that filled his charcoal suit jacket to capacity. Dark blonde hair, cut short on the sides but with just enough length on top to hint at waves. Cheekbones that could slice bread. A straight nose that had clearly never been broken, surprising for someone who looked like he could R 0 < 214 bench press a car ¡°Emma meet Aleksander Volkov CEO of the Boston des and the only other person who knows about your unique employment situation¡± The man extended arge hand ¡°Ms. Mitchell A pleasure to finally meet you properly¡± His voice was deep with just a hint of an ent she couldn¡¯t ce East European, maybe? Emma stood, suddenly very aware of her height (average), her hair (unwashed), and her handshake (mmy) ¡°Mr Volkov I didn¡¯t realize we were having a meeting¡± ¡°Alek, please¡± His hand enveloped hers, warm and dry. ¡°And this isn¡¯t a meeting. Your grandfather is matchmaking¡± ¡°Business matchmaking Franklin rified, poorly hiding a smile Though I wouldn¡¯t object to grandchildren before I die.¡± ¡°Grandpa!¡± Emma¡¯s cheeks med. ¡°What? He¡¯s single, you¡¯re almost single.¡± Aleksander¨CAlek¨Clooked mortified but recovered quickly. ¡°I believe what Mr. Mitchell means is that we¡¯ll be working closely together as you transition into your role as co¨Cowner of the des.¡± Emma¡¯s jaw dropped. ¡°Co¨Cowner?¡± ¡°I¡¯m signing over forty percent of my stake to you, Franklin exined. ¡®Alek has twenty percent. The remaining forty stays with me until I kick the bucket, then goes to you.¡± ¡°That would make me majority owner. Emma sank back into her chair. ¡°The first female majority owner in league history,¡± Alek added. ¡°If you ept.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a lot to process,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°Which is why you¡¯ll have time.¡± Franklin softened his tone. ¡°Keep working as you have been. Learn from Alek. When you¡¯re ready¨Cand when that jackass husband of yours is legally out of the picture¨Cwe¡¯ll make the announcement.¡± I Emma looked up at Alek. ¡°You¡¯ve known who I was this whole time? Even when I was getting coffee for the marketing department?¡± The corner of his mouth quirked up. ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°And you never said anything.¡± ¡°It wasn¡¯t my ce.¡± His blue eyes met hers directly. ¡°But I was impressed by how quickly you learned the business. Your ideas in the budget meetingst month about restructuring yer bonuses were brilliant¡± ¡°You were in that meeting?¡± Emma tried to recall who else had been there. ¡°Back corner. You wouldn¡¯t have noticed me.¡± Franklin snorted. ¡°He¡¯s six¨Cfive and built like a refrigerator. Everyone notices him.¡± ¡°Six¨Cfour,¡± Alek corrected mildly ¡°Whatever. Point is,¡± Franklin tapped the papers, ¡°it¡¯s time for a new generation to take the helm. Starting with III O < the team. Emma looked between them. ¡°Does Jack know any of this?¡± Alek shook his head. ¡°No one on the team knows. They think you¡¯re¡¡± ¡°The in girlfriend who doesn¡¯t fit in?¡± Emma supplied. ¡°I was going to say ¡®private,¡± Alek said diplomatically. ¡°Well, Jack made it very clearst night that I don¡¯t belong in his world.¡± Emma squared her shoulders. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s time I showed him whose world he¡¯s actually been ying in.¡± Franklin grinned. ¡°That¡¯s my girl.¡± ¡°I need to think about all this,¡± Emma said, standing. ¡°But¡ I¡¯m interested.¡± ¡°Good.¡± Franklin nodded. ¡°Alek will brief you on the team¡¯s financial situation. It¡¯s a little moreplicated than the public knows.¡± Emma turned to Alek, who was watching her with an unreadable expression. ¡°When would you like to start?¡± ¡°How about dinner?¡± he asked, then quickly added, ¡°To discuss business, of course.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Emma echoed, ignoring her grandfather¡¯s knowing smile. ¡°I know a quiet ce where no one will recognize you¨Cor ask for Jack¡¯s autograph.¡± ¡°That,¡± Emma said, surprising herself with a genuine smile, ¡°sounds perfect.¡± As she left the office with a promise to call her grandfatherter, Emma realized she hadn¡¯t thought about Jack or the divorce papers for the past hour. Instead, she found herself wondering what Aleksander Volkov would be like away from the office, and whether his eyes were actually that blue or if it was just the lighting, she was getting intrigued by him. Stepping into the elevator, she caught her reflection in the mirrored wall. For the first time in months, she looked¡ excited. Maybe Jack throwing those papers in her face was the best thing that could have happened. The doors closed, Emma smiled Game on. 18 year 3 power y Emma stared at the signature line on the divorce papers, pen hovering above the page Herwyer¨Ca shark in Louboutins named Diane¨Ceat across from her in Mitchell Industries fifty eighth floor conference room ¡°You¡¯re getting a good deal. Diane said. ¡°The house, the investments yode together, plus alimony Wel could push for more, but ¡°But then I¡¯d have to reveal my actual worth Emma finished her thought ¡°Precisely Diane tapped her red fingernail on the table ¡°Sign not surprise himter Much more satisfying Emma¡¯s pen scratched across the paper Eight years of marriage reduced to a signature and ¡°Congrattions, Diane said dryly. ¡°You¡¯re almost a free woman ¡± Emma closed the folder. ¡°Now what?¡± ¡°Now you wait for the judge Shouldn¡¯t take long with the settlement uncontested Diane stood, smoothing her skirt ¡°Meanwhile, live your life. Preferably somewhere that doesn¡¯t remind you of Jack Peynolds¡± Three dayster, Emma unlocked the door to her new apartment in the Back Bay, wheeling in as suitcase The divorce wasn¡¯t final, but she couldn¡¯t stay in that house another minute. The apartment¨Cbought through one of her grandfather¡¯s shellpanies years ago as an investment¨Cwas three thousand square feet of pristine luxury with floor¨Cto¨Cceiling windows overlooking the Charles River Emma had always considered it an unnecessary extravagance. Now, she was grateful for the sanctuary. Her phone buzzed as she stood admiring the view. A text from Alek: ¡°Business meeting tomorrow, 10 AM. Wearfortable shoes. Taking you somewhere interesting. Emma stared at the message. Comfortable shoes? Where on earth was the CEO of a professional hockey team taking her? Before she could respond, another text arrived from her friend Mia, with an image attachment. Thought you should see this before someone else shows you * Emma opened it to find a gossip website¡¯s front page. The headline screamed: ¡°BOSTON BLADE FINDS SHARP NEW EDGE: Jack Reynolds Spotted with Supermodel at Nobu.¡± There was Jack, hand in hand with a woman so stunning it hurt Emma¡¯s eyes. The caption identified her as Veronica Wells, Victoria¡¯s Secret model and the new face of some designer Emma couldn¡¯t pronounce. *You ok?¡± Mia texted again Emma surprised herself by typing: ¡°Actually, yes. Thanks for the heads¨Cup.* It was true. The knife twist she¡¯d expected didn¡¯te. Instead, she felt something between relief and pity. Jack looked like a boy who¡¯d found his mother¡¯s credit card¨Cexcited but way out of his depth She texted Alek back: *Comfortable shoes it is. Should I be worried?¡± His response came quickly: ¡°Only if you¡¯re afraid of heights.¡± A O OA III O < The following morning. Emma met Alek in the lobby of Mitchell Tower, wearing jeans, a sweater, and her mostfortable boots. He was waiting by the security desk, dressed simrly casual in dark jeans and a navy quarter zip that did unfair things for his shoulders ¡°Good morning¡® he said, handing her a coffee Peady for an adventum ¡°That depends. Does this adventure involve parachutes? Because I should gram you, I¡¯m riot great with falling¡± His mouth quirked in that almost smile ¡°No parachutes. But we will need these He handed her a hard hat with ¡°VISITOR¡± printed on the front. Twenty minutester, they stood on metal scaffolding fifty feet above the ice at Boston Arena Below them, maintenance crews prepared the rink for that night¡¯s game, their voices echoing in the empty stadium ¡°Wee to the catwalks, Alek said, his voice low. ¡®Best view in the house¡± Emma gripped the railing, both terrified and exhrated. ¡°This is not what I expected for a business meeting¡± ¡°I thought you should see the whole operation. Most owners nevere up here¡± Alek gestured toward the massive scoreboard hanging from cables nearby. ¡°That¡¯s being reced next season. Eight million dors for higher resolution screens.¡± ¡°Eight million for a TV?¡± Emma whistled. ¡°My grandfather would have a heart attack.¡± ¡°It was his idea. Emmaughed. ¡°Of course it was Grandpa loves gadgets.¡± They made their way along the catwalk, Alek pointing out various systems¨Clighting, sound, the broadcast booths. Emma absorbed everything, asking questions that clearly surprised him with their specificity ¡°You really did your homework,¡± he said as they descended a metal staircase. ¡°I¡¯ve been studying the business for months. Just never saw it from this angle¡± She paused on the stairs. *Jack never brought me to the behind¨Cthe-scenes stuff.¡± Alek¡¯s expression darkened slightly ¡°Jack thinks hockey is what happens on the ice. He doesn¡¯t see the full picture.¡± ¡°Speaking of Jack¡¡± Emma hesitated. ¡°Have you seen the photos?¡± ¡°With the model?¡± Alek nodded. ¡°PR sent them to me. We monitor yers¡® public appearances.¡± ¡°And?¡± Alek shrugged. ¡°And nothing. His personal life is his business.¡± ¡°Until it affects the team,¡± Emma said. ¡°Exactly.¡± He gave her an appraising look. ¡°You¡¯re handling it it well ¡°Yes, well, turns out being dumped by text is great practice for seeing your husband with a supermodel.¡± Alek stopped walking. ¡°He broke up with you by text?¡± Emma waved dismissively. ¡°Before the divorce papers. Said he needed space. Then came home a weekter with legal documents.¡± 2 O Alek muttered something in what sounded like Ruselen I don¡¯t speak thenguage, but Em quessing that wasnt apliment It wasn¡¯t Alek confirmed ¡°Come on One more stop¡± He led her to a private elevator requiring a keycard. They descended to the basement level where he unlocked a doorbeled HOCKEY OPERATIONS¡± Inside was a wood paneled room with a massive table surrounded by leather chairs The were ver with whiteboards filled with yer names, statistics, and arrows connecting them ¡°War room,¡± Alek exined. ¡°Where we make trades, n drafts, decide the future of the franchise. He pulled out a chair. ¡°Have a seat.¡± Emma sat, running her hands over the polished wood ¡°How many women have been in this room ¡°Exactly three, including you.¡± Alek took the seat next to her. ¡°Our head of analytics, our legal coun Official source is find(?)ovel now you¡± ¡°Soon to be the boss.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Emma swiveled her chair to face him. ¡°Why are you showing me all this, Alek? The real reason¡± He met her gaze steadily. ¡°Because I want you to understand what you¡¯re getting into. Hockey is tradition and superstition and masculinity. Some people won¡¯t ept you, no matter yourst name¡± ¡°Are you one of those people?¡± ¡°Would I be here if I was?¡± His eyes¨Cdefinitely blue, no lighting tricks¨Cheld hers. ¡°I believe in putting the best person in charge, regardless of gender. Your ideas about modernizing the franchise operations are exactly what we need.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve read my proposals?¡± Emma was genuinely surprised. She¡¯d submitted those anonymously through the employee suggestion program. ¡°Every one. The statistical analysis of concession pricing versus attendance was brilliant.¡± ¡°That was just a hobby project, Emma mumbled, suddenly self¨Cconscious. ¡°That ¡°hobby project could increase revenue by seven figures if implemented.¡± Alek slid a folder across the table. ¡°Which is why I¡¯d like you to lead the implementation team.¡± Emma opened the folder to find her own research, formatted into an official presentation with her name- Emma Carter¨Con the cover, ¡°I can¡¯t take credit for this,¡± she said. ¡°Not until¡¡± ¡°Until the divorce is final. I understand.¡± Alek nodded. ¡°But you can still do the work. Quietly, for now¡± Their fingers brushed as she closed the folder, and Emma felt a jolt that had nothing to do with static electricity. Alek must have felt it too, because he pulled his hand back quickly. ¡°There¡¯s, um, one more thing.¡± He cleared his throat. ¡°We should discuss the financial situation in detail. The team isn¡¯t as profitable as the public thinks.¡± ¡°Grandpa mentioned that.¡± ||| 0 ¡°It¡¯splicated. Multiple revenue streams, debt structure from the arena renovation. Alek checked his watch Too much for today. Perhaps we could continue over dinner?¡± Emma raised an eyebrow. ¡°Business dinner?¡± ¡°Of course¡± His face remained professional, but something in his eyes gave him away ¡°Unless you¡¯d prefer to discuss debt¨Cto¨Cequity ratios in the conference room.¡± ¡°Debt¨Cto¨Cequity ratios are definitely dinner conversation,¡± Emma said, smiling. ¡°When and where?¡± ¡°Tomorrow? My ce?¡± He must have seen her surprise, because he quickly added, ¡°I cook. And no one will see us there. No risk of running into¡ anyone.¡± By anyone, they both knew he meant Jack. Or reporters. Or Jack with reporters. ¡°Your ce,¡± Emma agreed, surprising herself. Text me the address.¡± As they left the war room, Emma felt a thrill that had nothing to do with hockey operations and everything to do with the way Aleksander Volkov¡¯s hand had identally brushed against her lower back as he held the door. Just business, she reminded herself. But the butterflies in her stomach apparently hadn¡¯t read the memo 18 year 4 checking the boards Emma stood in front of her closet, surrounded by discarded outfits. The floor looked like a department store during an earthquake.. ¡°It¡¯s just dinner,¡± she told her reflection. ¡°A business dinner.¡± A business dinner at Alek¡¯s ce. Where he would cook. And they would be alone. Her phone rang¨CMia calling. ¡°Please tell me you¡¯re not wearing that ck pencil skirt you think is professional but actually makes your look like a sexy librarian, Mia said without preamble. Emma looked down at the ck pencil skirt she¡¯d just put on. ¡°How did you- ¡°Because I know you. And this isn¡¯t a quarterly review, Em. It¡¯s dinner at Hot Russian¡¯s apartment.¡± ¡°His name is Alek, and it¡¯s a business dinner.¡± Emma kicked off the skirt. ¡°And how do you know he¡¯s Russian?¡± ¡°I googled him the second you mentioned his name. Harvard Business School, former defenseman for Moscow Dynamo, came to the NHL at twenty¨Ctwo, career¨Cending knee injury at twenty¨Csix, MBA while rehabbing, absolute smoke show¡± ¡°You¡¯re terrifying.¡± ¡°I¡¯m thorough. Now put on those jeans that make your butt look amazing, and that blue sweater that matches your eyes.¡± Emma nced at the exact outfit Mia had described, which she¡¯d already tried and discarded. ¡°It¡¯s too casual ¡°It¡¯s dinner at his home, not a board meeting. Trust me.¡± Twenty minutester, Emma stood outside a converted warehouse in Charlestown, buzzing apartment 78 Despite Mia¡¯s confidence, she¡¯d added a zer over the sweater as a security nket. Alek opened the door in dark jeans and a gray henley with the sleeves pushed up, revealing forearms that should have their own i******** ount. He was barefoot, which was somehow more intimate than if he¡¯d answered in boxers. ¡°You made it,¡± he said, stepping aside to let her in. ¡°I was worried you might change your mind.¡± ¡°And miss a chance to discuss debt¨Cto¨Cequity ratios? Never.¡± Emma handed him the bottle of wine she¡¯d brought. ¡°I hope red is okay.¡± ¡°Perfect.¡± He led her into a spacious loft with exposed brick walls and massive windows. The furniture was minimal but expensive¨Clooking¨Clots of leather and wood and not a hockey trophy in sight The kitchen area was open to the living room, where a table was already set with candles and cloth nap The whole apartment smelled amazing ¡°Something smells incredible, Emma said, Supp Add to Library ¡°Beef stroganoff. Family recipe.¡± Alek moved to the kitchen, where several pots bubbled on a AOA AQA m R ||| checking the boards professional¨Cgrade stove. ¡°Wine?¡± ¡°Please.¡± As he poured, Emma wandered to the windows, which overlooked the harbor. This view is spectacr¡± ¡°One of the perks of a career¨Cending injury¨Cthe insurance payout bought this ce¡± He handed her a ss ¡°Much better investment than the sports car most guys buy.¡± ¡°Mia¨Cmy friend¨Cmentioned you yed for Moscow.¡± Alek raised an eyebrow. ¡°You researched me?¡± ¡°She did. I was too busy trying to figure out what to wear to a business dinner that isn¡¯t in a restaurant.¡± Heughed, a deep sound that did funny things to Emma¡¯s insides. ¡°Fair enough. Yes, I yed professionally in Russia, then three seasons in the NHL before¡¡± He tapped his left knee. ¡°Collision with the boards. Multiple ligament tears.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be. Best thing that ever happened to me.¡± He stirred something that smelled like heaven. I wasn¡¯t a great yer, just a big one. But I understand the game, the business. I¡¯m better in a suit than I ever was in pads.¡± Emma sipped her wine. ¡°You never wanted to coach?¡± ¡®Too much travel, too little control.¡± He nced at her. ¡°You¡¯re in management. You understand¡± ¡°I do.¡± Emma leaned against the counter. ¡°My grandfather tried to get me to take over years ago, but I wanted to build something myself first. Prove I could¡± ¡°Hence the anonymous proposals.¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± She watched him cook with surprising dexterity. ¡°Need any help?¡± ¡°Justpany.¡± He nodded toward a stool. ¡°Sit. Tell me about your background. The parts not in your employee file¡± Over the next hour, as they moved from cooking to eating. Emma found herself telling Alek things she rarely shared¨Cabout growing up with wealth but wanting to earn her own way, about meeting Jack in college when he was just a promising yer with no endorsements, about her double major in business and statistics. ¡°So you¡¯re a hockey nerd,¡± Alek teased as he refilled their sses. ¡°Data nerd,¡± Emma corrected. ¡°Hockey was Jack¡¯s thing. I just applied my skills to what was avable¡± ¡°And now?¡± ¡°Now I¡¯m starting to appreciate the game separate from him¡± She twirled pasta on her fork. ¡°This is amazing. by the way.¡± ¡°My grandmother would be pleased. She imed no woman could resist her stroganoff recipe.¡± ¡°Smart woman.¡± ¡°She was¡± Alek¡¯s expression softened. ¡°She raised me after my parents died. Tough as nails but kind when it mattered.¡± C ??

63 the sounds like my grandfather¡± Is that why you never took his name publicly? To prove yourself?¡± Emma nodded. ¡°And because Jack wanted a normal wife, not an heiress. He thought rich people were¡¡± ¡°Soft?¡± ¡°Exactly. He needs to be the provider, the star¡± ¡°How¡¯s that working out for him?¡± Alek asked dryly Emmaughed. ¡°Not great, ording to ESPN. Did you seest night¡¯s game?¡± ¡°Unfortunately. Three turnovers and a stupid penalty¡± Alek shook his head. ¡°Coach benched him for the third period¡± ¡°Really? That¡¯s not in the stats.¡± ¡°Official reason was ¡®equipment issue¡® Unofficial reason was he showed up hungover.¡± Alek¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°His agent called today. Jack¡¯s worried about his ying time.¡± ¡°Should he be?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Alek didn¡¯t sugarcoat it. ¡°His performance is affecting the team. Coach is losing patience.¡± ¡°And you¡¯re telling me this because¡ ¡°Because you¡¯re an owner now, even if it¡¯s not public. You should know what¡¯s happening.¡± He met her eyes. ¡°And because I won¡¯t lie to you, even about difficult things.¡± Something shifted in the air between them. This wasn¡¯t just business anymore. After dinner, they moved to the couch with their wine. The conversation drifted from hockey to books to travel, punctuated byughter and lingering nces. Emma couldn¡¯t remember thest time she¡¯d connected with someone so easily. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte,¡± she said finally, noticing it was past midnight. ¡°I should go.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll call you a car,¡± Alek said, though he made no move to get his phone. ¡°Thanks for dinner. And the wine. And the hockey gossip.¡± Emma smiled. ¡°Best business meeting I¡¯ve ever had.¡± ¡°We didn¡¯t actually discuss business,¡± Alek pointed out. ¡°Didn¡¯t we?¡± Emma stood, gathering her zer. ¡°I learned more about how the team really works tonight than in a dozen spreadsheets.¡± At the door, Alek helped her with her coat, his hands lingering on her shoulders. ¡°We should do this again.¡± *Another business dinner?¡± Emma turned to face him, suddenly very aware of how close they were standing ¡°If that¡¯s what we¡¯re calling it.¡± His voice was low, his ent more pronounced. Latest content published on find~novel Emma looked up at him¨Cway up, even in her heeled boots. ¡°What would you call it?¡± ¡°Getting to know my new boss.¡± His eyes dropped to her lips. ¡°Or getting to know the woman I can¡¯t stop thinking about. Either way.¡± The air between them crackled with tension. Emma swayed forward slightly, her body making a decision her < brain was still debating Alek¡¯s phone rang, shattering the moment. The ringtone was distinctive¨Cthe emergency line from the teams operations center He closed his eyes briefly, clearly frustrated. ¡°I need to take this¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Emma stepped back, both relieved and disappointed ¡®Til seeyself out¡± ¡°Emma¡± He caught her hand as she reached for the door. This conversation isn¡¯t over¡± She squeezed his fingers lightly before letting go. I know. Goodnight, Alek¡± As she rode down in the elevator, Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text from Alek ¡°Your car is waiting outside And for the record, that wasn¡¯t how I nned to end the evening * Emma smiled and typed back: ¡°There¡¯s always next time. Business meetings often require follow¨Cup.* His response came immediately. *Ill clear my calendar.* Watch Ads (0/ 18 year 5 face off Emma tugged at the cor of her blouse for the fifteenth time in five minutes. The Boston des boardro was freezing, probably because the ten men around the table all wore suits thick enough to stop bullets ¡°And now, item seven yer performance concerns, droned Board Chairman Wilson, a seventy¨Csomething former banker who treated hockey like a particrly confusing investment strategy Emma sat in a chair against the wall, her notepad bnced on her knee. As far as anyone knew, she was Emma Carter, Franklin Mitchell¡¯s assistant, taking notes because he wasn¡¯t feeling well today Only Alek knew the truth. He caught her eye from across the table and gave a barely perceptible nod. Showtime Team Coach Donovan cleared his throat. ¡°I need to address Jack Reynolds¡® performance. It¡¯s bing a problem.¡± Emma¡¯s pen stilled on the page. ¡°Reynolds is our star,¡± said Marketing Director Peterson. ¡°Threemercials running right now. Face of the franchise.¡± ¡°His face is all over billboards,¡± agreed Wilson. ¡°Very photogenic young man.¡± ¡°His face is fine, Coach Donovan growled. ¡°It¡¯s the rest of him that¡¯s the issue. Late to practice, missing team meetings, sloppy on the ice. Last four games, he¡¯s been a liability.¡± Emma kept her expression nk, but inside, a small, petty part of her was doing a touchdown dance. ¡°Perhaps he¡¯s injured?¡± suggested Dr. Klein, the team physician. ¡°Only injury is to his ego,¡± Coach snorted. ¡°Ever since the divorce news broke, he¡¯s been distracted. Partying with that model.¡± Emma fought to keep her face neutral. The divorce wasn¡¯t even final yet, and already it was boardroom gossip. ¡°Is this a short¨Cterm issue?¡± Alek asked, his deep voice drawing everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°Or do we need to consider other options?¡± Checktest chapters at f?ndnovel ¡°Like what?¡± demanded Peterson. ¡°Trading him? The fans would riot.¡± ¡®Fans riot when we lose, too,¡± Coach pointed out. ¡°If Reynolds keeps ying like this, we¡¯ll be doing a lot of losing.¡± Emma wrote in her notepad: *Karma¡¯s a bench¨Cwarmer.* ¡°Give ¡°Give him two more weeks,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°If there¡¯s no improvement, we discuss options. All options The meeting moved on to merchandise sales, arena repairs, and ticket pricing strategies¨Call areas wher Emma had secretly contributed research. Hearing her ideas discussed without credit was both frustrating and thrilling. Two hourster, the boardroom finally emptied. Only Alek remained, gathering papers into a leather portfolio. ¡°Well,¡± he said once they were alone, ¡°that was your first board meeting. What did you think?¡± A m R m T14 0 ¡°I think Peterson needs to unclench before he gives himself a hernia Emma replied, stretching her stiff back ¡°And I think you were surprisingly gentle about Jack ¡°Was 17¡± Alek raised an eyebrow ¡°I just put him on a two¨Cweek performance improvement n. In hockey management terms, that¡¯s like putting him on an iceberg and giving it a push¡± Emmaughed Poor Jack Such high expectations¡± ¡°Not really. Just show up sober and try¡± Alek checked his watch. ¡°Have dinner ns?¡± ¡°Just me and a frozen pizza. Min¡¯s out of town¡± *Cancel the pizza. I have something to show you.¡± Alek¡¯s office was nothing like she expected. Instead of hockey memorabilia and dark wood, it was all ss and light with abstract art on the walls. The only hint of sports was a single framed jersey¨CMoscow Dynamo, number 77, VOLKOV. ¡°Nice office,¡± Emma said, setting her bag on a chair. ¡°Very un¨Chockey.¡± ¡°I get enough hockey everywhere else.¡± He gestured toward the windows, where snow had begun to fall. ¡°Looks like it¡¯s starting.¡± *Starting what?¡± ¡°The storm. Didn¡¯t you check the forecast? Eight to twelve inches expected tonight.¡± Emma groaned. ¡°Of course. The one day I don¡¯t bring boots.¡± ¡°We have time before it gets bad.¡± Alek opened a cab and pulled out a bottle of vodka and two sses. ¡°Russian weather survival kit.¡± that wise? I need to get home eventually.¡± ¡®One drink. Then I show you what I brought you here for.¡± The vodka burned going down, but left a pleasant warmth in her chest. Alek opened hisptop and turned it toward her. ¡°These are the real financials. Not the ones the board sees.¡± Emma leaned closer, scanning the spreadsheets. ¡°These numbers don¡¯t match what was in the meeting.¡± ¡°Because the board gets the sanitized version.¡± Alek pulled up another file. ¡°The arena renovation went thirty percent over budget. Sponsorship revenue is down. And the broadcast deal is expiring next year with no guarantee of renewal.¡± ¡°The team is underwater,¡± Emma said, reading between the lines. ¡°How bad?¡± ¡°Not bankruptcy bad. But bad enough that yer sries might need restructuring.¡± ¡°Meaning trades.¡± ¡°Potentially. High¨Ccost, underperforming yers would be first to go.¡± ¡°Like Jack,¡± Emma said quietly, Alek didn¡¯t confirm or deny, which was confirmation enough. ??? Show me wrything she said, penger that one to hit thank I had to understand exactly what we¡¯re alemar his Those hourster, Emma¡¯s eyes bomad from staring at spreadsheets Empty takeout containers littered Alek¡¯s desk they¡¯d ordered Chinese when it here clear this would be a long sight. became If we restructure the vendor contracts and indeed my concession pricing strategy Emma said, pointing to her calctions, we could offset the shortfall without touching the roster Maybe¡± Alek rubbed his eyes. But it¡¯s tight Emma stood, stretching her cramped muscles. Tneed to walk My brain is fried¡± She moved to the window Outside, snow swirled in thick clouds, the parking lot already nketed in white ¡°Wow it fully came down fast¡± Alek joined her at the window. 1 don¡¯t think you¡¯re going anywhere tonight.¡± ¡°What?¡± He pointed to the street, where a snow plow was already getting stuck. Boston is shutting down. When the plows can¡¯t move, nothing moves. Emma pulled out her phone to check traffic apps. No cars were moving on any nearby streets. ¡°Great. Trapped in a hockey office during a blizzard. This was not in my five year n ¡°Could be worse. At least there¡¯s heat, food, and vodka.¡± Alek¡¯s shoulder brushed against hers as they both stared at the worsening storm. And you¡¯re not alone.¡± Something in his voice made her turn. He was looking at her with an intensity that had nothing to do with spreadsheets. ¡°Alek¡ ¡°I know. Bad timing. Complicated situation¡± He stepped back. Tm your business partner. Your soon to be ex¨Chusband¡¯s boss.¡± ¡°And yet,¡± Emma said softly, ¡°I can¡¯t stop thinking about you.¡± The confession hung in the air between them. Emma¡¯s heart pounded so loudly she was sure he could hear it. Alek took a careful step toward her. ¡°If you want me to keep my distance, just say the word.¡± ¡°And if I don¡¯t?¡± His eyes darkened. ¡°Then I¡¯m going to have to break my rule about not mixing business with pleasure.¡± Emma closed the distance between them, cing her palm against his chest. She could feel his heart racing beneath her fingers ¡°Maybe some rules need to be broken.¡± Alek¡¯s hand came up to cup her cheek, thumb brushing her lower lip. ¡°Emma,¡± he breathed, leaning down The first touch of his lips was gentle, questioning. Emma answered by sliding her hands up his chest to his shoulders, rising on tiptoes to press closer. The kiss deepened, his arm circling her waist to steady her as he explored her mouth with a thoroughness that made her knees weak. wanted to do that since I first saw They broke apart, breathless Alek rested his forehead against hers. ¡°I¡¯ve w you ¡°Even when I was getting coffee for the marketing team?¡± ¡°Especially then. You looked to serious, like you were memorizing everyone¡¯s order for a final exam¡± Emmaughed, then pulled him down for another kiss. This one was hotter, hungrier Alek backed her against the window, hisrge frame sheltering her as his hands learned ¡°We should stop,¡± he murmured against her neck. ¡°We should,¡± Emma agreed, making no move to release him. ¡°We¡¯re at work,¡± he reminded her, even as his fingers tangled in her hair. shape of her waist, her hips ¡°True¡± She nipped at his lower lip, enjoying his sharp intake of breath. ¡°Very unprofessional¡± The office door swung open with a bang. ¡°Alek, my agent¡¯s freaking out about-¡± Emma and Alek sprang apart, but it was toote. Jack Reynolds stood frozen in the doorway, his expression morphing from confusion to recognition to absolute fury as he took in the scene his not¨Cyet¨Cex¨Cwife arms of his boss, both clearly disheveled from something that was definitely not a business meeting ¡°What. The. FUCK. Jack¡¯s voice echoed in the suddenly silent office. Watch Ads (0/2 18 year 6 Penalty Minute For three excruciating seconds, no one moved. Emma¡¯s lipstick was smudged. Alek¡¯s usually perfect hair stuck up where her fingers had been. And Jack¡¯s face had turned a shade of red previously unknown to science ¡°Jack¨CEmma started. ¡°Don¡¯t.¡± Jack held up his hand, eyes darting between them. Just¡ don¡¯t. Alek moved slightly in front of Emma, his bodynguage protective but not aggressive. ¡°Reynolds, this isn¡¯t what you- ¡°Isn¡¯t what I think?¡± Jackughed, a sharp, ugly sound. ¡°Because it looks like my boss is sticking his tongue down my wife¡¯s throat.¡± ¡°Soon¨Cto¨Cbe¨Cex¨Cwife,¡± Emma corrected, finding her voice. ¡°You made that choice, remember?¡± Jack¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°So what, this is revenge? Sleep with my boss to get back at me?¡± ¡°Not everything is about you, Jack.¡± Emma stepped around Alek. ¡°And nobody¡¯s sleeping with anyone.¡± ¡°Yet, Jack spat. ¡°How long has this been going on? Were you f*****g him while we were still together?¡± Alek¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°Watch your mouth, Reynolds.¡± Watch you ¡°Or what? You¡¯ll fire me? Trade me?¡± Jack stepped further into the office, mming the door behind him. ¡°Seems like you¡¯ve already decided to screw me one way or another.¡± wile we were ¡°Jack, stop it.¡± Emma moved toward him, anger recing embarrassment. ¡°Nothing happened while we together. You¡¯re the only one who cheated in our marriage.¡± ¡°Oh please. You expect me to believe this just happened tonight?¡± Jack gestured wildly at them. ¡°During a convenient snowstorm when no one else is around?¡± ¡°Believe whatever you want,¡± Alek said coolly. ¡°Your performance issues are separate from my personal life.¡± ¡°My performance-¡± Jack stared incredulously. ¡°Is that what this is about? You¡¯re trying to force me out?¡± ¡°The world doesn¡¯t revolve around you, Reynolds,¡± Alek said. ¡°Shocking, I know.¡± ¡°f**k you.¡± Jack took a menacing step toward Alek, fists clenched. Emma moved between them, palms up. ¡°Jack, stop. You¡¯re making this worse.¡± ¡°I¡¯m making it worse?¡± Jack¡¯s voice rose to a near¨Cshout. ¡°You¡¯re the one hooking up with the C¨Csuite while the ink¡¯s still wet on our divorce papers!¡± ¡°The papers YOU threw at me,¡± Emma fired back, months of bottled anger finally uncorked. ¡°After YOU cheated. After YOU decided I wasn¡¯t good enough for your precious new image. ¡°I never said- ¡°You literally said I didn¡¯t fit your lifestyle anymore.¡± Emma¡¯s voice shook. ¡°That I wasn¡¯t enough. That your I found someone who ¡®gets it.¡® Remember?¡± Jack had the decency to look ufortable, but recovered quickly. ¡°So this is payback.¡± ?? m3 R ¡°Ho, Jack. This is me moving on Something you did months ago ¡°With my boss Jack raked his hands through his hair Jesus Christ, Em Anyone else in Boston you could ve picked?¡± ¡°We aren¡¯t ¡®picking anyone, Alek interjected. ¡°This isn¡¯t- ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me¡± Jack jabbed a finger at him. ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be professionally managing this team, not fooling up yers¡® wives in your office¡± Ex¨Cwives,¡± Emma corrected again. The divorce isn¡¯t finall ¡°It is in every way that matters.¡± Jack¡¯s face twisted. ¡°I¡¯ve had reporters asking if it¡¯s true we split because you cheated. Guess they were right after all.¡± That did it. Eight years of marriage, and Jack knew exactly where to stick the knife. ¡°How DARE you.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was deadly quiet. ¡°I supported you through three teams and a dozen groupies whose text messages I pretended not to see. I moved cities four times. I sat alone at games while you partied with your teammates. I smiled for cameras when all I wanted was a husband who came home at night¡± She took a step toward him, fire in her eyes. ¡°And when you decided the novelty wore off, you discarded me likest season¡¯s Jersey. So don¡¯t you DARE stand there acting wounded when you¡¯re the one who threw everything away.¡± The office fell silent except for Emma¡¯s ragged breathing. Even Jack looked stunned at her outburst. ¡°She¡¯s right, Alek sald quietly. ¡°You ended your marriage, Reynolds. You don¡¯t get to dictate what happens Jack¡¯s shoulders slumped slightly, but his eyes still zed. ¡°This is still unprofessional as hell. The board will have opinions about the CEO sleeping with the ex¨Cwife of a star yer.¡± Alck¡¯s expression hardened, ¡°Is that a threat?¡± ¡°Just stating facts. People talk¡± Updates are released by Find?Novel ¡°And what will they say about a yer whose performance is tanking while he parties with supermodels?¡± Alek¡¯s voice was dangerously calm. ¡°A yer who bursts into private offices without knocking? A yer who might be in breach of the morality use in his contract?¡± Jack paled slightly. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± ¡°The photos from Club Vortexst weekend. The ones with substances visible on the table.¡± Alek raised an eyebrow. ¡°The ones we kept out of the press as a professional courtesy.¡± ¡°You¡¯re bluffing.¡± ¡°Why would I bluff when I have security footage?¡± Alek leaned back against his desk. ¡°I protect my yers, Reynolds Until they be liabilities.¡± Emma watched this exchange with growing unease, ¡°Alek, don¡¯t- ¡°No, let him finish,¡± Jack interrupted, his voice tight. ¡°I want to hear how my boss ns to ckmail me¡± m? R 274 ¡°Not ckmail. Just perspective.¡± Alek crossed his arms. ¡°You have opinions about my personal life? I have documentation about yours. The difference is, mine affects the team¡± The tension in the room was thick enough to skate on. For a terrifying moment, Emma thought Jack might actually take a swing at Alek Instead, he backed toward the door. ¡°This isn¡¯t over¡± Jack said, eyes darting between them. ¡°Either of you¡± ¡°Yes, it is,¡± Emma replied firmly. ¡°Go home, Jack. Sleep it off. We can talk when you¡¯re calmer¡± ¡°Don¡¯t bet on it.¡± Jack yanked the door open. ¡°And by the way, your concession pricing strategy is s**t. Eight dors for bottled water is why fans pre¨Cgame in the parking lot.¡± With that parting shot, he stormed out, mming the door hard enough to rattle the ss walls. Emma copsed into the nearest chair. ¡°Well. That went well.¡± Alek rubbed his face. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. That was¡ not how I wanted this evening to go.¡± ¡°Not your fault.¡± Emma sighed. ¡°I knew Jack would find out eventually. Just didn¡¯t expect it to be mid¨Ckiss during a blizzard.¡± ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have threatened him.¡± ¡°You were protecting me.¡± ¡°I was protecting both of us.¡± Alek knelt in front of her chair. ¡°Emma, what happened between us- ¡°Was a mistake?¡± she finished for him, heart sinking. ¡°Was inevitable,¡± he corrected, taking her hands. ¡°But the timing is problematic.¡± Emma nodded reluctantly. ¡°Jack will tell everyone.¡± ¡°Probably. And thatplicates your transition into ownership.¡± ¡°Not to mention your authority with the team.¡± Emma squeezed his hands. ¡°We need to step back, don¡¯t we?¡± Alek¡¯s eyes held hers. ¡°Professionally, yes. Personally¡¡± He trailed off. ¡°Personally?¡± ¡°Personally, I still want to finish what we started.¡± His thumb traced circles on her palm. ¡°But not like this. Not with anger and threats hanging over us.¡± Emma leaned forward until their foreheads touched. ¡°So what now?¡± ¡°Now we focus on the team. On the business. We keep our distance until the divorce is final.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was resigned. ¡°And then we reevaluate.¡± ¡°Just when I finally found someone who makes me feel like me again,¡± Emma murmured. Alek brushed a strand of hair from her face. ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere, Emma Mitchell. Good things are worth waiting for.¡± As they sat there, the storm howling outside, Emma realized that for the first time in years, she was exactly where she wanted to be¨Ceven if the path forward had just gotten a whole lot moreplicated. 14 18 year 7 Defensive Zone ¡°The key to a sessful PR strategy is controlling the narrative,¡± said Lisa Chen, the des head of public rtions. ¡°Right now, the narrative is Jack Reynolds¡® mystery divorce. We need to change that¡± Two weeks had passed since the snowstorm confrontation Emma sat in conference room with Lisa and Alek, discussing her eventual public debut as team co owner. Lina had no idea who Emma really was¨Cshe knew her only as ¡°Imma Carter Franklin Mitchell¡¯s assistant and strategic consultant ¡°What do you suggest?¡± Emma asked, hyper¨Caware of Alek sitting across the table. They¡¯d been painfully professional since that night, maintaining careful distance in meetings andmunicating mostly through emails ¡°We need a rollout n. Press release, exclusive interview with a friendly outlet, social campaign¡± Lisa tapped her tablet. ¡°When Mr. Mitchell is ready to announce his sessor, we should be prepared.¡± Alek cleared his throat. ¡°There are timing considerations. Personal matters that need to be resolved first Lisa looked confused. ¡°Personal matters?¡± ¡°Legalplications, Emma said vaguely. ¡°Nothing serious, just things that need finalizing before we go public.¡± ¡°Well, whenever you¡¯re ready, I¡¯ve drafted some announcement options.¡± Lisa slid a folder across the table. ¡°Mr. Volkov thought you should review them, given your¡ unique perspective on the situation.¡± Emma took the folder, careful not to let her fingers brush Alek¡¯s as he passed it over. Inside were three press release drafts, each announcing Franklin Mitchell¡¯s decision to transition ownership shares to his granddaughter, Emma Mitchell Reynolds. Her stomach clenched at seeing her full name in print. ¡°These are very thorough.¡± ¡°They assume we¡¯ll wait until after your divorce is final,¡± Alek said quietly. ¡°To avoidplications.¡± Emma¡¯s head snapped up. ¡°You told her?¡± ¡°Only what she needed to know.¡± Alek¡¯s expression gave nothing away. ¡°Lisa has handled sensitive transitions before. She¡¯s discreet.¡± Lisa nodded. ¡°Your situation isn¡¯t unprecedented, Ms. Carter¨Cor should I say, Mrs. Reynolds? Having an owner connected to a yer requires careful messaging.¡± ¡°Ms. Mitchell, actually,¡± Emma corrected, testing how it felt. ¡°I¡¯ll be reverting to my maiden name.¡± ¡°Even better for branding purposes,¡± Lisa said cheerfully, oblivious to the tension between Emma and Alek ¡°Clean break, fresh start.¡± Checktest chapters at FindN0vel ¡°The divorce should be final in three weeks,¡± Emma said. ¡°We¡¯ll need to wait at least that long.¡± ¡°Perfect timing.¡± Lisa gathered her materials. ¡°That gives us runway to prepare. I¡¯ll leave you two to discuss the specifics.¡± The moment the door closed behind Lisa, the professional veneer cracked. Emma slumped in her chair. ¡°She knows who I am.¡± ??? m III O < ¡°Only that you¡¯re Franklin¡¯s granddaughter and Jack¡¯s soon¨Cto¨Cbe¨Cex. Nothing about ¡°Is there an us? Emma asked, meeting his eyes for the first time that day. Alek¡¯s expression softened. ¡°You know there is Just not yet¡± ¡°Three more weeks¡± Emma sighed. ¡°At least it gives me time to prepare for the role. I¡¯ve been reviewing all the contracts, learning the CBA inside out¡± Tve noticed. Your analysis of the sry cap implications for next season was impressive¡± 1 had a good teacher.¡± She allowed herself a small smile Alek checked his watch. ¡°I should go. Pre game meetings.¡± ¡°Big game tonight,¡± Emma nodded. ¡°Montreal¡± ¡°Youing?¡± ¡°No, I¡¯d better not. Jack¡¯s already suspicious enough.¡± She gathered her papers. ¡°Besides, I promised Grandpa I¡¯d have dinner with him. He¡¯s not happy about being kept in the dark about¡ recent developments¡± Alek winced. ¡°He knows about the snowstorm incident?¡± ¡°He knows everything. It¡¯s like he has spies everywhere.¡± Emma rolled her eyes. ¡°Probably does, actually¡± ¡°Tell him I¡¯m sorry for theplications.¡± ¡°Tell him yourself at Sunday dinner. Emma froze, realizing what she¡¯d said. ¡°I mean, if you want toe. Grandpa suggested it. Not me. I wouldn¡¯t presume-* ¡°Td like that,¡± Alek interrupted her rambling. ¡°If you¡¯refortable with it.¡± ¡°I am.¡± She stood, smoothing her skirt. ¡°Professional dinner with my grandfather and my colleague. Totally appropriate.¡± ¡°Totally,¡± Alek agreed, though his eyes said something else entirely. Emma settled into her grandfather¡¯s private box at the arena, grateful for the privacy. Franklin had insisted shee watch the game after their dinner, iming he needed her ¡°analytical eye,¡± which was his way of saying he wantedpany. ¡°Reynolds looks terrible,¡± Franklinmented as Jack fumbled a pass. ¡°Third missed opportunity tonight.¡± ¡°He¡¯s distracted,¡± Emma replied, watching Jack m his stick against the boards in frustration. ¡°By his supermodel? Or by you and Aleksander making eyes at each other in my boardroom?¡± Emma choked on her drink. ¡°Grandpa!¡± Franklin shrugged unapologetically. ¡°I¡¯m old, not blind. The way that boy looks at you could melt the ice.¡± ¡°We¡¯re being professional,¡± Emma insisted. ¡°Nothing¡¯s happening until the divorce is final.¡± ¡°Smart.¡± Franklin nodded approvingly. ¡°But difficult, I imagine.¡± On the ice, Jack took a stupid penalty, cross¨Cchecking an opponent well away from the y. The referee sent him to the box for two minutes. C ?? R ¡°Very difficult,¡± Emma agreed, watching the des scramble to kill the penalty Jack had caused. For everyone.¡± been By the third period, the des were down 3-1, and Jack had been benched for thest ten minutes The crowd was restless, with scattered boos whenever Jack appeared on the Jumbotron ¡°This is getting ugly,¡± Franklin murmured. Emma couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of sympathy, Jack¡¯s world was unraveling in front of twenty thousand fans. Whatever he¡¯d done, this public humiliation was painful to watch. Her phone buzzed¨Ca text from Alek: ¡°Coach pulled him for the rest of the game. ¡°Equipment issue is the official story.* She didn¡¯t reply. There was nothing to say that wouldn¡¯t cross the careful boundaries they¡¯d established After the game¨Ca 4-1 loss¨CFranklin¡¯s driver took her home. As Emma rode the elevator to her apartment, she tried not to think about Jack¡¯s face when the coach had benched him, or the way Alek had looked at her across the conference table, or how three weeks felt like an eternity. The elevator doors opened to her floor, and Emma froze. Jack sat on the floor outside her apartment door, still in his game¨Cday suit, his tie loosened and hair disheveled. ¡°Jack? What are you doing here?¡± He looked up, and Emma was shocked by how terrible he looked¨Ceyes bloodshot, face haggard. ¡°I need to talk to you.¡± His voice was rough. ¡°Please, Em,¡± Every instinct told her to send him away. But something in his expression¨Cvulnerability she hadn¡¯t seen in years¨Cmade her hesitate. ¡°It¡¯ste, Jack.¡± ¡°I know. I wouldn¡¯t ask if it wasn¡¯t important.¡± He stood unsteadily. ¡°Five minutes. That¡¯s all I need.¡± Against her better judgment, Emma unlocked her door. ¡°Five minutes.¡± Jack followed her inside, looking around the apartment he¡¯d never visited. ¡°Nice ce. Very¡ you.¡± ¡°What do you want, Jack?¡± Emma set down her purse, keeping the kitchen ind between them. He ran a hand through his hair. ¡°I¡¯m sorry about the other night. At Volkov¡¯s office. I was out of line.¡± ¡°Yes, you were.¡± ¡°I just ¡°He swallowed hard. ¡°Seeing you with him hit me harder than I expected.¡± ¨C Emma crossed her arms. ¡°You¡¯re with Veronica now. Why do you care who I¡¯m with?¡± ¡°That¡¯s the thing.¡± Jack sank onto a barstool. ¡°Veronica left me. After tonight¡¯s game. Said she ¡®doesn¡¯t date benchwarmers.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that,¡± Emma said, surprised to find she actually meant it. ¡°No you¡¯re not,¡± Jackughed bitterly. ¡°But thanks for pretending.¡± Theypsed into awkward silence. Emma nced at her watch. ¡°Your five minutes are almost up.¡± ¡°Right.¡± Jack straightened. ¡°The reason I came¡ Coach says there¡¯s talk of trading me. Is that true?¡± 315 Defensive Zone ¡°How would I know?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t y dumb, Em. You¡¯re involved with Volkov. He makes those decisions.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not ¡°involved with anyone, Emma said carefully. ¡°And even if I were, I wouldn¡¯t discuss team business with you. Jack¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°So it¡¯s true.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t say that.¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t have to.¡± He stood, anger recing vulnerability. ¡°They¡¯re pushing me out because of you.¡± ¡°No, Jack. If you¡¯re being traded, it¡¯s because you¡¯re ying like garbage and alienating your teammates.¡± The words came out sharper than she intended. Jack flinched. ¡°Wow. Tell me how you really feel.¡± ¡°I feel tired, Jack. It¡¯ste, and we¡¯re done here.¡± Emma moved toward the door. ¡°If you¡¯re worried about your career, talk to your agent, not your ex.¡± Jack didn¡¯t move. ¡°What happened to us, Em? We used to be a team.¡± ¡°You threw divorce papers in my face, remember?¡± Emma¡¯s voice cracked slightly. ¡°Teams don¡¯t do that.¡± Before Jack could respond, a knock came at the door. Emma opened it to find Alek standing there, concern evident on his face. ¡°Everything okay?¡± he asked, eyes darting past her to Jack. ¡°I saw his car outside and wanted to make sure you were alright.¡± Jack¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Checking up on your girlfriend, Volkov?¡± ¡°Making sure a yer who¡¯s been drinking isn¡¯t harassing staff,¡± Alek replied evenly. ¡°I was just leaving.¡± Jack brushed past them both, pausing in the doorway. ¡°This conversation isn¡¯t over, Em.¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Emma said firmly, ¡°it is.¡± As Jack stalked to the elevator, Emma caught Alek watching her with a question in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she assured him. ¡°He just wanted to talk.¡± ¡°About?¡± ¡°Trade rumors.¡± Alek¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°Nothing¡¯s decided yet.¡± ¡°But something¡¯s being considered,¡± Emma concluded. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me.¡± ¡°I was going to. Tomorrow.¡± He nced down the hall where Jack had disappeared. ¡°Professionally.¡± Emma nodded, suddenly exhausted. ¡°Thank you for checking on me.¡± ¡°Always.¡± Alek took a step back. ¡°Three more weeks.¡± Three more weeks,¡± she echoed. As she closed the door, Emma leaned against it, closing her eyes. Three more weeks of this delicate dance Three more weeks of Jack¡¯s unraveling. Three more weeks before she could im her name, her role, and maybe just maybe¨Ca second chance at happiness. 18 year 8 Time Out Emma stared at her ceiling fan, watching it spinzily above her bed. Sleep had been impossible after Jack¡¯s unexpected visit. His bloodshot eyes and rumpled suit kept reying in her mind, along with Alek¡¯s tense jaw when he¡¯d appeared at her door. Her phone buzzed on the nightstand: ¡°Morning meeting canceled. Take the day. -A She smiled at Alek¡¯s thoughtfulness. Afterst night¡¯s drama, a day off was exactly what she needed Two hourster, Emma was deep into her third cup of coffee at her favorite caf¨¦, a tiny ce three blocks. from her apartment where no one cared about hockey or recognized star yers¡® ex¨Cwives. She¡¯d spread financial reports across the table, focusing on work to avoid thinking about Jack or Alek or the ticking clock of her divorce. ¡°Is this seat taken?¡± Emma¡¯s head snapped up. Jack stood before her, dressed in jeans and a casual button¨Cdown¨Ca far cry fromst night¡¯s disheveled suit. He looked rested, sober, and frustratingly handsome. ¡°How did you find me?¡± she asked, not bothering to hide her annoyance. ¡°You came here every Sunday morning when we lived together.¡± Jack¡¯s voice was surprisingly gentle. ¡°Some habits don¡¯t change.¡± ¡®Following me is creepy, Jack.¡± ¡°I know, I¡¯m sorry.¡± He gestured to the chair. ¡°Five minutes? No shouting this time, I promise.¡± Against her better judgment, Emma closed herptop. ¡°Five minutes.¡± Jack sat, declining a waitress¡¯s offer of coffee with a polite smile. When they were alone again, he took a deep breath. ¡°I owe you an apology. A real one, not the drunk version fromst night.¡± Emma raised an eyebrow but said nothing. ¡°The way I ended things was¡ cruel.¡± Jack¡¯s eyes met hers. ¡°You deserved better.¡± ¡°Yes, I did.¡± ¡°I could me the pressure, the fame, the groupies¨Cbut the truth is, I was selfish.¡± He traced a pattern on the table with his finger, ¡°I thought Veronica would make me happier. I was wrong.¡± ¡°That sounds like a you problem,¡± Emma said, though without real heat. Jack smiled ruefully. ¡°Definitely a me problem. One of many.¡± He paused. ¡°For what it¡¯s worth, Veronica and I are officially done. Not just a fight.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Emma said automatically. ¡°No, you¡¯re not.¡± ¡°Okay, I¡¯m not.¡± She surprised herself with a smallugh. ¡°But I am sorry you¡¯re hurting.¡± ¡°That¡¯s more than I deserve.¡± Jack¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°Em, when I saw you with Volkov¡ mo m O ¡°Jack- The ¡°Let me finish. When I saw you with him, I realized what an *** I¡¯ve been. You were always the best part of my life, and I threw it away for what? A model who dropped me the second my ying time decreased?¡± Emma shifted ufortably. ¡°Jack, where are you going with this?¡± 1 miss you.¡± He reached for her hand, but she pulled back. ¡°I miss us. The way you knew what I needed before I did. The way you believed in me when no one else did.¡± ¡°Stop.¡± Emma shook her head. ¡°This isn¡¯t fair.¡± ¡°I know it¡¯splicated. I know I hurt you. But we had eight years together, Em. That has to count for something.¡± ¡°It did count,¡± Emma said quietly. ¡°That¡¯s why it was so devastating when you ended it.¡± Jack leaned forward. ¡°What if I made a mistake? What if we¡¯re meant to try again?¡± Emma stared at him, searching for any hint that this was maniption. But all she saw was vulnerability and what looked like genuine regret. ¡°Jack, are you suggesting we¡ get back together?¡± Tim suggesting we consider it.¡± His voice was earnest. ¡°The divorce isn¡¯t final. We could still fix this.¡± For a fleeting second, Emma tried to imagine it¨Crewinding the clock, going back to being Mrs. Jack Reynolds, pretending the divorce papers had never existed. The fantasy dissolved almost immediately Latest content published on find?novel ¡°No.¡± The word came out firm and clear. Jack blinked, ¡°No?¡± ¡°No.¡± Emma straightened. ¡°It¡¯s toote, Jack. You didn¡¯t just file for divorce. You moved on publicly with someone else. You told me I wasn¡¯t good enough for your new life.¡± ¡°I was wrong- ¡°Yes, you were. About so many things.¡± Emma gathered her papers. ¡°Including the idea that I¡¯d be waiting if things didn¡¯t work out with your upgrade.¡± ¡°Emma, please- ¡°The divorce will be final in three weeks. After that, there are things you need to know, things that will change our professional rtionship permanently.¡± She zipped herptop case. ¡°But our personal rtionship is over Has been since you threw those papers at me.¡± Jack looked stunned. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Three weeks ago you were devastated. Now you¡¯re just¡ done?¡± Emma stood. ¡°I¡¯m not done. I¡¯m moving forward. There¡¯s a difference.¡± ¡°With Volkov?¡± Jack¡¯s voice hardened slightly. ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡± ¡°He¡¯s my boss. It kind of is my business.¡± ¡°No, Jack. You made it very clear that my life is separate from yours now.¡± Emma ced money on the table for her coffee. ¡°Your five minutes are up.¡± She walked out of the caf¨¦, not looking back to see Jack¡¯s expression. The fresh air felt good on her face. clearing away the confusion his visit had stirred up As she rounded theer toward her apartment building, a familiar ck SUV caught her eye. It was parked half a block away, and even from this distance, she recognized Alek¡¯s profile in the driver¡¯s seat. Instead of heading home, Emma walked directly to the SUV and tapped on the passenger window. Alek looked up from his phone, startled He rolled down the window, having the decency to look embarrassed. ¡°Fancy meeting you here,¡± Emma said dryly ¡°I can exin.¡± ¡°Please do¡± Alek sighed. ¡°Afterst night, I was concerned. Reynolds was drunk, angry.¡± ¡°So you¡¯ve been sitting outside my building all night?¡± ¡°Not all night. Just¡ periodically checking.¡± He ran a hand through his hair. ¡°I saw you leave for the caf¨¦. Then Reynolds showed up.¡± ¡°So you¡¯ve been watching me have coffee with my ex¨Chusband?¡± Emma crossed her arms. ¡°That¡¯s not creepy at all.¡± ¡°I stayed in the car. Gave you privacy.¡± Alek¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°But yes, I was prepared to intervene if needed.¡± ¡°I can handle Jack, you know.¡± ¡°I know you can. But you shouldn¡¯t have to.¡± Alek¡¯s blue eyes met hers. ¡°Not alone.¡± Emma should have been angry at the surveince. Instead, a warm feeling spread through her chest. No one had looked out for her like this in¡ well, ever. ¡°Do you want toe up?¡± she asked impulsively. ¡°For coffee, I mean. Real coffee, not surveince coffee.¡± Alek hesitated. ¡°Is that wise?¡± ¡°Probably not.¡± Emma smiled. ¡°But I¡¯m tired of being wise all the time.¡± ¡°What about our agreement? Three more weeks?¡± ¡°It¡¯s coffee, Alek. In broad daylight. In my apartment where no hockey yers are likely to burst in unannounced,¡± A slow smile spread across his face. ¡°Well, when you put it that way¡¡± As they walked toward her building, Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text. Jack: ¡°This isn¡¯t over, Em. We need to talk about whatever¡¯s happening in three weeks. She silenced her phone without replying. Jack Reynolds might not be done, but Emma Mitchell certainly was And the man walking beside her¨Cridiculously overprotective as he might be¨Cwas a big part of the reason why 18 year 9 Shifting Lines ¡°Congrattions, Ms. Mitchell. You are officially divorced¡± Emma stared at the document in her hands, the embossed seal of Suffolk County Court catching the light After weeks of waiting, months of limbo, and one very awkward coffee shop reconciliation attempt, it was done. She was no longer Emma Reynolds. ¡°How do you feel?¡± asked Diane, her shark of awyer. ¡°Lighter,¡± Emma answered honestly. ¡°Like I put down a heavy bag I¡¯ve been carrying too long.¡± ¡°Good analogy¡± Diane gathered her papers. ¡°And excellent timing. The non¨Cdisclosure agreement expires today as well.¡± I ¡°Meaning I can finally tell people who I really am.¡± ¡°Exactly. Though given your ex¨Chusband¡¯s prominence, I¡¯d rmend a strategic approach.¡± Emma smiled. ¡°Already in progress.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t wear that.¡± Lisa Chen, PR director extraordinaire, shook her head firmly at Emma¡¯s navy suit. ¡°It¡¯s too¡ assistant¨Cy.¡± ¡°It¡¯s Armani,¡± Emma protested. ¡°And it says ¡®I take notes for important men. We need 1 am the important person.¡± Lisa rifled through the garment rack they¡¯d brought to the conference room. ¡°This one. Redmands attention.¡± Emma eyed the scarlet zer skeptically. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a bit¡ much?¡± ¡°You¡¯re about to announce you¡¯re a billionaire¡¯s granddaughter and the new co¨Cowner of a professional hockey franchise.¡± Lisa thrust the hanger at her. ¡°A bit much is exactly what we need.¡± Two hours of wardrobe decisions, makeup consultations, and talking pointster, Emma headed to Aleks office with the final press announcement draft. She knocked lightly on his door. ¡°Enter.¡± Alek sat behind his desk, phone pressed to his ear, looking harried. He waved her in, holding up one finger in the universal ¡°just a minute¡± gesture. ¡°Yes, I understand the cap implications,¡± he was saying. ¡°But his performance metrics don¡¯t justify the sry¡ No, I¡¯m not questioning your evaluation, Coach, I¡¯m questioning the ROI¡ Fine. We¡¯ll discuss it tomorrow.¡± He hung up with a sigh, then looked at Emma properly. His expression immediately softened. ¡°You look different.¡± Emma touched her newly styled hair self¨Cconsciously. ¡°Lisa¡¯s team got to me. Too much?* ¡°No. You look¡¡± he paused, searching for the right word. ¡°Like yourself. But more so.¡± ¡°That might be the nicestpliment I¡¯ve ever received.¡± She handed him the folder. The final press release. m R We¡¯re set for Monday after the home game¡± Alek skimmed the document ¡°Straight to the point. Like it? ¡°My grandfather thinks we should have a reception afterward. Private event for staff, yers, key sponsors? ¡°Good idea.¡± Alek closed the folder. ¡°So it¡¯s official? The divorce?¡± Emma nodded, a small smile ying at her lips. As of two hours ago¡± Something changed in Alek¡¯s eyes¨Ca spark of heat quickly controlled ¡°Congrattions ¡°Thank you¡± They looked at each other, both hyperaware of what this milestone meant for them personally. Three weeks of careful distance, professional emails, and group meetings had done nothing to dim the chemistry between them. Alek cleared his throat. ¡°We should celebrate.¡± ¡°We should,¡± Emma agreed carefully. ¡°Professionally, of course. A business dinner to mark this important transition in our working rtionship¡± Emma bit back a smile. ¡°Of course. Very professional.¡± ¡°My ce? Tonight?¡± His voice was casual, but his eyes were anything but. ¡°I¡¯ll bring wine.* A knock at the door interrupted the moment. Lisa poked her head in. ¡°Sorry to interrupt. Mr. Mitchell is on line one for Ms. Carter¨CI mean, Ms. Mitchell.¡± Emma picked up Alek¡¯s desk phone, pressing the blinking button. ¡°Grandpa? What¡¯s up?¡± ¡°Emmy.¡± Her grandfather¡¯s voice sounded strange. ¡°Need you toe to the house.¡± ¡°Now? I¡¯m in a meeting about the announcement-¡± ¡°Please.¡± The single word, so uncharacteristic of her normallymanding grandfather, sent a chill down her spine. ¡°I¡¯ll be right there.¡± hung up, already reaching for her purse. ¡°Something¡¯s wrong. He sounded¡ off.¡± She Alek stood immediately. ¡°Ill drive you.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to-¡± ¡°I know,¡± He grabbed his keys. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Franklin Mitchell¡¯s mansion in Beacon Hill normally radiated old¨Cmoney stability. Today, it was awash in shing lights from an ambnce and paramedic vehicle parked in the circr driveway Emma was o out of Alek¡¯s SUV before he¡¯d fully stopped, running toward the front door where Walter, her grandfather¡¯s assistant, stood ashen¨Cfaced. ¡°What happened?¡± she demanded. ¡°Copsed during a conference call.¡± Walter¡¯s voice shook. ¡°Clutched his left arm. I called 911.¡± Inside, paramedics clustered around the study where her grandfather condusser in pushed through, Alek close behind her Frankliny on a stretcher, oxygen mask over his face, looking Impossity mate Emma¡¯s, and he reached out a hand ¡°I¡¯m here, Grandpa.¡± She took his hand, squeezing gently I¡¯m here ¡°Minor cardiac event,¡± a paramedic exined ¡°We¡¯re taking him to Mass General for sesso ¡°I¡¯ming with you,¡± Emma said firmly ¡°Family only in the ambnce, ma¡¯am ¡°I¡¯m his granddaughter¡± The paramedic nodded. ¡°You can ride with us. We¡¯re leaving Emma turned to Alek, suddenly uncertain. ¡°I should go with him Th?s chapter is updated by Find[?]ovel ¡°Of course you should.¡± Alek touched her shoulder briefly. ¡°I follow in my ca ¡°You don¡¯t have to-¡± ¡°Emma.¡± His voice was gentle but firm. Tming. Unless you don¡¯t want me these The lump in her throat made speech difficult. She managed a nod before following the shelter or to the ambnce. The emergency room waiting area at Massachusetts General Hospital was exactly as depressing as ever medical drama portrayed¨Cufortable chairs, old magazines, and the distinct smell of any met with disinfectant. Emma sat with her head in her hands, having been shooed out of the exam room while domos perimet tests on her grandfather. Alek returned from the coffee run, cing a steaming cup in front of her ¡°Any news?¡± ¡°Not yet.¡± Emma epted the coffee gratefully. ¡°Thanks for this. And for being here Alek took the seat beside her. ¡°Where else would I be?¡± ¡°Running a hockey team? Managing the trade deadline? Living g your i life? ¡°You are part of my life.¡± The simplicity of his statement made her look up. The team will sure without me for a few hours.¡± Emma leaned back, exhaustion washing over her. ¡°I can¡¯t lose him, Alek. He¡¯s all the family I have let ¡°You¡¯re not going to lose him.¡± Alek¡¯srge hand covered hers. ¡°Franklin Mitchell is too stubbom to check before he sees his granddaughter running his hockey team¡± That earned a small smile. ¡°True. Very on¨Cbrand for him to use emotional ckmail via heart attack¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± They sat inpanionable silence, hands still touching, until a doctor in a white coat approached ¡°Family of Franklin Mitchell?¡± Emma stood Tm his granddaughter How is he?¡± ??????? as a mild heart attack, but we caught it early Minimal damage to the heart muscle¡± The doctor consulted his tablet ¡°We¡¯re admitting him overnight for observation, but the prognosis is good.¡± let made Emma¡¯s knees weak Alek¡¯s steadying hand on her back kept her upright. ¡°Can I see him?¡± ¡°Briefly. He needs rest ¡± Emma turned to Alek ¡°Will you wait?¡± ¡°As long as you need ¡± Franklin was awake when she entered his room, looking irritated at the various monitors and tubes attached. to him ¡°This is ridiculous,¡± he grumbled. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± ¡°You had a heart attack,¡± Emma reminded him, taking the chair beside his bed. ¡°That¡¯s not ¡°fine¡± by any definition.¡± ¡°Minor heart attack. Barely counts.¡± He waved dismissively, then winced as the movement pulled his IV. ¡°Is Aleksander still here?¡± Emma nodded. ¡°In the waiting room.¡± ¡°Good man.¡± Franklin¡¯s expression softened. ¡°I like him, Emmy. He¡¯s got substance.¡± ¡°We¡¯re just colleagues, Grandpa.¡± ¡°Bullshit. I may be old, but I¡¯m not blind.¡± Franklin adjusted his position against the pillows. ¡°The way he looks at you¡ reminds me of how I looked at your grandmother.¡± Emma felt her cheeks warm. ¡°It¡¯splicated.¡± ¡°Only because you¡¯re making itplicated.¡± Franklin¡¯s hand found hers. ¡°Life¡¯s too short for that nonsense, Emmy. Trust me, I just got a very pointed reminder.¡± ¡°We¡¯re taking things slow. Professional first.¡± ¡°Professional is good. Slow is stupid.¡± He squeezed her fingers. ¡°The announcement Monday¨Cyou¡¯re still doing it?¡± ¡°Grandpa, you¡¯re in the hospital. We can postpone- ¡°Absolutely not. The n proceeds.¡± Franklin¡¯s voice regained some of its usual steel. I¡¯ve waited too long to see you take your rightful ce.¡± ¡°Your doctor said you need rest,¡± ¡°Til rest easier knowing you¡¯re officially in charge. His eyes, so like her own, held hers. ¡°Fromise me, Emn She sighed, recognizing the futility of arguing. ¡°I promise. But you¡¯re not going anywhere, understood? This is a transition, not a recement.¡± ¡°Deal¡± Franklin rxed against the pillows. ¡°Now go tell that young man we¡¯re still on for Monday. And then take him to dinner. Doctor¡¯s orders.¡± §± ¡°You¡¯re not a doctor¡± I¡¯m paying enough of them right now to count by provy Frenklig shoned her toward the door do I need my beauty sleep if I¡¯m going to look presentatile for the photos Emma kissed his forehead Hom you, you implemen ¡°Love you too, kiddo¡± In the waiting room, Alek stood as soon as he saw her, concern atched on his features ¡°How is her ¡°Cantankerous Bossy Matchmaking Emma smiled tiredly ¡°So, normat¡± ¡°Good sign¡± Alek¡¯s shoulders rxed visibly ¡°What¡¯s the n ¡°They¡¯re keeping him overnight for observation. And he insists we proceed with Monday¡¯s announcement¡± ¡°That sounds like him¡± ¡°Also..¡± Emma hesitated, then decided her grandfather was right. Life was too short for unnecessaryplications. ¡°He suggested I take you to dinner. Doctor¡¯s orders, apparently¡± Alek¡¯s mouth quirked in that almost¨Csmile she found so endearing ¡°Far be it from me to contradict medical advice¡± As they walked out of the hospital, his hand found the small of her back¨Cnot guiding, just connecting. The simple touch felt more intimate than their heated kiss during the snowstorm. ¡°So,¡± Alek said as they reached his car, ¡°your ce or mine?¡± Emma looked up at him, making a decision. ¡°Yours. And Alek?¡± ¡°Hmm?¡± I¡¯m not bringing work files this time.¡± His smile was slow and full of promise. ¡°Good. Because I¡¯m not nning to talk about debt¨Cto¨Cequity ratios tonight.¡± Emmaughed, feeling lighter despite the emotional roller coaster of the day. The lines were shifting- professional to personal, colleague to¡ something more. Whatever happened next, at least they were finally moving forward. 18 year 10 Watch Ads (0/20) > Vote Home loe Advantage ¡°You¡¯re staring at me Alek said without opening his eyes Emma propped herself on one elbow, watching the morning light y across his face ¡°Can you me me?¡± Theyy in Alek¡¯s bed sheets tangled around them After leaving the hospital the previous night, they¡¯d barely made it through his front door before months of tension had finally broken. What followed was everything Emma had imagined during those long weeks of professional distance¨Cand considerably more ¡°We should here done this sooner¡± Alek murmured, pulling her closer Professional boundaries Emma reminded him, though she didn¡¯t sound particrly convinced by her own argument ¡°Overrated¡± He kissed her shoulder. Besides, you¡¯re technically my boss now¡± Emmaughed. Not until Monday¡± His phone buzzed on the nightstand. Alek nced at it and groaned. ¡°Hockey never sleeps.¡± ¡°Answer it,¡± Emma said, sliding out of bed and grabbing his discarded shirt. ¡°Til make coffee¡± In the kitchen, Emma moved with surprising ease, as if she¡¯d been there a hundred times before. She found mugs, located the coffee beans, and had the espresso machine humming when Alek appeared, phone still pressed to his ear ¡°Yes, I understand,¡± he was saying, eyes appreciatively tracking Emma as she moved around his kitchen wearing nothing but his shirt. ¡°Set up the meeting for tomorrow. And tell Peterson we need the marketing n revised. No, the other version won¡¯t work.¡± He ended the call with a sigh. ¡°Trade deadline drama. Three teams interested in Reynolds.¡± Emma nearly dropped a mug. ¡°You¡¯re really trading Jack?¡± ¡°Not just me. The coach, the scouts, most of management thinks it¡¯s time. His performance hasn¡¯t improved.¡± Alek epted the coffee she handed him. ¡°We can get a decent return while his name still has value.¡± ¡°It¡¯s the right business decision, Emma admitted. ¡°But?¡± ¡°But it feels personal now. Because of us. Because of what happened.¡± Alek set down his coffee. That¡¯s why I wanted your input before finalizing anything. If you¡¯re ufortable- ¡°Tm not.¡± Emma shook her head firmly. ¡°The teames first. Jack made his choices. On and off the ice Alek studied her face. ¡°You sure?¡± ¡°Positive¡± Emma sipped her coffee. ¡°It¡¯s just strange to think of him ying somewhere else. After building my life around his career for so long.¡± ¡°And now he¡¯ll need to rebuild around yours.¡± Alek pulled her onto hisp, hisrge hands warm at her waist. ¡°Speaking of which, are you ready for Monday?¡± 0 < Original content can be found at f?ndnovel ¡°The press conference? Yes. The part where I tell my ex husband Im his boss? Not so much¡± ¡°He¡¯ll find out with everyone else?¡± Emma nodded. ¡®Cleaner that way. No chance for him to make a scene before it¡¯s public¡± Alek traced patterns on her bare thigh. ¡°Smart. But he will make a scene after¡± ¡°Probably. Hence the private reception rather than a big public event.¡± Entra rested her forehead against his. ¡°Can we not talk about Jack anymore? I¡¯d rather focus on more pleasant topics.¡± ¡°Like the third quarter revenue projections?¡± Alek teased. ¡°Like how quickly I can get you back to bed.¡± Emma¡¯s fingers yed with the hair at the nape of his neck. Alek¡¯s phone rang again. He nced at it and groaned. ¡°Sponsor call. I have to take this.¡± ¡°Go ahead.¡± Emma slid off hisp. ¡°I should check on Grandpa anyway.¡± As Alek took his call, Emma dialed the hospital. Franklin was being discharged that afternoon, and as predicted, was making the medical staff miserable with his impatience. ¡°He¡¯s terrorizing the nurses,¡± Emma reported when Alek finished his call. They¡¯re elerating his discharge just to get rid of him.¡± ¡°Sounds like he¡¯s feeling better.¡± Alek pulled her back into his arms. ¡°Do you need to go?¡± ¡°Not yet. They¡¯ll call when the paperwork¡¯s ready.¡± Emma wound her arms around his neck. ¡°Which means we have at least an hour before real life intrudes again.¡± ¡°Only an hour?¡± Alek¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°We¡¯d better make it count.¡± ¡°Aleksandr Volkov, if you don¡¯t remove your hand from my granddaughter¡¯s knee, I¡¯ll have you traded to the Antarctic Hockey League.¡± Franklin¡¯s voice held no real threat as he presided over Sunday dinner from the head of his ornate dining table. He¡¯d been home from the hospital for precisely 27 hours and was already acting as if the heart attack had been a minor inconvenience. Emma felt Alek¡¯s hand slide quiltily from her knee as he reached for his water ss. ¡°My apologies, sir.¡± ¡°Oh, stop it, both of you.¡± Emma rolled her eyes. ¡°Grandpa, Alek is a grown man and I¡¯m a divorced woman. Also, the Antarctic doesn¡¯t have a hockey league.¡± ¡°Details.¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°And I¡¯m not objecting to whatever is happening between you two. I¡¯m objecting to it happening under my nose during the duck confit.¡± Alek failed to suppress a smile. ¡°The food is excellent, Mr. Mitchell.¡± ¡°ttery won¡¯t save you, son,¡± But Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled. ¡°Now, let¡¯s discuss tomorrow¡¯s announcement sent over the final schedule. Emmy, you¡¯ll speak first, then I¡¯ll join for photos, then the private reception.¡± ¡°And Jack?¡± Emma asked the question that had been hanging over the evening. Team meeting at 10 AM. All yers required to attend.¡± Franklin speared a roasted potato. ¡°He¡¯ll find out with everyone else. No special treatment.¡± [ ¡°He¡¯ll be furious,¡± Emma murmured. ¡°Let him.¡± Franklin¡¯s voice hardened. That boy threw away the best thing in his life when he tossed those divorce papers at you. He deserves to squirm¡± Emma exchanged nces with Alek. They both knew Jack well enough to predict his reaction would be more than squirming ¡°We should have security nearby,¡± Alek suggested. ¡°Just in case.¡± Franklin nodded. ¡°Already arranged. Discreet, but present.¡± As dinner progressed, Emma marveled at howfortable this felt¨Cher grandfather and Alek discussing hockey strategies, business ns, and tomorrow¡¯s logistics. For the first time in years, she felt like her personal and professional lives were aligned rather than at war. After dessert, Franklin imed exhaustion and retired, leaving Emma and Alek alone in the formal living room. ¡°He¡¯s ying matchmaker again,¡± Emma noted, curling up beside Alek on the leather sofa. ¡°Is it working?¡± Alek¡¯s arm settled around her shoulders. ¡°Considering we¡¯ve barely left your bedroom for the past 36 hours except toe here? I¡¯d say his efforts are redundant.¡± Alekughed, then grew serious. ¡°Emma, after tomorrow, everything changes. Not just professionally. Us, too.¡± ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°Right now, we¡¯re private. After the announcement, you¡¯ll be news. The first female majority owner in league history. Jack Reynolds¡® ex¨Cwife.¡± He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. ¡°And if we¡¯re seen together¡¡± ¡°Spection about our rtionship,¡± Emma finished his thought. ¡°usations of impropriety, office romance, all that gossip.¡± ¡°Exactly. I don¡¯t want toplicate your first days in the role.¡± Emma shifted to face him. ¡°Are you suggesting we keep this¨Cus¨Csecret?¡± ¡°No.¡± Alek¡¯s answer was immediate. ¡°That would just make it seem like we have something to hide. I¡¯m suggesting we be careful. Professional in public. Until your position is established.¡± ¡°And then?¡± ¡°And then I n to take you to dinner at the most public restaurant in Boston. His eyes held hers. ¡°I¡¯m in this, Emma. For the long haul. If you are.¡± Emma felt something shift inside her¨Ca plece falling into ce that she hadn¡¯t known was missing ¡°I¡¯m in,¡± she said simply. ¡°All the way.¡± Later, as Alek walked her to her car, snowkes began to fall¨Cfat,zy crystals that glowed in the security lights. ¡°Reminds me of that night in my office,¡± he said, catching a ke on his palm. ¡°Our first kiss.¡± Emma smiled at the memory. ¡°Followed by our first interrupted kiss.¡± Home Ice Advantage ¡°No interruptions tonight¡± Alek pulled her close, his kiss warm despite the cold air Emma drove home through the gentle snowfall, a strange sense of calm settling over her Tomorrow would bring chaos¨Cpress, questions, Jack¡¯s reaction, the start of her public life as Emma Mitchell, team owner. But tonight, she had this quiet certainty: whatever happened next, she wouldn¡¯t face it alone. She was halfway home when her phone chimed with a text. Expecting Algk, she nced at it at a red light. Instead, Jack¡¯s name appeared on the screen: *We need to talk before tomorrow. I know something¡¯s happening. Please, Em, One conversation.* Emma turned off her phone without replying. Tomorrow woulde soon enough, and when it did, Jack Reynolds would finally learn exactly who he¡¯d thrown those divorce papers at. H BT 18 year 11 The Reveal Emma stared at her reflection in the bathroom mirror of the arena¡¯s executive suite. The scarlet zer Lisa had insisted on made her look confident, powerful¨Clike someone who belonged in the owner¡¯s box, not the wives¡® section. Her newly styled hair framed her face in soft waves, and subtle makeup enhanced her features without being overdone ¡°You look like a Mitchell,¡± she told her reflection A gentle knock sounded at the door. ¡°Five minutes, Ms Mitchell, called Walter, her grandfather¡¯s ever¨Creliable assistant. ¡°The team meeting is assembling¡± ¡°Thank you, Walter¡± Emma took a deep breath, gathering the notecards with her prepared remarks. Most of the organization already knew about the announcement¨Cthe PR team, key executives, equipment managers. But the yers, including Jack, were about to be informed just minutes before the press conference. In the hallway, Alek waited, impable in a charcoal suit. His professional mask was firmly in ce, but his eyes softened when he saw her. ¡°Ready?¡± he asked quietly. ¡°As I¡¯ll ever be.¡± They walked in step toward the team meeting room, maintaining a careful professional distance. Before they reached the door, Alek murmured, ¡°Remember, no matter what happens in there, this is your moment. You¡¯ve earned it.¡± Emma nodded gratefully as they entered the room. The yers were lounged across chairs in various states of attention¨Csome scrolling phones, others chatting in small groups. Jack sat near the back, looking bored until he spotted Emma. His expression shifted from surprise to confusion to suspicion. Coach Donovan called the room to order. ¡°Listen up! Before today¡¯s press conference, Mr. Volkov has an Important announcement.¡± All eyes turned to Alek, who stepped forward with practiced authority. ¡°Gentlemen, today marks a significant transition in our organization. Franklin Mitchell, our majority owner, is officially transferring forty percent of his ownership stake to his sessor, who will work alongside me in leading this franchise.¡± Murmurs rippled through the room. Jack¡¯s eyes narrowed as he stared at Emma. ¡°Td like to introduce you to our new co¨Cowner¨CMs. Emma Mitchell.¡± The room fell silent. Emma stepped forward, feeling twenty pairs of eyes locked on her. ¡°Thank you, Alek.¡± Her voice was steady, confident. ¡°Many of you know me as Emma Carter, Franklin Mitchell¡¯s assistant. Some of you-¡± her eyes briefly met Jack¡¯s -knew me as Emma Reynolds. My grandfather and I kept my identity private while I learned the organization from the ground up.¡± Jack half¨Crose from his seat, mouth open in shock. Coach Donovan shot him a warning nce, and he slowly O ? yet the post year analyzing our operations, understanding our strengths and weaknesses I believe in team and its potential four¡¯s vore grew stronger ¡°As your new co¨Cowner, my priority is building a organization both on and off the sce She continued outlining her vision while watching the yers reactions Most seemed surprised but Magion Only Jack looked like he¡¯d been struck by lightning¨Cpale, rigid, eyes burning with a mix of disbelief and betrayal I ¡°We questions at the press conference, but I wanted you, the heart of this franchise, to hear this directly from now first me smiled ¡°Thank you for your attention. Let¡¯s make this organization the best in As the concluded, the yers broke into polite apuse, many looking genuinely intrigued by this Mwanted development Coach dismissed them to prepare for the media, and they filed out¨Csome nodding respectfully to Emme, others clearly still processing the news. Jack remained seated, staring straight ahead. When the room had emptied except for Emma, Alek, and two discreet security personnel by the door, he finally stood. ¡°All this time,¡± he said, voice dangerously quiet. ¡°All these years. You were a Mitchell.¡± Emma nodded. ¡°Yes¡± ¡°The team I yed for The team I gave everything to. You owned it.¡± Hisugh was hollow. ¡°Was our entire marriage a joke to you?¡± ¡°Did you enjoy watching me bust my ass to provide for us when you were sitting on billions? Was it funny, pretending to be impressed by my sry?¡± wasn¡¯t like that.¡± Emma kept her voice level. ¡°I never lied about who I was. You simply never asked.¡± ¡°Bullshit¡± Jack stepped forward, causing one of the security men to tense. ¡°You deliberately hid this from ¡°Because you made it very clear how you felt about trust fund kids¡® and ¡®silver spoon executives.¡± Emma crossed her arms. ¡°You wanted a wife who looked up to you, not one who could buy your team.¡± Jack turned to Alek ¡°And you. My boss. Screwing my wife behind my back while plotting to blindside me.¡± ¡°Ex¨Cwife, Alek corrected calmly. ¡°And nothing happened between us until after you filed for divorce.¡± ¡°How convenient. Jack¡¯s eyes flicked between them. ¡°So what now? You two running the team together while I get shipped off to some armpit franchise?¡± Emma stepped closer. ¡°No decisions have been made about your future with the team, Jack, Your performance will determine that, just like any other yer¡± ¡°My performance¡± Heughed bitterly ¡°Right. Just business.¡± ¡°It is just business,¡± Emma confirmed. ¡°The same way it was just business¡® when you decided I didn¡¯t fit your lifestyle anymore The blownded. Jack flinched slightly. ¿Ú¤¯ The Reveal ¡°The press conference starts in fifteen minutes, Alek interjected. ¡°We all need to be professionals ¡°Professional.¡± Jack shook his head in disgust. Fine. I¡¯ll be professional. But this isnt over, Em He brushed past them toward the door, then paused. ¡°One question. That day you signed the dive settlement¨Cyou could have fought me, revealed who you were, demanded half my contract. Why didn¡¯t your Emma met his gaze steadily. ¡°Because some things are worth more than honey, Jack Like dignit Self¨Crespect.¡± Her voice softened slightly. ¡°And because, despite everything, I didn¡¯t want to hurt you? This update is avable on F?nd-Novel Something flickered in Jack¡¯s eyes¨Ca brief glimpse of the man she¡¯d once loved. Then it was g by cold anger. ¡°Congrattions, Ms. Mitchell. The formal address felt like another divorce filing ¡°I¡¯m sure ure you¡¯ll be fantastic owner.¡± He walked out, leaving a heavy silence behind him. Alek touched her elbow gently. ¡°You okay?¡± ¡°Surprisingly, yes. Emma straightened her zer. ¡°That actually went better than expected¡± ¡°He¡¯ll cause problems.¡± ¡°Probably. But he¡¯s not my problem anymore.¡± She checked her watch. ¡°I need to find Grandpa before the press conference.¡± They walked briskly through the arena corridors, passing staff members who now regarded Emma with new respect or poorly disguised curiosity. Word spread fast in a hockey organization Franklin waited in the green room, resplendent in his best suit despite his recent hospital stay. ¡°There she is My brilliant girl. Ready to shock Boston?¡± ¡°I think Jack is already handling the shocking part,¡± Emma replied wryly. ¡°He¡¯s telling everyone who will listen ¡°Good!¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled. ¡°Free publicity.¡± Lisa Chen bustled in, clipboard in hand. ¡°The press room is packed. Every major sports outlet, business press, local stations. And social media is already buzzing¨Csomeone leaked.¡± ¡°Jack,¡± Alek muttered. ¡°I¡¯m ready.¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter, Emma squared her shoulders. I¡¯m ready.¡± ¡°That¡¯s my girl.¡± Franklin offered his arm. ¡°Let¡¯s go make history.¡± As they prepared to enter the press room, Emma caught Alek¡¯s eye over her grandfather¡¯s shoulder. He gave her a subtle nod that contained volumes¨Cpride, support, and something deeper that made her heart race despite the circumstances. The doors opened, and camera shes erupted like lightning. Emma Mitchell stepped for and to im ce¨Cnot as Jack Reynolds¡® wife or Franklin Mitchell¡¯s granddaughter, but as her own torce to be reckone with And somewhere in the back of the room, Jack Reynolds watched the woman he¡¯d discarded be the most powerful person in his world. 18 year 12 Cheong From Befund. Checking From Behind ¡°Ms. Mitchell! How does it feel to be the first female majority owner in league history?¡± ¡°Are you concerned about being taken seriously in a male¨Cdominated sport?¡± ¡°Will your rtionship with Jack Reynolds affect personnel decisions?¡± The questions came rapid¨Cfire as Emma stood at the podium, cameras shing like strobe lights. The press conference had been underway for fifteen minutes, and so far, she¡¯d handled every question with poise that belled her racing heart. ¡°My gender is less relevant than my qualifications,¡± Emma replied to a reporter from ESPN. ¡°As for personnel decisions, they¡¯ll be based on performance metrics and what¡¯s best for this organization¡¯s future. No exceptions.¡± Her gaze briefly found Jack at the back of the room. He leaned against the wall, arms crossed, expression thunderous. ¡°One more question,¡± Lisa Chen announced from the side. ¡°Ms. Mitchell, called a reporter Emma recognized from the Boston Globe, ¡°sources say you worked anonymously within the organization for a year. Why the secrecy?¡± Emma smiled. ¡°I believe in earning respect, not inheriting it. Working from the ground up gave me insights no ownership manual could provide. She leaned slightly toward the microphone. ¡°Sometimes the best way to learn is to listen when people don¡¯t know who¡¯s listening.¡± The press conference concluded with photos of Emma, Franklin, and Alek¨Ca united front of leadership. Franklin beamed with undisguised pride, one arm around his granddaughter while gripping his cane with the other. Alek maintained professional distance but couldn¡¯t entirely hide the admiration in his eyes. ¡°You were magnificent,¡± Franklin whispered as they exited toward the private reception. Emma¡¯s triumph was short¨Clived. As they entered the reception area where staff, sponsors, and select media mingled, amotion erupted from the other side of the room. Latest content published on F?ndNovel ¡°Did you all know about this?¡± Jack¡¯s voice carried over the crowd. He stood with several teammates, gesturing wildly. ¡°Was everyone in on the joke except me?¡± Alek muttered something in Russian and started toward Jack, but Emma caught his arm. ¡°Let me,¡± she said quietly. She crossed the room, aware of conversations halting as she passed, Jack had gathered an audience- mostly younger yers who looked ufortably caught between their star teammate and their new boss ¡°Jack, Emma said calmly. ¡°This isn¡¯t the ce.¡± ¡°Why not? Seems like the perfect ce to discuss how my ex¨Cwife has been ying puppet master.¡± He was sober but radiating vtile energy. ¡°Tell me, was trading me part of your revenge n all along?¡± Emma kept her voice low. ¡°No one has decided to trade you, Jack.¡± ¡°Bullshit.¡± He stepped closer. ¡°Ive heard the rumors. Seattle, Vegas, Montreal¨Cthey¡¯re all calling.¡± 2 0 < Checking From Befund ¡°That has nothing to do with me and everything to do with your performance¡± Emma stood her ground despite their height difference. ¡°Check your stats. Watch your game footage. You¡¯ve been self¨Cdestructing for months.¡± A dangerous flush crept up Jack¡¯s neck. ¡°Because of you! Because you¡¯ve been screwing with my head, sleeping with my boss-¡± ¡°That¡¯s enough. Alek materialized beside them, hisrge frame imposing ¡°You¡¯re embarrassing yourself Reynolds.¡± ¡°I¡¯m embarrassing myself?¡± Jackughed bitterly. ¡°That¡¯s riching from the guy who couldn¡¯t wait to get in my wife¡¯s-¡± He never finished the sentence. In a blur of motion, Jack lunged at Alek. Emma stepped between them instinctively, but Jack¡¯s momentum carried him forward. His shoulder connected with Emma¡¯s chest, sending her stumbling backward into a cocktail table. sses crashed to the floor as security personnel converged *GET YOUR HANDS OFF ME!¡± Jack roared as two security guards restrained him. ¡°SHES DESTROYING EVERYTHING I¡¯VE BUILT!¡± The room fell silent except for Jack¡¯sbored breathing. Emma regained her bnce, refusing Alek¡¯s offered hand. She needed to handle this herself. ¡°Jack,¡± she said, her voice carrying in the hushed room. ¡°You¡¯re suspended¡± ¡°You can¡¯t- ¡°Effective immediately. Two weeks without pay for conduct detrimental to the team.¡± Emma straightened her zer. ¡°Another outburst like this and it bes permanent. Clear?¡± Jack stared at her, shock recing anger. In eight years of marriage, he¡¯d never seen this side of her¨Cthe CEO, the owner, the authority that needed no validation. ¡°This is personal,¡± he said finally, ¡°You¡¯re punishing me because I left you.¡± ¡°No, Jack, I¡¯m holding you ountable because you just physically confronted your boss at an official team function.¡± Emma¡¯s voice remained level. The same standard would apply to any yer.¡± The security guards began escorting Jack toward the exit. He went without further resistance, the fight suddenly drained from him. At the door, he nced back once¨Cnot at Emma, but at his teammates watching wide¨Ceyed. Whatever he saw in their faces seemed to devastate him more than the suspension. When the doors closed behind him, the room erupted in whispers. Emma felt Alek beside her, not touching but present. ¡°Are you hurt?¡± he asked quietly. ¡°Only my pride.¡± Emma managed a wry smile. ¡°Not how I nned to assert my authority on day one.¡± ¡°On the contrary¨Cyou just showed everyone exactly who¡¯s in charge.¡± Alek¡¯s eyes held respect and something warmer. ¡°Though I wish you hadn¡¯t stepped between us. He could have injured you¡± ¡°In front of fifty witnesses? He would never y professional hockey again.¡± Emma surveyed the broken ss. I should address everyone. Damage control.¡± ¡°Allow me.¡± Franklin appeared, having observed the confrontation from across the room. ¡°You¡¯ve done enough A ? m R 18 year 13 to tention and the dialy orporate event its d topologi for that unpleasant interte antess eye that they bot And smoothing rutted feathers with practiced the red Emmede pulled Sports Twitter i avloding the murmured showing from her phy¡± atten Emens Emma grimaced at the shaky footage of Jack Sunging toward her Tentacle Actually it might be Liss scrolled throughments ¡°The narrativa is treaty forming¨Cassedyer attacks female boss. You¡¯re getting sympathy, not scandal ¡°Small mercies¡°Emme handed back the phone Veep monitoring if it gets ugly, we may need a m statement The reception gradually returned to normal, though Emma noticed people watching her with new ourooty She circted professionally, discussing business with sponsors and reassuring staff, all while maintaining careful distance from Alek Office romance rumors would onlyplicate an already chaotic day. Hourster, as the event wound down, Emma retreated to what was now officially her office¨Ca spacious corner suite previously used for visiting executives. Her grandfather had insisted she take it immediately rather than wait for renovations to her permanent space. She kicked off her heels and copsed onto the leather sofa, finally allowing herself to feel the exhaustion of the day A knock sounded at the door. ¡°Come in,¡± she called, expecting Lisa with more social media updates Instead, Coach Donovan entered, still in his game¨Cday suit. The grizzled veteran had been unusually quiet during the earlier drarna. Read full story at FindN0vel ¡°Got a minute, boss?¡± he asked, the titlecking any trace of irony. ¡°Of course.¡± Emma gestured to a chair. ¡°What can I do for you?¡± Donovan sat, looking ufortable but determined. ¡°It¡¯s about Reynolds.¡± ¡°I stand by the suspension,¡± Emma said immediately. ¡°Good. He earned it.¡± Donovan leaned forward. ¡°But there¡¯s something else you should know. Before today¡¯s incident, he was showing signs of problems. Mood swings. Erratic behavior at practice. Missing team meetings or showing upte. Emma frowned, ¡°Substance issues?¡± ¡°Nothing confirmed, but the patterns are familiar. I¡¯ve coached long enough to recognize the signs.¡± Donovan met her eyes directly, ¡°Reynolds needs help, not just punishment.¡± Emma considered this. Despite everything, she couldn¡¯t ignore that Jack¨Cthe real Jack, beneath the ego and anger¨Cmight be struggling. ¡°What do you suggest?¡± Checking in Rabi ¡°Condition his return on working with the team psychologist. Mandatory sessions.¡± Donovan shrugged ¡°Maybe it helps, maybe it doesn¡¯t. But we tried¡± Emma nodded slowly. ¡°Add it to the suspension terms. And Coach? Thank you for bringing this to me directly¡± After Donovan left, Emma sat in thoughtful silence. Her first day as owner had been a baptism by fire¨Cpublic scrutiny, Jack¡¯s meltdown, and now concerns about his mental health. Theplexity of the situation settled heavily on her shoulders. Her phone buzzed with a text from Alek: Still at the office?* ¡°Yes,¡± she replied, ¡°You?¡± *Just wrapped up damage control with PR. Dinner?¡± Emma hesitated. After today¡¯s drama, being seen together in public seemed unwise. ¡°Better not. Raincheck? His response came quickly: ¡°Of course. Get some rest. You were extraordinary today. The simple praise warmed her more than a five¨Ccourse meal could have. Emma gathered her things, ready to retreat to her apartment and process the day¡¯s events. As she stepped into the elevator, her phone buzzed again¨Cthis time with a news alert. *BREAKING: Star center Jack Reynolds enters league substance program following suspension from Boston des.* Emma leaned against the elevator wall, aplex mix of emotions washing over her. Relief that Jack was getting help. Concern for someone she¡¯d once loved. And beneath it all, grim certainty that his spiral was far from over¨Cand somehow, she would be pulled back into his orbit before this chapter closed. 18 year 14 Neutral Zone ¡°The league substance program requires minimum thirty days, Dr. Marcus exined, his clinical tone matching the sterile conference room ¡°With Reynolds profile, they¡¯ll likely rmend the full ny¡± Emma nodded, reviewing the confidential medical report. Two weeks had passed since Jack¡¯s meltdown and subsequent entry into the league¡¯s treatment program. As team owner, she received minimal updates on his progress¨Cjust enough to make personnel decisions. ¡°And his condition?¡± she asked. Dr. Marcus adjusted his sses. Preliminary assessment shows stress induced substance dependency Nothing exotic¨Calcohol primarily, with asional pharmaceutical abuse Treatable with proper support¡± ¡°Will he y again this season?¡± ¡°Medically speaking, possibly. With strict monitoring.¡± The doctor closed his file. ¡°But that¡¯s your decision, Ms. Mitchell, not mine.¡± After he left, Emma remained at the conference table where the team¡¯s executivemittee had gathered for their monthly meeting. Only Alek lingered, reviewing notes on his tablet. ¡°Thoughts?¡± she asked when they were alone. ¡°Professionally? Keep him inactive until after the treatment program, then reevaluate.¡± Alek set down his tablet. ¡°Personally? I wish him well, but prefer him far from our organization.¡± Emma smiled faintly. ¡°At least you¡¯re honest.¡± ¡°Always.¡± His eyes met hers across the table. ¡°We haven¡¯t had much time togethertely.¡± ¡°Two weeks of press interviews, league meetings, and sponsor damage control will do that¡± Emma sighed. ¡°Sorry about the raincheck marathon.¡± ¡°It¡¯s the job.¡± Alek¡¯s voice held no resentment. ¡°You¡¯re establishing yourself. That takes priority¡± Emma¡¯s heart swelled with appreciation. Any other man might haveined about being sidelined for work, but Alek understood perfectly. ¡°Tonight,¡± she said decisively. ¡°My ce. I¡¯ll cook.¡± His eyebrow rose skeptically. ¡°You cook?¡± ¡°I order takeout and transfer it to fancy tes.¡± Emma grinned. ¡°Very convincing.¡± Theirughter was interrupted by a knock. Lisa poked her head in, looking apologetic. ¡°Sorry to interrupt. The media rights negotiation team is assembled in boardroom three, and the leaguemissioner is on standby for your call at eleven.¡± Emma gathered her files. ¡°Duty calls.¡± Alek nodded professionally, already back in CEO mode. ¡°I¡¯ll email you those sponsorship revisions by two.¡± As Emma walked toward her next meeting, she marveled at how seamlessly they¡¯d adapted to their professional rtionship. In the office, they maintained perfect propriety¨Cno personal conversations, no lingering nces, no touches. The spection around her rise to ownership had been scandal enough m v without adding workce romance to the mix. But the nights they¡¯d managed to steal together had been worth every sacrifice. Alek¡¯s apartment had be their sanctuary¨Cthe one ce they could simply be Emma and Alek, rather than Ms. Mitchell and Mr. Volkov ¡°You¡¯ve increased revenue projections by almost twenty percent,¡± Franklin said, examining the quarterly reports spread across his home study. ¡°Impressive for someone who¡¯s only been officially in charge for two weeks.¡± Emma sipped her tea. ¡°Most of these initiatives were already in the pipeline. I just elerated implementation,¡± ¡°Don¡¯t minimize your achievements.¡± Franklin tapped the concessions report. ¡°This pricing strategy alone will add millions annually. And themunity outreach program has boosted ticket sales in demographics we¡¯ve struggled with for years.¡± ¡°That was Alek¡¯s idea originally. I just refined it.¡± Franklin gave her a knowing look. ¡°Speaking of Aleksander, how are things progressing there?¡± ¡°Professionally? Seamlessly. He¡¯s brilliant at operations, and weplement each other¡¯s strengths. ¡°And personally?¡± Franklin pressed. Emma felt heat rise in her cheeks. ¡°Also¡plementary¡± like you! ¡°Good.¡± Franklin nodded approvingly. ¡°The boy looks at you like you hung the moon. Reminds me of how I looked at your grandmother.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve mentioned that before.¡± ¡°Because it¡¯s true.¡± Franklin¡¯s voice softened. ¡°When you find someone who sees you¨Creally sees you¨Chold onto them, Emmy. They¡¯re rare.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma smiled, thinking of how Alek had supported her through these chaotic weeks. ¡°He¡¯s pretty special.¡± ¡°Speaking of special,¡± Franklin shifted topics abruptly, ¡°what¡¯s the n for Reynolds?¡± Emma¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Depends on his progress in treatment. The performance metrics don¡¯t justify keeping him at his current sry, but trading him during treatment would look callous.¡± ¡°What does Aleksander rmend?¡± ¡°Trading him post¨Ctreatment. Clean break for everyone.¡± Franklin studied his granddaughter. ¡°And you? What does Emma rmend, not the owner?¡± ¡°I think Jack needs stability right now.¡± Emma chose her words carefully. ¡°A fresh start might benefit him personally, even if it hurts professionally.¡± ¡°Always the empathetic one.¡± Franklin shook his head. ¡°Even after how he treated you.¡± ¡°I can separate the personal from the professional.¡± ¡°Can you?¡± Franklin challenged gently. ¡°Jack Reynolds broke your heart and publicly humiliated you. Now you Im R ||| O < hold his career in your hands. That¡¯s aplex dynamic, Emmy Tm aware¡® Emma straightened papers that didn¡¯t need straightening. ¡°But I won¡¯t make decisions based on revenge¡± Hevenge, no. Protection, perhaps Franklin leaned forward. ¡°Jack has a history of vtility What happens when treatment enda and he retums to a team now run by his ex¨Cwife who¡¯s dating his boss?¡± ¡°We¡¯ll cross that bridge when wee to it¡± ¡°Just make sure that bridge isn¡¯t rigged to explode when you¡¯re halfway across Franklin tapped his cane for emphasis. ¡°Some situations can¡¯t be managed, only avoided.¡± That evening, Emma¡¯s apartment was transformed from its usual sparse elegance to something cozier¨Csoft lighting, music ying, and yes, takeout artfully arranged on her best dishes. She¡¯d even changed into jeans and a sweater instead of her usual work attire, determined to create a sanctuary of normalcy amid the professional chaos. When Alek arrived, he brought wine and a small wrapped package. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Emma naked, taking both. ¡°Wine is for dinner.¡± Alek hung his coat by the door. ¡°The gift is because I missed your birthdayst week while at the owners¡® meetings¡± ¡°I told you not to worry about that.¡± But she was already untying the ribbon. Inside the small boxy a delicate silver pendant¨Ca hockey stick crossed with a fountain pen. ¡°It¡¯s perfect,¡± she breathed, lifting it from the velvet lining. ¡°I thought it represented our worlds colliding.¡± Alek helped her fasten it around her neck. ¡°Business and hockey. Spreadsheets and pshots.¡± Emma touched the pendant, surprisingly moved by the thoughtful symbolism. ¡°It¡¯s the best gift I¡¯ve ever received.¡± Dinner passed pleasantly as they exchanged stories from their separate meetings that day. Emma found herselfughing more than she had in weeks, the tension of public scrutiny finally melting away. ¡°I missed this,¡± she admitted as they cleared tes. ¡°Just being us.¡± ¡°We could have more of this,¡± Alek said casually, rinsing a wine ss. ¡°If we weren¡¯t so concerned about appearances.¡± Emma paused. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°I mean we¡¯ve been tiptoeing around for weeks, acting like colleagues in public, sneaking moments in private.¡± Alek turned to face her. ¡°It¡¯s exhausting, Emma.¡± ¡°It¡¯s necessary,¡± she countered. ¡°Until my position is established-¡± ¡°Your position is established. The board respects you. The staff admires you. Even the media has moved past. the initial shock.¡± Alek stepped closer. ¡°We¡¯re adults. We can acknowledge we¡¯re in a rtionship without it undermining your authority.¡± 35 Neutral Emma hesitated: ¡°The timing still feels wrong with Jack in treatment. Like we¡¯re unting our happiness. ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? ?ovelFind while he¡¯s struggling ¡± ¡°Jack made his choices long before we made ours.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was gentle but firm. ¡°We can be sensitive without hiding.¡± Before Emma could respond, her phone rang¨Cthe special tone reserved for team emergencies. She grabbed it from the counter. ¡°Mitchell,¡± she answered crisply. Lisa¡¯s voice was tense. ¡°Sorry to interrupt your evening, but there¡¯s a situation. Jack Reynolds left the treatment facility against medical advice three hours ago. He just showed up at Vince¡¯s Bar near the arena, clearly intoxicated, making a scene about team management.¡± Emma¡¯s stomach dropped. ¡°How bad?¡± ¡°Bad enough that TMZ already has footage. He¡¯s iming discrimination, unfair treatment, conspiracy to force him out.¡± ¡°Is Alek mentioned?¡± Emma asked, meeting his concerned eyes. ¡°Yes, along with¡ unttering characterizations of your rtionship.¡± ¡°Contain it,¡± Emma ordered. ¡°Send security to extract him before he does more damage. Get our media statement readypassionate tone, emphasize our support for his recovery.¡± ¡°Already drafted. And security is en route.¡± ¡°Keep me updated.¡± Emma ended the call, deting against the counter. ¡°So much for a quiet evening.¡± Alek didn¡¯t ask for details; he¡¯d clearly inferred enough from her side of the conversation. ¡°What do you need from me?¡± That simple question¨Cfocused on her needs rather than his curiosity¨Csolidified something Emma had been feeling for weeks. ¡°Just you,¡± she said quietly. ¡°Right now, just you.¡± He enfolded her in his arms, strong and steady. ¡°You¡¯ve got me. Always.¡± As they stood in her kitchen, the evening¡¯s peace shattered by Jack¡¯s ongoing self¨Cdestruction, Emma realized Franklin¡¯s warning had merit. Some bridges were indeed rigged to explode. The question was whether to cross them anyway or find another path entirely. ¡°We need to make a decision about Jack,¡± she murmured against Alek¡¯s chest. ¡°This limbo isn¡¯t helping anyone¨Cnot him, not the team, not us.¡± Alek nodded, his chin brushing her hair. ¡°What are you thinking?¡± ¡°That sometimes the kindest cut is the cleanest,¡± Emma pulled back to meet his eyes. ¡°When heplete. treatment¨Csessful or not¨Cwe trade him. Fresh start for everyone.¡± ¡°You¡¯re sure?¡± Emma nodded, certainty settling over her like a mantle. ¡°Some neutral zones can¡¯tst forever. It¡¯s time to move the game forward.¡± Cross Checking 18 year 15 Cross Checking The conference room fell silent as Emma finished outlining the trade parameters Sante¡¯s genere marr on the video screen looked cautiously optimistic, while the des management team changed meaningfut nces ¡°To summarize, Emma said, ¡°Jack Reynolds to Seattle for their first round pick, defensive prospect Miler and forward Ramirez.¡± ¡°With Boston retaining twenty percent of Reynolds¡® sry, Seattle¡¯s GM added ¡°For this season only,¡± Alek rified. ¡°Next year, you assume the full contract The Seattle GM nodded. ¡°Subject to Reynolds passing physical and psychological evaluation, we have a deal.¡± ¡°We¡¯ll prepare the paperwork.¡± Emma ended the call and turned to her management team. Thoughts? ¡°Best offer we¡¯ll get,¡± Coach Donovan said immediately. ¡°Especially considering Reynolds oroumstances ¡°Agreed,¡± said Ryan Stevens, their head scout. ¡°Miller could be top¨Cfour defensive material in two years Ramirez is NHL¨Cready now.¡± ¡°The first¨Crounder is the key,¡± Alek added. ¡°Deep draft next year,¡± Emma took in their unanimity. After four weeks in treatment, Jack hadpleted the minimum program requirement and was scheduled to return tomorrow. The trade timing wasn¡¯t coincidental ¡°We¡¯ll finalize before he returns,¡± she decided. ¡°I want this handled professionally andpassionately¡± As the meeting dispersed, Emma caught Alek¡¯s subtle nod of approval. Their working rtionship had be almost telepathic¨Ceach anticipating the other¡¯s thoughts during negotiations, presentations, and strategic discussions. The team had noticed, nicknaming them ¡°the hive mind¡± behind their backs. Professionally, everything was clicking. Personally, they¡¯d reached a tentative truce on the public nature of their rtionship¨Cnot hiding, but not unting. They asionally shared dinners at quiet restaurants and attended team functions together, letting people draw their own conclusions without official confirmation Emma returned to her office, reviewing the press release draft for Jack¡¯s trade. The wording needed to be perfect¨Crespectful of Jack¡¯s contributions without sounding disingenuous A knock interrupted her concentration. ¡°Enter,¡± she called. To her shock, Jack Reynolds walked through the door. *Jack!¡± Emma stood abruptly. ¡°You¡¯re not due back until tomorrow.¡± ¡°They released me early. Good behavior.¡± He smiled tentatively, looking more like the Jack she¡¯d man she¡¯d seen in months. Clear¨Ceyed, clean¨Cshaven, the feverish anger gone from his expression ¡°That¡¯s¡ good.¡± Emma regained herposure. ¡°Congrattions onpleting the program.¡± ¡°Thanks.¡± Jack remained by the door, seemingly uncertain. ¡°I was hoping we could talk. Officially.¡± Emma gestured to the chair across from her desk, discreetly closing the trade folder. ¡°Of course.¡± Jack sat, back straight, hands sped¨Cthe picture of professionalposure. ¡°First, I want to apologize. My ||| behavior at the announcement avent was inavuusatta | Amharises the prior year of myself ¡°Apology epted¡± Emma studied him carefully. How are your fing ¡°Better Clearer¡± Jack met her gaze directly. The program happens masas seen went the myself. About how I¡¯ve been handling everything¡± Tm d to hear that ¡°Part of my recovery n includes making amends to pelo jack tokat e te top of that list, Em¨CMs Mitchell ¡± ¡°Emma is fine,¡± she said gently ¡°Emma¡± Jack nodded T treated you terribly Not just at the end, but for pars before work you for grantes dismissed your ambitions, and then red you when my life started spiraling Emma hadn¡¯t expected this level of self awareness. That¡¯s very insightful Tener ¡°Thirty days of therapy will do that.¡± He attempted a smile Tm not asking for forgiveness I just want you to know I recognize the damage I caused.¡± ¡°I appreciate that,¡± Emma said carefully ¡°And for what it¡¯s worth, I do forgive you back. We so made mistakes.¡± ¡°No.¡± Jack shook his head firmly. ¡°Don¡¯t do that. Don¡¯t minimize what happened to spars my feelings. I was as the one who threw things the one who cheated. I was the one who ended our marriage drunk and disappeared for days when we had ns¡± Emma blinked, surprised by his candor. ¡°The program has clearly been beneficial¡± ¡°It saved my life.¡± Jack leaned forward. ¡°Which brings me to the second reason I¡¯m here I want to retum to the team. Not just physically¨CI want to contribute. Be the yer I should have been all along¡± Emma¡¯s stomach tightened. The Seattle trade was practically finalized ¡°Jack- ¡°I know my behavior has put me on thin ice,¡± he continued earnestly. ¡°But I¡¯mmitted to rebuilding trust. I¡¯ve already spoken with Coach about additional practice time, video study, whatever it takes¡± ¡°You¡¯ve spoken with Coach today?¡± ¡°An hour ago. He seemed receptive.¡± Jack¡¯s expression brightened. ¡°Said mymitment was encouraging¡± Emma made a mental note to have a serious conversation with Donovan about protocols for returning yers. ¡°Jack, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but reintegration will be a process. There are many factors to consider, ¡°Of course.¡± Jack nodded seriously. ¡°I¡¯m prepared to earn my spot back. No special treatment.¡± The irony of the situation wasn¡¯t lost on Emma. After months of Jack¡¯s entitlement and outbursts, she was now faced with a model of contrition and cooperation¨Cjust as she¡¯d finalized his departure ¡°We should discuss your status with the full management team,¡± she said finally ¡°There¡¯s a meeting tomorrow morning. Can you join us at nine?¡± ¡°Absolutely Jack stood, relief evident in his posture. ¡°Thank you for hearing me out.¡± As he turned to leave, Emma was struck by a pang of something. Not regret, exactly, but awareness of paths not taken, alternate versions of their story. ¡°Jack,¡± she called. Tm genuinely d you¡¯re doing better.¡± He paused at the door. Thanks, Em. That means more than you know.¡± After he left, Emma sat motionless, staring at the trade folder. The timing couldn¡¯t be worse. A reformed Jackplicated the clean break she¡¯d envisioned. More concerning was the genuine improvement she¡¯d witnessed¨Cwas she trading him just as he found his footing? Her desk phone buzzed. ¡°Ms. Mitchell, Mr. Volkov is here to see you.¡± ¡°Send him in.¡± Alek entered looking puzzled. ¡°Was that Reynolds I just passed in the hallway?¡± ¡°In the flesh.¡± Emma gestured to the chair Jack had vacated. ¡°Apparently released early from the program and eager to rejoin the team.¡± ¡°Perfect timing,¡± Alek said dryly, sitting down. ¡°Did you tell him?¡± ¡°No. He was so¡ earnest. I scheduled him for the management meeting tomorrow.¡± ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? F?nd-Novel Alek studied her face. ¡°You¡¯re reconsidering the trade.¡± ¡°I¡¯m considering all options.¡± Emma sighed. ¡°He seems genuinely changed, Alek. Insightful about his mistakes,mitted to improvement.¡± ¡°Treatment programs are designed to produce exactly those results,¡± Alek pointed out. The question is whether theyst once he¡¯s back in the environment that triggered his issues.¡± ¡°True.¡± Emma tapped her pen against the desk. ¡°But if there¡¯s a chance he¡¯s turned a corner¡¡± ¡°You feel responsible for him,¡± Alek observed without judgment. ¡°Not responsible. But I did spend eight years of my life with him. That counts for something.¡± Alek nodded slowly. ¡°What do you want to do?¡± ¡°Dy the Seattle paperwork, Emma decided. ¡°Give Jack a week to demonstrate this new attitude is genuine. If he reverts to old patterns, we proceed with the trade. If not, we reevaluate.¡± ¡°The Seattle offer might not hold.¡± ¡°Then we find another. Or keep him.¡± Emma met Alek¡¯s gaze directly. ¡°I want to make decisions I can live with, not just ones that are expedient.¡± Alek reached across the desk to cover her hand with his. ¡°One of the many reasons I respect you. We the right solution.¡± His supportiveness made the next question harder. ¡°What about us? If Jack stays?¡± ¡°Nothing changes,¡± Alek said firmly. ¡°We¡¯re adults navigating aplex situation. Jack¡¯s presence or absence doesn¡¯t define our rtionship.¡± ¡°It willplicate things.¡± C Life ispleted Auk egonezed bachan w Cements 18 year 16 checked Adaptation proved more challenging than expected. By week¡¯s ad indeed demonstrated hismitment¨Caving first to practice, leavingst, volunteering formunity events, even reconnecting with teammates whold grown distant during his spiral More unexpected was the public¡¯s response en Jack gave an exclusive interview to Sports Mustrated about his recovery journey fan sentiment shifted dramatically Social media filled with supportive messages. signs appeared at games urging his return to the lineup, and merchandise sales bearing his number increased for the first time in months The redemption narrative is powerful Lisa exined during their wey PR meeting ¡°Right now, the public is rooting for him. If we trade him at this moment, we risk significant bacsh¡± ¡°We can¡¯t make personnel decisions based on public sentiment Alek argued ¡°But we can¡¯t ignore it either countered Marketing Director Peterson. ¡®Reynolds jersey sales are up thirty percent since the interview¡± Emma listened to the debate with growing unease. The clean break she¡¯d envisioned was bing messier by the day. Most concerning was the subtle shift in team dynamics. yers whold privately supported Jack¡¯s trade now advocated for his second chance. Coach Donovan, previously in favor of moving on, reported improvements in Jack¡¯s performance metrics that couldn¡¯t be ignored. By Friday evening. Emma was mentally exhausted from juggling thepeting considerations. She canceled dinner ns with Alek to workte, reviewing performance data that might rify the decision A knock at her door interrupted her concentration. ¡°Come in,¡± she called, expecting the cleaning staff. Instead, Veronica Wells swept in¨CJack¡¯s supermodel ex, resplendent in designer everything, looking even more stunning in person than in photographs. ¡°Ms. Mitchell,¡¯ she said coolly. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not interrupting.¡± Emma recovered from her surprise quickly. ¡°Ms. Wells. This is unexpected.¡± ¡®Til be brief.¡± Veronica sat uninvited, crossing impossibly long legs. Tm here about Jack.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a team matter I can¡¯t discuss s with-¡± ¡°Im not here for gossip.¡± Veronica cut her off. Tm here to warn you.¡± Emma raised an eyebrow. ¡°Warn me?¡± Jack is manipting you. All of you.¡± Veronica¡¯s perfect features hardened. ¡°The contrition, the work et the charming interviews¨Cit¡¯s an act. One I¡¯ve seen before¡± ¡°You were with him very briefly: Emma pointed out. ¡°Long enough.¡± Veronica leaned forward. ¡°He did the same routine with me after our first big fight. Swore he¡¯d changed, attended a few therapy sessions, became the perfect boyfriend¡ for about three weeks.¡± ¡°People can genuinely change¡± en He wont Veronica¡¯s certainty was chilling. ¡°Jack needs control. When he feels it slipping, he¡¯ll say or do anything to regain it. Right now, he¡¯s performing for you, for the team, for the cameras¨Call to avoid the trade he knows ising¡± Emma maintained her professional mask. ¡°I appreciate your concern, but ¡°It¡¯s not concern for you¡± Veronica stood gracefully. ¡°It¡¯s for him, Jack needs real consequences, not another chance to avoid them. I fought to get him into treatment. He walked out early because he convinced his counselors he¡¯d had some miraculous breakthrough¡± This new information gave Emma pause. ¡°How do you know that?¡± ¡°Because his counselor called me when he left, worried he was rushing the process. Veronica moved toward the door. ¡°Jack can be very convincing when his career is on the line. Just remember that when the cameras are gone and the pressure returns, so will the real Jack Reynolds.¡± ???? ????s? ???????s ?? find?novel After Veronica left, Emma sat in stunned silence. The supermodel¡¯s warning echoed her own suppressed doubts¨Cwas Jack¡¯s transformation too convenient, too perfectly timed? Her phone buzzed with a text from Alek: ¡°Missing you tonight. How¡¯s the data analysis?* Emma stared at the message, suddenly overwhelmed by thepeting pressures¨Cprofessional responsibilities, personal rtionships, ethical considerations, all wrapped in theplicated history of her failed marriage. She was still formting a response when another message arrived¨Cthis one from Jack: *Wanted to thank you for this week. It means everything to have a second chance. Dinner tomorrow to discuss mymunity outreach ideas?* The parallel requests¨Cfrom her past and her future¨Ccrystallized the decision Emma had been circling all week. She replied to Alek first: *Analysisplete. Decision made. Talk tomorrow?* Then to Jack *Team breakfast instead. 8AM, conference room B. Bringing full management team.¡± She gathered the trade paperwork, adding a single post¨Cit note before sliding it into her outbox ¡°Proceed as nned.¡± Sometimes the kindest path forward was the one that severed old connectionspletely. Jack needed a fresh start away from theplications of their shared history. The team needed rity about its future. And Emma needed to stop looking backward in order to move forward. As she prepared to leave, Emma touched the hockey stick and pen pendant Alek had given her. Jack Reynolds had been her past¨Cimportant, formative, but finished. Her futurey elsewhere, with someone who saw her clearly and valued herpletely. It was time they all epted that reality Watch Ads (0/20) > 87 18 year 17 ying Through Paint ying Through Pain ¡°I appreciate the opportunity you¡¯ve given me to prove myself these past two weeks, Jack said, hisposure admirable given the circumstances. ¡°I understand your decision, and I respect Emma studied him across the conference table, searching for signs of trVtile Jack she¡¯d grown to expect. Instead, he sat straight backed in his suit, epting the trade news with surprising grace. ¡°Seattle is excited to have you,¡± she said carefully. ¡°Their offensive system shouldplement your ying style.¡± ¡°Fresh start for everyone,¡± Jack nodded, echoing her words from weeks earlier. ¡°When do I leavet ¡°Physical examination in Seattle on Monday, Alek exined. ¡°Press conference Tuesday if everything checks out.¡± ¡°And the announcement here?¡± ¡°This afternoon,¡± Emma said. ¡°We¡¯ll emphasize this is a mutual decision focused on your career growth¡± Jack¡¯s eyes betrayed a flicker of something¨Cpain, perhaps, or resignation. ¡°Thank you for that kindness.¡± The management team dispersed after reviewing final details, leaving Emma, Alek, and Jack alone in the conference room. An awkward triangle of past, present, and futures diverging. ¡°Can I have a moment with Emma?¡± Jack asked, ncing at Alek. ¡°Just to say goodbye properly¡± Alek looked to Emma, who nodded slightly. ¡°I¡¯ll be in my office,¡± he said, exiting with characteristic professionalism. When the door closed, Jack exhaled deeply. ¡°So that¡¯s it. Eight years of marriage, two teams, and a divorceter, I¡¯m heading to Seattle.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a good hockey city,¡± Emma offeredmely ¡°Is it because of us?¡± Jack asked, his facade cracking slightly. ¡°Because of what happened between you and Volkov? Be honest.¡± ¡°No, Jack.¡± Emma met his gaze directly. ¡°It¡¯s because it¡¯s the right move for everyone. You need space to continue your recovery away from ourplicated history. The team needs to move forward with yers who fit our current system.¡± ¡°And you need me gone so you can finally be with him openly.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not fair.¡± ¡°Maybe not.¡± Jack ran a hand through his hair¨Ca familiar gesture from their years together. ¡°But it¡¯s not entirely untrue either, is it?¡± Emma chose her words carefully. ¡°My rtionship with Alek developed after our marriage ended. It has nothing to do with this trade decision.¡± ¡°I believe you believe that.¡± Jack¡¯s smile held no humor. ¡°But we both know life isn¡¯t thatpartmentalized Everything bleeds into everything else.¡± Jack- ¡°It¡¯s okay. Em. Really¡± He stood, straightening his jacket. ¡°Part of recovery is epting consequences. This is just one more As he moved toward the door, Emma felt a curious mixture of relief and mncholy. Despite everything. they shared a significant chapter of their lives To For what it¡¯s worth,¡± she said, ¡°I hope you find sess in Seattle. On and off the ice.¡± Jack paused, hand on the doorknob. ¡°I hope you find happiness with him. You deserve that.¡± The door closed behind him with a soft click that somehow felt more final than the divorce papers ever had. Sources close to the team confirm Reynolds¡® trade was elerated when ownership learned of his early release from treatment against medical advice.¡± Emma muted the sports channel, where pundits had been dissecting Jack¡¯s trade for the past three days. Despite the carefully worded press release, leaks had emerged¨Csome surprisingly urate, others wildly spective ¡°Turn that back on,¡± Franklin grumbled from his favorite armchair. ¡°I want to hear them squirm trying to analyze my granddaughter¡¯s decisions without insulting her.¡± ¡°It¡¯s all noise,¡± Emma said, setting down the remote in her grandfather¡¯s study. ¡°The team is moving forward.¡± ¡°Speaking of moving forward¡¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled. ¡°When are you and Aleksander making things official?¡± We¡¯re taking it slow, Grandpa.¡± ¡°Slow?¡± Franklin scoffed. ¡°You two move at cial pace. In my day- ¡°In your day, wornen couldn¡¯t own hockey teams, Emma interrupted with a smile. ¡°Different times.¡± ¡°Fair point.¡± Franklin conceded. ¡°But the world knows you¡¯re together anyway. Might as well enjoy the benefits of being public.¡± He wasn¡¯t wrong. Despite their professional discretion, Boston gossip columns hadbeled them ¡°hockey¡¯s hottest power couple.¡± Photos asionally surfaced of their rare dinner dates, and social media buzzed whenever they were seen arriving at games together. ¡°We will. Eventually.¡± Emma changed the subject. ¡°How are you feeling? You seemed tired at the board meeting yesterday.¡± ¡°Old,¡± Franklin admitted. ¡°But functioning. Stop deflecting.¡± Before Emma could respond, her phone rang¨CLisa¡¯s ringtone. ¡°Mitchell.¡°. ¡°We have a situation,¡± Lisa said without preamble. ¡°Reynolds just gave an unsanctioned interview to Bos Sports Radio. It¡¯s not good.¡± Emma¡¯s stomach clenched. ¡°How bad?¡± ¡°He¡¯s implying the trade was personal retaliation, that management used his treatment as an excuse to move him while his value was low.¡± Is he naming names?¡± Hot directly But he¡¯s throwing around phrases like ¡®conflict of interest¡® and inappropriate rtionships: affecting personnel decisions.¡± Emma closed her eyes briefly Damage control options?¡± I¡¯m drafting a statement emphasizing the mutual benefits of the trade. Sattle¡¯s GM is willing to confirm they¡¯ve been pursuing him for months. ¡°Good. Send me the draft in thirty¡± Emma ended the call, turning to find Franklin watching her intently ¡°Reynolds showing his true colors?¡± he asked. ¡°Apparently rehabilitation has its limits.¡± Emma sighed. ¡°So much for his gracious eptance.¡± ¡°People revert to type under pressure.¡± Franklin tapped his cane thoughtfully. ¡°The question is how you respond.¡± ¡°Professionally Factually. Without descending to his level.¡± ¡°Smart girl.¡± Franklin nodded approvingly. ¡°This too shall pass.¡± But it didn¡¯t pass¨Cit escted. By evening, Jack¡¯s interview had spawned a dozen think pieces questioning the ethics of Emma¡¯s leadership. Sports talk shows debated whether her rtionship with Alek constituted a conflict of interest. One particrly sensational outlet even suggested Jack¡¯s substance issues had been exaggerated to justify the trade. As Emma prepared for bed that night, her phone lit up with Alek¡¯s call. ¡°Have you seen thetest?¡± he asked without greeting ¡°I¡¯m trying not to.¡± Emma sank onto her bed. ¡°Lisa¡¯s handling the official responses.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not just media now. The yers¡® association is asking questions about whether proper protocols were followed regarding Jack¡¯s medical status.¡± Emma pinched the bridge of her nose. ¡°Of course they are.¡± ¡°I should have anticipated this,¡± Alek said, frustration evident in his voice. ¡°Reynolds was too calm when we told him. Should have known he was nning something.¡± ¡°We both missed it.¡± Emmay back against her pillows, suddenly exhausted. ¡°What happens now?¡± ¡°We weather it.¡± Alek¡¯s voice softened. ¡°Together.¡± ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve dragged you into my mess.¡± ¡°Our mess,¡± he corrected. ¡°I¡¯m as much a part of management decisions as you are.¡± ¡°But it¡¯s my history with Jack that¡¯s fueling this. If we weren¡¯t together- ¡°Stop.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was firm, ¡°Don¡¯t let him make you question us. That¡¯s exactly what he wants.¡± Emma closed her eyes, drawingfort from Alek¡¯s steadiness. ¡°When did you get so wise?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve always been wise. You were just distracted by my devastating good looks.¡± Get full chapters from Find?Novel Herugh was genuine, the first real one all day. ¡°True. Very distracting.¡± ¡°Wantpany tonight?¡± he asked. ¡°I could be there in twenty minutes.¡± AN n Despite the temptation, Emma declined Better not with the current scrutiny, we should co Professional distance in public Agreed reluctantly ut remember Emma we have noting to hide 18 year 18 Loving Hockey After they hung up, Emma scrolled through the day¡¯s coverage, unable to resist despite knowing better. Most articles were spective garbage, but a few raised legitimate questions about the appearance of impropriety -the optics of trading her ex¨Chusband while dating another team executives, She was about to put her phone away when a text arrived from a Seattle number she didn¡¯t recognize ¡°Thought you should see this. He¡¯s already making waves here -V Attached was a screenshot of Jack at what appeared to be a Seattle nightclub, surrounded by women, clearly not maintaining the sobriety he¡¯d so earnestly promised to uphold. Veronica Wells, Emma realized. Somehow the supermodel was still keeping tabs on Jack. The timestamp showed the photo was fromst night¨Chis first in Seattle, fresh off iming unfair treatment by Boston management. Emma didn¡¯t respond to the text, but she saved the photo. Not for leverage or revenge, but as a reminder that Jack¡¯s contrition had indeed been performance art. Sleep eluded her that night as she wrestled withpeting emotions¨Canger at Jack¡¯s hypocrisy, concern about the team¡¯s reputation, worry about how the scandal might affect Alek professionally. By dawn, she¡¯d reached only one conclusion: ying through this particr pain would require a new strategy. ¡°I want to address this directly,¡± Emma announced at the emergency management meeting the following morning. ¡°No more prepared statements or ¡®sources close to the team¡® rebuttals.¡± Lisa looked rmed. ¡°A press conference in the middle of controversy invites unpredictable questions.¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was resolute. ¡°Right now, Reynolds controls the narrative because he¡¯s the only one speaking freely. That ends today.¡± ¡°What will you say?¡± asked Peterson, clearly nervous about potential marketing fallout. ¡°The truth.¡± Emma looked around the table, meeting each person¡¯s eyes. ¡°That all management decisions, including trades, are made collectively based on performance metrics and team needs. That personal rtionships don¡¯t dictate professional decisions. And that while we wish Jack well, his characterization of events is inurate.¡± ¡°And if they ask directly about your rtionship with Alek?¡± Lisa pressed. Emma nced at Alek, seated professionally distant at the other end of the table. Then I¡¯ll acknowledge that yes, we are in a rtionship that began after my divorce was finalized, and that we¡¯re bothmitted to maintaining highest ethical standards in all team matters.¡± Alek¡¯s expression remained neutral, but his eyes conveyed support. ¡°I second this approach. Transpare our best defense.¡± ¡°The board should be consulted,¡± Peterson cautioned. ¡°I spoke with them this morning.¡± Emma replied. ¡°They support addressing this head¨Con.¡± In truth, the board conversation had been tense. Several members expressed concern about the optics, but R Franklin had ultimately swayed them with a simple observation: ¡°My granddaughter hiding from baseless socusations only gives them credibility they don¡¯t deserve? The press conference was exdieduled for 3 PM¨Cprime time for Evening news coverage. Emma spent the intervening hours preparing with Usa, anticipating the most difficult questions, practicing responses that were honest without being defensive. 12:30, she retreated to her office for a final moment of quiet before facing the media firestorm. A knock interrupted her preparation. ¡°Come in the called, expecting Lisa withst¨Cminute coaching Instead, her grandfather entered, looking more frail than she¡¯d seen him recently. ¡°Grandpe, you should be resting¡± Emma rose in concern. ¡°The doctor said-¡± ¡°Doctors say lots of things¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°Most of it nonsense. I¡¯m here because you need me ¡°I be fine, Emma assured him. ¡°Of course you will. You¡¯re a Mitchell: Franklin settled into a chair. ¡°But even Mitchells need backup For more chapters visit FindN0vel sometimes ¡°You don¡¯t have to attend the press conference-* ¡°Oh, but I do.¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes gleamed with the same strategic intelligence that had built his empire. ¡°Reynolds wants to paint you as an emotional woman making irrational decisions. Having the previous owner visibly supporting you changes that narrative.¡± Emma smiled despite her stress. ¡°Always thinking three moves ahead.¡± ¡°That¡¯s how you win, Emmy¡± Franklin reached for her hand. ¡°And make no mistake¨Cyou are going to win this round.¡± As they walked toward the press room together¨CFranklin leaning slightly on his cane but spine straight with pride¨CEmma felt a curious calm settle over her. Jack¡¯s usations had temporarily knocked her off bnce, but he no longer had the power to define her story. She spotted Alek waiting discreetly near the press room entrance. Their eyes met briefly, conveying more than words could. Whatever came next, they would face it together¨Cnot hiding, not apologizing, just moving forward with the integrity that had brought them together in the first ce. The camera shes began as soon as she stepped to the podium, but Emma didn¡¯t flinch. She had spent eight years in shadows¨Cfirst as Jack Reynolds¡® supportive wife, then as Emma Carter, Franklin Mitchell¡¯s anonymous assistant. Those days were over. ¡°Good afternoon,¡± she began, voice steady. ¡°Tm here to address recent spection about team mana decisions and to rify a few important points¡¡± As she spoke, Emma felt the burden of Jack¡¯s usations lifting. Some pain you didn¡¯t y through¨Cyou confronted it head¨Con, dealt with it honestly, and then left it behind where it belonged. H Vote a structure emerging from the snowyndscape. Emma had expected a rustic retreat. What appeared instead was a modern architectural masterpiece¨Cwalls of ss and clean lines nestled organically among towering pines. ¡°That¡¯s not a cabin,¡± she said, impressed. ¡°That¡¯s a design magazine cover.¡± Alek smiled. ¡°I may have undersold it slightly.¡± Inside, the ¡°cabin¡± revealed soaring ceilings, a stone firecerge enough to stand in, and floor¨Cto¨Cceiling windows showcasing the snow¨Ccovered forest. Modern furniture in warm neutrals invited rxation, while a state¨Cof¨Cthe-art kitchen suggested serious cooking happened here. ¡°This is incredible, Emma breathed, taking in the space. ¡°How often do youe here?¡± ¡°Not enough.¡± Alek deposited their bags in the entryway. ¡°Usually just a few weekends during off¨Cseason. Sometimes longer breaks when I need to think strategically¡± ¡°Strategic thinking requires a gourmet kitchen?¡± Emma teased, running her hand along the marble countertop. ¡°The strategic thinking requires peace. The kitchen is just because I like to cook.¡± Alek moved to therge windows. ¡°Storm¡¯s picking up. We made it just in time.¡± Emma joined him, watching snowkes swirl hypnotically against the darkening sky. ¡°It¡¯s beautiful.¡± ¡°Worth the drive?¡± Alek¡¯s arm slipped around her waist. Content originallyes from f¦É?dn¦Ïvel ¡°Definitely.¡± She leaned into him, savoring the simple contact they so often denied themselves in public. did you find this ce?¡± ¡°Built it.¡± Alek guided her toward the sofa. ¡°After my knee injury. The insurance payout was substantial, and i needed a project while rehabbing.¡± ¡°You designed this?¡± Emma looked around with new appreciation. A A C A m R III O <

Breakaway

¡°Coborated with an architect. But yes, many elements were my ideas.¡± He began building a fire in the massive hearth. I wanted somewhere that felt both shelter and freedom.¡± Emma watched him work, struck by how at case he seemed here¨Cmore rxed than she¡¯d ever seen him in Boston ¡°It suits you.¡± The fire caught, casting golden light across the room. Outside, snow continued falling, transforming the forest into a pristine white wondend. Emma felt tensions she hadn¡¯t even realized she was carrying begin to melt away. ¡°Wine?¡± Alek asked, heading to the kitchen. ¡°Please.¡± While he opened a bottle, Emma explored the main living area, noting personal touches she wouldn¡¯t have expected¨Cbooks in Russian and English stacked beside reading chairs, framed photographs of spectacrndscapes, even a vintage record yer with an impressive vinyl collection. ¡°You¡¯re full of surprises, Aleksander Volkov,¡± she said, examining the album selection. He returned with two sses of red wine. ¡°Good surprises, I hope.¡± ¡°The best kind.¡± Emma epted her ss. ¡°I just realized we¡¯ve never really been alone like this. No work, no crisis, no Jack drama hovering in the background.¡± *Precisely why I insisted on this trip.¡± Alek settled beside her on the sofa, stretching his long legs toward the fire. ¡°I wanted you all to myself for forty¨Ceight uninterrupted hours.¡± ¡°Ambitious ns for those hours?¡± Emma asked, curling into his side. ¡°Very ambitious.¡± His eyes gleamed in the firelight. ¡°Starting with absolutely nothing for at least the next three.¡± Emmaughed. ¡°Nothing? That doesn¡¯t sound like you.¡± ¡°Nothing scheduled. Nothing required. Nothing professional.¡± Alek took her wine ss, setting it aside with his own. ¡°Just being.¡± His kiss was unhurried,cking the restraint they usually maintained even in private¨Cas if the physical distance from Boston had released some final boundary between them. Emma responded in kind, letting herself sink fully into the moment without the mental calctions that had be habitual¨Cwho might see, what might be reported, how it might be interpreted. Here, there was only Alek. His warmth, his strength, the surprising gentleness in hands capable of such power. For the first time since their rtionship began, Emma feltpletely present, unburdened by the past or anxieties about the future. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting months to have you here,¡± Alek murmured against her neck. ¡°The only ce that¡¯s truly mine¡± ¡°Worth the wait,¡± Emma agreed, losing herself in sensations too long denied. 18 year 20 Loving Hourster, theyy tangled in the sheets of the master bedroom, the panoramic windows revealing snowkes still dancing in the moonlight. The storm had intensified, transforming their weekend retreat into a true istion¨Cno chance of unexpected visitors or press intrusions. ¡°Hungry?¡± Alek asked, tracing patterns on Emma¡¯s bare shoulder. ¡°Starving.¡± She stretchednguidly. ¡°You mentioned something about cooking skills?¡± ¡°Give me twenty minutes.¡± He kissed her forehead before sliding from the bed, pulling on lounge pants Emma watched appreciatively as he moved around the room, struck by howfortable this felt¨Cas if they¡¯d been doing this for years rather than a first weekend away together. She eventually borrowed his discarded shirt and followed him to the kitchen, where he was efficiently preparing what looked like an borate pasta dish. ¡°Can I help?¡± she offered, hopping onto a barstool at the counter. *Just keep mepany.¡± Alek worked with the same focused precision he brought to hockey operations. ¡°Wine in the fridge, if you¡¯d like more.¡± Emma retrieved the bottle, refreshing both their sses. ¡°You mentioned strategy thinking happens here. What kind of strategies?¡± ¡°Career nning. Team structure.¡± Alek stirred the sauce thoughtfully. ¡°Life direction.¡± ¡°Deep thoughts for a weekend retreat.¡± ¡°Important decisions deserve space for contemtion.¡± He nced up from his cooking. ¡°I decided to ept the Boston CEO position here, three years ago.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Emma sipped her wine. ¡°What were the alternatives?¡± ¡°Coaching offers from two teams. Front office position with the league.¡± Alek shrugged lightly. ¡°Boston was the biggest challenge professionally.¡± ¡°And personally?¡± ¡°Personally, I needed distance from Russia.¡± A shadow crossed his expression. ¡°Familyplications.¡± Emma hesitated, sensing delicate territory. In all their time together, Alek rarely mentioned his history beforeing to America. ¡°What kind ofplications?¡± Alek continued cooking silently for a moment, then said, ¡°My sister, Natasha. She was sixteen when I took the Boston job. Our parents died when she was small¨Ccar ident. I raised her while ying professionally.¡± ¡°I had no idea, Emma said softly. ¡°Where is she now?¡± ¡°University in California. Pre¨Cmed.¡± Pride warmed his voice. ¡°Brilliant girl. Stubborn as hell.¡± ¡°Sounds familiar.¡± Emma smiled. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ever mention her?¡± Alek¡¯s hands stilled briefly, ¡°Habit of privacy. In Russia, my prominence as a yer made her a target for gossip, unwanted attention. I learned to separate my public and private livespletely.¡± ¡°Even with me?¡± For original chapters go to find[?]ovel ¡°Less so with you, certainly. He served the pasta onto warmed tes. ¡°But old habits persist.¡± They settled at the dining table, the storm providing dramatic backdrop through the windows. Emma savored the first bite, genuinely impressed. ¡°This is incredible.¡± ¡°My grandmother¡¯s recipe. She insisted all her boys learn to cook.¡± Alek¡¯s pression softened with memory. ¡°She said women are too smart to marry men who can¡¯t feed themselves.¡± ¡°Wise woman.¡± ¡°The wisest.¡± Alek refilled their sses. ¡°She would have liked you. Seen through your professional facade Immediately to the fire underneath.¡± Emma felt oddly touched. ¡°High praise,ing from her grandson.¡± ¡°The highest.¡± Alek¡¯s eyes held hers across the candlelit table. ¡°She taught me to recognize quality when i found it. In hockey, in business¨Cin people.¡± The conversation flowed easily as they ate, moving from family histories to professional philosophies to their shared passion for the game¡¯s future. Emma found herself sharing stories she¡¯d nearly forgotten¨Cchildhood ambitions, university triumphs, early professional disappointments before meeting Jack. ¡°I lost myself in that marriage,¡± she admitted, curled beside Alek on the sofa after dinner, the fire rebuilt and crackling. ¡°Not all at once. So gradually I barely noticed.¡± ¡°How so?¡± ¡°I had such ns after business school. Startup ideas. Investment strategies.¡± Emma stared into the mes. Then Jack¡¯s career took off, and suddenly my role was supporting his dream, not pursuing mine.¡± ¡°You resent that time?¡± ¡°Not resent, exactly. I loved him. I was proud of him.¡± Emma chose her words carefully. ¡°But Ipromised more than I should have. Let his needs overshadow mine until I couldn¡¯t remember what mine were.¡± Alek¡¯s arm tightened around her. ¡°And now?¡± ¡°Now I know exactly what I want.¡± She looked up at him. ¡°Professionally and personally.¡± The kiss that followed was different from those earlier¨Cless urgent, more profound. A connection beyond physical desire or shared circumstances. When they finally broke apart, Alek rested his forehead against hers. ¡°I have something to show you.¡± He led her to a part of the house they hadn¡¯t explored¨Ca ss¨Cwalled room overlooking the rear property. Inside was a simple desk,fortable chair, and walls covered with what appeared to be strategic nning materials¨Cwhiteboards with diagrams, notes, hockey systems. ¡°My thinking room,¡± Alek exined. ¡°Where the real work happens.¡± Emma examined the boards with professional interest, recognizing team restructuring ns, draft strategies -and then stopped, surprised. ¡°These are my ideas.¡± One section was dedicated to proposals she¡¯d submitted anonymously during her ¡°Emma Carter¡± days- concession pricing models, fan engagement strategies, international marketing approaches. Each carefully analyzed, expanded upon, integrated intorger ns ¡°You were implementing my suggestions even before you knew who I was toured ¡°Good ideas deserve development, regardless of source Alek watched her examine his work then learned you were Franklin¡¯s granddaughter, it made perfect sense. The strategic thinking, the statistical inte they reflected the Mitchell business acumen ¡°And here I thought you were just being nice to the boss¡¯s granddaughter) theme ¡°I was impressed by your mind long before I knew your family name Alek turned her gently to face tim kut as I fell in love with you as a woman, not as an owner or executive Emma froze, the word ¡®love¡® hanging between them. They¡¯d been careful to avoid that particr deration despite months of growing closeness. ¡°Is that what this is?¡± she asked softly. ¡°Love?¡± ¡°What else would you call it?¡± Alek¡¯s voice was steady, certain. ¡°I¡¯ve restructured my life around you. My thinking, my nning, my future¨Cthey all include you now.¡± Emma felt a profound shift inside her¨Clike puzzle pieces finally settling into their proper ces With Jack, love had been performance, amodation,promise. With Alek, it was partnership, respect, mutual growth. ¡°I love you too,¡± she said simply. ¡°I think I have for months.¡± Outside, the storm howled against the windows, but inside their private sanctuary, something vital had rified between them¨Ca breakaway from past patterns into something new and entirely their own. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring you here just for privacy,¡± Alek admitted, taking her hands in his. ¡°I brought you here because this ce represents my truest self. I wanted you to know that personpletely before¡ ¡°Before what?¡± He nced toward the desk drawer, then back to her. ¡°No. Not yet. Too soon.¡± Understanding dawned. ¡°Aleksander Volkov, do you have a ring in that drawer?¡± His startled expression confirmed her suspicion. ¡°I wasn¡¯t going to ask this weekend,¡± he said quickly. ¡°It¡¯s too soon after everything with Jack, the press conference, the trade drama- Emma silenced him with a kiss. ¡°When the timees,¡± she whispered against his lips, ¡°ask me here. In your thinking room. Where you make your most important decisions.¡± His smile was both relieved and radiant. ¡°Another strategy to consider carefully.¡± ¡°The most important one.¡± Emma led him back toward the main living area. ¡°But for now, we have approximately thirty¨Csix more hours of nothing scheduled, and I intend to make the most of them The storm outside had transformed from threat to gift, ensuring theirplete istion from the works this precious interlude, there were no teams to manage, no press to avoid, noplicated histories to navigate¨Cjust two people who had found in each other something worth building a future around. 18 year 21 sony is remar your meaning the Minstel but you need it was the mmadonly¡± tad Lise Chens varde drough the phone santed some unpancy Emma per artes at the office coffee untouched Monday morning quer setting see the the ther wh ¡°What¡¯s happene The Boston Head From page of the sorts section Emma opened heos, quiony navigating to the newspapers waste The Heardine made her stomach drop BLADES OWNERS SECRET RELATIONSHIP PREDATED PEYNOLDS DVORCE Below was a gramy phons of her and use entering his apartment oulding metams dearly wobler three is before her divorce was finalized During their professional distance periot ¡°Call Alek Emma toid Lisa Emergency meeting in ifteen minutes My office¡± She scanned the article quickly professionalism temporarily ovee by personal shoot. The piece cred sources close to team management caming Emma and Aler¡¯s rtionship had been ongoing for months before they publicly acknowledged -possibly even ovepping with her manage to Jack Most damning was the reporter¡¯s timeline meticulously constructed from venous sightings and leskad buliding security logs, suggesting frequentte¨Cnight meetings at Heks spamment during the separation Emma fet physicaly ill while technically nothing inconspnate had emed during her manage the octics were dismoun. Ther careful cooling off period umil after the divorce¨Cwaiting through snowstorms and tension and professional boundaries¨Cnow locked like a calcted cover story Her door opened without a innock. Ask enterad tablet in hand, expression thunderous ¡°You¡¯ve seen it the said unneces ¡°Yes¡± His voice was controlled but tight Legal is already reviewing for actionable defamation¡± secondster, followed by Emmas assistant carrying an armful of newspapers. Its everywhere Lisa reported grimly ¡°All local outlets picked it up ESPN is requestingment¡± i Emmasat straighter, forming herself into crisis management mode ¡°Options?¡± ¡°Denial with evidence Lisa suggested Building security videos showing professional timing of meetings. Witness statements from secunty personnel confirming you always left at appropriate hours.¡± ¡°Except the snowstorm night Emma said quietly The night of their first kiss¨Ctrapped in Alek¡¯s office the beginning of feelings they couldn¡¯t deny but managed to contain until after her divorce. The night Jack had discovered them ¡°You did nothing wrong¡± Alek insisted. ¡°We waited until appropriate boundaries were established¡± ¡°But it looks bad¡± Emma acknowledged. Especially since we¡¯ve been careful to maintain the narrative that our rtionship developed after the divorce¡± Lisa tapped her tablet thoughtfully ¡°Source investigation is critical. This level of detail suggests someone R 0 < Interference with inside ess.¡± ¡°Building security logs are restricted,¡± Alek noted. ¡°Someone with significant influence essed them¡± ¡°Or paid someone who had ess, Emma added, mind racing. ¡°Jack?¡± ¡°Possible,¡± Lisa conceded. ¡°But why now? You¡¯ve been officially together for months. The trade isplete There¡¯s no obvious benefit.¡± ¡°Revenge doesn¡¯t require logical benefit,¡± Alek pointed out. Emma rubbed her temples, a headache forming. ¡°The Board will have questions.¡± ¡°Already calling,¡± her assistant confirmed from the doorway, holding up Emma¡¯s office phone. ¡°Chairman Wilson wants an immediate exnation,¡± The next hours passed in a blur of damage control. Emma spoke with Board members individually, exining the situation with as much transparency as possible. Yes, she and Alek had developed feelings before her divorce was final. No, nothing inappropriate urred during her marriage. Yes, they had maintained professional distance until legal boundaries were clear. Most seemed cautiously supportive but concerned about public perception. Two were openly skeptical, suggesting an ethics review might be necessary to maintain organizational integrity. By noon, the story had evolved from local scandal to national sports talk fodder. Twitter erupted with opinions, most falling predictably along gender lines¨Cwomen generally supporting Emma¡¯s right to move on after Jack¡¯s infidelity, men questioning her professional judgment. Emma was reviewing draft statements with Lisa when Franklin called. ¡°You sound exhausted,¡± he noted without preamble. ¡°Long morning,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°How bad is this, Grandpa?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve survived worse business crises before breakfast,¡± Franklin said dismissively. ¡°This is a tempest in a teapot.¡± ¡°The Board doesn¡¯t see it that way. Wilson is suggesting an ethics review.¡± ¡°Wilson is an old fool who¡¯s threatened bypetent women. Franklin¡¯s voice hardened. ¡°I¡¯ll handle the Board. You focus on the public message.¡± ¡°What if the narrative sticks?¡± Emma voiced her deepest fear. ¡°Everything I¡¯ve built here could be undermined.¡± ¡°Only if you let it.¡± Franklin¡¯s tone softened slightly. ¡°Remember who you are, Emmy. You¡¯re not just my granddaughter or Jack¡¯s ex¨Cwife or Alek¡¯s girlfriend. You¡¯re Emma Mitchell, and you¡¯ve earned your ce through intelligence and hard work.¡± His confidence steadied her. ¡°Thanks, Grandpa.¡± ¡°Now,¡± Franklin continued briskly, ¡°where¡¯s Aleksander in all this? Hiding under his desk? ¡°Investigating the source with security.¡± Emma smiled despite everything. ¡°He¡¯s been incredible, actually Completely focused on protecting the organization, not just himself¡± ¡°Good man. Keep him.¡± After hanging up, Emma found herself facing a new challenge¨Can email from the yers¡® Association requesting rification about ¡°potential conflicts of interest in management decisions. The trade controversy, seemingly resolved, had reignited with new ammuniti At three o¡¯clock, Alek texted Office security has a lead. Can you meet in monitoring room? Emma headed downstairs to the arena¡¯s security center, where monitors disyed feeds from dozens of cameras throughout the facility. Alek stood with Curtis Jenkins, head of security, reviewing footage ¡°What did you find?¡± Emma asked. Jenkins pointed to a screen showing the executive corridor. ¡°Two nights ago, after hours. Watch¡± The timestamp showed 11:47 PM. A figure moved cautiously down the hallway, using a key card to enter the administrative offices. The camera angle captured a clear profile. ¡°Board member Adams, Emma said, surprised. ¡°What was he doing here sote?¡± ¡°essing building logs,¡± Jenkins exined, forwarding to another clip. ¡°He spent twenty minutes in the security database, focusing specifically on ess records for Mr. Volkov¡¯s residence.¡± ¡°But why?¡± Emma frowned, ¡°Richard has always been supportive of my leadership.¡± Newest update provided by find?novel ¡°Not always,¡± Alek said grimly. ¡°He opposed your initial appointment until your grandfather persuaded him. And he voted against the Reynolds trade, arguing we should give Jack more rehabilitation time.¡± Emma processed this betrayal. ¡°He leaked the information to the press. ¡°We have him entering and leaving the Herald offices yesterday afternoon.¡± Jenkins disyed another clip. ¡°Pretty conclusive.¡± ¡°I want this handled delicately,¡± Emma decided. ¡°No usations until we speak with him directly.¡± ¡°He betrayed your trust, Alek argued. ¡°Deliberately undermined your authority.¡± ¡°Which is why we need to understand his motivations before taking action.¡± Emma checked her watch. ¡°The Board meeting is in thirty minutes. I¡¯ll address this there.¡± Watch Ads (0/20) > 87 18 year 22 Ice As they rode the elevator back to the executive level, Alek maintained professional distance¨Cnot touching her, careful of security cameras that might create morepromising footage. ¡°This changes our approach,¡± he said quietly. ¡°Board involvement makes its an internal governance issue, not just a PR problem.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma kept her voice equally low. ¡°We need to get ahead of it.¡± ¡°By ¡®we, you mean you.¡± Alek¡¯s expression was resolute, ¡°Emma, I¡¯ve been thinking. Perhaps I should step back temporarily.¡± Emma stared at him. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± ¡°Offer my resignation. Create distance between management decisions and our rtionship.¡± ¡°Absolutely not.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was sharp. ¡°That¡¯s exactly what Adams wants¨Cto divide leadership and force concessions.¡± ¡°It would protect you professionally.¡± ¡°While sending the message that we did something wrong. Emma countered. ¡°We didn¡¯t.¡± The elevator doors opened, preventing further discussion. They walked silently to the boardroom, where members had already begun gathering for the emergency session. Adams sat reviewing papers, seemingly unconcerned. Chairman Wilson called the meeting to order with characteristic pomposity. ¡°We face an unprecedented situation requiring immediate attention. Ms. Mitchell, Mr. Volkov, the floor is yours.¡± Emma stepped forward, decision made. ¡°Before we address the press allegations, there¡¯s another matter requiring Board attention.¡± She nodded to Jenkins, who distributed security footage screenshots to each member. ¡°Two nights ago, Board member Adams essed confidential security records without authorization and subsequently shared them with the Boston Herald.¡± Gasps and murmurs erupted around the table. Adams¡® face flushed deep red. ¡°This constitutes a breach of fiduciary duty and vition of confidentiality agreements all Board members sign,¡± Emma continued steadily. ¡°I request an immediate vote on Adams¡® removal from the Board, as outlined in our bws.¡± Adams stood, sputtering. This is outrageous! I was conducting legitimate oversight of management conflicts of interest!¡± ¡°Board oversight is conducted through proper channels, Emma replied calmly. ¡°Not midnight database raids and newspaper leaks.¡± ¡°You¡¯re diverting attention from the real issue,¡± Adams insisted. ¡°Your inappropriate rtionship with Voi and its influence on team decisions!¡± ¡°The timing of my personal rtionship has been misrepresented,¡± justify corporate espionage.¡± a said. ¡°But even if it hadn¡¯t, it doesnt Wilson looked distinctly ufortable. ¡°Perhaps we should table Ms. Mitchell¡¯s motion until we¡¯ve R O addressed the primary concern- ¡°The primary concern, Charles,¡± Franklin Mitchell¡¯s voice rang out as he entered the boardroom unexpectedly. ¡°is that a Board member vited his legal obligations to this organization¡± Emma had never been so grateful for her grandfather¡¯s ir for dramatic timing ¡°Franklin,¡± Wilson acknowledged, clearly thrown, ¡°We weren¡¯t expecting yo ¡°Clearly.¡± Franklin took his customary seat at the head of the table. ¡°Otherwise you might have remembered that Board governance is my particr area of expertise¡± Over the next hour, Franklin masterfully redirected the meeting from Emma¡¯s personal life to Adams¡® professional misconduct. With surgical precision, he built the case for immediate removal, citing bw vitions, fiduciary breaches, and potential legal liability. When the vote came, Adams was removed 7-2, with only Wilson and another member dissenting. As security escorted the disgraced Board member out, he pointed at Emma and Alek. ¡°This isn¡¯t over! The yers deserve leadership without conflicts of interest!¡± After he was gone, Franklin addressed the remaining members. ¡°Now, shall we discuss the actual media situation like adults?¡± The resulting strategy was straightforward: acknowledge the rtionship began emotionally before the divorce was final but maintain that professional boundaries were respected until appropriate legal separation. Emphasize the collective nature of all management decisions, particrly the Reynolds trade Offerplete transparency about decision processes going forward. ¡°This organization¡¯s strengthes from coborative leadership,¡± Franklin concluded. ¡°My granddaughter and Mr. Volkov have demonstrated exemry professionalism during personally challenging circumstances. I suggest we support them rather than undermine them.¡± As the meeting adjourned, Emma felt aplex mix of emotions¨Crelief at Adams¡® removal, gratitude for her grandfather¡¯s intervention, concern about ongoing repercussions. But most of all, a steely determination not to let this undermine everything she¡¯d worked to build. you In the hallway afterward, Alek caught up with her. ¡°Are alright?¡± ¡°I¡¯m angry,¡± she admitted quietly. ¡°And disappointed in Adams. But mostly determined not to let this define us -professionally or personally¡± ¡°Your grandfather was magnificent.¡± ¡°He¡¯s had decades of practice handling boardroom crises.¡± Emma smiled faintly. ¡°But yes, his timing was impable.¡± Alek nced around the empty corridor, then said softly, ¡°About what I suggested earlier-¡± ¡°It¡¯s not happening,¡± Emma cut him off. ¡°No resignations. No professional separations. We face this toother or not at all.¡± ¡°You¡¯re sure? The scrutiny will intensify before it diminishes.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve spent my entire career hiding parts of myself¨Cmy name, my wealth, my ambitions.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°I won¡¯t hide us too. We did nothing wrong, Alek.¡± 223 ¿Ú His expression softened. Tm more concerned about how this affects you than myself¡± 1 know¡± Emma resisted the urge to touch him in the workce corridor. ¡°That¡¯s one of the many reasons love you.¡± Lisa approached with tablet in hand, interrupting the moment. ¡°Draft statement ready for review, and the press is assembled for your four o¡¯clock.¡± ¡°Well be right there, Emma assured her. As Lisa walked ahead, Emma turned back to Alek. ¡°Rememberst month when you said we shouldn¡¯t hide because it would make it seem like we had something to hide?¡± ¡°I remember¡± ¡°You were right.¡± Emma straightened her shoulders. ¡°Let¡¯s go tell our story¨Cthe real one.¡± They walked together toward the press room, not touching but united. Whatever interference they faced- from disgruntled Board members, hostile media, or Jack¡¯s lingering shadow¨Cthey would navigate it together, with the same strength that had brought them through every previous challenge. Chapters first released on f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l? Some things were worth fighting for. What they had built together¨Cprofessionally and personally¨Cdefinitely qualified. Watch Ads (0/20) > H Vote 18 year 23 Short Hand ¡°Seattlees to town next Tuesday¡® Coach Donovan mentioned casually at the end of the artery strategy meeting ¡°Reynolds first game back in Boston Emma kept her expression neutral despite the sudden tension in the roof. Two months had passed since the Adams scandal, and things had finally settled into a new normal. The media frenzy had eventually died. down. Adams recement on the Board¨Ca progressive¨Cminded woman with extensive sports managemer experience¨Chad integrated seamlessly, and Emma and Alek had found afortable bnce between professional coboration and personal privacy Jack¡¯s return threatened that hard won equilibrium ¡°Marketing wants to know if we¡¯re doing any acknowledgment, Peterson said, looking ufortable Video tribute or something for his years with the team¡± ¡°Standard protocol for returning veteran yers is a brief highlight reel during the first timeout.¡± Alek replied evenly. ¡°I see no reason to deviate.¡± Emma nodded in agreement. ¡°Let¡¯s treat this like any other former yer¡¯s return. Nothing more, nothing less.¡± If only it were that simple. In the weeks since his trade, Jack had gradually rebuilt his image in Seattle. His y had improved considerably¨Cenough to earn feature stories about his ¡°career renaissance¡± and ¡°fresh start¡± He¡¯d given carefully worded interviews expressing gratitude for his time in Boston while emphasizing his excitement about Seattle¡¯s ¡®supportive management approach.¡± The subtle digs weren¡¯t lost on anyone, but Emma had maintained professional silence, never responding to the veiled criticisms. The team¡¯s improved record under her leadership spoke louder than any defense she could offer. Now, however, Jack would be physically present¨Cin her arena, facing her team, unavoidably in her orbit for the first time since his dramatic departure. ¡°We should discuss security protocols, Alek said as they walked back to the executive offices. ¡°Media management, credential restrictions, that sort of thing.¡± ¡°Already on it,¡± Emma assured him. ¡°Lisa¡¯s preparingprehensive guidelines.¡± ¡°And you?¡± Alek asked quietly when they were alone in the elevator. ¡°How are you feeling about seeing him again?¡± Emma considered the question seriously. ¡°Professionally prepared. Personally¡ she shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s just another game.¡± press the issue. Alek¡¯s skeptical expression said he didn¡¯t quite believe her, but he didn¡¯t press By Tuesday morning, Emma realized ¡°just another game¡± had been optimistic thinking. Local sports radio buzzed with Reynolds¡® return narratives. Season ticket holders had been offered premium for their seats by Seattle fans wanting to witness the homing. Security reported credential requests had tripled normal fevels for a weeknight game ¡°We¡¯ve designated separate media areas for pre game interviews Lisa exined during their morning briefing Reynolds will hold court in the visitors press room, will away from our executive spaces¡± And post¨Cgame Emma asked Simr separation We¡¯ve coordinated with Seattle¡¯s PR team to ensure unexpected confrontations Emma nodded, grateful for the thorough nning ¡°Any word from Jack directly? Personal contact attempts?¡± ¡°Nothing¡± Lisa confirmed ¡°His agent coordinated everything through proper channels¡± ¡°Good. Let¡¯s keep it that way The day passed in a blur of meetings and routine management tasks, but Emma found her concentration repeatedly drifting to the evening ahead. Not because she missed Jack or feared confrontation, but because his return represented a chapter not quite closed¨Can epilogue that needed writing before she could truly ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? Find?Novel move forward. At home that evening, preparing for the game, Emma found herself taking unusual care with her appearance She chose a structured navy dress¨Cprofessional but ttering¨Cwith the hockey stick and pen pendant Alek had given her months earlier. Her ¡°battle armor,¡± as Mia had dubbed it when she¡¯d called to offer moral support ¡°You look perfect,¡± Alek said when he picked her up. They¡¯d taken to carpooling to games, a small domestic routine that brought Emma surprisingfort. ¡°Confident but not trying too hard?¡± she asked, only half¨Cjoking. ¡°Exactly that.¡± His kiss was brief but reassuring. ¡°Ready for this?¡± ¡°As I¡¯ll ever be.¡± The arena buzzed with unusual energy for a Tuesday night game. Seattle¡¯s strong season start had generated excitement, but everyone knew the real draw was Jack Reynolds facing his former team¨Cand by extension, his former wife. Emma maintained her typical pre¨Cgame routine¨Cbrief visit to the locker room to wish the team well, quick check¨Cins with key staff, then retreat to the owner¡¯s box where she watched games with selected executives and asionally her grandfather. Tonight, Franklin had insisted on attending despite recent health concerns. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t miss this for the world,¡± he¡¯d dered when Emma suggested he watch from home. ¡°Some battles require family reinforcements. As the teams took the ice for warmups, Emma¡¯s eyes inevitably found Jack. He looked good¨Cfocused, fit, the haunted expression from his final Boston days reced with determined intensity. He didn¡¯t nce toward the executive box, keeping his attention strictly on his pre game routine. ¡°He¡¯s lost weight, Franklin observed, following her gaze. ¡°Looks like he finally started taking condition seriously.¡± ¡°Seattle¡¯s been good for him,¡± Emma acknowledged, surprising herself with theck of resentment in the observation. ¡°Fresh start, clean te.¡± 23 ¡°Sometimes that¡¯s what people need.¡± Franklin patted her hand. ¡°You gave him that, whether he appreciates it or not.¡± The game itself proved unexpectedlypelling hockey. Both teams yed with yoff like intensity. trading goals through two periods to reach a 2-2 tie. Jack yed well but hadn¡¯t scored, though his line generated consistent pressure. During the second intermission, Emma stepped into the owner¡¯s box bathroom to refresh her lipstick. When she emerged, she found herself face¨Cto¨Cface with Veronica Wells ¡°Ms. Mitchell,¡± the supermodel greeted her, looking impossibly elegant in designer jeans and a Seattle team jacket. ¡°I hope I¡¯m not intruding.¡± ¡°Ms. Wells.¡± Emma maintained herposure despite the surprise. ¡°Security usually doesn¡¯t allow visitors to the executive level during games.¡± ¡°I can be persuasive. Veronica smiled without warmth. ¡°I wanted to speak with you directly¡± ¡°About?¡± ¡°Jack, obviously. Veronica nced around the empty hallway. ¡°He doesn¡¯t know I¡¯m here. In fact, he thinks I¡¯m in Mn. Emma¡¯s confusion must have shown on her face. ¡°We¡¯ve reconciled,¡± Veronica exined. Two months ago. Very quietly.¡± ¡°Congrattions,¡± Emma said automatically. ¡°But I¡¯m not sure why you¡¯re telling me this.¡± ¡°Because despite everything, I believe you care about his wellbeing.¡± Veronica¡¯s perfect features softened slightly. ¡°He¡¯s better in Seattle. Healthier. Actually attending therapy rather than just iming to.¡± ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that.¡± ¡°It needs to stay that way.¡± Veronica¡¯s voice sharpened. ¡°Tonight is significant for him¨Cproving he can move forward, facing the past without being consumed by it.¡± ¡°What exactly are you asking of me?¡± Emma crossed her arms, defensive. ¡°Nothing dramatic. Just¡ if you encounter him, be kind.¡± Veronica¡¯s gaze was direct. ¡°Not because he deserves it, but because cruelty would set back months of progress.¡± Watch Ads (0/20) > 87 H Vote 18 year 23 (2 Short handed Short handed The request¨Cso unexpected and uncharacteristically vulnerable¨Ccaught Emma off guard. ¡°I have no intention of being cruel to Jack. We¡¯ve both moved on.¡± ¡°Have you?¡± Veronica studied her. ¡°Because the press seems determined foreignite every possible conflict tonight.¡± ¡°The press thrives on conflict. That doesn¡¯t mean we have to provide it.¡± Veronica seemed satisfied with this answer. ¡°Good. Then we understand each other.¡± ¡°How did you get up here anyway?¡± Emma asked as the model turned to leave. ¡°I used to date the arena security director in Mn.¡± Veronica shrugged elegantly. ¡°Men in that position tend to think alike across continents.¡± After she departed, Emma returned to the owner¡¯s box, processing the strange encounter. Jack and Veronica reconciled. The vtile couple who¡¯d imploded so spectacrly had found their way back to each other, just as Emma and Alek had found their way forward together. Perhaps there was symmetry in that. The third period brought the drama everyone had anticipated. Seattle took the lead early, then Boston tied it with five minutes remaining. The crowd roared with every shift, the ordinary Tuesday game transformed into something approaching yoff atmosphere. With two minutes left, Jack¡¯s line took the ice for Seattle. Emma found herself leaning forward involuntarily, watching his familiar skating stride, the way he called for passes¨Chabits she¡¯d observed hundreds of times from this same vantage point. The moment unfolded as if scripted: Jack received a cross¨Cice pass, deked past Boston¡¯s defenseman, and found himself alone against the goaltender. His shot was perfect¨Ctop corner, unreachable, the game¨Cwinning goal with 1:47 remaining. The arena fell silent except for the celebrating Seattle yers. Jack¡¯s teammates mobbed him along the boards, directly below the owner¡¯s box. As they dispersed for the center ice faceoff, Jack looked up¨Cdirectly at Emma. Their eyes met for three heartbeats. No anger, no triumph, no resentment. Just acknowledgment. Then he nodded once¨Calmost respectfully¨Cbefore skating back to his bench. ¡°Well,¡± Franklin murmured beside her. ¡°That was civilized.¡± Emma felt a knot inside her loosen slightly. ¡°Yes, it was.¡± Boston pulled their goalie but couldn¡¯t equalize. As the teams lined up for post¨Cgame handshakes, Alek appeared at Emma¡¯s side. ¡°Everything okay?¡± he asked quietly. ¡°Surprisingly, yes.¡± Emma watched Jack shake hands with his former teammates without incident. ¡°I had an interesting conversation with Veronica Wells during intermission.¡± ¡°The supermodel?¡± Alek looked confused. ¡°How did she get up here?¡± ? R O III < Short handed + Points? ¡°Dating security directors has its privileges, apparently.¡± Emma filled him in on the encounter and Veronica¡¯s revtion about her reconciliation with Jack. ¡°Interesting timing,¡± Alek observed. ¡°Must have happened right around when he was traded.¡± ¡°Fresh start for everyone,¡± Emma echoed her earlier thought. As they prepared to leave, Lisa appeared looking concerned. ¡°Smallpitation. The press is requesting jointments from you and Reynolds about his return¨Ca ¡®closure¡® narrative. Seattle¡¯s PR team is surprisingly open to it.¡± Emma exchanged nces with Alek, whose expression remained neutral. ¡°What do you rmend?¡± she asked. ¡°Professionally? A brief, amicable joint statement could finally put this storyline to rest.¡± Lisa hesitated. ¡°Personally? That¡¯s entirely your call.¡± Emma considered her options. The easy path was refusal¨Cmaintain separation, avoid potential awkwardness. But something about her brief eye contact with Jack, and Veronica¡¯s unexpected visit, suggested a different approach might be possible. ¡°Two minutes,¡± she decided. ¡°Brief statements, no questions. And I want Franklin and Alek present.¡± Lisa nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll arrange it. Press room in fifteen minutes.¡± As they walked toward the executive elevator, Alek touched Emma¡¯s arm lightly. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this.¡± ¡°Actually, I think I do.¡± Emma smiled faintly. ¡°Some stories need proper endings.¡± The moment proved less dramatic than anticipated. Jack entered the press room wearing his Seattle gear, looking tired butposed. He nodded politely to Emma, Franklin, and Alek before taking his position behind the podium. Camera shes exploded as Jack and Emma stood side by side for the first time since the divorce. Journalists leaned forward eagerly, hoping for controversy. Instead, Emma spoke briefly about Jack¡¯s contributions to Boston during his years with the team, congratted him on his sessful transition to Seattle, and wished him continued sess-¡°except when ying against us.¡± Jack, in turn, thanked the Boston organization for his time there, acknowledged the support he¡¯d received during difficult periods, and expressed appreciation for a ¡°clean transition that benefited everyone involved.¡± No subtle digs, no veiled criticisms¨Cjust professional courtesy. As they concluded, Jack turned to Emma. ¡°Thank you for agreeing to this. I know it wasn¡¯t easy.¡± ¡°Professional courtesy,¡± Emma replied, but without coldness. ¡°More than I deserved,¡± Jack admitted quietly, then surprised her by extending his hand to Alek. ¡°Take care of her. She deserves the best.¡± Alek¡¯s handshake was firm but not aggressive. ¡°I know.¡± As Jack left with the Seattle contingent, Emma felt a sense ofpletion she hadn¡¯t anticipated. Not forgiveness exactly, nor friendship¨Cbut the acknowledgment that some chapters were truly finished. ¡°Well handled,¡± Franklin said as they departed. ¡°Both of you.¡± ? mo R ||| O In the car afterward, Emma finally rxed, exhaustion catching up with her. ¡°That was more draining than I expected.¡± ¡°You did beautifully,¡± Alek assured her, reaching for her hand. ¡°It felt¡ final,¡± Emma observed. ¡°In a good way.¡± ¡°Closure is underrated.¡± Emma turned to study his profile as he drove. ¡°You know what I was thinking during that awful press conference?¡± ¡°How much you wanted to escape?¡± ¡°No.¡± Emma squeezed his hand. ¡°I was thinking how grateful I am that everything happened exactly as it did. Even the painful parts.¡± Alek nced at her, surprised. ¡°Even Jack¡¯s meltdowns? The Adams scandal? The public scrutiny?¡± ¡°All of it.¡± Emma¡¯s certainty surprised even herself. ¡°Because it led here¨Cto us, to this life we¡¯re building. I wouldn¡¯t change any of it.¡± Newest update provided by find{n}ovel Alek brought her hand to his lips. ¡°Neither would I.¡± As they drove home through the Boston night, Emma realized they had finally moved beyond ying short¨Chanded¨Cdefending against threats, managing crises, reacting to Jack¡¯s drama. For the first time, they could truly focus on building their future rather than navigating their past. Jack Reynolds would always be part of her history. But after tonight, he no longer defined any part of her story going forward. Comments 18 year 24 Blocked Shot +8 Points Blocked Shot Emma adjusted her earring in the full¨Clength mirror, admiring how the diamonds caught the light. The ck. gown she¡¯d chosen for tonight¡¯s charity g was a departure from her usual understated professional attire -backless, fitted, undeniably morous. ¡°You¡¯re staring again,¡± she said to Alek¡¯s reflection as he leaned against the bedroom doorframe watching her. ¡°Professional hazard of dating the most beautiful woman in Boston.¡± He crossed to stand behind her, resting his hands lightly on her bare shoulders. ¡°You look incredible.¡± ¡°So do you.¡± Emma turned to straighten his bow tie. Six months into their rtionship, these domestic moments still gave her a quiet thrill¨Cthe easy intimacy, the shared spaces, the unguarded affection. Tonight marked their first major public appearance since Jack¡¯s return game two weeks earlier. The annual Hockey Fights Cancer g drew the city¡¯s elite¨Cteam owners, yers, politicians, business leaders¨Cfor a night of fundraising and strategicworking. ¡°Ready for this?¡± Alek asked as they walked to the car. ¡°First time we¡¯re attending as an official couple rather than colleagues.¡± ¡°About time.¡± Emma settled into the passenger seat. ¡°I¡¯m tired of pretending we¡¯re just business associates who happen to leave events at the same time.¡± The Boston Harbor Hotel ballroom glittered with Boston¡¯s power yers when they arrived. Emma moved through the crowd with practiced ease, greeting sponsors, exchanging pleasantries with league officials, making strategic connections. Alek remained nearby, sometimes at her side for joint conversations, sometimes engaging separately with his own professional contacts. ¡°The league¡¯s power couple arrives,¡± Franklin greeted them at their assigned table, looking dapper in his tuxedo despite the oxygen tube discreetly tucked behind his ear. His health had stabilized but not improved- a concern Emma had learned to live with while treasuring their time together. ¡°Hardly,¡± Emma demurred, kissing his cheek. ¡°Just doing our jobs.¡± ¡°While looking spectacr.¡± Franklin winked at Alek. ¡°You¡¯re a lucky man, Volkov.¡± ¡°Believe me, I know,¡± Alek replied, pulling out Emma¡¯s chair. This text is hosted at F?nd-Novel Dinner proceeded pleasantly enough¨Cdecent food, predictable speeches, thefortable rhythm of a high¨Csociety fundraiser. Emma found herself genuinely enjoying the evening, savoring the normalcy of attending with Alek openly at her side after months of professional distance and careful public appearances. During the silent auction portion, Emma excused herself to use the restroom. On her return, she took a detour through the disy of auction items, admiring the signed memorabilia and luxury experiences on offer. ¡°Mitchell¡¯s granddaughter certainly knows how to fill out a dress, I¡¯ll give her that.¡± The male voice came from just beyond a decorative pir¨Cnot intended for her ears but clearly audible in the momentary lull between songs. Emma froze, recognition dawning. Board member Harrison Wilson, the Chairman¡¯s son who had recently joined after Adams¡® removal. ¡°Old man Mitchell knew what he was doing,¡± another voice replied¨CPeterson from Marketing. ¡°Pretty face to represent the organization while Volkov handles the actual business.¡± +¨C ? | mo R ||| O Blocked Shot ¡°You think they were involved before she got the position?¡± Wilson asked. ¡°Had to be. Volkov¡¯s ambitious, but he¡¯s not stupid. Sleeping with the owner¡¯s granddaughter is a career advancement strategy, not just a personal choice.¡± Emma¡¯s cheeks burned, but professional training kept her rooted in ce, concealed by the pir. ¡°Think she actually makes any decisions, or just nods along in meetings Wilson chuckled. ¡°She¡¯s notpletely useless,¡± Peterson admitted reluctantly. ¡°Some decent marketing instincts. But the financial and operational stuff? That¡¯s all Volkov. She¡¯s smart enough to let him handle what she doesn¡¯t understand.¡± ¡°ssic nepotism. Wouldn¡¯t havested a week in the position without her name and her boyfriend.¡± Emma had heard enough. She stepped deliberately around the pir,ing face¨Cto¨Cface with the men. Their expressions shifted instantly from amused condescension to mortified recognition. ¡°Ms. Mitchell-¡± Peterson stammered. ¡°We were just-¡± ¡°Discussing my qualifications,¡± Emma finished calmly. ¡°Or perceivedck thereof.¡± Wilson attempted recovery. ¡°Just locker room talk, you understand. No offense intended.¡± ¡°Strange,¡± Emma replied coolly. ¡°I¡¯ve been in actual locker rooms with yers who manage more respectful conversation.¡± ¡°We apologize for any misunderstanding,¡± Peterson offered weakly. ¡°There¡¯s no misunderstanding.¡± Emma maintained direct eye contact. ¡°You believe I¡¯m unqualified for my position and involved with Mr. Volkov for mutual advantage. Your positions are perfectly clear.¡± Without waiting for their response, Emma turned and walked away, maintainingposure despite the anger and humiliation churning inside her. She spotted Alek scanning the room for her and altered course to intercept him before he could see Wilson and Peterson, whose guilt would be obvious to anyone who knew them. ¡°There you are,¡± Alek smiled, oblivious to her inner turmoil. ¡°They¡¯re about to announce the auction winners.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not feeling well,¡± Emma said quietly. ¡°Would you mind if we left early?¡± Concern immediately reced his smile. ¡°Of course not. What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°Just a headache. Nothing serious.¡± She forced a small smile. ¡°But I¡¯d rather go before it gets worse.¡± They made discreet goodbyes to Franklin, who studied Emma with suspicion but didn¡¯t press the issue. In the car, Alek reached for her hand. ¡°Want to tell me what really happened in there?¡± Emma stared out the window at passing streetlights. ¡°Am I qualified to run the des?¡± Alek¡¯s confusion was evident. ¡°Of course you are. Where is thising from?¡± ¡°Just answer the question. Honestly.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve increased revenue by fifteen percent in your first year. yer satisfaction metrics are at a five¨Cyear high. Season ticket renewals are up despite raised prices.¡± Alek squeezed her hand. ¡°By every objective measure, you¡¯re not just qualified¨Cyou¡¯re excelling.¡± < Blocked Shot +8 Points > ¡°Because of my business acumen? Or because you¡¯ve been carrying the operational load while I handle the public¨Cfacing responsibilities?¡± Alek pulled the car over, putting it in park to give her his full attention. ¡°Emma, what happened at the g?¡± Watch Ads (0/20) > 18 year 25 Off the Ice She ryed the conversation she¡¯d overheard, watching his expression darken from concern to anger. ¡°Wilson and Peterson,¡± he growled. ¡°I¡¯ll speak to them tomorrow.¡± ¡°No, you won¡¯t.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°That would only confirm their belief that I need you to fight my battles.¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t about fighting battles. It¡¯s about basic respect.¡± ¡°The respect has to be earned, not enforced.¡± Emma gazed out the windshield. ¡°What if they¡¯re right, Alek? What if I am just trading on my name and our rtionship?¡± ¡°That¡¯s ridiculous.¡± ¡°Is it?¡± She turned to face him. ¡°I neverpleted my MBA. My business experience before the des was minimal. I learned hockey operations on the fly.¡± ¡°While developing revolutionary pricing models,munity engagement strategies, and yer development approaches,¡± Alek countered. ¡°Emma, you¡¯re brilliant at this job. Wilson and Peterson are threatened bypetent women, nothing more.¡± ¡°Maybe.¡± Emma wasn¡¯t convinced. ¡°But perception matters in leadership. If the Board and staff believe I¡¯m unqualified, it undermines every decision I make.¡± Alek studied her, recognition dawning. ¡°You¡¯re not just upset. You¡¯re nning something.¡± Emma nodded slowly. ¡°I¡¯m going to get my MBA.¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°I started the program years ago, before Jack¡¯s career took precedence. Left with only my capstone project iplete.¡± Emma straightened in her seat. ¡°Harvard¡¯s executive program would allow me to finish while continuing to work.¡± ¡°Emma, you don¡¯t need another degree to prove yourself.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not about the degree itself. It¡¯s about removing any legitimate basis for questioning my qualifications.¡± Alek sighed, restarting the car. ¡°You¡¯ve already decided.¡± ¡°I have.¡± The rest of the drive passed in thoughtful silence. Emma could sense Alek processing her decision¨Cnot opposing it exactly, but concerned about the motivations behind it. When they reached her apartment, he came up as usual, their evening routine continuing despite the underlying tension. ¡°How would this work logistically?¡± he asked finally as they prepared for bed. ¡°The executive MBA is s¡® significant timemitment.¡± ¡°sses every other weekend, plus evening sessions.¡± Emma removed her earrings, setting them carefully i their case. ¡°Some travel for intensive modules.¡± ¡°While maintaining your full¨Ctime role with the team.¡± ¡°People do it all the time.¡± Alek sat on the edge of the bed, watching her remove her makeup. ¡°This is about proving something to yourself, not just to Wilson and Peterson.¡± Emma paused, cloth pressed to her face. ¡°Maybe. Is that wrong?¡± ¡°Not wrong. Just unnecessary.¡± Alek¡¯s voice softened. ¡°You have nothing to prove, Emma. To anyone.¡± ¡°Except myself¡± She finished her routine and joined him on the bed. ¡°Dont you see? Every time I¡¯ve faced a challenge¨Cfrom Jack, from the media, from the Board¨CI¡¯ve relied on you or Grandpa to help navigate it. I need to standpletely on my own.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t think you already do?¡± ¡°I think I want to be so unquestionably qualified that even men like Wilson can¡¯t dismiss me as a pretty figurehead.¡± Alek was quiet for a long moment. ¡°I understand the impulse. I just hate that those idiots¡® opinions matter to you.¡± ¡°Their opinions don¡¯t matter. The principle does.¡± Emma took his hand. ¡°I need your support on this.¡± ¡°You have it. Always.¡± Alek kissed her palm. ¡°I just don¡¯t want you running yourself into the ground trying to prove something to people who aren¡¯t worth the effort.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not for them,¡± Emma insisted. ¡°It¡¯s for me. For my future in this industry.¡± Later, as Alek slept beside her, Emmay awake, scrolling through the Harvard Business School application on her tablet. The executive program started in three months¨Cenough time to prepare her application and arrange her work schedule. She had no illusions about the challenge ahead. Running a professional sports franchise whilepleting an intensive MBA program would test her limits. Time with Alek would inevitably be reduced. Sleep would be a luxury rather than a necessity. But as she looked at the man sleeping peacefully beside her, Emma felt a renewed sense of purpose. She loved him deeply¨Cloved the partnership they¡¯d built, the future they were nning together. But she couldn¡¯t truly be his equal partner if doubts about her qualifications lingered, either in others¡® minds or her own. Some things worth having required sacrifice. Some blocked shots hurt but prevented greater damage. And sometimes, the most important person to prove yourself to was the face in the mirror. ¨C ¡°You¡¯re really doing this.¡± Alek¡¯s statement held no judgment as he helped Emma carry boxes into her study the following weekend. After confirming her eligibility for the program, she¡¯d thrown herself into application preparation with characteristic intensity. Content originallyes from FindN0vel ¡°I am.¡± Emma arranged reference books on her desk, creating an efficient workspace. ¡°Application due three weeks.¡± ¡°And if you¡¯re epted?¡± ¡°When I¡¯m epted, sses start in April.¡± Her confidence wasn¡¯t arrogance¨Cher undergraduate record was ster, her professional achievements impressive, her rmendation letters from industry leaders including her grandfather would bepelling, Alek set down thest box of materials. ¡°Have you told the Board yet?¡± ¡°Meeting with Wilson tomorrow. Then the full Board next week.¡± Emma straightened, stretching her back. ¡°I¡¯ve prepared a detailed schedule showing how I¡¯ll manage both responsibilities.¡± ¡°Of course you have.¡± Alek¡¯s smile held equal parts admiration and concef ¡°You¡¯ve thought of everything.¡± ¡°Not everything.¡± Emma approached him, wrapping her arms around his waist. ¡°I haven¡¯t figured out how to clone myself so I can spend proper time with you while doing all this.¡± ¡°We¡¯ll manage.¡± Alek kissed her forehead. ¡°I¡¯m a patient man.¡± ¡°Too patient sometimes.¡± Emma looked up at him. ¡°Are you really okay with this? Honestly?¡± Alek considered the question seriously. ¡°I admire your determination. I support your goals. I understand your motivations.¡± He brushed hair from her face. ¡°I just wish you could see yourself through my eyes, so you¡¯d know how unnecessary this particr proof is.¡± ¡°What do you see?¡± Emma asked softly. ¡°Brilliance. Integrity. Natural leadership.¡± His voice deepened. ¡°The most capable person I¡¯ve ever worked with, who happens to also be the woman I love.¡± Emma¡¯s chest tightened with emotion. ¡°That¡¯s why I need to do this. To be the person you already think I am.¡± ¡°You already are that person.¡± Alek¡¯s hands framed her face. ¡°But if this is what you need, I¡¯m with you. Every step.¡± As they stood in her newly organized study¨Ctextbooks stacked, application materials sorted, the future simultaneously moreplicated and more focused¨CEmma felt a curious mixture of determination and gratitude. The blocked shot she¡¯d experienced at the g hadn¡¯t stopped her momentum; instead, it had redirected her toward a goal she hadn¡¯t realized she still wanted. And unlike her previous academic pursuits, sacrificed for Jack¡¯s career, this one would move forward with Alek¡¯s unwavering support¨Cnot because he thought she needed the validation, but because he understood she needed to prove something to herself. The journey ahead would test them both¨Ctheir rtionship still new enough to feel the strain of divided attention, their professional partnership entering uncharted territory as she added student to her already demanding role. But unlike thest time she¡¯d faced this crossroads, Emma wouldn¡¯t be sacrificing her ambitions for someone else¡¯sfort. This time, she was choosing herself¨Cher growth, her validation, her future. The fact that Alek supported that choice without hesitation told her everything she needed to know about the foundation they were building together. < 18 year 26 < Hard Shot Hard Shot + Ports > ¡°At least let Walter drive you home,¡± Alek suggested. ¡°Emma and I can meet you at the arenater.¡± To their surprise, Franklin agreed without protest¨Ca sign of fatigue more concerning than any medical report. After seeing him safely to his car with Walter, Emma and Alek stood alone on Harvard¡¯s historic campus. ¡°Congrattions, Ms. Mitchell, MBA,¡± Alek said, wrapping his arms around her waist. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Volkov, for enduring this marathon with me.¡± Emma leaned into his embrace, finally allowing herself to feel the full weight of her aplishment¨Cand the exhaustion that apanied it. ¡°One more celebration to navigate,¡± Alek reminded her. ¡°Tonight¡¯s game. Then perhaps we can discuss a much¨Cneeded vacation.¡± ¡°Vacation?¡± Emma looked up at him suspiciously. ¡°You haven¡¯t taken more than two consecutive days off in the three years I¡¯ve known you.¡± ¡°People change,¡± Alek said, a curious note in his voice. ¡°Sometimes they realize certain moments deserve special attention.¡± Before Emma could probe further, her phone rang¨Cthe arena¡¯s emergency line. Her celebration would have to wait. Game Five¡¯s intensity matched the asion¨Ctied series, home ice advantage, yoff advancement hanging in the bnce. The des had battled back from an early deficit to force overtime, where they now fought for the crucial victory. Emma watched from the owner¡¯s box, professionalposure masking the exhaustion of her graduation day. Franklin sat beside her, oxygen increased but eyes sharp as ever, analyzing each y with the strategic mind that had built his business empire. ¡°Defensive pairing is mismatched,¡± he noted as Montreal gained the offensive zone again. ¡°Hanson¡¯s speed can¡¯tpensate for Murphy¡¯s positioning issues.¡± ¡°Coach is working with limited options after Williams¡® injury,¡± Emma replied, though she¡¯d observed the same problem. ¡°We¡¯re maintaining shot suppression despite the mismatch.¡± The game continued into a second overtime, tension mounting with each passing minute. Emma found herself standing for the final minutes, unable to remain seated as her team fought for the decisive goal. When it finally came¨Ca beautiful passing sequence culminating in their rookie center¡¯s one¨Ctimer¨Cthe erupted. Emma maintained professional restraint despite her desire to cheer, exchanging satisfied nods with her grandfather and the board members present. ¡°Conference finals,¡± Franklin said with evident satisfaction. ¡°Not bad for your first full season as owner.¡± This text is hosted at f¦É?dn¦Ïvel ¡°The work¡¯s just beginning,¡± Emma replied, though pride colored her voice. ¡°Four more wins to reach the championship round.¡± As the celebration continued below, Emma noticed her grandfather¡¯s breathing bingbored despite his increased oxygen. ¡°Grandpa? Are you alright?¡± 111 O < Hard Shot ¡°Just excitement,¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°Old heart working overtime.¡± + Points But hisplexion had taken on a greyish tinge that rmed Emma. She caught Alek¡¯s attention across the box, gesturing subtly toward Franklin. Alek immediately grasped the situation, moving to Franklin¡¯s side. ¡°Perhaps we should have the medical team check you, sir,¡± he suggested with diplomatic firmness. ¡°Standard protocol after an exciting game.¡± Franklin started to protest but stopped, a flicker of pain crossing his features. ¡°Perhaps that would be prudent,¡± he admitted¨Ca concession so uncharacteristic it sent fear coursing through Emma. The next hours passed in controlled crisis mode. The arena¡¯s medical team stabilized Franklin before transferring him to Massachusetts General Hospital, where cardiac specialists confirmed a minor heart attack-¡°minor¡± only in medical terminology, not in its implications for a man of Franklin¡¯s age and condition. By midnight, Emma sat beside his hospital bed, having changed from graduation finery tofortable clothes Alek had retrieved from her apartment. Franklin slept, monitored by machines that beeped reassuringly in the quiet room. ¡°You should rest,¡± Alek murmured from the doorway. ¡°He¡¯s stable, and tomorrow will be challenging.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t leave him,¡± Emma replied, though exhaustion weighted every word. ¡°Then at least take a break.¡± Alek offered his hand. ¡°Walk with me to the cafeteria. Fifteen minutes.¡± Reluctantly, Emma allowed herself to be led from the room, leaving Walter to watch over her grandfather. In the deserted hospital corridor, the day¡¯s emotional extremes finally caught up with her. ¡°I can¡¯t lose him, Alek,¡± she whispered, voice breaking. ¡°Not yet.¡± ¡°You won¡¯t.¡± Alek¡¯s certainty provided needed anchor. ¡°Franklin Mitchell is too stubborn to leave before he¡¯s ready.¡± Emma smiled despite her fear. ¡°The doctor said he needs to significantly reduce his involvement with the team. No morete games, no stress, limited work hours.¡± ¡°He won¡¯t like that.¡± ¡°No.¡± Emma sighed. ¡°But he¡¯ll have to ept it, which means I need to take on full leadership immediately, not the gradual transition we nned.¡± Alek studied her face. ¡°You¡¯re ready.¡± ¡°I know.¡± The realization came with surprising certainty. ¡°Academically, professionally, personally¨CI¡¯m finally ready to standpletely on my own.¡± ¡°Notpletely alone,¡± Alek reminded her, squeezing her hand. ¡°Unless you want to be.¡± Emma looked up at him, struck by something in his tone. ¡°What does that mean?¡± Alek seemed to consider his words carefully. ¡°It means I had ns for us¨Cafter your graduation, after yoffs. ns that might need adjustment given your grandfather¡¯s condition.¡± ¡°What kind of ns?¡± ¡°The kind that involved my thinking room at the cabin.¡± Alek¡¯s meaning was clear, causing Emma¡¯s breath to catch. ¡°But those ns can wait until timing is better.¡± < Hard Shot The reference to his almost¨Cproposal months earlier at the cabin warmed Emma despite her worry for Franklin. ¡°Some things are worth waiting for,¡± she said softly. + Points > ¡°Exactly what I keep telling myself.¡± Alek kissed her forehead. ¡°Now, let¡¯s get you some terrible hospital coffee before you copse.¡± As they walked hand¨Cin¨Chand through the quiet corridors, Emma found herself in a strange emotional space- concern for her grandfather bncing against pride in her aplishments and anticipation of Alek¡¯s postponed ns. The day that had begun with academic triumph had evolved into something moreplex but equally significant. Whatever challengesy ahead¨Cher grandfather¡¯s health, full team leadership, her future with Alek¨Cshe would face them with the confidence of a woman who had proven herself not just to others, but more importantly, to herself. The pshot had been taken. Now she just had to follow through. 18 year 27 RAISING THE CUP ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, the Boston des are your Stanley Cup Champions!¡± The arena erupted as the final seconds ticked away, confirming what the scoreboard already proimed: Boston 3, Chicago 1 in Game 6 of the championship finals. Emma maintained professionalposure in the owner¡¯s box, exchanging handshakes with league officials even as her heart raced with triumph. One year. It had taken exactly one year from her public introduction as team owner to this moment of ultimate victory. The journey had tested every facet of her character¨Cher leadership, her resilience, her ability to bnce professional demands with personal priorities. ¡°Your grandfather would be bursting with pride,¡± Walter murmured beside her, emotion evident in the assistant¡¯s usually stoic demeanor. Emma squeezed his arm in acknowledgment. Franklin wasn¡¯t physically present, having watched from his hospital bed where he was recovering from his second cardiac procedure in three months. But his strategic influence permeated the championship team he¡¯d helped build before passing day¨Cto¨Cday control to his granddaughter. ¡°Ms. Mitchell?¡± A league official approached respectfully. ¡°They¡¯re ready for you on the ice for the presentation.¡± Emma nodded, gathering herself for the most public moment of her career. As she made her way toward the elevator, her phone vibrated with an iing video call¨CFranklin, of course, unable to contain himself despite doctor¡¯s orders to remain calm. ¡°We did it, Grandpa,¡± she answered, joy evident in her voice. ¡°You did it,¡± Franklin corrected, his hospital room visible behind him. ¡°Your team. Your leadership.¡± ¡°Our legacy,¡± Emma insisted. ¡°I¡¯m heading down for the cup presentation now.¡± ¡°Go make history, Emmy,¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes shimmered with unshed tears. ¡°First female owner to lift the cup. Show them how a Mitchell celebrates.¡± The elevator doors opened to the arena¡¯s ground level, where Alek waited in his perfectly tailored suit, pride evident in his expression. ¡°Ready?¡± he asked as she ended the call with her grandfather. ?????? ???? fin?novel ¡°Born ready,¡± Emma replied, straightening her shoulders. Together, they walked through the corridor toward the ice, maintaining professional distance despite the impulse to hold hands during this momentous asion. Their rtionship remained private though not secret¨Crespected within the organization but kept separate from business operations. As they reached the tunnel exit, the roar of the crowd intensified, sensing the impending ceremony. yers embraced on the ice, some in tears, others shouting in triumph. Emma paused briefly at the threshold, absorbing the magnitude of the moment. ¡°Your moment, Emma,¡± Alek murmured. ¡°You¡¯ve earned this.¡± She stepped onto the ice, careful in her dress shoes despite the carpet runnersid down for the ceremony. OO m M R ||| O < HAISING THE CUR Points F The crowd¡¯s reaction was immediate¨Ccheers intensifying as the scoreboard disyed her image alongside the words ¡°MITCHELL MAKES HISTORY The presentation proceeded with traditional formality¨Cleague Commissioner offering congrattions, team captain epting the trophy with reverent hands, yers taking turns lifting the cup overhead while families and fans celebrated Emma watched with quiet satisfaction, recognizing how each strategic decision over the past year had contributed to this achievernent. When the captain finally skated toward her, cup extended, Emma felt the weight of history alongside the literal weight of the trophy. As she raised it overhead, photographers capturing the historic moment, she allowed herself a rare public disy of emotion¨Cpure joy radiating from her face. The team encircled her in celebration, respectful but inclusive, acknowledging her role in their sess. In that moment, Emma knew she had transcended every limitation others had tried to ce on her¨Cwoman in a male¨Cdominated industry, executive with questioned qualifications, owner leading through personal challenges. She had be simply Emma Mitchell, championship team owner. No qualifiers needed. Hourster, the formal celebration concluded, Emma found herself sitting alone in her office, championship hat askew on her head, heels discarded under her desk. The building had gradually quieted as yers departed for private celebrations, staffpleted post¨Cgame responsibilities, and the cleaning crew began the overnight transformation from championship venue to ordinary arena. A soft knock preceded Alek¡¯s entrance. He had loosened his tie and rolled up his sleeves but otherwise maintained his professional appearance despite the evening¡¯s festivities. ¡°I thought I might find you here,¡± he said, taking in her contemtive posture. ¡°Processing?¡± ¡°Savoring,¡± Emma corrected. ¡°It¡¯s been quite a year.¡± ¡°Understatement of the century.¡± Alek settled into the chair across from her desk. ¡°Championship, MBA, restructured leadership after your grandfather¡¯s procedures¨Cany one would be significant aplishment.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t forget navigating a public rtionship with my CEO.¡± Emma smiled. ¡°That¡¯s been possibly the greatest challenge of all.¡± ¡°Has it?¡± Alek¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°Truly?¡± Emma considered the question. ¡°Not the rtionship itself. That¡¯s been the easiest part of my life. Just the public aspects¨Cthe considerations, the optics, the constant awareness of how others might inte pret innocent interactions.¡± ¡°Well,¡± Alek said, reaching into his jacket pocket, ¡°perhaps it¡¯s time to simplify at least one aspect of ourplicated lives.¡± Emma¡¯s breath caught as he withdrew a small velvet box¨Cunmistakable in its significance. ¡°Alek¡¡± ¡°I¡¯ve been carrying this since your graduation,¡± he said, turning the box in his hands rather than opening it immediately. ¡°Waiting for the right moment. First your grandfather¡¯s health required attention. Then the conference finals demanded focus. Then championship preparations took priority.¡± ¡°We¡¯ve been a bit busy,¡± Emma acknowledged, heart racing despite her outwardposure. ¡°We have.¡± Alek met her eyes directly. ¡°But tonight, watching you raise that trophy¨Cthe culmination of < 214 RAISING THE CUR everything you¡¯ve fought for professionally¨CI realized there will always be another priority, another challenge, another reason to wait.¡± ¡°Unless we decide otherwise, Emma finished his thought ¡°Exactly¡± Alek rose from his chair,ing around the desk to kneel beside her. ¡°Emma Mitchell, I have loved you through professional crises, personal challenges, academic pursuits, and championship celebrations. I want to love you through whateveres next¨Cas your partner, your support, your equal.¡± He opened the box, revealing a stunning emerald¨Ccut diamond on a tinum band¨Celegant, distinctive, nothing like the shy solitaire Jack had given her years earlier. ¡°Will you marry me?¡± Alek asked, his usual confidence giving way to vulnerability. ¡°Not because it¡¯s practical or expected or convenient, but because I cannot imagine building a life without you at its center?¡± Emma touched his face, overwhelmed by the simple perfection of this moment¨Cprivate, sincere, entirely theirs despite the public triumph preceding it. ¡°Yes,¡± she said, certainty filling her voice. ¡°Absolutely yes.¡± The ring slid perfectly onto her finger, catching the light as Alek rose to kiss her¨Ca seal on promises they¡¯d been building toward since that first snowstorm trapped them together in his office. When they finally separated, Emma nced at her phone. ¡°I should call Grandpa. He¡¯s probably still awake waiting for news.¡± ¡°About the proposal or the championship?¡± Alek asked with a smile. ¡°Both, knowing him.¡± C As expected, Franklin answered immediately despite thete hour. ¡°About time you called! Walter¡¯s been texting updates, but I want to hear everything from you.¡± ¡°Actually, Grandpa, I have news beyond the championship.¡± Emma held up her hand so the ring was visible on the video call. ¡°Alek and I are engaged.¡± Franklin¡¯s whoop of delight was so loud a nurse appeared in his hospital room doorway, concern evident until she noted his happy expression. ¡°Finally!¡± Franklin eximed. ¡°I was beginning to think Volkov had lost his nerve.¡± ¡°Just waiting for the perfect moment, sir,¡± Alek replied, leaning into frame beside Emma. ¡°Well, this calls for celebration.¡± Franklin reached for something off¨Ccamera, producing a small crystal ss of amber liquid. ¡°Don¡¯t tell the doctors.¡± ¡°Grandpa! You¡¯re not supposed to-¡± ¡°One sip of thirty¨Cyear¨Cold scotch won¡¯t kill me,¡± Franklin interrupted with characteristic stubbornness. ¡°Some asions demand proper acknowledgment.¡± Emma couldn¡¯t argue with his logic, despite her concern. This night represented everything they had worked toward¨Cprofessional triumph, personal happiness, family legacy secured. After promising to visit Franklin first thing tomorrow with full details, Emma ended the call and leaned back in her chair, admiring her ring in the dim office light. ¡°Happy?¡± Alek asked, perching on her desk. III O < < RAISING THE CUP ¡°Completely.¡± Emma stood, stepping into his embrace. ¡°Though we should probably wait until the championship excitement dies down before announcing this publicly. One major headline at a time.¡± ¡°Always the strategic thinker.¡± Alek kissed her forehead. ¡°I¡¯ve made a dinner reservation at my cabin this weekend. Proper celebration, just us.¡± ¡°Your thinking room,¡± Emma recalled their conversation months earlier. ¡°Where you make your most important decisions.¡° ¡°Exactly.¡± As they prepared to leave the arena, championship arena now quiet in post¨Ccelebration exhaustion, Emma paused at her office doorway. So much had changed since she¡¯d first imed this space¨Cfrom hesitant new owner hiding behind her maiden name to championship¨Cwinning MBA graduate confidently leading one of the league¡¯s premier franchises. ¡°What are you thinking?¡± Alek asked, noting her contemtive expression. ¡°That some penalty boxes lead to unexpected victories,¡± Emma replied, taking his hand as they walked toward the exit. ¡°If Jack hadn¡¯t thrown those divorce papers at me, I might never have found the courage to reim my name, my ambitions, my true self.¡± ¡°Perhaps we should send him a thank¨Cyou note,¡± Alek suggested with dry humor. ¡°Or a wedding invitation,¡± Emma countered. ¡°He and Veronica seem happy in Seattle. Might be the ultimate demonstration that everything worked out as it should.¡± ¡°Always taking the high road.¡± Alek squeezed her hand. ¡°Just one of the countless reasons I love you.¡± O Boston¡¯s summer night weed them with gentle warmth, the city still buzzing with championship Celebrations. Emma breathed deeply, savoring the culmination of her journey from Jack Reynolds¡® supportive wife to Emma Mitchell, championship team owner and soon¨Cto¨Cbe wife of a man who saw her as nothing less than his equal. Some victories weren¡¯t measured in championship trophies but in personal growth, wounds healed, and futures reimed. Emma had achieved both kinds tonight¨Craising the cup professionally while embracing the love she truly deserved personally. No penalty box could contain her now. Watch Ads (0/20) > Vote 90 06 18 year 28 BONUS CHAPTER: EMPTY NET GOAL ¡°Stop fidgeting with your tie or fil tie you to the chair with it Alek shot an amused nce at Franklin, who satfortably in the grooms suite of the historic Boston estate they¡¯d chosen for the wedding. Despite doctors warnings about of Pexertion, Emmals grandfather had insisted on being Alek¡¯s best man-¡°Since I¡¯m giving away the bride, I might as wellplete the set hed dered. ¡°Just making sure everything¡¯s perfect, Alek replied, adjusting his cufflinks for the fourth time ¡°She¡¯s not marrying you for your tie, son.¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled mischievously. Though I must say, that Russian frame of yours disys a tuxedo admirably The door opened as Walter entered, clipboard in hand as always. Five minutes, gentlemen. Guests are seated. Bride is ready.¡± Franklin stood, using his cane more for show than necessity these days. Six months of reduced stress and proper medication had improved his condition remarkably. ¡°Well then, let¡¯s not keep my granddaughter waiting. As future Mitchell men, punctuality is non¨Cnegotiable.¡± Alek straightened his shoulders, the enormity of the day finally settling over him. One year since Emma had epted his proposal, nine months of careful nning around their busy schedules, and now the moment had arrived. ¡°Nervous?¡± Franklin asked as they walked toward the ceremony space. ¡°Not about marrying Emma, Alek replied honestly. ¡°Just about doing this in front of three hundred people.¡± ¡°Price of marrying a Mitchell, Franklin said without sympathy. ¡°We don¡¯t do anything small. The garden ceremony space took Alek¡¯s breath away despite having seen it during rehearsal. Flowering arbors created a natural cathedral effect, with the afternoon sun filtering through to cast dappled light on assembled guests. League officials, team executives, yers, and Boston¡¯s business elite filled the seats alongside close friends and family. Alek took his position at the altar, scanning faces in the crowd. His sister Natasha sat in the front row, having flown in from California where she waspleting her medical residency. Beside her, several des yers and their partners watched with genuine happiness¨Cthe team had fully embraced Emma¡¯s leadership after the championship season. A sudden hush fell over the gathering as the string quartet shifted to the processional music. No traditional march but a piece Emma had chosen¨Celegant, modern, distinctly her own style. Mia appeared first, Emma¡¯s maid of honor resplendent in deep blue thatplemented her dark skin perfectly. She winked at Alek as she took her position opposite him. Then, a collective intake of breath as Emma appeared on Franklin¡¯s arm. gner¡¯s She wore not traditional white but a champagne¨Ccolored gown that caught the light with subtle crystalline embellishments. Her hair was swept up with a few strands framing her face, and she carried a simple bouquet of white roses and greenery. The overall effect wasn¡¯t princess fantasy but sophisticated elegance- Emma Mitchell to her core. ¡úm R O III O < < BONUS CHAPTER EMPT¡ As she walked toward him, Alek felt a tightness in his chest that had nothing to do with his tie. This brilliant, fierce, remarkable woman had chosen him, just as deliberately as she¡¯d chosen to reim her life, her name, and her power. Franklin ced Emma¡¯s hand in Alek¡¯s with ceremonial significance. ¡°Take care of each other,¡± he said, voice uncharacteristically emotional. ¡°That¡¯s the only advice worth giving.¡± The ceremony proceeded with the efficient beauty Emma had nned. Traditional vows with personal touches, ring exchanges with meaning rather than showmanship, and finally the pronouncement that officially united them as husband and wife. Their kiss was modest given the audience but contained promises only they understood. As they turned to face their guests, Alek noticed Emma¡¯s gaze catch briefly on something¨Cor someone¨Cin the back row. Jack Reynolds stood respectfully at the edge of the gathering, Veronica beside him looking impossibly elegant even among Boston¡¯s elite. Their presence had been Emma¡¯s idea-¡°Closure doesn¡¯t require exclusion,¡± she¡¯d said when adding them to the guest list. Official source is find?novel The reception unfolded in a restored historic ballroom, fairy lights creating a magical atmosphere as dinner and dancing progressed. Alek found himself constantly searching for Emma in the crowd, still disbelieving his good fortune when he found her. ¡°Stop looking so stunned,¡± she teased during a private moment between dances. ¡°Anyone would think you were the one caught by surprise today.¡± ¡°Every day with you is a surprise,¡± he replied, kissing her temple. ¡°In the best possible way.¡± Emma¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Jack asked to speak with us both. Briefly. Are youfortable with that?¡± Alek considered the request. ¡°If you are.¡± They found Jack and Veronica near one of the outdoor terraces, champagne sses in hand. Jack had maintained his improved physical condition, while Veronica looked as striking as ever in a tasteful gown that wouldn¡¯t upstage the bride but still turned heads. ¡°Congrattions,¡± Jack said, extending his hand to Alek. ¡°Beautiful ceremony.¡± ¡°Thank you foring,¡± Emma replied with genuine warmth. ¡°It means a lot that you both could be here.¡± ¡°Wouldn¡¯t have missed it,¡± Jack said, surprising them with his sincerity. ¡°I have news, actually. Part of why I wanted to speak with you both.¡± Veronica slipped her hand into Jack¡¯s, a subtle supportive gesture. ¡°Tell them, Jack.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve epted the captain¡¯s position in Seattle,¡± he announced. ¡°And we¡¯re expecting. Due in Febru Emma¡¯s face lit with genuine happiness. ¡°Jack! Veronica! That¡¯s wonderful news.¡± ¡°Congrattions,¡± Alek added, meaning it. ¡°The captaincy is well¨Cdeserved.¡± ¡°Thanks.¡± Jack¡¯s expression turned reflective. ¡°I wanted you to hear it from me directly. And to thank you, Emma.¡± ¡°Thank me?¡± Emma looked puzzled. ¡°For what?¡± ¡°For the wake¨Cup call I needed,¡± Jack said simply. ¡°The trade was the best thing that could have happened to me. Professionally and personally.¡± ??? BONUS CHAPTER EMPT + Points The four of them stood in a moment of understanding that transcended theirplicated history. Potential bitterness had somehow transformed into mutual respect and even a kind of friendship. ¡°We should return to your guests,¡± Veronica said tactfully. ¡°But we wanted you to know how happy we are for you both.¡± As Jack and Veronica moved away, Emma leaned against Alek¡¯s side. ¡°That was unexpected.¡± ¡°Life rarely follows the expected path, Alek replied philosophically. ¡°Otherwise you¡¯d still be in the stands cheering for Jack instead of running his former team.¡± ¡°And you¡¯d be dating some tall, blonde Russian model instead of marrying your boss,¡± Emma teased. ¡®Never.¡± Alek¡¯s voice turned serious as he drew her into a quiet corner of the terrace. ¡°It was always going to be you, Emma. From the moment I saw you taking notes in that marketing meeting, pretending to be just another employee.¡± ¡°You knew even then?¡± ¡°I knew you were exceptional,¡± he corrected. ¡°Everything else¨Cwho you were, what you¡¯d be to me¨Cthat unfolded as it should.¡± The reception continued around them, but for a moment they existed in their own world¨CCEO and owner, husband and wife, partners in every sense. ¡°Mrs. Volkov, Alek murmured against her hair. ¡®Mitchell¨CVolkov, Emma corrected with a smile. ¡°Some names are worth keeping.¡± ¡°All of them are worth celebrating,¡± Alek agreed, leading her back toward the dance floor where Franklin was regaling young yers with highly embellished stories of hockey¡¯s golden age. As they rejoined the celebration, Emma caught Walter¡¯s eye across the room. The faithful assistant gave her a subtle thumbs¨Cup, confirming that everything was proceeding ording to n¨Cincluding the surprise honeymoon destination only he and Franklin knew about. Some goals in life came from careful nning and strategic execution. Others¨Clike finding love after heartbreak¨Cwere more like empty goals: unexpected opportunities that arose when defenses were down and the path was suddenly clear. Emma Mitchell¨CVolkov had scored both kinds, and the game was far from over. 3 Comments Watch Ads (0/20) > H Vote 90 III O < 18 year 29 BONUS CHAPTER: CHECKING THE LINES ¡°He¡¯s literally checking his phone for your texts during board meetings,¡± Mia dered, swirling her martini with practiced elegance. ¡°That¡¯s not professional distance, Em. That¡¯s a manpletely gone for you.¡± Emma sank deeper into the corner booth of Noir, the discreet cocktail bar where she and Mia had retreated for their monthly catch¨Cup. Three months after the snowstorm kiss and subsequent Jack meltdown, Emma was still navigating theplicated waters of her developing rtionship with Alek while maintaining professional boundaries at work. ¡°We¡¯re being careful,¡± Emma insisted, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. ¡°No public dates, minimal private time, absolutely no office¡ interaction.¡± ¡°And how¡¯s that working out for your sanity?¡± Mia arched a perfectly shaped eyebrow. ¡°Terribly.¡± Emma sighed, dropping the professional fa?ade she maintained everywhere except with her oldest friend. ¡°I think about him constantly. When we¡¯re in meetings, I have to force myself to focus on spreadsheets instead of his hands.¡± ¡°His hands?¡± Mia¡¯s eyes widened with delighted interest. ¡°Do tell.¡± ¡°They¡¯re just¡ nice hands.¡± Emma felt her cheeks warm. ¡°Strong but elegant. The way he holds a pen or gestures when making a point¡¡± ¡°Oh honey,¡± Miaughed, ¡°you¡¯ve got it bad. This isn¡¯t just attraction anymore.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma¡¯s voice softened. ¡°It feels different from anything before. Even Jack, in the beginning.¡± ¡°Different how?¡± Emma considered the question seriously, swirling her wine as she gathered her thoughts. ¡°With Jack, I always felt like I was supporting his dream. Adjusting myself to fit his world.¡± ¡°And with Alek?¡± ¡°With Alek, I feel like we¡¯re building something together.¡± Emma met her friend¡¯s gaze. ¡°He sees me¨Creally sees me. Not as Jack¡¯s ex or Franklin¡¯s granddaughter, but as myself. He challenges me professionally while supporting me personally.¡± ¡°That¡¯s called partnership,¡± Mia said gently. ¡°Something you never really had with Jack.¡± ¡°I thought we did, in the beginning.¡± ¡°No, sweetie.¡± Mia reached across the table to squeeze Emma¡¯s hand. ¡°Even in college, Jack was the star and you were the supporting actress. Remember when you declined that summer internship at Goldman because he had hockey camp?¡± Emma winced at the memory. ¡°I thought that¡¯s what love meant. Sacrifice.¡± ¡°Real love involves mutual sacrifice, not just one person constantly diminishing themselves.¡± Mia took another sip of her martini. ¡°So what¡¯s holding you back with Alek? The divorce is final. The professional lines are clear.¡± ¡°Timing,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Jack¡¯s still on the team. The press would have a field day with ¡®Ex¨CWife Sleeps with Boss to Get Revenge.¡® And honestly¡ I¡¯m scared.¡± ? m R ||| §° < < BONUS CHAPTER CHEC ¡°Scared? You? The woman who took over a professional hockey franchise and faced down a room full of male executives?¡± Mia looked genuinely surprised. ¡°Terrified,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°I¡¯ve only been truly on my own for a few months. What if I¡¯m just transferring dependency from one rtionship to another? What if I¡¯m not ready?¡± Parda 3 Mia studied her friend thoughtfully. ¡°Let me ask you something. When you make decisions for the team, do you consult Alek?¡± The rightful source is ?ovelFind ¡°Of course. He¡¯s the CEO.¡± ¡°But do you always follow his rmendations? Or do you form your own opinions?¡± Emma considered this. ¡°I listen to his expertise, but ultimately make independent judgments. Sometimes we disagree.¡± ¡°And when you disagree professionally, does it affect how he treats you personally?¡± ¡°No,¡± Emma replied immediately. ¡°He respects my authority even when he thinks I¡¯m making the wrong call.¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound like dependency to me.¡± Mia leaned forward. ¡°That sounds like two strong people who can separate professional disagreement from personal connection.¡± Emma absorbed her friend¡¯s perspective, recognizing the truth in it. While Jack had always taken professional disagreements personally, Alek maintained clear boundaries between their business rtionship and growing personal connection. ¡°There¡¯s something else,¡± Emma confessed, her voice dropping. ¡°Something I haven¡¯t told anyone.¡± Mia waited, giving her space to continue. ¡°I think I¡¯m falling in love with him.¡± The words felt simultaneously terrifying and liberating. ¡°Not the passionate, desperate love I had with Jack. Something steadier, deeper. And that scares me more than anything.¡± ¡°Because you¡¯re afraid of being hurt again?¡± ¡°Because I¡¯m afraid of how much it would break me if this doesn¡¯t work.¡± Emma traced the rim of her winess. ¡°With Jack, some part of me always knew we were fundamentally mismatched. With Alek¡ it feels like finding a missing piece I didn¡¯t know was absent.¡± Mia¡¯s expression softened with understanding. ¡°The greater the potential joy, the greater the potential pain. But Em, that¡¯s not a reason to hold back.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it? My divorce is barely finalized. The team is still finding its footing under my leadership. M grandfather¡¯s health is concerning.¡± Emma listed her reasons with practiced precision. ¡°Timing matters in business and in rtionships.¡± ¡°Timing always matters,¡± Mia agreed, ¡°but perfect timing doesn¡¯t exist. There will always beplications, professional challenges, personal uncertainties.¡± She paused, choosing her next words carefully. ¡°When my parents died, a wise person told me something I¡¯ve never forgotten: ¡®Life doesn¡¯t wait for convenient scheduling.¡± Emma felt the truth of those words settle heavily. Her grandfather¡¯s recent cardiac episode had sharply reminded her how quickly circumstances could change, how precious time truly was. 215 Im mo R < BONUS CHAPTER CHEC +8 Points) ¡°What would you do if professional considerations weren¡¯t a factor?¡± Mia pressed gently. ¡°If there was no team, no press, no Jack situation. Just you and Alek and your feelings.¡± ¡°I¡¯d stop wasting time,¡± Emma answered without hesitation. ¡°I¡¯d tell him how I feel. I¡¯d explore what we could be together without artificial constraints.¡± ¡°Then maybe that¡¯s your answer.¡± Mia signaled for another round. ¡°The professional concerns are real and need management, but they shouldn¡¯t be excuses for denying yourself happiness.¡± Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text. Alek: *Just finished meeting with league officials. Thought of you whenmissioner mentionedmunity engagement initiatives. Your approach is bing the standard. Proud of your influence.* A simple professional update with a personal touch that made her heart flutter inappropriately. This was exactly the kind of message that blurred their carefully constructed boundaries¨Crespectful enough for colleagues but intimate enough to remind her of their connection. ¡°Is that him?¡± Mia asked, noting Emma¡¯s small smile. ¡°Yes.¡± Emma showed her the message. ¡°Girl,¡± Mia shook her head with amused exasperation, ¡°that man is not texting you at 9 PM aboutmunity initiatives because he¡¯s concerned about the team¡¯s public image. He¡¯s looking for any excuse to connect with you.¡± ¡°You think?¡± ¡°I know.¡± Mia¡¯s confidence was absolute. ¡°Remember Logan from business school? The one who just happened¡® to study in the same coffee shop every Tuesday when I had my finance group meeting?¡± ¡°The one you dated for three years?¡± Emmaughed, remembering Mia¡¯s business school romance. ¡°Men find professional reasons to stay in orbit when they¡¯re interested.¡± Mia tapped Emma¡¯s phone. ¡°Alek¡¯s orbiting pretty deliberately.¡± Emma reread the message, seeing it through Mia¡¯s perspective. The substance was professional, but the timing and personal touch revealed more. ¡°So what do I do?¡± Emma asked, feeling suddenly like a college freshman again rather than a professional sports franchise owner. ¡°I can¡¯t exactly suggest dinner at his ce to ¡®discussmunity initiatives.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± Mia challenged. ¡°The divorce is final. You¡¯re both adults. Professional boundaries matter at work, but you¡¯re allowed to have a personal life.¡± ¡°People will talk.¡± ¡°People already talk,¡± Mia countered. ¡°The question is whether you¡¯ll let their talking determine your happiness.¡± Emma considered this as she typed a response to Alek: *Appreciate your support. Would like to discuss expansion of these initiatives further. Dinner tomorrow?* Her finger hovered over the send button, hesitation warring with desire. ¡°Send it,¡± Mia urged. ¡°What¡¯s the worst that happens? He says he¡¯s busy?¡± Emma pressed send, immediately feeling both terror and exhration. Three dots appeared almost instantly, D 375 O BONUS CHAPTER CHEC indicating Alek was responding. *Name the ce and time. My schedule is yours.* 40 Points Simple words, but the immediacy and openness of his response made Emma¡¯s pulse quicken. No pretense of checking his calendar or suggesting alternative dates¨Cjust straightforward avability thatmunicated volumes about his priorities. ¡°Well?¡± Mia prompted. Emma showed her the response. ¡°His schedule is mine, apparently.¡± ¡°Of course it is.¡± Mia looked smug. ¡°That man has been waiting months for you to open this door even a crack.¡± ¡°It¡¯s just dinner,¡± Emma said, more to herself than to Mia. ¡°It¡¯s never just dinner,¡± Mia replied sagely. ¡°But it is just the beginning.¡± As they finished their drinks, conversation shifted to Mia¡¯s work and life in Chicago, but Emma¡¯s mind kept returning to the text exchange with Alek. The simple eptance of her dinner invitation felt like a turning point¨Cnot just in their rtionship, but in her own journey. For years, she¡¯d defined herself in rtion to others¨CJack¡¯s wife, Franklin¡¯s granddaughter, team owner¡¯s assistant. Even her current identity as team owner connected to her grandfather¡¯s legacy. But this choice¨Cthis decision to explore feelings for Alek despiteplications¨Cwas entirely her own. Not driven by obligation or circumstance, but by genuine desire for connection with someone who saw and valued her authentic self. ¡°Earth to Emma,¡± Mia waved a hand in front of her face. ¡°You¡¯re a million miles away.¡± ¡°Sorry,¡± Emma refocused. ¡°Just thinking about tomorrow.¡± ¡°What will you wear?¡± Mia asked practically. ¡°Please tell me not one of those conservative suits you¡¯ve been hiding in.¡± ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my suits?¡± Emma protested. ¡°Nothing, if you¡¯re going for petent but forgettable.¡® Everything, if you want Alek to forget how to string sentences together.¡± Mia grinned mischievously. ¡°Remember that blue dress from my birthdayst year? The one that made Jack¡¯s teammate spill his drink?¡± Emmaughed, remembering the incident. ¡°I can¡¯t wear that to dinner with Alek! It¡¯s practically indecent.¡± ¡°Fine,promise.¡± Mia negotiated like the corporatewyer she was. ¡°The ck wrap dress ankle boots you bought in New York. Professional enough for public dining but feminine enou him you¡¯re not just his boss.¡± those O remind As they settled the bill and prepared to leave, Mia pulled Emma into a tight hug. ¡°I¡¯m proud of you,¡± she whispered. ¡°Not just for running the team or finishing your MBA, but for being brave enough to try again after Jack.¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t done anything yet,¡± Emma protested. ¡°You¡¯ve done the hardest part,¡± Mia corrected. ¡°You¡¯ve acknowledged what you want and taken a step toward it. The rest is just checking the lines to make sure the path is clear.¡± D < > O III BONUS CHAPTER CHEC

Points >

Later that night, as Emma prepared for bed, her phone buzzed with one final message from Alek: *Looking forward to tomorrow. Sleep well, Emma.* Four simple words that carried worlds of meaning in their careful restraint. Not presumptuous, not overstepping, but warmly personal in a way that made Emma realize how long she¡¯d been starving for genuine connection. She replied with equal care: *As am I. Goodnight, Alek.* As she set her phone aside, Emma found herself smiling at the ceiling. Mia was right¨Cthere would never be perfect timing, no moment entirely free fromplications or potential misinterpretations. But perhaps perfect timing was less important than perfect understanding. And something told her that Alek Volkov understood her better than anyone else in her life ever had¨Cperhaps even better than she understood herself. Tomorrow¡¯s dinner would be just the beginning of testing that theory. 2 Watch Ads (0/20) > H Vote 18 year 30 BONUS CHAPTER: CHECKING THE LINES ¡°He¡¯s literally checking his phone for your texts during board meetings, Mia dered, swirling her martini with practiced elegance. ¡°That¡¯s not professional distance, Em. That¡¯s a manpletely gone for you¡± Emma sank deeper into the corner booth of Noit, the discreet cocktail bar where she and Mia had retreated for their monthly catch-up. Three months after the snowstorm kiss and subsequent Jack meltdown, Emma was still navigating theplicated waters of her developing rtionship with Alek while maintaining professional boundaries at work. ¡°We¡¯re being careful, Emma insisted, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. ¡°No public dates, minimal Find the newest release on private time, absolutely no office¡ interaction.* ¡°And how¡¯s that working out for your sanity?¡± Mia arched a perfectly shaped eyebrow ¡°Terribly.¡± Emma sighed, dropping the professional fa?ade she maintained everywhere except with her oldest friend. ¡°I think about him constantly. When we¡¯re in meetings, I have to force myself to focus on spreadsheets instead of his hands.¡± ¡°His hands?¡± Mia¡¯s eyes widened with delighted interest. ¡°Do tell.¡± ¡°They¡¯re just¡ nice hands.¡± Emma felt her cheeks warm. ¡°Strong but elegant. The way he holds a pen or gestures when making a point¡¡± ¡°Oh honey,¡± Miaughed, ¡°you¡¯ve got it bad. This isn¡¯t just attraction anymore.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma¡¯s voice softened. ¡°It feels different from anything before. Even Jack, in the beginning.¡± ¡°Different how?¡± Emma considered the question seriously, swirling her wine as she gathered her thoughts. ¡°With Jack, I always felt like I was supporting his dream. Adjusting myself to fit his world.¡± ¡°And with Alek?¡± ¡°With Alek, I feel like we¡¯re building something together.¡± Emma met her friend¡¯s gaze. ¡°He sees me¨Creally sees me. Not as Jack¡¯s ex or Franklin¡¯s granddaughter, but as myself. He challenges me professionally while supporting me personally.¡± ¡°That¡¯s called partnership,¡± Mia said gently. ¡°Something you never really had with Jack.¡± ¡°I thought we did, in the beginning.¡± ¡°No, sweetie.¡± Mia reached across the table to squeeze Emma¡¯s hand. ¡°Even in college, Jack was the star and you were the supporting actress. Remember when you declined that summer internship at Goldman because he had hockey camp?¡± Emma winced at the memory. ¡°I thought that¡¯s what love meant. Sacrifice.¡± ¡°Real love involves mutual sacrifice, not just one person constantly diminishing themselves.¡± Mia took another sip of her martini. ¡°So what¡¯s holding you back with Alek? The divorce is final. The professional lines are clear.¡± ¡°Timing,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Jack¡¯s still on the team. The press would have a field day with ¡®Ex¨CWife Sleeps with Boss to Get Revenge.¡® And honestly¡ I¡¯m scared.¡± O Q M R III O O < < BONUS CHAPTER CHEC ¡°Scared? You? The woman who took over a professional hockey franchise and faced down a room full of male executives?¡± Mia looked genuinely surprised. ¡°Terrified,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°I¡¯ve only been truly on my own for a few months. What if I¡¯m just transferring dependency from one rtionship to another? What if I¡¯m not ready?¡± Mia studied her friend thoughtfully. ¡°Let me ask you something When you make decisions for the team, do you consult Alek?¡± ¡°Of course. He¡¯s the CEO ¡°But do you always follow his rmendations? Or do you form your own opinions?¡± Emma considered this. ¡°I listen to his expertise, but ultimately make independent judgments. Sometimes we disagree.¡± ¡°And when you disagree professionally, does it affect how he treats you personally?¡± ¡°No,¡± Emma replied immediately. ¡°He respects my authority even when he thinks I¡¯m making the wrong call.¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound like dependency to me.¡± Mia leaned forward. ¡°That sounds like two strong people who can separate professional disagreement from personal connection.¡± Emma absorbed her friend¡¯s perspective, recognizing the truth in it. While Jack had always taken professional disagreements personally, Alek maintained clear boundaries between their business rtionship and growing personal connection. ¡°There¡¯s something else,¡± Emma confessed, her voice dropping. ¡°Something I haven¡¯t told anyone.¡± Mia waited, giving her space to continue. ¡°I think I¡¯m falling in love with him.¡± The words felt simultaneously terrifying and liberating. ¡°Not the passionate, desperate love I had with Jack. Something steadier, deeper. And that scares me more than anything.¡± ¡°Because you¡¯re afraid of being hurt again?¡± ¡°Because I¡¯m afraid of how much it would break me if this doesn¡¯t work.¡± Emma traced the rim of her winess. ¡°With Jack, some part of me always knew we were fundamentally mismatched. With Alek¡ it feels like finding a missing piece I didn¡¯t know was absent.¡± Mia¡¯s expression softened with understanding. ¡°The greater the potential joy, the greater the potential pain. But Em, that¡¯s not a reason to hold back.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it? My divorce is barely finalized. The team is still finding its footing under my leadership. My grandfather¡¯s health is concerning.¡± Emma listed her reasons with practiced precision. ¡°Timing matters in basiness and in rtionships.¡± ¡°Timing always matters,¡± Mia agreed, ¡°but perfect timing doesn¡¯t exist. There will always beplications, professional challenges, personal uncertainties.¡± She paused, choosing her next words carefully. ¡°When my parents died, a wise person told me something never forgotten: ¡®Life doesn¡¯t wait for convenient scheduling.¡± Emma felt the truth of those words settle heavily. Her grandfather¡¯s recent cardiac episode had sharply reminded her how quickly circumstances could change, how precious time truly was. O < BONUS CHAPTER CHEE ¡°What would you do if professional considerations weren¡¯t a factor? Mia pressed gently if there was no team, no press, no Jack situation Just you and Alek and your feelings ¡°Td stop wasting time Emms answered without hesitation. Td felt him how I feel I¡¯d explore what we could be together without artificial constraints ¡°Then maybe that¡¯s your answer Mis signaled for another round. The professional concerns are real and need management, but they shouldn¡¯t be excuses for denying yourself happiness¡± Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text Alek Just finished meeting with league officials Thought of you whenmissioner mentionedmunity engagement initiatives. Your approach is bing the standard Proud of your influence * A simple professional update with a personal touch that made her heart flutter inappropriately. This was exactly the kind of message that blurred their carefully constructed boundaries¨Crespectful enough for colleagues but intimate enough to remind her of their connection. ¡°Is that him?¡± Mia asked, noting Emma¡¯s small smile. ¡°Yes.¡± Emma showed her the message. ¡°Girl,¡± Mia shook her head with amused exasperation, ¡°that man is not texting you at 9 PM aboutmunity initiatives because he¡¯s concerned about the team¡¯s public image. He¡¯s looking for any excuse to connect with you.¡± ¡°You think?¡± ¡°I know.¡± Mia¡¯s confidence was absolute. ¡°Remember Logan from business school? The one who just happened to study in the same coffee shop every Tuesday when I had my finance group meeting?¡± ¡°The one you dated for three years?¡± Emmaughed, remembering Mia¡¯s business school romance. ¡°Men find professional reasons to stay in orbit when they¡¯re interested.¡± Mia tapped Emma¡¯s phone. ¡°Alek¡¯s orbiting pretty deliberately.¡± Emma reread the message, seeing it through Mia¡¯s perspective. The substance was professional, but the timing and personal touch revealed more. ¡°So what do I do?¡± Emma asked, feeling suddenly like a college freshman again rather than a professional sports franchise owner. ¡°I can¡¯t exactly suggest dinner at his ce to ¡®discussmunity initiatives.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± Mia challenged. ¡°The divorce is final. You¡¯re both adults. Professional boundaries matter at work, but you¡¯re allowed to have a personal life.¡± ¡°People will talk.¡± ¡°People already talk,¡± Mia countered. ¡°The question is whether you¡¯ll let their talking determine your happiness.¡± Emma considered this as she typed a response to Alek: *Appreciate your support. Would like to discuss expansion of these initiatives further. Dinner tomorrow?* Her finger hovered over the send button, hesitation warring with desire. ¡°Send it,¡± Mia urged. ¡°What¡¯s the worst that happens? He says he¡¯s busy?¡± Emma pressed send, immediately feeling both terror and exhration. Three dots appeared almost instantly, D ||| O < < BONUS CHAPTER CHEC¡ indicating Alek was responding. *Name the ce and time. My schedule is yours.* Simple words, but the immediacy and openness of his response made Emma¡¯s pulse quicken. No pretense of checking his calendar or suggesting alternative dates¨Cjust straightforward avability thatmunicated volumes about his priorities. ¡°Well?¡± Mia prompted. Emma showed her the response. ¡°His schedule is mine, apparently.¡± ¡°Of course it is.¡± Mia looked smug. ¡°That man has been waiting months for you to open this door even a crack.¡± ¡°It¡¯s just dinner,¡± Emma said, more to herself than to Mia. ¡°It¡¯s never just dinner,¡± Mia replied sagely. ¡°But it is just the beginning.¡± As they finished their drinks, conversation shifted to Mia¡¯s work and life in Chicago, but Emma¡¯s mind kept returning to the text exchange with Alek. The simple eptance of her dinner invitation felt like a turning point¨Cnot just in their rtionship, but in her own journey. For years, she¡¯d defined herself in rtion to others¨CJack¡¯s wife, Franklin¡¯s granddaughter, team owner¡¯s assistant. Even her current identity as team owner connected to her grandfather¡¯s legacy. But this choice¨Cthis decision to explore feelings for Alek despiteplications¨Cwas entirely her own. Not driven by obligation or circumstance, but by genuine desire for connection with someone who saw and valued her authentic self. ¡°Earth to Emma,¡± Mia waved a hand in front of her face. ¡°You¡¯re a million miles away.¡± ¡°Sorry,¡± Emma refocused. ¡°Just thinking about tomorrow.¡± ¡°What will you wear?¡± Mia asked practically. ¡°Please tell me not one of those conservative suits you¡¯ve been hiding in.¡± ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my suits?¡± Emma protested. ¡°Nothing, if you¡¯re going for petent but forgettable.¡® Everything, if you want Alek to forget how to string sentences together.¡± Mia grinned mischievously. ¡°Remember that blue dress from my birthdayst year? The one that made Jack¡¯s teammate spill his drink?¡± Emmaughed, remembering the incident. ¡°I can¡¯t wear that to dinner with Alek! It¡¯s practically indecent.¡± ¡°Fine,promise.¡± Mia negotiated like the corporatewyer she was. ¡°The ck wrap dress with those ankle boots you bought in New York. Professional enough for public dining but feminine enough to remind him you¡¯re not just his boss.¡± As they settled the bill and prepared to leave, Mia pulled Emma into a tight hug. ¡°I¡¯m proud of you,¡± she whispered. ¡°Not just for running the team or finishing your MBA, but for being brave enough to try again after Jack.¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t done anything yet,¡± Emma protested. ¡°You¡¯ve done the hardest part,¡± Mia corrected. ¡°You¡¯ve acknowledged what you want and taken a step toward it. The rest is just checking the lines to make sure the path is clear.¡± mo 4 R ||| < BONUS CHAPTER CHEC Later that night, as Emma prepared for bed, her phone buzzed with one final message from Alek Looking forward to tomorrow. Sleep well, Emma.* Four simple words that carried worlds of meaning in their careful restraint. Not presumptuous, not overstepping, but warmly personal in a way that made Emma realize how long she¡¯d been starving for genuine connection. She replied with equal care: *As am I. Goodnight, Alek As she set her phone aside, Emma found herself smiling at the ceiling. Mia was right¨Cthere would never be perfect timing, no moment entirely free fromplications or potential misinterpretations. But perhaps perfect timing was less important than perfect understanding. And something told her that Alek Volkov understood her better than anyone else in her life ever had¨Cperhaps even better than she understood herself. Tomorrow¡¯s dinner would be just the beginning of testing that theory. 2 Comments Watch Ads (0/20) > ) H 90 Vote 18 year 31 Book 2 Heartbeat Emma Mitchell¨CVolkov stared at the three pregnancy tests lined up on the bathroom counter, each disying the same unmistakable result. Positive. Positive. Positive. Her hand trembled as she touched her still¨Ct stomach. After months of trying, after doctors warning about her ¡°challenging fertility outlook,¡± after beginning to research surrogacy options¨Chere was this miracle, disyed in three stic sticks. ¡°Emma?¡± Alek¡¯s voice echoed from downstairs. ¡°We¡¯ll bete for the charity dinner.¡± She gathered the tests in her hands, heart pounding against her ribs. Eight months of marriage had brought more happiness than she¡¯d ever imagined possible. This would make itplete. ¡°Coming!¡± she called, tucking the tests into her evening bag. Downstairs, Alek waited by the door of their renovated Beacon Hill townhouse, looking devastating in his tuxedo. Even after all this time, the sight of him made her breath catch¨Ctall, powerfully built, with eyes that softened only for her. ¡°You look beautiful,¡± he said, helping her with her wrap. ¡°Everything okay? You were up there a while.¡± ¡°Perfect.¡± Emma smiled, patting her evening bag. ¡°I have a surprise for you, but it can wait until after the event.¡± Alek raised an eyebrow, intrigued. ¡°A surprise that fits in your purse? Now I¡¯m curious.¡± ¡°Patience,¡± she teased, pressing a kiss to his cheek. ¡°Some things are worth waiting for.¡± The annual Hockey Fights Cancer benefit was one of Boston¡¯s premier charity events, drawing athletes, celebrities, and business leaders to support pediatric cancer research. As team owners, Emma and Alek hosted a table of sponsors and league officials. Throughout dinner, Emma barely tasted the expensive food, her mind spinning with ns and possibilities. She imagined telling her grandfather, pictured a nursery in their spare bedroom, wondered whether the baby would have Alek¡¯s blue eyes or her dark hair. Under the table, Alek squeezed her hand. ¡°You¡¯re a thousand miles away tonight,¡± he whispered while themissioner gave a speech. ¡°Sure everything¡¯s okay?¡± Emma nodded, squeezing back. ¡°Better than okay,¡± she promised. ¡°I just can¡¯t wait to get you alone.¡± Alek¡¯s eyes darkened with interest. ¡°Perhaps we could make an early exit.¡± ¡°After the auction,¡± Emma agreed. ¡°It¡¯s for the kids.¡± When the speeches concluded and the auction began, Emma excused herself to the restroom, eager for a moment alone to collect her thoughts about how to share her news. In the elegant bathroom, she sshed cool water on her wrists, a trick her grandfather had taught her for calming nerves before big presentations. She¡¯d tell Alek tonight, she decided. They¡¯d open champagne¨Cno, she couldn¡¯t drink anymore. Sparkling cider, then. They¡¯d celebrate, make ns, call her grandfather tomorrow. A sharp pain interrupted her thoughts, so sudden and intense it made her gasp. She gripped the marble countertop, breathing through it until it passed. ::: C 20 AR | R > O III Book 2 Heartbeat Probably nothing, she told herself. Just nerves or something she ate. She rejoined Alek at their table, sliding into her seat as a signed hockey jersey drew frenzied bidding. ¡°You¡¯re pale,¡± Alek noted immediately, his smile fading to concern. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± Emma assured him. ¡°Just a little cramp. It¡¯s-¡± +8 Points The pain returned, sharper this time, stealing her breath mid¨Csentence. She clutched Alek¡¯s arm, her fingers digging into his sleeve. ¡°Emma?¡± rm edged his voice. ¡°I don¡¯t-¡± She tried to stand but couldn¡¯t straighten. ¡°Something¡¯s wrong.¡± Alek was on his feet instantly, arm around her waist, supporting her weight. ¡°We¡¯re leaving. Now.¡± The pain intensified, radiating through her abdomen with blinding intensity. The room tilted sideways as a cold sweat broke across her forehead. ¡°My purse,¡± she gasped. ¡°Don¡¯t forget my purse.¡± Alek signaled frantically to security as Emma¡¯s knees buckled. Through the growing fog, she was aware of being lifted, of Alek¡¯s voice issuing rapidmands, of concerned murmurs from onlookers. ¡°Call Dr. Winters,¡± she heard him tell someone. ¡°Tell him we¡¯reing to Mass General emergency. Something¡¯s wrong with my wife.¡± The next minutes blurred together¨Cthe cold night air as they exited the building, the smooth leather of the car seat, Alek¡¯s hand gripping hers as he talked urgently to someone on the phone. ¡°Hang on, Emma,¡± he kept saying, his ent thickening with stress. ¡°Just hang on.¡± She fought to stay conscious, focusing on Alek¡¯s face, on the pressure of his hand, on anything but the tearing pain that threatened to pull her under. ¡°The baby,¡± she managed through gritted teeth. ¡°Alek, I¡¯m pregnant.¡± His eyes widened in shock, joy and terror battling across his features. ¡°Pregnant? You¡¯re sure?¡± ¡°Three tests,¡± Emma whispered as another wave of pain crashed through her. ¡°In my purse. I was going to tell you tonight.¡± Alek¡¯s face transformed, love and fear creating something new and raw in his expression. ¡°We¡¯re almost there. Hold on, Emma. Please hold on.¡± The hospital entrance loomed ahead, emergency lights casting red shadows across Alek¡¯s stricken f Emma felt herself being lifted again, ced on something that rolled, bright lights overhead making her squint. Medical personnel surrounded her, asking questions she couldn¡¯t focus enough to answer. Alek¡¯s voice filled in the gaps. ¡°My wife is pregnant¡ severe abdominal pain¡ no, we just found out tonight¡ please, she¡¯s in agony¡¡± A doctor leaned over her, penlight¨Cshing in her eyes. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov, I¡¯m Dr. Reyes. We¡¯re going to take care of you. How far along is your pregnancy?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Emma managed. ¡°Just took the tests today.¡± < Book 2 Heartbeat + Porns> ¡°BP¡¯s dropping,¡± a nurse called. ¡°Heart rate elevated,¡± The doctor¡¯s face turned serious. ¡°Possible ectopic. Get ultrasound in here stat. And type and cross for four units.¡± Emma reached for Alek¡¯s hand, panic rising through the pain. ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± ¡°I¡¯m right here,¡± he promised, gripping her fingers. Another wave of pain, worse than anything before, tore through her body. Emma heard herself scream as darkness crowded the edges of her vision. Thest thing she saw was Alek¡¯s terrified face as her hand slipped from his. ¡°OR 2 is ready,¡± someone shouted. ¡°We need to move now!¡± ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± Alek demanded, his voice breaking. ¡°Emma!¡± ¡°Sir, you need to let us work,¡± the doctor said firmly. ¡°Your wife needs emergency surgery. The nurse will show you to the waiting area.¡± For more chapters visit find~novel ¡°Surgery? But-¡± ¡°It¡¯s her only chance,¡± the doctor cut him off. ¡°And possibly the baby¡¯s, though I can¡¯t make promises. I¡¯m sorry, but we need to go now.¡± Emma felt herself being moved, the ceiling tiles blurring above her. Alek¡¯s voice faded as they wheeled her away. ¡°I love you, Emma! I¡¯ll be right here waiting!¡± As consciousness slipped away, Emma¡¯sst coherent thought was of the tiny life inside her¨Ca life they¡¯d wanted so badly, a life they might both be losing. The operating room doors swung closed, leaving Alek alone in the suddenly quiet hallway, his tuxedo rumpled, his world copsing around him. In his hand, he clutched Emma¡¯s evening bag, still containing the three positive pregnancy tests and all their shattered hopes. 18 year 32 Book 2 Fragile Ice Beeping monitors pulled Emma from darkness. Her mouth felt desert¨Cdry, her thoughts cloudy and disconnected. Hospital. She was in a hospital. Why? Memory returned in painful fragments¨Cthe charity dinner, the pregnancy.tests, searing pain, Alek¡¯s terrified face. Her hand flew to her stomach, finding only bandages and soreness. ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find?novel ¡°Emma.¡± Alek¡¯s voice, rough with exhaustion. He appeared at her bedside, unshaven and rumpled in yesterday¡¯s dress shirt, bow tie long gone. His eyes were red¨Crimmed, his expression a mixture of relief and something else she couldn¡¯t immediately identify. ¡°The baby,¡± she whispered, already knowing the answer from his face. Alek took her hand, his touch gentle as if she might shatter. ¡°It was ectopic¨Cin your fallopian tube. It ruptured, causing internal bleeding.¡± He swallowed hard. ¡°They couldn¡¯t save the pregnancy.¡± Emma closed her eyes, tears sliding silently down her temples into her hair. ¡°You nearly died,¡± Alek continued, his voice breaking. ¡°If we hadn¡¯t been at the hospital already¡¡± ¡°How bad?¡± she managed. Alek¡¯s grip tightened fractionally. ¡°The surgeon needed to remove the damaged fallopian tube to stop the bleeding. They saved the ovary, but¡¡± He couldn¡¯t finish. Half her reproductive system, gone. Her already ¡°challenging fertility outlook¡± now even more dire. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± She didn¡¯t know why she was apologizing, only that the words spilled out. ¡°I was so excited to tell you. I had it all nned.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t apologize.¡± Alek pressed his forehead against their joined hands. ¡°I¡¯m just grateful you¡¯re alive.¡± Dr. Reyes entered, clipboard in hand. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov, d to see you awake.¡± She checked monitors, made notes. ¡°You gave us quite a scare. Another hour without intervention, and we might have lost you.¡± ¡°When can I go home?¡± Emma asked. ¡°Let¡¯s get through today first,¡± the doctor replied kindly. ¡°You had major surgery and significant blood loss. We need to monitor you for at least 48 hours.¡± After exining recovery expectations and future fertility considerations, Dr. Reyes left them alone. The silence felt heavy, oppressive. ¡°Your grandfather called,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°I told him you had an appendix removal. I thought¡ about the baby¡¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Emma whispered. She wasn¡¯t ready to share their loss, not even with Franklin. Alek pulled a small shopping bag from beneath his chair. ¡°I bought this yesterday, before¡ I was going to surprise you when we got home.¡± From the bag, he withdrew a tiny Boston des jersey, no bigger than his hand. Custom¨Cprinted on the back: MITCHELL¨CVOLKOV, with the number 1. The sight of it¨Cwhat should have been, what would never be¨Cbroke something inside Emma. She turned her face away, shoulders shaking with silent sobs. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have shown you,¡± Alek said, quickly returning the jersey to the bag. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I wasn¡¯t thinking.¡± ¡°No.¡± Emma reached for his hand again. ¡°I¡¯m d you did. It makes it real. Makes it something we lost together, not just inside me.¡± Alek perched carefully on the edge of her bed, gathering her against his chest. For long minutes, they simply held each other, grieving what had briefly existed, acknowledging what was now gone. Three dayster, Emma stepped carefully from Alek¡¯s SUV into the spring sunshine. Home had never looked so inviting¨Cor so daunting. ¡°Careful,¡± Alek murmured, hand at her elbow. ¡°No rushing.¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Emma insisted, even as pain twinged with each step. ¡°Just tired.¡± Inside, evidence of Alek¡¯s preparations surrounded her¨Cfresh flowers on every surface, pillows arranged on the sofa, a stack of novels on the coffee table. He¡¯d thought of everything. ¡°I set up the guest room downstairs,¡± he exined, guiding her toward it. ¡°Doctor said no stairs for a week.¡± Emma stiffened. ¡°I¡¯d rather be in our bedroom.¡± ¡°Emma, be reasonable. The stairs-¡± ¡°I can manage stairs once a day,¡± she interrupted. ¡°Please, Alek. I need normalcy, not an invalid setup.¡± Reluctantly, he helped her upstairs to their master suite, where more flowers waited. Their bed had been made with fresh linens, her favorite pajamasid out. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, easing onto the edge of the mattress. ¡°I know you¡¯re just trying to help.¡± Alek nodded, though tension lingered in his shoulders. ¡°Are you hungry? I made soup.¡± ¡°Maybeter.¡± Emmay back against the pillows, suddenly exhausted from the short journey from car to bedroom. ¡°Could I just rest first?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Alek adjusted her pillows, pulled theforter over her legs, ced her phone within reach. ¡°I¡¯ll be right downstairs if you need anything. Anything at all.¡± Emma closed her eyes, already drifting. She didn¡¯t see the way Alek lingered in the doorway, watching her with a mixture of love and helplessness. ¨C The first week home established their pattern. Alek, consumed with protective worry, arranged his wor schedule to be home as much as possible. He monitored her medication, prepared her meals, helped with re tentative walks around the room, then the hall, then downstairs. Emma, desperate to process her grief but unsure how, withdrew into herself. She went through the motions- eating what Alek prepared, following doctor¡¯s orders, responding to his questions¨Cbut emotionally, she felt encased in ice, numb and separate. On the eighth day, Franklin called. ¡°Emmy,¡± his familiar voice warmed the line. ¡°How¡¯s the recoverying along?¡± ¡°Better every day, Grandpa,¡± she said, trying to inject energy she didn¡¯t feel. ¡°How are you?¡± +8 Points> ¡°Worried about you. Appendicitises on suddenly, but Alek said you were at that charity dinner when it happened? Must have been dramatic,¡± Emma hesitated, the lie about her appendix suddenly heavy between the ¡°It all happened very fast.¡± ¡°Well, I¡¯ming to see you tomorrow. Walter¡¯s bringing me at eleven.¡± ¡°Grandpa, you don¡¯t need to-¡± ¡°Nonsense. I haven¡¯t seen my granddaughter in two weeks. A man¡¯s entitled to check on his family.¡± After hanging up, Emma stared at her phone screen. She wasn¡¯t ready for visitors, wasn¡¯t ready to maintain the appendix fiction in person, wasn¡¯t ready for her grandfather¡¯s shrewd assessment of her emotional state. ¡°Everything okay?¡± Alek asked from the doorway, clearly having overheard her side of the conversation. ¡°Grandpa¡¯s visiting tomorrow.¡± Alek nodded. ¡°Good. He¡¯s been concerned.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t do this,¡± Emma whispered. ¡°I can¡¯t pretend everything¡¯s fine when I feel so¡ empty.¡± Alek crossed the room to sit beside her on the bed, the mattress dipping under his weight. ¡°Then don¡¯t pretend. Tell him the truth.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t add stress to his heart condition.¡± ¡°Franklin¡¯s stronger than you give him credit for. And he loves you, Emma. Let him support you.¡± ¡°The way you¡¯ve been trying to?¡± Emma asked softly. Alek¡¯s face tightened. ¡°Have I been that overbearing?¡± ¡°Not overbearing. Just¡¡± Emma searched for the right words. ¡°I feel like you¡¯re watching for me to break, and I don¡¯t know how to show you I¡¯m hurting without confirming your fears.¡± ¡°I almost lost you,¡± Alek said simply. ¡°I¡¯ve never been so terrified.¡± Emma reached for his hand. ¡°I know. But I can¡¯t heal if I¡¯m worried about your worry.¡± ¡°What do you need from me?¡± he asked, voice rough. ¡°Space,¡± she admitted. ¡°Not distance, just¡ room to feel whatever I¡¯m feeling without managing your feelings about my feelings.¡± Alek nodded slowly. ¡°I can try.¡± The buzzing of Alek¡¯s phone interrupted the moment. He nced at the screen, then stood. ¡°It¡¯s Wa Something about your grandfather.¡± Emma stiffened. ¡°Put it on speaker.¡± Walter¡¯s voice filled the room, unusually agitated. ¡°Mr. Volkov, Mr. Mitchell has copsed. The paramedics are here now. It appears to be cardiac¨Crted.¡± ¡°Where are you taking him?¡± Alek demanded. ¡°Mass General. The same hospital where Emma was treated.¡± Emma was already struggling to her feet, wincing as stitches pulled. ¡°We¡¯re on our way.¡± Alek ended the call and turned to her, conflict clear on his face. ¡°Emma, you can¡¯t-¡± ¡°Don¡¯t tell me what I can¡¯t do,¡± she interrupted. ¡°That¡¯s my grandfather.¡± ¡°You¡¯re barely a week post¨Csurgery.¡± ¡°And he¡¯s all the family I have left.¡± Emma reached for the closet, pulling out the first clothes she found. ¡°I¡¯m going, Alek. With or without you.¡± They stared at each other across the bedroom, the distance between them suddenly greater than physical space¨Ca chasm of grief, fear, andpeting needs that neither knew how to bridge. 18 year 33 < Book 2 Silent Penalty Book 2 Silent Penalty ¡°You¡¯ve got that look again,¡± Emma observed, ncing up from herptop. Alek, caught hovering in the doorway of her home office, straightened. ¡°What look?¡± ¡°The ¡®Is¨CEmma¨Cpushing herself¨Ctoo¨Chard¡¯ look.¡± She closed herputer. Im just answering emails, not running a marathon.¡± Two weeks had passed since Franklin¡¯s cardiac episode. The doctors had adjusted his medications, ordered more rest, but otherwise allowed him to return home. Emma¡¯s physical recovery progressed steadily, her follow¨Cup appointments showing proper healing. Emotionally, however, thendscape remained frozen between her and Alek ¡°The doctor said to ease back into work,¡± he reminded her, ¡°Answering emails is easing,¡± Emma countered. ¡°The team needs guidance on the newmunity initiative Alek nodded, though tension remained in his jaw. ¡°I¡¯ve got a strategy meeting. Need anything before I go?¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± The words had be her mantra, repeated so often they¡¯d lost all meaning. After Alek left, Emma reopened herptop but couldn¡¯t focus. The fertility specialist¡¯s business card sat on her desk, a reminder of the appointment scheduled for tomorrow. Their first real discussion about future options after losing the baby and her fallopian tube. Her phone pinged with a text from Mia: Lunch today? I¡¯m in Boston until Thursday. Can¡¯t today, Emma replied. Still on limited activity. Then I¡¯m bringing lunch to you. No arguments. 12:30. Emma smiled despite herself. Mia¡¯s determination was exactly what she needed¨Csomeone who wouldn¡¯t tiptoe around her like she might shatter. At 12:35, Mia breezed through the front door with takeout bags and an armload of spring flowers. ¡°These are from the cute vendor outside your building,¡± she announced, depositing everything on the kitchen counter. ¡°Now, where¡¯s that overprotective Russian husband of yours?¡± ¡°Strategy meeting at the arena,¡± Emma answered, epting Mia¡¯s careful hug. ¡°How did you know about the overprotective part?¡± ¡°Please.¡± Mia rolled her eyes, unpacking containers of pasta. ¡°I¡¯ve known Alek for thirty seconds and even 1 could see he¡¯d wrap you in bubble wrap if you¡¯d let him.¡± They settled at the kitchen ind with food and sparkling water, Mia chattering about hertest legal case and Chicago gossip. For a blessed half hour, Emma felt almost normal. ¡°So,¡± Mia said finally, pushing aside her empty container. ¡°Want to tell me what¡¯s really going on? Walter Discover more novels at find?novel called me, and I¡¯ve never heard him so worried.¡± Emma stared at her water ss. ¡°I didn¡¯t have appendicitis.¡± ¡°I figured as much.¡± ¡°I was pregnant.¡± The words felt strange, acknowledging something that had existed so briefly. ¡°It was ectopic m III §° < Book 2 Silent Penalty -in my fallopian tube. By the time we realized something was wrong, it had ruptured. They had to remove the tube.¡± Mia reached across the counter to squeeze her hand. ¡°Oh, Em. I¡¯m so sorry.¡± ¡°The worst part is¡¡± Emma swallowed hard. ¡°Alek and I can¡¯t seem to connect. He¡¯s drowning in worry and protectiveness, while I just want to process this in my own way.¡± ¡°Which is?¡± ¡°Work. Focusing on what I can control.¡± Mia gave her a knowing look. ¡°ssic Emma Mitchell avoidance technique.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not avoidance. It¡¯s coping.¡± ¡°Honey, work isn¡¯t going to heal what you¡¯re feeling.¡± Mia gestured around the spotless kitchen. ¡°And neither is letting Alek manage your entire life.¡± ¡°He¡¯s grieving too,¡± Emma said defensively. ¡°Of course he is. But have you two actually talked about it?¡± Emma fell silent, the answer obvious. ¡°That¡¯s what I thought.¡± Mia gathered their containers, tossing them in the recycling. ¡°You¡¯re both so busy protecting each other that neither of you is dealing with what happened.¡± ¡°We have an appointment with the fertility specialist tomorrow,¡± Emma offered. ¡°That¡¯s about the future. What about processing the present?¡± Mia leaned against the counter. ¡°Where¡¯s the baby jersey? The positive pregnancy tests?¡± Emma¡¯s breath caught. ¡°How did you know about those?¡± ¡°Because I know you, Em. You¡¯d keep evidence, something to acknowledge what was lost.¡± ¡°Alek put them in his closet,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°I think looking at them hurts him too much.¡± Mia nodded thoughtfully. ¡°And for you?¡± ¡°I want to look. I need to look.¡± Emma wrapped her arms around herself. ¡°But I don¡¯t want to add to his pain.¡± ¡°So you¡¯re both silently suffering to spare each other.¡± Mia shook her head. ¡°That¡¯s not sustainable, Em.¡± After Mia left, Emma found herself drawn to Alek¡¯s closet. In the back corner of the highest shelf sat a shoebox she¡¯d never seen before. Standing on tiptoe, she pulled it down. Inside, nestled in tissue paper,y the tiny des jersey. Beneath it, the three pregnancy tests, each still showing its positive result, carefully preserved in a zip¨Ctop bag. A hospital bracelet. The card from the flowers he¡¯d brought to her hospital room. A shrine to what they¡¯d lost, hidden away where she wouldn¡¯t identally encounter it. Emma sank to the floor, jersey clutched to her chest, finally allowing herself to weep for the baby they never got to meet. ::: 13 m > O 18 year 34 Book 2 penalty + Purs ¡°Physical recovery looks excellent,¡± Dr. Winters confirmed, reviewing Emma¡¯s chart. ¡°I see no reason why you can¡¯t return to normal activities, though I¡¯d still avoid heavy lifting for another week.¡± Emma nodded, hyperaware of Alek beside her in the fertility specialist¡¯s office. He¡¯d barely spoken all morning, his silence more unnerving than any hovering. ¡°Now, let¡¯s discuss your fertility outlook.¡± Dr. Winters folded her hands on the desk. ¡°With one functioning fallopian tube, your chances of natural conception are reduced but certainly not eliminated. Many women conceive sessfully with a single tube.¡± Hope flickered in Emma¡¯s chest. ¡°So we could try again?¡± ¡°I¡¯d rmend waiting at least three months to allow full healing,¡± the doctor cautioned. ¡°But yes, natural conception remains possible.¡± ¡°And the risks?¡± Alek asked, his first contribution to the conversation. ¡°Of another ectopic?¡± ¡°Somewhat elevated,¡± Dr. Winters acknowledged. ¡°About 15% of women who¡¯ve had one ectopic pregnancy will experience another. We¡¯d monitor any future pregnancy very closely from the earliest stages.¡± Emma felt Alek tense beside her. ¡°What about alternatives?¡± he asked. ¡°Surrogacy, perhaps?¡± The doctor nodded. ¡°Given your history, surrogacy is certainly a valid option. Your eggs could be harvested, fertilized with your husband¡¯s sperm, and the embryo imnted in a surrogate¡¯s uterus.¡± ¡°That would eliminate the risk of another ectopic?¡± Alek pressed. ¡°Yes, since the pregnancy would ur in the surrogate¡¯s body.¡± Emma turned to him, confused by his focus. ¡°Alek, the doctor just said natural conception is still possible.¡± ¡°With elevated risks,¡± he reminded her. ¡°Risks I¡¯m not sure are worth taking.¡± A cold feeling spread through Emma¡¯s chest. ¡°That¡¯s not your decision alone.¡± Dr. Winters cleared her throat. ¡°Perhaps you two need time to discuss options. There¡¯s no rush to decide anything today.¡± In the car afterward, the silence was deafening. Emma stared out the window at passing trees just beginning to bud. ¡°You¡¯ve already decided, haven¡¯t you?¡± she finally asked. ¡°You don¡¯t want to try naturally again.¡± Alek¡¯s hands tightened on the steering wheel. ¡°I watched you nearly bleed to death, Emma. The surgeon said thirty more minutes and you wouldn¡¯t have survived.¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean it would happen again.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t mean it wouldn¡¯t.¡± He turned to her at a red light, eyes haunted. ¡°I can¡¯t watch you go through that again. I can¡¯t risk losing you.¡± ¡°So instead, you want to deny me the chance to carry our child? To experience pregnancy properly?¡± Emma¡¯s voice rose despite her effort to stay calm. ¡°Do you have any idea how that makes me feel? Like my body failed, and now you¡¯ve given up on it too?¡± O 13 m For more chapters visit FindN()vel > O III < Book 2 penalty +0 Points) ¡°This isn¡¯t about failure,¡± Alek insisted as the light changed. ¡°It¡¯s about finding a safer path to parenthood.¡± ¡°It¡¯s about control,¡± Emma countered. ¡°You couldn¡¯t control what happened, so now you¡¯re trying to control what happens next.¡± Alek pulled into their driveway, putting the car in park but making no move to exit. ¡°Is wanting to protect my wife such a terrible thing?¡± ¡°Protection and control aren¡¯t the same,¡± Emma said softly. ¡°Onees from love, the other from fear.¡± She stepped from the car, unable to continue the conversation that felt increasingly like talking across an unbridgeable divide. Inside, Emma retreated to her office, closing the door¨Ca clear signal she needed space. She opened herptop, losing herself in work emails and team reports, findingfort in the familiar challenges of hockey operations. Hours passed. She heard Alek moving around the house but didn¡¯t emerge. At some point, he left a sandwich and water outside her door, knocking once to alert her before retreating. As evening fell, Emma¡¯s phone rang¨Cher grandfather. ¡°How was the appointment?¡± Franklin asked without preamble. Emma hesitated. ¡°How did you know about that?¡± ¡°Walter keeps my calendar updated with familymitments. Don¡¯t change the subject.¡± ¡°It was¡¡± Emma searched for a word that wouldn¡¯t worry him. ¡°Informative.¡± ¡°And what¡¯s wrong between you and Aleksander?¡± Emma nearly dropped the phone. ¡°What makes you think anything¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°He called to check on me earlier. Sounded like someone died.¡± Franklin paused. ¡°What¡¯s really going on, Emmy? And don¡¯t tell me appendicitis again. I wasn¡¯t born yesterday.¡± The tears came suddenly, without warning. Through them, Emma found herself telling her grandfather everything¨Cthe pregnancy, the rupture, the surgery, the growing distance with Alek. Franklin listened in silence until she finished. ¡°Oh, my dear girl,¡± he said finally, voice gentle in a way she rarely heard. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t want to worry you, with your heart-¡± ¡°That¡¯s my job,¡± Franklin interrupted. ¡°To worry about you, not the other way around.¡± ¡°What do I do, Grandpa?¡± Emma whispered. ¡°I feel like I¡¯m losing Alek too, and I don¡¯t know how to reach him.¡± Franklin sighed. ¡°You know what happens when a yer tries to skate through an injury instead of healing properly?¡± ¡°They make it worse,¡± Emma said automatically. ¡°Exactly. You two are trying to skate through grief without addressing the injury.¡± His voice softened. ¡°Some penalties have to be served, Emmy. No matter how unfair they seem.¡± After hanging up, Emma opened her office door to find Alek sitting on the floor in the hallway, head in his 13 m * Book 2 penalty hands. He looked up, eyes red¨Crimmed. ¡°I found the box open in my closet,¡± he said. ¡°You saw everything.¡± Emma nodded, sliding down the wall to sit opposite him in the hallway. ¡°Why did you hide it away?¡± ¡°I thought seeing it would hurt you more.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was rough. ¡°I was trying to protect you from more pain.¡± ¡°I needed to see it,¡± Emma said. ¡°To know it was real. That we lost something real.¡± They sat in silence, the hallway between them like a demilitarized zone¨Cnot quite together, not quite apart. ¡°I¡¯m scared, Emma,¡± Alek admitted finally. ¡°Scared of losing you. Scared of saying the wrong thing. Scared this will break us.¡± Emma reached across the hallway, offering her hand. After a moment, he took it, hisrge palm engulfing hers. ¡°I¡¯m scared too,¡± she whispered. ¡°But we can¡¯t keep serving this penalty in silence.¡± Comments Watch Ads (0/20) > 18 year 35 Book 2 Substitute yer ¡°You can¡¯t be serious,¡± Alek followed Emma around their bedroom as she packed an overnight bag. ¡°Moving into your grandfather¡¯s mansion? For how long?¡± ¡°As long as he needs me,¡± Emma replied, folding a sweater. ¡°You saw him yesterday, Alek. He can barely get up the stairs.¡± Three weeks after Franklin¡¯s cardiac episode, his health had deteriorated further. Though he insisted he was fine, his color was poor, his energy non¨Cexistent. ¡°That¡¯s why he has round¨Cthe¨Cclock nurses,¡± Alek argued. ¡°And Walter. He doesn¡¯t need you living there.¡± Emma zipped her bag. ¡°He needs family. Someone who loves him, not just employees who care for him.¡± ¡°And what about us?¡± Alek gestured between them. ¡°We¡¯ve barely begun addressing our issues, and now you¡¯re moving out?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not moving out,¡± Emma corrected, exasperated. ¡°I¡¯m temporarily staying with my grandfather while he recovers.¡± ¡°Same difference.¡± Alek raked a hand through his hair. ¡°You¡¯re avoiding difficult conversations by diving into caregiving.¡± Emma stiffened. ¡°That¡¯s not fair.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Alek¡¯s voice softened. ¡°Every time we start to talk about the baby, about surrogacy versus trying again, about how to move forward¨Csomething interrupts. Your work calls. My meetings. Now your grandfather.¡± Emma sat on the edge of the bed, suddenly tired. ¡°This isn¡¯t a convenient excuse, Alek. Franklin genuinely needs me.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Alek sat beside her, the mattress dipping under his weight. ¡°But I need you too.¡± Emma leaned against his shoulder, a rare moment of connection. ¡°It¡¯s only for a little while. Just until his strength improves.¡± ¡°And then what?¡± Alek asked. ¡°We return to our separate corners? Continue the silent standoff?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°But I do know I can¡¯t leave him alone right now.¡± Alek nodded, resignation clear in his expression. ¡°I¡¯ll drive you over.¡± Franklin¡¯s Beacon Hill mansion had always seemed absurdlyrge for one elderly man. Now, with medical equipment crowding his bedroom and a nurse stationed in the adjacent sitting room, it felt more like a private hospital than a home. ¡°This ispletely unnecessary,¡± Franklin grumbled as Emma unpacked in her childhood bedroom. ¡°I¡¯m perfectly capable of managing on my own.¡± ¡°Of course you are,¡± Emma agreed, humoring him. ¡°I¡¯m just here for thepany.¡± Franklin harrumphed, but his eyes betrayed his pleasure at having her there. ¡°Where¡¯s that oversized husband of yours? Too busy to visit an old man?¡± 174 < Book 2 Substitute yer ¡°He¡¯sing for dinner,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Team responsibilities this afternoon.¡± +8 Points > The rightful source is find?novel The truth was moreplicated. Alek had been coldly polite when dropping her off, clearly unhappy with the arrangement but unwilling to argue further. Another fracture in their increasingly fragile rtionship. ¡°You two fighting?¡± Franklin asked, ever perceptive. ¡°Not fighting. Just¡¡± Emma searched for the right word. ¡°Disconnected.¡± Franklin nodded sagely. ¡°Marriage is like skating on freshly resurfaced ice. Smooth at first, then ruts develop if you keep traveling the same path.¡± ¡°Poetic, Grandpa.¡± Emma smiled despite herself. ¡°Any advice for filling the ruts?¡± ¡°Change the path.¡± Franklin adjusted his position against the pillows. ¡°Now, tell me what¡¯s really bothering Aleksander. And don¡¯t say ¡®nothing¡® because that boy looks like he¡¯s carrying the weight of Boston on his shoulders.¡± Emma perched on the edge of his bed. ¡°We¡¯re struggling to agree on next steps. After losing the baby.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± Franklin patted her hand. ¡°He wants surrogacy, you want to try again naturally.¡± Emma stared at him, surprised. ¡°How did you know?¡± ¡°Because I know you both,¡± Franklin said simply. ¡°You¡¯ve never backed down from a challenge in your life. And he¡¯s never met a risk he couldn¡¯t calcte to minimize.¡± ¡°We just can¡¯t seem to hear each other,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°He¡¯s so afraid of losing me that he can¡¯t consider what I need.¡± ¡°And you¡¯re so determined to prove your body isn¡¯t broken that you won¡¯t acknowledge his fear.¡± Franklin¡¯s directness was both irritating and refreshing. ¡°You¡¯re both right, and you¡¯re both wrong.¡± Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text from Alek: Flight from LAX justnded. Be there in about an hour. ¡°What flight?¡± Emma murmured, confused. Franklin chuckled. ¡°That would be his surprise. I might have suggested it.¡± ¡°Suggested what? Alek was just here this morning.¡± ¡°Not Alek¡¯s flight.¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled mischievously. ¡°I called in reinforcements.¡± Before Emma could press for details, Walter appeared at the doorway. ¡°Ms. Mitchell, there¡¯s a delivery downstairs requiring your signature.¡± Puzzled, Emma headed to the main floor. Instead of a package, she found a petite woman with Alek¡¯s blue eyes and a riot of blonde curls standing in the foyer, surrounded by luggage. ¡°You must be Emma,¡± the woman said, extending her hand. ¡°I¡¯m Natasha Volkov. Your interfering grandfather called me.¡± ¡°Natasha?¡± Emma repeated, stunned. ¡°Alek¡¯s sister? From California?¡± ¡°The very same.¡± Natasha¡¯s smile was warm. ¡°Franklin said you could use family support. On the Volkov side, I mean.¡± Emma shot a disbelieving look up the staircase, where she could imagine her grandfather looking entirely too pleased with himself. 314 < Book 2 Substitute yer ¡°I can¡¯t believe you flew across the country-¡± ¡°Medical residents don¡¯t get many breaks,¡± Natasha interrupted. ¡°When we do, family emergencies take priority.¡± ¡°But there¡¯s no emergency-¡± +8 Points ¡°Grandpa had a heart episode, you had surgery, and my brother is apparently being his typical overprotective self.¡± Natasha counted on her fingers. ¡°That¡¯s three emergencies by Russian standards.¡± Despite everything, Emma found herself smiling at Natasha¡¯s matter¨Cof¨Cfact assessment. She remembered meeting Alek¡¯s sister at their wedding¨Cbrilliant, outspoken, with the same directness as her brother but none of his caution. ¡°How long can you stay?¡± Emma asked, helping with the bags. ¡°Two weeks. I switched rotations with another resident.¡± Natasha followed Emma upstairs. ¡°Where¡¯s Alek?¡± ¡°He¡¯ll be here for dinner.¡± Emma showed her to a guest room. ¡°He doesn¡¯t know you¡¯reing.¡± Natashaughed. ¡°Perfect. I love surprising him. He makes that fish¨Cmouth expression when he¡¯s caught off guard.¡± Emma recognized the description immediately¨Cthe same face Alek had made when she¡¯d first told him about the pregnancy, a mixture of shock and joy. The memory sent a pang through her chest. ¡°There it is,¡± Natasha said softly. ¡°The look Alek described.¡± ¡°What look?¡± ¡°Like you¡¯re carrying something heavy but won¡¯t let anyone help.¡± Natasha sat on the edge of the guest bed. ¡°He¡¯s worried about you.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma sighed, leaning against the doorframe. ¡°But his worry is suffocating.¡± ¡°That¡¯s Alek.¡± Natasha kicked off her shoes, making herself at home. ¡°When our parents died, he was neen and I was twelve. He dropped everything¨Chis education, his promising hockey career in Russia¨Cto move us to America where he¡¯d been recruited. For years, he scheduled his entire life around my needs.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t realize,¡± Emma said. ¡°He doesn¡¯t talk much about that time.¡± ¡°It was hard for him,¡± Natasha acknowledged. ¡°He yed the role of brother, father, and mother all at once. His overprotectivenesses from love, even when it¡¯s maddening.¡± ¡°It still doesn¡¯t give him the right to make decisions about my body,¡± Emma pointed out. Natasha raised her hands in surrender. ¡°Absolutely not. I¡¯m just providing context, not excuses.¡± Before their conversation could continue, Walter appeared again. ¡°Ms. Mitchell, Mr. Volkov has arrived. He¡¯s in the kitchen.¡± Emma and Natasha exchanged nces, sharing a moment of conspirators¡® excitement before heading downstairs. Alek stood with his back to the door, arranging takeout containers on the counter. When he turned, his expression shifted from neutral to stunned in an instant. ¡°Natasha?¡± The container in his hands nearly tumbled to the floor. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Book 2 Substitute yer ¡°Surprise!¡± Natashaunched herself into her brother¡¯s arms. Grandpa Mitchell called me ¡°Franklin did?¡± Alek¡¯s bewildered gaze found Emma over his sister¡¯s head. ¡°Did you know about this?¡± ¡°Not until about ten minutes ago, Emma assured him. Alek set his sister down, studying her face. ¡°Your residency- ¡°Is covered. I¡¯m here for two weeks.¡± Natasha poked him in the chest. ¡°And you can stop giving me that big¨Cbrother worried look. I¡¯m twenty¨Ceight, not twelve anymore.¡± 18 year 36 Book 2 Substitute yer 2 Dinner proved surprisingly pleasant. Franklin joined them in the dining room¨Chis first time downstairs in days¨Cclearly energized by Natasha¡¯s presence. The siblings¡® easy banter lightened the atmosphere, and Emma found herselfughing more than she had in weeks. After the meal, while Natasha regaled Franklin with stories from the emergency room, Alek pulled Emma aside in the kitchen. ¡°Did you know Franklin called her?¡± he asked, loading tes into the dishwasher. ¡°No.¡± Emma handed him sses to add to the rack. ¡°But I¡¯m d he did. She¡¯s wonderful.¡± ¡°She¡¯s also nosy and opinionated,¡± Alek warned with brotherly fondness. ¡°And she¡¯ll absolutely take sides.¡± ¡°Whose side?¡± Emma asked, curious. ¡°Whoever she thinks needs the most defending.¡± Alek closed the dishwasher. ¡°Usually anyone against me.¡± Emma smiled. ¡°I like her already.¡± Alek paused, studying Emma¡¯s face. ¡°You seem¡ lighter tonight.¡± ¡°It¡¯s nice having family around,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°All of our family.¡± A moment of understanding passed between them¨Ctheir first real connection in weeks. Not solving anything, but acknowledging that they were still bound together despite the distance. ¡°Will youe home tonight?¡± Emma asked quietly. ¡°Stay here, I mean. There¡¯s plenty of room.¡± Alek hesitated. ¡°If that¡¯s what you want.¡± ¡°It is.¡± Emma reached for his hand. ¡°I¡¯ve missed you, even though you¡¯ve been right there.¡± Before Alek could respond, Franklin¡¯s voice called from the dining room. ¡°If you two are done whispering in there, Natasha is offering medical opinions on my condition, and I need reinforcements!¡± The moment broken, they returned to the dining room to find Natasha methodically listing all the ways Franklin was likely ignoring doctor¡¯s orders. ¡°-and the sodium in those pretzels you¡¯re hiding in your bedside table isn¡¯t helping your blood pressure,¡± she was saying. ¡°How did you know about those?¡± Franklin demanded. ¡°I¡¯m in medical school. I can spot a rule¨Cbreaker from a mile away.¡± Natasha turned to Emma and Alek. ¡°Your grandfather needs a dedicated health coordinator. His current care team is too fragmented.¡± ¡°We have three specialists,¡± Emma protested. ¡°Who probably barelymunicate with each other,¡± Natasha countered. ¡°I¡¯d be happy to review his records and create aprehensive care n while I¡¯m here.¡± ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Franklin objected. ¡°I don¡¯t need another doctor.¡± ¡°Then consider me a consultant,¡± Natasha suggested smoothly. ¡°A fresh perspective.¡± As the discussion continued, Emma noticed Alek watching his sister with obvious pride. This was a side of < Book 2 Substitute yer 2 +8 Points > his family she¡¯d barely glimpsed¨Cthe professional confidence, the take¨Ccharge attitude so simr to Alek¡¯s in the boardroom. Later that night, after Franklin had retired and Natasha hadmandeered his medical files for review, Emma found herself alone with Alek in the mansion¡¯s sitting room. ¡°Thank you for staying,¡± she said quietly. Alek nodded, keeping a careful distance on the sofa. ¡°Natasha would never forgive me if I left her first night here.¡± ¡°Is that the only reason?¡± His eyes met hers. ¡°No.¡± The grandfather clock ticked loudly in the corner, marking seconds of silence between them. ¡°We should talk,¡± Emma began, ¡°about what happens next.¡± ¡°I think,¡± Alek said slowly, ¡°that tonight isn¡¯t the night for difficult conversations.¡± Emma wanted to argue but recognized the wisdom in his words. Tonight had been their first peaceful evening in weeks. Why shatter it with debates that would still be waiting tomorrow? ¡°Goodnight, then,¡± she said instead, rising from the sofa. Alek caught her hand as she passed, his touch gentle. ¡°I am trying, Emma. To understand your perspective. To find middle ground.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma squeezed his fingers. ¡°So am I.¡± Upstairs, Emma passed Natasha¡¯s room to find the door ajar, light still zing. She peered in to see Alek¡¯s sister surrounded by medical files, making notes with fierce concentration. Original content can be found at ¡°Don¡¯t you ever sleep?¡± Emma asked. Natasha looked up, grinning. ¡°Medical residency beats normal sleep patterns out of you. Besides, your grandfather¡¯s case is fascinating.¡± ¡°Fascinating isn¡¯t the word I¡¯d use,¡± Emma said dryly. ¡°He¡¯s a stubborn old goat who¡¯s ignoring half his treatment n,¡± Natasha observed. ¡°Reminds me of someone else I know.¡± ¡°Alek?¡± ¡°You, actually.¡± Natasha set down her pen. ¡°My brother says you went back to work two weeks after major surgery.¡± Emma leaned against the doorframe. ¡°Is that why you¡¯re really here? To report on me to Alek?¡± ¡°I¡¯m here because a wise old man called and said his granddaughter and my brother are both too stubborn to help each other through grief.¡± Natasha¡¯s directness was startling. ¡°He thought a neutral third party might help.¡± ¡°And you dropped everything to y family therapist?¡± ¡°I dropped everything because Alek is the only immediate family I have left,¡± Natasha corrected. ¡°And because losing a pregnancy, even an early one, is a trauma many people dismiss too quickly.¡± < Book 2 Substitute yer 2 Emma felt sudden tears prick her eyes. ¡°You sound like you speak from experience.¡± ¡°Not personally. But I¡¯ve worked in women¡¯s health.¡± Natasha¡¯s expression softened. ¡°The emotional impact oftensts far longer than the physical recovery.¡± For the first time since the hospital, Emma felt truly seen¨Cnot as Franklin¡¯s granddaughter needing protection, not as Alek¡¯s wife causing worry, but as a woman experiencing a legitimate loss. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to reach him,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°We¡¯re both trying so hard not to hurt each other that we¡¯re barely connecting at all.¡± ¡°Then stop trying not to hurt each other,¡± Natasha suggested. ¡°Start by being honest, even when it stings.¡± ¡°Is that the famous Volkov directness?¡± ¡°It¡¯s the only way I know to love difficult people.¡± Natasha smiled. ¡°And make no mistake¨Cyou and my brother are both deeply, profoundly difficult.¡± Emmaughed softly, surprised by how good it felt. ¡°I think I¡¯m going to like having you here, Natasha.¡± ¡°Of course you will,¡± Natasha replied confidently. ¡°I¡¯m delightful.¡± As Emma continued to her own room, she reflected on the unexpected shift in dynamics Natasha¡¯s arrival had created. For weeks, she and Alek had been locked in a binary standoff¨Chis perspective versus hers, surrogacy versus trying again, protection versus risk. Natasha introduced a third point of view, a different angle from which to examine their frozen positions. Whether that would help bridge the gaps between them or create newplications remained to be seen. For tonight at least, Emma wasn¡¯t alone in her concerns. For the first time since losing the baby, she felt understood rather than just sympathized with. Perhaps Franklin¡¯s ¡°reinforcements¡± were exactly what they needed after all. 18 year 37 Book 2 Cross Checking 1 ¡°Your grandfather is the most infuriating patient I¡¯ve ever encountered,¡± Natasha dered, dropping into a chair beside Emma. ¡°And I once treated a man who insisted his appendicitis was caused by aliens.¡± Emma smiled, adjusting the name tag on her zer. The atrium of Boston Children¡¯s Hospital hummed with activity as volunteers set up for the Boston des¡® annual charity carnival. yers would arrive soon to sign autographs, take photos, and y games with young patients¨Ca tradition Emma had expanded significantly since taking ownership. ¡°Franklin doesn¡¯t like being told what to do,¡± Emma agreed, checking items off her clipboard, ¡°Especially by someone he sees as a child.¡± ¡°I¡¯m twenty¨Ceight!¡± ¡°To him, anyone under fifty is practically a toddler.¡± Emma nced at her watch. ¡°Speaking of Franklin, should you be here? I thought you were reviewing his medication schedule today.¡± ¡°Walter¡¯s watching him,¡± Natasha waved dismissively. ¡°And I needed a break from his stubbornness. Besides, 1 wanted to see this famous charity event Alek keeps bragging about.¡± Emma¡¯s gaze softened as she watched children in hospital gowns being wheeled into the atrium, their faces lighting up at the decorations. ¡°It¡¯s my favorite day of the season.¡± Natasha studied her thoughtfully. ¡°You¡¯re different here. More¡¡± ¡°Confident?¡± Emma suggested. ¡°Yourself,¡± Natasha corrected. ¡°Less guarded.¡± Before Emma could respond, amotion at the entrance signaled the team¡¯s arrival. yers in Boston des jerseys streamed in, Alek at the front in a perfectly tailored suit. His eyes found Emma immediately, his professional mask slipping just enough to reveal a genuine smile. ¡°Definitely still in love with you,¡± Natasha murmured. ¡°He gets that dopey look,¡± ¡°Hush,¡± Emma nudged her, though the observation warmed something that had been cold for weeks. Alek approached, greeting Natasha with a quick hug before turning to Emma. ¡°Everything looks incredible. The PR team said registration numbers are thirty percent higher thanst year.¡± ¡°The children¡¯s art auction is already exceeding expectations too,¡± Emma replied, relieved to be on safe, professional ground. ¡°Have the yers been briefed?¡± ¡°Complete orientation on interaction protocols,¡± Alek confirmed. ¡°Coach has them on their best behavior.¡± Theirfortable professional rhythm had survived even as their personal connection strained¨Ca fact that both reassured and saddened Emma. They could still function perfectly as business partners while struggling to reconnect as husband and wife. ¡°I need to check on the silent auction,¡± Emma said, gathering her clipboard. ¡°The yers should start at their assigned stations in about fifteen minutes. Added to the library Alek nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll do a final walkthrough with security.¡± 1 < Book 2 Cross Checking 1 * Fot As they turned in opposite directions, Natasha rolled her eyes. ¡°Wow. You two have professional distance down to an art form.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a public event,¡± Emma reminded her. ¡°Uh¨Chuh.¡± Natasha looked thoroughly unconvinced. ¡°Heaven forbid anyone suspect you might actually like each other.¡± Emma ignored thementary, focusing instead on final preparations. The event kicked off smoothly, with yers manning game stations while children moved between activities collecting prizes. The hospital corridor buzzed withughter and excitement¨Cexactly the atmosphere Emma had envisioned when expanding the program. ¡°Ms. Mitchell¨CVolkov?¡± A volunteer approached. ¡°The team psychologist has arrived and is asking where to set up.¡± Emma frowned. ¡°Team psychologist? We don¡¯t have-¡± ¡°Actually, we do now, came a voice behind her. Emma turned to find a striking woman in her mid¨Cthirties, sleek dark hair pulled into a professional bun, designer dress subtly disying an athletic figure. Something about her seemed vaguely familiar. ¡°I¡¯m Dr. Elise Crawford,¡± the woman extended her hand. ¡°Recently contracted with the des. I believe your husband would have mentioned it.¡± Emma epted the handshake automatically, mind racing. ¡°I¡¯m afraid he didn¡¯t.¡± ¡°Oh.¡± Elise¡¯s perfectly groomed eyebrows rose slightly. ¡°That¡¯s surprising, given our history.¡± ¡°Your history?¡± Emma kept her voice neutral despite sudden unease. ¡°Alek and I were engaged. Years ago, of course.¡± Elise¡¯s smile held no warmth. ¡°Before his knee injury ended his ying career. Ancient history now.¡± The ground seemed to shift beneath Emma¡¯s feet. Alek had mentioned previous rtionships, of course, but never an engagement. And certainly never that this woman had been hired by the team. ¡°I see,¡± Emma managed. ¡°Well, wee to the organization. The volunteer can show you to your station.¡± As soon as Elise moved away, Emma scanned the room for Alek. She spotted him across the atrium, deep in conversation with the coach. ¡°You look like you¡¯ve seen a ghost,¡± Natasha appeared at her elbow. ¡°What¡¯s-¡± She followed Emma¡¯s gaze to Elise, then stiffened. ¡°Is that who I think it is?¡± ¡°You know her?¡± Emma asked. ¡°Unfortunately.¡± Natasha¡¯s usual good humor vanished. ¡°Elise Crawford. She broke my brother¡¯s heart right after his career ended. imed she couldn¡¯t be with someone who wasn¡¯t going to be a star athlete¡± ¡°And now she works for us,¡± Emma said, disbelief coloring her voice. ¡°Without anyone thinking I should know ??? ????? ???????s ??? ?????s??? ?? find¡¤novel about it.¡± ¡°Alek didn¡¯t tell you?¡± Natasha looked genuinely surprised. ¡°That¡¯s¡ uncharacteristic.¡± Emma watched as Elise approached Alek across the room. His posture changed immediately¨Cshoulders stiffening, jaw tightening. Not the reaction of someonefortable with a new colleague. < Book 2 Cross Checking 1

Ports >

¡°I need to focus on the event,¡± Emma said, professionalism overriding personal shock. ¡°We can deal with¡ this¡ter.¡± For the next two hours, Emma threw herself into her responsibilities, moving between stations, talking with children and parents, coordinating with hospital staff. All while acutely aware of Elise¡¯s presence, of the asional moments she and Alek interacted with strained politeness. When the event finally wound down, Emma found herself cornered by Dr. Klein, the team physician, who was unabashedly enthusiastic about the new hire. ¡°Crawford¡¯s integration of psychological and physical recovery techniques is revolutionary,¡± he gushed. ¡°Her research on trauma recovery for injured yers has been published in every major sports medicine journal.¡± ¡°How was the hiring decision made?¡± Emma asked carefully. ¡°The performancemittee approved itst month,¡± Dr. Klein exined. ¡°Volkov was actually the holdout, if you can believe it. Said something about conflicts of interest.¡± Before Emma could probe further, a smallmotion erupted near the entrance. A child had knocked over a disy in excitement, sending decorations cascading. She excused herself to help with cleanup,partmentalizing her growing anger behind a professional smile. By the time thest attendees departed and volunteers began breaking down stations, Emma¡¯s patience had evaporated. She found Alek in a quiet corridor, reviewing event metrics on his tablet. ¡°We need to talk,¡± she said without preamble. ¡°About Dr. Crawford.¡± Alek¡¯s expression shuttered immediately. ¡°I was going to tell you.¡± ¡°When? Before or after everyone else knew that you¡¯d hired your ex¨Cfianc¨¦e?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t hire her,¡± Alek countered. ¡°Themittee did. I actually voted against it.¡± ¡°Yet somehow you neglected to mention any of this to me,¡± Emma pressed. ¡°Including the small detail that you were once engaged to her.¡± Alek nced around, aware of staff still within earshot. ¡°Can we discuss this at home?¡± ¡°No, we can discuss it now,¡± Emma insisted, keeping her voice low but firm. ¡°You¡¯ve been lecturing me about openmunication for weeks while keeping this secret?¡°. ¡°It wasn¡¯t relevant,¡± Alek said stiffly. ¡°Elise and I were over years before I met you.¡± ¡°Her hiring was relevant,¡± Emma shot back. ¡°Especially given that I¡¯m supposedly your business partner as well as your wife.¡± Alek¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°You¡¯ve been preupied with your grandfather¡¯s health. I didn¡¯t want to add to your stress with something I was handling.¡± ¡°Handling?¡± Emma repeated incredulously. ¡°Is that what you call this? Because Dr. Klein just told me you were the lone holdout on themittee.¡± ¡°Because I knew it would create exactly this situation!¡± ¡°No, this situation was created by yourck of transparency,¡± Emma corrected. ¡°If you¡¯d told me from the beginning, I would have been prepared. Instead, I was blindsided at our own charity event.¡± Alek ran a hand through his hair in frustration. ¡°I made a judgment call.¡± Book 2 Cross Checking 1 ¡°A wrong one,¡± Emma said coldly. ¡°And it makes me wonder what other judgment calls you¡¯ve made without consulting me. Both professionally and personally.¡± The implications hung between them¨Ctheir ongoing disagreement about fertility treatments, Alek¡¯s reluctance to try for another natural pregnancy, his tendency to make protective decisions on her behalf. ¡°That¡¯s not fair,¡± Alek said quietly. ¡°This has nothing to do with our personal decisions.¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t it?¡± Emma challenged. ¡°It¡¯s the same pattern, Alek. You deciding what I can handle, what I should know, what¡¯s best for me¨Cwithout actually asking me.¡± 18 year 38 + Ports Book 2 Cross checking 2 Their argument was interrupted by Natasha, who approached with caution visible in her expression. ¡°Sorry to interrupt, but Franklin¡¯s nurse just called. He¡¯s asking for you, Emma. Something about feeling ¡®not right.¡± Emma immediately shifted focus, personal grievances secondary to concern for her grandfather. ¡°I¡¯ll head there now. Can you arrange for the car?¡± ¡°Already done,¡± Natasha assured her. Emma turned back to Alek. ¡°We¡¯re not finished with this discussion.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll meet you at the mansion after I wrap things up here,¡± he said, professional mask firmly back in ce. The drive to Franklin¡¯s felt interminable, Emma¡¯s mind toggling between worry for her grandfather and anger at Alek¡¯s omission. By the time she arrived, her emotions were a tangled mess. She found Franklin in his study rather than his bedroom, which was somewhat reassuring. He sat in his usual armchair, color better than it had been in days, though fatigue lined his face. ¡°There you are,¡± he greeted her. ¡°How was the carnival?¡± ¡°Sessful,¡± Emma answered, kneeling beside his chair to check him over with her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Natasha said you weren¡¯t feeling well.¡± ¡°Slight chest difort,¡± Franklin admitted. ¡°Nothing serious. The nurse insisted on calling you.¡± Emma pressed a hand to his forehead¨Cno fever. ¡°I¡¯m calling Dr. Winters.¡± ¡°Already examined me,¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°Said it¡¯s likely just indigestion from those spicy crackers Walter smuggled in.¡± ¡°Grandpa!¡± ¡°A man¡¯s entitled to simple pleasures,¡± Franklin defended himself. ¡°Besides, it gave me an excuse to get you home early. You looked upset when you walked in.¡± Emma sighed, unsurprised by her grandfather¡¯s perceptiveness. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the same nothing that¡¯s had you and Aleksander circling each other like wary opponents for weeks,¡± Franklin observed. ¡°Only now it seems worse.¡± Before Emma could respond, the front door opened and closed distantly. Momentster, Alek appeared in the study doorway, still in his suit from the event but with tie loosened and hair slightly disheveled. ¡°How are you feeling, sir?¡± he asked Franklin, pointedly avoiding Emma¡¯s gaze. ¡°Better than you two look,¡± Franklin replied bluntly. ¡°What happened at the event?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± Emma and Alek said simultaneously, then exchanged irritated nces at the jinx. ¡°I see.¡± Franklin looked thoroughly unconvinced. ¡°Well, since I¡¯m apparently fine, I think I¡¯ll retire early and let you two sort out this ¡®nothing¡® that has you both looking like you¡¯ve been cross¨Cchecked into the boards.¡± After Franklin left, escorted by his night nurse, Emma and Alek stood in ufortable silence in the study. ¡°I should have told you about Elise,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°I apologize for that.¡± < Book 2 Cross checking 2 ¡°Why didn¡¯t you?¡± Emma asked, needing to understand. Alek moved to the window, staring out at the garden now illuminated by security lights. ¡°Because I was embarrassed.¡± ¡°Embarrassed?¡± Emma hadn¡¯t expected that answer. + Points > ¡°Elise left me at my lowest point,¡± Alek exined, still facing away. ¡°Right after my injury, when my career was over, when I had no idea what came next. She said she¡¯d signed up to be with a hockey star, not a has¨Cbeen with a limp.¡± Emma felt a flicker of sympathy despite her anger. ¡°That¡¯s terrible.¡± ¡°It was a long time ago,¡± Alek said dismissively. ¡°But having her back in our organization, having to exin that history to you¡ I kept putting it off.¡± ¡°And now she¡¯s working with our team,¡± Emma said. ¡°That¡¯s going to be ufortable.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve made it clear to her that our interactions will be strictly professional,¡± Alek turned to face her. ¡°And limited.¡± ¡°When exactly did you make that clear?¡± Emma asked, something in his phrasing triggering suspicion. Alek hesitated, just a heartbeat too long. ¡°When themittee¡¯s decision was finalized.¡± ¡°Try again,¡± Emma said quietly. ¡°The truth this time.¡± His shoulders sagged slightly. ¡°I had dinner with herst week. To establish boundaries before she started working with the team.¡± ¡°Dinner,¡± Emma repeated tly. ¡°Just the two of you.¡± ¡°A business dinner,¡± Alek rified quickly. ¡°In a public restaurant.¡± ¡°Which you also didn¡¯t tell me about.¡± Emma¡¯s voice remained steady through sheer force of will. ¡°Anything else I should know?¡± ¡°No.¡± Alek took a step toward her. ¡°Emma, it meant nothing. It was purely to ensure she understood our professional rtionship going forward.¡± ¡°I believe you,¡± Emma said, surprising herself with the truth of it. ¡°But that¡¯s not the point, Alek. The point is you¡¯re still making unteral decisions about what I need to know, what I can handle, what affects me.¡± ¡°I was trying to protect-¡± ¡°Stop protecting me!¡± Emma¡¯s control finally snapped. ¡°I don¡¯t need protection. I need partnership. I need respect. I need you to treat me like an equal, not a fragile object you have to shelter from every difficulty!¡± Alek¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Is that what you think I¡¯ve been doing? Treating you like you¡¯re fragile?¡± ¡°What would you call it?¡± Emma challenged. ¡°Hiding your ex¨Cfianc¨¦e¡¯s hiring? Pushing for surrogacy to ¡®protect¡® me from another pregnancy loss? Moving my things downstairs after surgery? It¡¯s all the same pattern, Alek.¡± ¡°I call it loving you,¡± Alek¡¯s voice rose to match hers. ¡°Loving you enough to want to prevent you experiencing more pain than you¡¯ve already endured.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not your decision to make!¡± from Book 2 Cross cherkong 2 Updates are released by ?ovelFind Their voices echoed in the wood¨Cpaneled study, the argument finally breaking through weeks of careful politeness. ¡°I watched you nearly die, Alek said, voice suddenly quiet. ¡°Do you have any idea what that did to me? What it still does to me when I think about it?¡± ¡°So this is about your trauma,¡± Emma realized. ¡°Not mine.¡± Alek ran both hands through his hair. ¡°Maybe it is. Maybe I¡¯m not handling this well. But everything I¡¯ve done has been because I can¡¯t bear the thought of losing you.¡± ¡°You¡¯re losing me anyway,¡± Emma said softly. ¡°Every time you make decisions for me instead of with me, we drift further apart.¡± The devastating truth of her words hung between them. For a long moment, neither spoke. ¡°I should go,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°We¡¯re both tired and saying things we might regret.¡± ¡°Running away won¡¯t solve this,¡± Emma pointed out. ¡°Neither will continuing when we¡¯re both exhausted and angry.¡± Alek picked up his suit jacket. ¡°I¡¯ll be at the house if you need me.¡± Emma watched him walk away, too drained to call him back. As the front door closed behind him, she sank into her grandfather¡¯s chair, shoulders slumping with the weight of everything left unsaid. Her phone buzzed with a text. Likely Alek with a conciliatory message or Natasha checking in. Instead, she found Jack Reynolds¡® name on her screen. They maintained asional cordial contact since his move to Seattle, primarily about league matters. With a sense of foreboding, Emma opened the message to find a link to a gossip website with the message: Thought you should see this. History has a way of repeating itself. The link opened to photographs clearly taken with a long¨Crange lens. Alek and Elise at a restaurant, heads close together in what appeared to be intense conversation. His hand reaching across the table to touch hers in one frame. The headline above screamed: ¡°TROUBLE IN HOCKEY PARADISE? des Owner¡¯s Husband Spotted With Mystery Woman.¡± Emma¡¯s blood ran cold as she scrolled to the final image¨CAlek and Elise embracing outside the restaurant. The photograph, stripped of context, painted a damning picture. The phone slipped from Emma¡¯s suddenly numb fingers, ttering to the hardwood floor. 5 Comments Watch Ads (0/20) > 119 H 18 year 39 < False Start False Start Three days of silence felt like an eternity. Emma had perfected the art of avoidance¨Cleaving Franklin¡¯s mansion before Alek¡¯s scheduled visits, screening his calls, responding to texts with clinical one¨Cword answers, ¡°This is ridiculous,¡± Natasha dered, dropping a newspaper on the breakfast table. The gossip section featured the same restaurant photos, now with expanded spection about the Mitchell¨CVolkov marriage. ¡°You need to talk to him.¡± ¡°I¡¯m busy,¡± Emma replied, not looking up from herptop where she reviewed team marketing proposals. ¡°You¡¯re hiding,¡± Natasha countered. ¡°And my brother is miserable. He¡¯s called me six times asking what you¡¯re saying about him.¡± ¡°What am I supposed to say?¡± Emma finally met her sister¨Cinw¡¯s gaze. ¡°That I found out about his secret dinner with his ex¨Cfianc¨¦e from Jack Reynolds? That those photos look exactly like what Jack implied- history repeating itself?¡± Natasha pulled out a chair, sitting across from Emma. ¡°Do you honestly believe Alek is cheating on you?¡± Emma¡¯s typing paused. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Then why are you punishing him like he is?¡± ¡°Because he lied to me,¡± Emma said simply. ¡°Again. After weeks of insisting we needed bettermunication.¡± ¡°So tell him that,¡± Natasha urged. ¡°Instead of this silent treatment that¡¯s making everyone miserable.¡± ¡°I will,¡± Emma closed herptop. ¡°When I¡¯m ready.¡± ¡°And when will that be?¡± Natasha pressed. ¡°After the tabloids run more stories? After Franklin worries himself into another cardiac episode?¡± Emma flinched at the mention of her grandfather. He¡¯d been uncharacteristically quiet about the situation, though she¡¯d caught him studying her with concerned eyes over the past few days. ¡°This afternoon,¡± Emma decided suddenly. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to him after the board meeting.¡± Natasha looked skeptical but nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll hold you to that.¡± The Mitchell Industries board meeting rante, as Emma had secretly hoped it would. By the time it concluded, she had a legitimate excuse to postpone the conversation with Alek another day. She found Franklin waiting in his study, reviewing documents despite his doctor¡¯s orders to limit work hours. ¡°Productive meeting?¡± he asked as she copsed into the chair opposite his desk. ¡°Budget approvals for next quarter.¡± Emma massaged her temples. ¡°Nothing exciting.¡± ¡°Unlike your personal life, which seems to be providing entertainment for the entire city.¡± Franklin tapped the newspaper on his desk. Emma sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡± ¡°Evidently not, since you¡¯ve been avoiding Aleksander like he carries gue.¡± Franklin set aside his reading 232 This text is hosted at Find~Novel O < < False Start sses. ¡°He was here earlier, you know. Looked like death warmed over.¡± Guilt twinged in Emma¡¯s chest. ¡°I was going to call him tonight.¡± ¡°Were you?¡± Franklin looked unconvinced. ¡°Or were you going to find another excuse to postpone the conversation you¡¯re afraid to have?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not afraid,¡± Emma protested. ¡°I¡¯m angry.¡± ¡°Same difference, in your case.¡± Franklin closed the folder he¡¯d been reviewing. ¡°Did I ever tell you how your grandmother and I nearly divorced after only two years of marriage?¡± Emma blinked, surprised. ¡°No. You always described your marriage as perfect.¡± ¡°It was perfect because we worked at it, not because it came easily.¡± Franklin settled back in his chair ¡°Margaret caught me having lunch with my former secretary¨Ca woman I¡¯d briefly dated before meeting your grandmother. The gossip columns had a field day.¡± ¡°What happened?¡± Emma asked, drawn in despite herself. ¡°She threw me out of the house for three weeks.¡± Franklin chuckled at the memory. Wouldn¡¯t take my calls, refused to listen to exnations. Sound familiar?¡± Emma fidgeted ufortably. ¡°Maybe slightly.¡± ¡°The difference is, we didn¡¯t have someone locking us in an elevator to force a conversation. Franklin pressed a button on his desk phone. ¡°Walter? Is everything ready?¡± ¡°Grandpa, what are you-¡± ¡°Helping,¡± Franklin said simply. ¡°Walter has convinced Aleksander toe over to discuss team matters with me. When he arrives, you¡¯ll both take the elevator to the third floor library where I¡¯ve allegedly left some contracts.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t be serious,¡± Emma protested, rising from her chair. ¡°Deadly serious.¡± Franklin¡¯s expression left no room for argument. ¡°The elevator will get conveniently stuck between floors for thirty minutes¨Cplenty of time for a civilized discussion without either of you storming off.¡± ¡°This is ridiculous,¡± Emma sputtered. ¡°I¡¯m not a child who needs to be trapped into talking!* ¡°Then prove it,¡± Franklin challenged. ¡°Have an adult conversation with your husband without running away.¡± Before Emma could formte a response, Walter¡¯s voice came through the inte: ¡°Mr. Volkov has arrived, sir.¡± Emma stood stiffly at the back of the elevator, arms crossed defensively as Alek entered. He looked as surprised to see her as she had been to learn of Franklin¡¯s n. ¡°Emma,¡± he said simply, maintaining distance as the doors closed. ¡°This wasn¡¯t my idea,¡± she feltpelled to rify as the elevator began to rise. ¡°Franklin?¡± ¡°Who else?¡± Emma couldn¡¯t help a tiny smile despite everything. ¡°He seems to think we need intervention.¡± ¡°Maybe we do.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was rough with fatigue. His usual impable appearance had faltered¨Cstubble darkened his jaw, shadows circled his eyes. III 0 < False Start The elevator shuddered suddenly, lights flickering before stabilizing at half brightness Emergencygnag activated along the floor. 18 year 40 (Book 2 Start +9 Points Book 2 Start ¡°Right on schedule,¡± Emma muttered. ¡°You knew this would happen?¡± Alek asked, confused. ¡°Grandpa¡¯s idea of marriage counseling.¡± Emma leaned against the wall. ¡°We¡¯re stuck for thirty minutes, supposedly to force conversation.¡± ¡°Effective, if unorthodox.¡± Alek loosened his tie. ¡°We do need to talk.¡± ¡°About the photos,¡± Emma said tly. ¡°Yes.¡± Alek met her gaze directly. ¡°It wasn¡¯t what it looked like.¡± ¡°It looked like you having an intimate dinner with your ex¨Cfianc¨¦e,¡± Emma said. ¡°The same dinner you lied about.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t lie about its purpose,¡± Alek insisted. ¡°It was to establish boundaries, to make it clear to Elise that our past is irrelevant to her current position.¡± ¡°And the embrace outside the restaurant?¡± Alek sighed, running a hand through his hair. ¡°She was upset. I was being polite.¡± ¡°Polite,¡± Emma repeated skeptically. ¡°Yes, polite.¡± Irritation edged Alek¡¯s voice. ¡°She tried to suggest we might rekindled something, and I shut it downpletely. I told her I was happily married and any contact would be strictly professional. The hug was her idea¨Ca goodbye to any possibility.¡± ¡°Which you could have mentioned when we argued at Franklin¡¯s,¡± Emma pointed out. ¡°I was angry that you immediately assumed the worst,¡± Alek countered. ¡°That after everything we¡¯ve been through, you¡¯d think I would betray you that way.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t assume you were cheating,¡± Emma rified. ¡°I was hurt that you kept hiding things from me.¡± The elevator hummed softly in the background as they stared at each other, the first honest exchange they¡¯d had in weeks. ¡°I¡¯ve handled this badly,¡± Alek admitted finally. ¡°All of it. Since the hospital.¡± ¡°So have I,¡± Emma acknowledged. ¡°I¡¯ve been distant, throwing myself into work to avoid dealing with the loss.¡± ¡°And I¡¯ve been overprotective, making decisions I had no right to make alone.¡± Alek slid down the wall to sit on the elevator floor, suddenly looking exhausted. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to do this, Emma. How to grieve without losing you too.¡± The raw vulnerability in his voice cracked something in Emma¡¯s chest. She sat across from him, floor cold through her skirt. L elevator ¡°I¡¯m still here,¡± she said softly. ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you?¡± Alek¡¯s eyes met hers. ¡°You¡¯ve been slipping away since the hospital. Working more hours, moving into Franklin¡¯s, avoiding conversations about the future.¡± 232 111 O < Readplete version only at f¦É?dn¦Ïvel Book 2 Stant ¡°Because those conversations always end with you deciding what¡¯s best for my body Emma countered. ¡°Without considering what I need emotionally¡± ¡°What do you need?¡± Alek asked simply. The question caught Emma off guard. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Emotionally, What do you need from me?¡± Emma took a shaky breath. ¡°I need you to hear me when I say I¡¯m not ready to give up on carrying our child. That surrogacy feels like admitting defeat to me right now¡± ¡°Even with the risks?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Emma admitted, ¡°I know it¡¯s not rational. I know the statistics. But my heart isn¡¯t ready for that option yet.¡± Alek nodded slowly. ¡°I can respect that, even if I¡¯m terrified by it.¡± ¡°Your turn,¡± Emma said. ¡°What do you need from me?¡± ¡°Understanding,¡± Alek said immediately. ¡°That my feares from love, not a desire to control you.¡± ¡°And?¡± Emma prompted, sensing more. ¡°And patience,¡± Alek admitted, his voice rough. ¡°I¡¯m trying to bnce protecting you with respecting your independence, and I keep getting it wrong.¡± ¡°We both need to stop trying so hard not to hurt each other,¡± Emma said, echoing Natasha¡¯s earlier advice. ¡°It¡¯s making us dishonest.¡± Alek reached across the elevator floor, offering his hand. After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Emma took it. ¡°I miss you,¡± he said simply. ¡°Even when you¡¯re right in front of me.¡± ¡°I miss you too.¡± Emma¡¯s throat tightened with emotion. ¡°Every day.¡± ¡°Can we start over?¡± Alek asked. ¡°Not ignore what¡¯s happened, but¡ reset somehow?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think we can go back,¡± Emma said honestly. ¡°But we can go forward differently.¡± They sat in silence for a moment, hands still joined, the first real connection they¡¯d shared in weeks. ¡°About Elise,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°I¡¯ve requested she be reassigned to our minor league affiliate. The distance will minimize any potential awkwardness.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t need to do that,¡± Emma protested. ¡°It¡¯s already done.¡± Alek squeezed her hand. ¡°Some things are more important than professional courtesy.¡± The elevator jerked suddenly, lights returning to full brightness. Right on cue, the car began moving again. ¡°Apparently our thirty minutes are up,¡± Emma observed wryly. ¡°Franklin has impable timing,¡± Alek agreed, helping her to her feet as the elevator reached the third floor. As the doors opened, Emma made a decision. ¡°Come home tonight,¡± she said quietly. ¡°To our home, I mean. We can continue this conversation there.¡± Hope flickered in Alek¡¯s eyes. ¡°Are you sure?¡± ¨C 2 Book 2 Start ¡°Yes,¡± Emma said firmly. ¡°It¡¯s time I stopped running.¡± They stepped out of the elevator together, notpletely healed but at least facing in the same direction again. Franklin, somehow already in the library despite his supposed inability to use the stairs, watched them with poorly disguised satisfaction. ¡°Productive elevator ride?¡± he inquired innocently. ¡°Very subtle, Grandpa,¡± Emma said dryly. ¡°Subtlety is overrated at my age,¡± Franklin replied without an ounce of remorse. ¡°Now, about those contracts¡¡± ¡°There are no contracts, are there?¡± Alek guessed. ¡°Of course not.¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°But there is brandy, which seerns appropriate for a peace treaty.¡± As Franklin poured three sses, Emma found herself exchanging a small smile with Alek¨Ctheir first moment of genuine connection in weeks. Not a solution to everything, but perhaps a step away from the brink they¡¯d been approaching. Sometimes, Emma reflected, false starts were necessary before finding the right path forward. 1 Comments Watch Ads (0/20) > Vote 120 18 year 41 Book 2 First Penalty ¡°And how long have you been experiencing these feelings of disconnect?¡± Dr. Matthews asked, her pen poised over a notepad. Emma nced at Alek beside her on the therapist¡¯s cream¨Ccolored sofa. Two weeks of marriage counseling had brought them here, to a sleek office overlooking Boston Harbor, attempting to rebuild what had fractured since the hospital. ¡°Since losing the pregnancy,¡± Emma answered. ¡°Though honestly, maybe even before that. We never really discussed having children beyond ¡®someday.¡± ¡°We both assumed it would happen naturally when the time was right,¡± Alek added. ¡°Then the ectopic pregnancy forced immediate decisions we weren¡¯t prepared to make.¡± Dr. Matthews nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Reproductive trauma often revealsmunication patterns couples don¡¯t recognize during less stressful times.¡± ¡°We¡¯re good at professionalmunication,¡± Emma said. ¡°Running the team together has never been an issue.¡± ¡°But personal vulnerability is different,¡± the therapist observed. ¡°Aleksander, you mentionedst session that protecting people is deeply ingrained in your identity. Could you expand on that?¡± Alek shifted ufortably, his usual boardroom confidence nowhere to be seen. ¡°After my parents died, protecting Natasha became my primary focus. Everything else¨Chockey, education, personal rtionships¨Cwas secondary.¡± ¡°And this pattern continues in your marriage?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t think so,¡± Alek admitted. ¡°Until the pregnancy loss made me realize how¡ primitive my reactions be when Emma is threatened.¡± ¡°Primitive?¡± Dr. Matthews prompted. ¡°Instinctual,¡± Alek rified. ¡°Overriding rational thought. I just need her safe, regardless of other considerations.¡± ¡°Even when safety means different things to each of you,¡± the therapist noted, turning to Emma. ¡°And you equate being protected with being controlled.¡± Emma nodded. ¡°My entire rtionship with Jack was about supporting his dreams while minimizing mine. With Alek, I thought I¡¯d found true partnership, but sometimes his protection feels like¡ restriction.¡± < Book 2 First Penalty ¡°Yet you also derive security from his protective nature,¡± Dr. Matthews observed. ¡°Yes,¡± Emma acknowledged. ¡°It¡¯s confusing.¡± More Rewards > The therapist set down her pen. ¡°For this week, I¡¯d like you to practice something called ¡®reflective listening.¡® Before responding to each other, especially in moments of tension, I want you to paraphrase what you heard the other person say.¡± ¡°To ensure we¡¯re actually hearing each other,¡± Alek concluded. ¡°Exactly.¡± As they left the office, stepping into bright spring sunshine, Emma felt lighter than she had in weeks. Not fixed, but moving forward. ¡°Lunch?¡± Alek suggested, checking his watch. ¡°We both have an hour before meetings.¡± Emma hesitated. ¡°Actually, I¡¯m having lunch with Natasha. Hospital cafeteria.¡± ¡°She didn¡¯t mention it,¡± Alek said, surprise evident in his tone. ¡°Last¨Cminute thing. She¡¯s consulting on a case and wantedpany.¡± Emma touched his arm, a small reconnection. ¡°Rain check?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Alek¡¯s smile didn¡¯t quite reach his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll see you at home tonight.¡± As Emma walked toward Massachusetts General, she reflected on Dr. Matthews¡® observations. She did find security in Alek¡¯s protective nature¨Chis steady presence during Franklin¡¯s health crisis, his ungging support of her professionally. Yet that same protectiveness had nearly driven them apart when applied to her reproductive choices. The hospital cafeteria bustled with activity as Emma spotted Natasha in scrubs at a corner table, medical journals spread before her. ¡°You look like a proper doctor,¡± Emma observed, setting down her sd. Natasha grinned. ¡°Just consulting on a cardiac case. The attending asked for a second opinion after I mentioned some research from my program.¡± ¡°How¡¯s Grandpa today?¡± Emma asked, having left before his morning check¨Cup. ¡°Stubborn as ever, but his numbers are improving.¡± Natasha closed her journal. ¡°More importantly, how was therapy?¡± ¡°Helpful,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°Though it feels strange discussing our most private feelings with a stranger.¡± < Book 2 First Penalty More Rewards ¡°Better than not discussing them at all,¡± Natasha pointed out. ¡°The silent treatment wasn¡¯t working for either of you.¡± ¡°We¡¯re trying,¡± Emma said defensively. ¡°Both of us.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Natasha¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Alek called mest night, asking advice about showing you he¡¯s listening without making decisions for you. It was actually sweet.¡± Warmth bloomed in Emma¡¯s chest at this evidence of Alek¡¯s efforts. ¡°Oh, before I forget,¡± Natasha pulled an envelope from her bag. ¡°This came to the house for you this morning. Looked personal so I grabbed it.¡± Emma epted the heavy cream envelope, instantly recognizing the embossed return address: Reynolds Residence, Seattle, Washington. ¡°From Jack?¡± Natasha raised an eyebrow. Emma nodded, slicing the envelope open with her fork. Inside was an elegant invitation, gold lettering on thick card stock: Jack and Veronica Reynolds wee you to celebrate their expected arrival¡ ¡°A baby shower,¡± Emma said, disbelief coloring her voice. ¡°They¡¯re inviting us to their baby shower.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡¡± Natasha searched for words. ¡°Unexpected.¡± ¡°It¡¯s in three weeks. In Boston.¡± Emma scanned the details. ¡°Apparently they¡¯re hosting it here since Veronica has a modeling shoot that weekend.¡± ¡°Are you going to go?¡± Natasha asked cautiously. Emma stared at the invitation, emotions churning. Jack and Veronica building the family she and Alek had briefly glimpsed before losing. Theplicated history between them all. The tender state of her marriage, still healing from fractures. ¡°I have no idea,¡± she admitted. ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Alek stated tly that evening, pacing their living room. ¡°It¡¯s insensitive at best, deliberately cruel at worst.¡± Emma sat on the sofa, watching him move. ¡°You don¡¯t think they simply didn¡¯t consider the timing?¡± ¡°Jack Reynolds doesn¡¯t do anything without calction,¡± Alek countered. ¡°After sending you those photos of Elise and me? This is another attempt to insert himself into our lives.¡± > Emma considered this. ¡°Or maybe it¡¯s an olive branch. A way of acknowledging our improved rtionship since the trade.¡± Alek stopped pacing, studying her face. ¡°You want to go, don¡¯t you?¡± ¡°I think¡¡± Emma chose her words carefully. ¡°I think not going gives the invitation more power Official source is Find_Novel(. than it deserves.¡± ¡°What does that mean?¡± ¡°If we decline because it¡¯s too painful, we¡¯re letting our loss control our choices,¡± Emma exined. ¡°If we go, holding our heads high as a united front¡¡± ¡°We¡¯re showing everyone¨Cincluding ourselves¨Cthat we¡¯re moving forward,¡± Alek concluded, understanding dawning in his expression. ¡°Exactly.¡± Alek sat beside her, processing. ¡°I was about to make another unteral decision, wasn¡¯t I?¡± ¡°You were expressing an opinion,¡± Emma said fairly. ¡°But yes, the t refusal felt familiar.¡± ¡°I¡¯m trying that reflective listening thing,¡± Alek said, taking her hand. ¡°You believe attending together would demonstrate strength, not weakness.¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Emma squeezed his fingers. ¡°Though I understand your protective instinct.¡± Alek nodded slowly. ¡°If you feel ready to face this, I¡¯ll support your decision.¡± Get Bonus (Ad) > Vote 155 : 18 year 42 Book 2 Penalty Shot More Rewards > The therapist¡¯s exercises were helping, Emma realized. A month ago, this conversation would have devolved into argument, with positions hardening on both sides. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said softly. ¡°For hearing me.¡± ¡°Always,¡± Alek promised. ¡°Even when it¡¯s hard.¡± The baby shower venue¨Ca private room at Boston¡¯s most exclusive hotel¨Cglittered with tasteful decorations in blue and gold. Emma smoothed her dress nervously as she and Alek approached the entrance. ¡°We can still leave,¡± Alek murmured, his hand warm at the small of her back. ¡°No,¡± Emma straightened her shoulders. ¡°We¡¯re doing this.¡± Inside, the party was already underway. Immactely dressed guests clustered in conversation groups, champagne flutes in hand. At the center of it all stood Veronica, somehow making advanced pregnancy look like a fashion statement in a designer dress that showcased her bump perfectly. Jack spotted them first, excusing himself from a conversation to approach. His expression revealed surprise that they¡¯d actually attended. ¡°Emma, Alek,¡± he greeted them, handshake firm. ¡°Thank you foring.¡± ¡°Congrattions,¡± Emma replied, proud of how steady her voice remained. ¡°The party looks lovely.¡± ¡°All Veronica¡¯s doing,¡± Jack admitted. ¡°She has connections I never dreamed of.¡± Veronica joined them, air¨Ckissing Emma¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Emma! You look fabulous.¡± Her gaze held no malice, only genuine wee. ¡°And Aleksander, so good of you both toe.¡± ¡°Wouldn¡¯t miss it,¡± Alek said smoothly, though Emma felt the tension in his posture. ¡°Please, enjoy yourselves,¡± Veronica waved toward the catering stations. ¡°We have a champagne fountain that¡¯s absolutely divine.¡± As the hosts moved to greet other guests, Emma and Alek navigated to a quiet corner. ¡°That was painless,¡± Emma observed, epting champagne from a passing server. ¡°So far,¡± Alek replied, scanning the room. ¡°Though I notice we¡¯re the only des representatives invited.¡± < Book 2 Penalty Shot More Rewards > Emma nodded, having noticed the same thing. The guest list seemed to consist of Seattle teammates, modeling industry connections, and bizarrely, Emma and Alek. ¡°It does seem pointed,¡± she acknowledged. They mingled politely, exchanging pleasantries with people neither knew well. Emma maintained her professional smile, though each pastel¨Cwrapped gift and cooed exmation over tiny clothes sent a pang through her chest. ¡°I need air,¡± she whispered to Alek after an hour. ¡°Just a minute.¡± He nodded, understanding in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll be right here.¡± Emma slipped onto a quiet balcony overlooking the Boston cityscape. Spring had fully arrived, trees budding green below. She breathed deeply, collecting herself. ¡°Too much baby talk in there?¡± Emma turned to find Veronica stepping onto the balcony, closing the door behind her. ¡°Just needed some fresh air,¡± Emma said diplomatically. Veronica moved beside her at the railing, one hand cradling her belly unconsciously. Up close, Emma noticed strain beneath her perfect makeup. ¡°Jack told me about your loss,¡± Veronica said abruptly. ¡°I wanted to say I¡¯m sorry.¡± Surprise rendered Emma momentarily speechless. ¡°Thank you,¡± she managed finally. Checktest chapters at Find?Novel ¡°I don¡¯t know if he told you,¡± Veronica continued, gazing out at the city, ¡°but we hadplications too. Early in the pregnancy.¡± ¡°He didn¡¯t mention it.¡± ¡°centa previa,¡± Veronica exined. ¡°I was hospitalized for weeks. Terrifying.¡± Her hand moved protectively over her bump. ¡°That¡¯s why I wanted to speak with you privately.¡± ¡°Oh?¡± Emma turned to study the supermodel¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m using a surrogate for our next child,¡± Veronica said matter¨Cof¨Cfactly. ¡°Doctor¡¯s rmendation. Too risky to carry again myself.¡± Understanding dawned. ¡°Jack told you about our situation.¡± ¡°He worries about you,¡± Veronica said simply. ¡°Despite everything.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡ surprisingly considerate.¡± Emma wasn¡¯t sure whether to be touched or disturbed by < Book 2 Penalty Shot Jack¡¯s continued interest in her welfare. More Rewards > ¡°I thought you might want to know that surrogacy doesn¡¯t mean giving up,¡± Veronica continued. ¡°It¡¯s just another path to the same destination.¡± Before Emma could respond, the balcony door opened again. Jack appeared, expression brightening at the sight of them together. ¡°There you are,¡± he said. ¡°They¡¯re about to bring out the cake.¡± ¡°We¡¯re having a moment, darling,¡± Veronica replied, with fond exasperation. ¡°Girl talk.¡± Jack raised his hands in surrender. ¡°Say no more. But don¡¯t me me when the chocte fountain runs dry.¡± After he departed, Veronica turned back to Emma. ¡°He¡¯s trying, you know. To be a better man than he was with you.¡± ¡°I hope he seeds,¡± Emma said sincerely. ¡°You both deserve that.¡± Veronica touched her arm lightly. ¡°So do you and Aleksander. Happiness doesn¡¯t have to look like everyone else¡¯s to be real.¡± With that cryptic statement, she glided back inside, leaving Emma to contemte the unexpected conversation. Later, as they drove home, Emma recounted the exchange to Alek. ¡°Do you think she was suggesting surrogacy directly?¡± he asked, careful to keep his tone neutral. ¡°I think she was sharing her experience,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Not pushing an agenda.¡± Alek nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Jack seemed different today. More¡ mature.¡± ¡°Impending fatherhood changes people,¡± Emma observed, then added quietly: ¡°I saw how you watched him. When he was showing off the nursery photos.¡± Alek¡¯s hands tightened on the steering wheel. ¡°Was I that obvious?¡± ¡°Only to me,¡± Emma assured him. ¡°You had that look¨Cthe one that says you¡¯re imagining something that should have been yours.¡± ¡°Ours,¡± Alek corrected softly. ¡°I was imagining our nursery. The one we started nning the night before¡¡± He didn¡¯t finish the sentence. He didn¡¯t need to. Book 2 Penalty Shot More Rewards > ¡°We¡¯ll have that,¡± Emma said with sudden certainty. ¡°Maybe not the way we originally thought, but we will.¡± Alek nced at her, surprise evident in his expression. ¡°That sounds like openness to alternatives.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not surrender,¡± Emma rified. ¡°Just¡ consideration of all options. On equal footing.¡± ¡°That¡¯s all I¡¯ve been asking for,¡± Alek said quietly. ¡°Equal consideration, not dismissal.¡± Emma reached across the console to take his hand. ¡°We¡¯re getting better at this. The talking part.¡± ¡°The listening part too,¡± Alek agreed, squeezing her fingers. As they pulled into their driveway, Emma realized something surprising¨Cattending the baby shower had strengthened rather than weakened them. Facing the situation together, supporting each other through difort, had reinforced their connection. Like a sessful penalty shot, they¡¯d turned potential difficulty into unexpected opportunity. Not scoring immediately, perhaps, but advancing the game in their favor. It wasn¡¯t resolution, but it was progress. For now, that was enough. 2 18 year 43 Book 2 Body Check More Rewards ¡°New Beginnings Surrogacy Agency,¡± Emma read from the brass que beside the office door. Her stomach fluttered with nervous energy as Alek¡¯s hand settled at the small of her back. ¡°We¡¯re just gathering information,¡± he reminded her gently. ¡°No decisions today.¡± Emma nodded, grateful for his careful approach. Two weeks after Jack and Veronica¡¯s baby shower, she¡¯d surprised Alek by suggesting they explore surrogacy options¨Cnotmitting, just understanding what the journey might entail. The agency¡¯s waiting room looked more like an upscale living room than a medical office- plush sofas, tasteful artwork, fresh flowers in crystal vases. A smiling receptionist directed them to a private consultation room where Dr. Samantha Rivera awaited. ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov, wee,¡± Dr. Rivera greeted them warmly. ¡°I understand you¡¯re exploring surrogacy as a family¨Cbuilding option.¡± ¡°Just gathering information at this stage,¡± Emma rified immediately. ¡°Of course.¡± Dr. Rivera opened a folder. ¡°I¡¯ve reviewed your medical history. The ectopic pregnancy and resulting tube removal certainly impacts fertility, though natural conception remains possible.¡± ¡°With elevated risks,¡± Alek added. Dr. Rivera nodded. ¡°Which is why many couples in your situation consider gestational surrogacy¨Cusing your egg, your husband¡¯s sperm, and another woman¡¯s uterus to carry the pregnancy.¡± ¡°The process?¡± Emma asked, needing practical details to focus her swirling emotions. Dr. Rivera outlined the steps¨CEmma¡¯s eggs would be harvested, fertilized with Alek¡¯s sperm in ab, then transferred to their chosen surrogate. Sess rates, timeline, legal considerations, and costs followed in a well¨Cpracticed presentation. ¡°Do we select the surrogate?¡± Alek asked, his analytical mind engaging with the process. ¡°We provide profiles of pre¨Cscreened candidates, and you choose who feels right for your family,¡± Dr. Rivera exined. ¡°Some parents prefer minimal contact during pregnancy, others develop close rtionships. It¡¯s entirely customizable.¡± Emma¡¯s mind raced with questions she¡¯d never considered before. Who would carry their child? How involved would they be? Would she feel connected to a baby she hadn¡¯t carried : < Book 2 Body Check herself? ¡°May we see some sample profiles?¡± she heard herself asking. More Rewards X Dr. Rivera produced a tablet with photographs and biographies of potential surrogates. Emma and Alek scrolled through together, the reality of what they were considering suddenly concrete. ¡°All these women are willing to carry someone else¡¯s child?¡± Emma wondered aloud. ¡°For various reasons¨Cfinancialpensation, havingpleted their own families, desire to help others,¡± Dr. Rivera exined. ¡°Our screening process ensures they¡¯re psychologically and physically prepared.¡± One profile caught Emma¡¯s attention¨CKatie Winters, 32, registered nurse, mother of two. Her warm smile and direct gaze spoke ofpetence andpassion. In her personal statement, she wrote about wanting to help families experience the joy her children had brought her. Alek noticed Emma¡¯s interest. ¡°What about her appeals to you?¡± ¡°She seems¡ real,¡± Emma said, struggling to articte her reaction. ¡°Not just doing it for money, but someone who understands what family means.¡± They left the appointment with information packets, sample contracts, and a strange mixture of hope and uncertainty. In the car, Alek waited patiently for Emma to process. ¡°Thoughts?¡± he finally asked. ¡°It¡¯s a lot,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°But I¡¯m d we went. I needed to see real faces, understand the actual process.¡± Alek reached for her hand. ¡°This is just one option, Emma. We have time to decide.¡± ¡°I know.¡± She squeezed his fingers. ¡°Thank you for not pushing.¡± His smile warmed her. ¡°I¡¯m learning.¡± Franklin¡¯s improvement had been steady enough that he¡¯d insisted on returning to the office part¨Ctime¨Cagainst doctor¡¯s rmendations but with Natasha¡¯s reluctant approval. Emma found him in the Mitchell Industries conference room that afternoon, surrounded by Boston des management reports. ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be taking it easy,¡± she chided, setting coffee beside him. ¡°This is easy,¡± Franklin insisted. ¡°Light reading.¡± < Book 2 Body Check More Rewards > Emma nced at the documents¨Cyer contract evaluations, sry cap projections, draft strategy. ¡°These are Alek¡¯s confidential team management materials.¡± ¡°And I¡¯m still the majority owner,¡± Franklin reminded her. ¡°Though I¡¯ve been letting you and that husband of yours handle daily operations.¡± Emma sat across from him. ¡°And you¡¯ve seen something you disagree with.¡± ¡°He¡¯s preparing to trade Matthews,¡± Franklin said bluntly. ¡°Our best defensive prospect.¡± ¡°For Lavoie from Chicago,¡± Emma nodded. ¡°It¡¯s been under discussion for weeks.¡± The rightful source is ?ovelFind ¡°It¡¯s a mistake,¡± Franklin dered. ¡°Matthews has higher long¨Cterm potential.¡± ¡°Alek and the scouting department disagree,¡± Emma said carefully. ¡°Lavoie fits our system better and addresses immediate needs.¡± Franklin snorted. ¡°Scouting reports can¡¯t rece forty years of hockey instinct. Matthews is special.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll make sure your perspective is considered,¡± Emma promised diplomatically. ¡°Already arranged a meeting with Aleksander for tomorrow,¡± Franklin said with satisfaction. ¡°Thought we might discuss it over lunch.¡± Emma¡¯s heart sank. Alek had been working on the Lavoie trade for months¨Chis first major roster move since bing CEO. Franklin¡¯s intervention would feel like undermining. ¡°Perhaps I should join you,¡± she suggested, already anticipating the sh of strong personalities. ¡°Excellent idea.¡± Franklin smiled innocently. ¡°Always good to have a referee.¡± The ¡°lunch meeting¡± the following day proved exactly as tense as Emma had feared. They sat at Franklin¡¯s favorite steakhouse, Alek rigidly professional while Franklin dismantled his trade strategy piece by piece. ¡°Matthews grew up idolizing this franchise,¡± Franklin argued. ¡°That loyalty is invaluable.¡± ¡°Loyalty doesn¡¯t win championships,¡± Alek countered. ¡°Strategic roster construction does.¡± ¡°You¡¯re thinking short¨Cterm,¡± Franklin insisted. ¡°I built this franchise on long¨Cterm vision.¡± Emma watched them volley arguments, caught ufortably between husband and grandfather, personal and professional loyalties. When Franklin excused himself to the restroom, she turned to Alek. < Book 2 Body Check ¡°He means well,¡± she offered. More Rewards > ¡°He¡¯s interfering with operational decisions that are my responsibility,¡± Alek said tightly. ¡°He built this team from nothing,¡± Emma reminded him. ¡°His perspective has value.¡± ¡°His perspective is dated,¡± Alek said, then caught himself. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I shouldn¡¯t put you in this position.¡± ¡°What position?¡± ¡°Having to choose between us.¡± Alek¡¯s expression softened. ¡°It¡¯s unfair to you.¡± Franklin returned before Emma could respond, the debate continuing through dessert without resolution. After lunch, she returned to her office in Mitchell Tower, mind churning with the morning¡¯s surrogacy consultation and the afternoon¡¯s professional tension. Her phone buzzed with a text from Alek: Meeting with scouts at 3. Will present both viewpoints fairly. I promise. Emma smiled at his effort to find middle ground. Another text followed immediately: Thinking about Katie¡¯s profile. She seemed like someone we could talk to. Thoughts? The simple question¨Casking her opinion without pressure¨Cwarmed her. Before their counseling, Alek might have scheduled a meeting with the surrogate candidate without consulting her. Now, he waited for her lead. I¡¯d like to meet her, she replied after consideration. Just to talk. No . His response came quickly: I¡¯ll arrange it whenever you¡¯re ready. Your timeline, not mine. The contrast between professional disagreement and personal growth wasn¡¯t lost on Emma. They were finding their rhythm as a couple even amid external pressures. A knock interrupted her thoughts. Franklin entered, looking surprisingly apologetic. ¡°I was hard on your husband today,¡± he acknowledged, settling into a chair. ¡°You think I¡¯m meddling.¡± ¡°I think you¡¯re passionate about the team,¡± Emma said diplomatically. ¡°Too passionate sometimes.¡± Franklin¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°I saw his face when I questioned his judgment. Reminded me of your father when I did the same to him.¡± Emma¡¯s breath caught at the rare mention of her father. ¡°What are you saying, Grandpa?¡± ¡°That perhaps I need to trust the people I¡¯ve chosen to carry on my legacy.¡± Franklin reached Katie Winters is avable to meet Thursday if that works for you. Emma stared at the message, her morning¡¯s uncertainty reced with cautious optimism. Meeting a potential surrogate didn¡¯tmit them to anything. It was just another step in understanding their options. Thursday works, she replied. Thank you for letting me set the pace. Sometimes, Emma reflected, the most powerful body checks came not from opposition but from unexpected support¨Cfrom a husband who waited patiently, from a grandfather who reconsidered his position, from the growing certainty that whatever path they chose, they would walk it together. Get Bonus (Ad) > 18 year 44 Book 2 Ice Katie Winters had the kind ofugh that filled a room¨Cwarm, genuine, without pretense. Emma found herself smiling in response as Katie described her five¨Cyear¨Cold¡¯s recent dinosaur obsession. ¡°He corrects the museum guides,¡± Katie said, eyes crinkling with amusement. ¡°They¡¯re very patient with him.¡± They sat in a quiet corner of a caf¨¦ near Massachusetts General, where Katie worked as a pediatric nurse. For their first meeting, Emma had suggested somewhere casual rather than the sterile agency offices. ¡°Your children are adorable,¡± Emma said, admiring photos on Katie¡¯s phone¨Ca boy with a gap¨Ctoothed grin and a slightly older girl with serious eyes and wild curls. ¡°They¡¯re my everything,¡± Katie said simply. ¡°Which is part of why I want to do this. Having them changed my life in all the best ways.¡± Alek, who had been quietly observing the exchange, leaned forward. ¡°And your husband supports your decision?¡± ¡°Tim¡¯spletely on board,¡± Katie nodded. ¡°He¡¯s seen firsthand how fulfilled I am by helping families in the NICU. This feels like an extension of that work.¡± Emma studied Katie carefully. Where she had expected to feel awkwardness¨Cdiscussing another woman potentially carrying her child¨Cshe found surprisingfort. Katie¡¯s straightforward warmth dissolved the clinical aspects of surrogacy into something more human. ¡°May I ask a personal question?¡± Katie directed this to Emma, her expression softening. ¡°Dr. Rivera mentioned you experienced an ectopic pregnancy. That must have been traumatic.¡± Emma tensed slightly, but Alek¡¯s hand found hers under the table. ¡°It was,¡± she acknowledged. ¡°We¡¯re still processing it, honestly.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t imagine,¡± Katie said. ¡°Just know that if you choose this path¨Cwith me or another surrogate¨Cit doesn¡¯t diminish your role as parents. You¡¯d be creating a life together, just with some help carrying it.¡± The simple statement, delivered without pity or judgment, loosened something in Emma¡¯s chest. Katie understood what many didn¡¯t¨Cthat surrogacy wasn¡¯t giving up, but finding another way forward. < Book 2 Ice More Rewards > ¡°We¡¯re still considering options,¡± Alek exined carefully. ¡°But your perspective is incredibly helpful.¡± ¡°No pressure,¡± Katie assured them. ¡°This is a huge decision. You need to bepletelyfortable with it.¡± As they parted ways an hourter, Katie surprised Emma with a quick hug. ¡°Whatever you decide, I wish you both the very best. You¡¯ll make wonderful parents, however it happens.¡± In the car afterward, Emma found herself unusually quiet, processing the meeting. ¡°Thoughts?¡± Alek asked gently. ¡°I like her,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°More than I expected to.¡± ¡°She seems genuine,¡± Alek agreed. ¡°Motherhood clearly brings her joy.¡± ¡°It made it feel¡ possible,¡± Emma said, finding the words as she spoke them. ¡°Meeting her, seeing her with her children¡¯s photos. I could picture it.¡± Alek reached for her hand across the console. ¡°I could too.¡± ¡°Remarkable improvement,¡± Dr. Winters dered, reviewing Franklin¡¯stest test results. ¡°Whatever you¡¯re doing, keep it up.¡± Franklin snorted from his chair in the study. ¡°What I¡¯m doing is ignoring half your ridiculous restrictions.¡± Emma exchanged exasperated nces with Natasha, who waspleting her final week in Boston before returning to her residency program. ¡°My grandfather believes medical advice is a starting negotiation position,¡± Emma exined to the doctor. ¡°Most patients do,¡± Dr. Winters said dryly. ¡°Fortunately, the numbers don¡¯t lie. Blood pressure down, heart rhythm stabilized, oxygen levels improved.¡± After the doctor departed, Franklin looked smugly vindicated. ¡°See? Nothing wrong with a man enjoying an asional cigar.¡± ¡°The improvement is because you¡¯re taking your medication correctly,¡± Natasha corrected, gathering her medical notes. ¡°Which happened only after I created that color¨Ccoded system for Walter to administer.¡± ¡°Details,¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°The point is, I¡¯m well enough to increase my involvement with the team again.¡± < Book 2 Ice More Rewards > Emma tensed, remembering the recent friction with Alek over the Matthews trade. ¡°Gradually, Grandpa. No rush.¡± ¡°Speaking of the team,¡± Franklin said, ¡°how is our Russian CEO handling the Lavoie acquisition?¡± ¡°The trade was finalized yesterday,¡± Emma reported. ¡°Matthews went to Chicago along with our second¨Cround pick. Lavoie joins us next week.¡± ¡°And you supported this decision?¡± Franklin raised a bushy eyebrow. ¡°I supported the process,¡± Emma rified. ¡°Alek presented all perspectives, including yours, and the management team made an informed choice.¡± Franklin studied her face. ¡°Diplomatic answer. You¡¯ll make a fine politician someday.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll leave politics to you,¡± Emma smiled. ¡°I¡¯m still learning the hockey business.¡± ¡°You¡¯re doing just fine,¡± Franklin¡¯s expression softened with rare sentimentality. ¡°Your grandmother would be proud of the woman you¡¯ve be.¡± The unexpectedment caught Emma off¨Cguard. ¡°Thank you, Grandpa.¡± Readplete version only at f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l? Natasha cleared her throat. ¡°As touching as this is, I need to finalize Franklin¡¯s care n before I leave. Emma, can I steal you for a consult?¡± In the hallway, Natasha handed Emma a folder. ¡°My detailed instructions for Walter and the nursing staff. Franklin will try to manipte them into loosening restrictions once I¡¯m gone.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll keep an eye on him,¡± Emma promised, touched by her sister¨Cinw¡¯s thoroughness. ¡°Also,¡± Natasha lowered her voice, ¡°Alek mentioned you met with a potential surrogate?¡± Emma nodded. ¡°Katie. She¡¯s wonderful, actually. We¡¯re¡ considering it seriously.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a big step,¡± Natasha said carefully. ¡°How are you feeling about it?¡± ¡°Still processing,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°But more open than I was before meeting her.¡± ¡°I¡¯m d,¡± Natasha squeezed her arm. ¡°You and my brother deserve happiness, however it Comments Get Bonus (Ad) > 18 year 45 Book 2 Icing Two weekster, Emma found herself in Katie¡¯s living room, surrounded by children¡¯s toys and family photos. What had begun as a formal surrogacy consideration had evolved into something more personal¨Ca genuine connection between two women with different life experiences but shared understanding. ¡°Tim took the kids to his mother¡¯s so we could talk,¡± Katie exined, serving tea in mismatched mugs. ¡°Though I apologize for the dinosaur invasion in the living room.¡± Read full story at find(?)ovel Emma smiled at the stic triceratops on the coffee table. ¡°It¡¯s nice, actually. Seeing a real family home.¡± ¡°As opposed to a magazine¨Cperfect one?¡± Katieughed. ¡°Definitely real here. Complete with crayon on the walls and mysterious sticky spots on every surface.¡± The casual warmth of Katie¡¯s home contrasted sharply with the formal meeting rooms and medical offices that had dominated Emma¡¯s fertility journey so far. Here, surrounded by evidence of family life, the possibility of parenthood felt tangible. ¡°Alek couldn¡¯t make it?¡± Katie asked, settling beside Emma on the sofa. ¡°Board meeting,¡± Emma exined. ¡°He sends his apologies.¡± ¡°Men and their schedules,¡± Katie said with good¨Cnatured understanding. ¡°Tim¡¯s the same way -always on call for emergencies.¡± Emma sipped her tea, gathering courage for the real reason for her visit. ¡°We¡¯ve been discussing moving forward. With surrogacy, I mean. With you, if you¡¯re still interested.¡± Katie¡¯s face brightened. ¡°Really? I¡¯d be honored.¡± ¡°We still have questions,¡± Emma rified. ¡°About the process, expectations, boundaries.¡± ¡°Ask away,¡± Katie encouraged. ¡°Total honesty is the only way this works.¡± For the next hour, they discussed practical and emotional aspects of surrogacy¨Cmedical protocols,munication during pregnancy, involvement in doctor¡¯s appointments, delivery ns. Katie answered with straightforward rity that gradually eased Emma¡¯s lingering doubts, ¡°Some intended parents prefer distance,¡± Katie exined. ¡°But in my experience, being involved throughout the pregnancy helps with bonding. I¡¯d wee your participation as much as you¡¯refortable with.¡± Book 2 Icing More Rewards > ¡°I¡¯d want that,¡± Emma said, surprising herself with the certainty. ¡°To be part of everything.¡± ¡°And Alek?¡± Emma hesitated. ¡°He¡¯s more protective of boundaries. Worried about blurring lines or imposing on your family.¡± ¡°Amon concern for partners,¡± Katie nodded understandingly. ¡°But this journey works best when everyone finds theirfort level. Some fathers connect more after birth, others want to attend every appointment.¡± As their conversation continued, Emma felt increasing certainty that they¡¯d found the right person to help build their family. Katie¡¯s warmth, professionalism, and obvious joy in parenthood created a foundation of trust that made the clinical aspects of surrogacy feel human. Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a text from Alek: Meeting runningte. Everything ok with Katie? Better than ok, she replied. I think we¡¯ve found our surrogate. His response came immediately: That¡¯s wonderful news. Can¡¯t wait to hear details. Love you. The simple message warmed her. Their journey through grief toward this new possibility had strengthened rather than weakened their bond. ¡°Good news?¡± Katie asked, noting Emma¡¯s smile. ¡°Alek¡¯s excited about moving forward,¡± Emma exined. ¡°Excellent timing,¡± Katie said. ¡°Because I have something to tell you.¡± She retrieved a folder from a drawer, sitting back beside Emma. ¡°I had my medical screening updatedst week. Perfect health, hormone levels ideal.¡± ¡°That¡¯s great,¡± Emma said, relieved. ¡°The doctor said we could begin the process whenever you¡¯re ready,¡± Katie continued. ¡°With your egg retrieval, then fertilization, then transfer.¡± The reality of what they were discussing suddenly hit Emma¨Ccreating a life, their child, with this woman¡¯s help. The magnitude of it brought unexpected tears to her eyes. ¡°Sorry,¡± she blinked rapidly. ¡°It just became very real.¡± ¡°It¡¯s overwhelming,¡± Katie acknowledged, squeezing her hand. ¡°Beautiful and terrifying all at once.¡± < Book 2 Icing More Rewards As Emma left Katie¡¯s home that afternoon, she felt lighter than she had in months. Not healedpletely from their loss, but moving forward toward something new and hopeful. She called Alek from the car. ¡°She¡¯s perfect,¡± she said when he answered. ¡°I think we should move ahead.¡± ¡°You¡¯re certain?¡± His voice held no pressure, only support. ¡°I am,¡± Emma confirmed. ¡°She makes it feel¡ right. Like we¡¯re creating family, just in an unexpected way.¡± ¡°Then let¡¯s do it,¡± Alek said, joy evident in his tone. ¡°I¡¯ll call the agency tomorrow.¡± Emma smiled, feeling something long¨Cfrozen inside her begin to thaw. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to tell Grandpa. He¡¯s been not¨Cso¨Csubtly hinting about great¨Cgrandchildren since I was twenty.¡± ¡°One step at a time,¡± Alek cautioned with augh. ¡°But yes, this is definitely worth celebrating.¡± As Emma drove home, past families in parks enjoying the summer evening, she allowed herself to imagine their future¨Ca child with Alek¡¯s blue eyes perhaps, or her stubborn chin. A family built through science andpassion rather than traditional means, but no less real for it. Some obstacles in life, like icing in hockey, required adjustment rather than abandonment of the y. This wasn¡¯t the path she¡¯d originally envisioned, but it was beginning to feel like exactly the right one. 2 Get Bonus (Ad) > 18 year 46 Book 2 Face Mask Emma stared at the stic stick in her hand, the two pink lines unmistakable despite her trembling fingers. Positive. She sank onto the edge of the bathtub, mind spinning. This couldn¡¯t be happening. Not now, after they¡¯d signed surrogacy contracts. Not now, when Katie was preparing for hormone treatments to receive their embryo. Not now, when Emma had finally made peace with another woman carrying their child. She reached for her phone to check the date. Eight weeks since herst period¨Cshe¡¯d assumed the irregrity was stress¨Crted. How could she not have noticed? Then again, between Franklin¡¯s health, team management, and surrogacy nning, she¡¯d barely had time to breathe. A knock at the bathroom door made her jump. ¡°Emma?¡± Alek called. ¡°Are you alright? We need to leave for the clinic in twenty minutes.¡± The clinic. Where they were scheduled to begin their egg retrieval process today. Where doctors would take her eggs, fertilize them with Alek¡¯s sperm, and create embryos for Katie to carry. ¡°Fine,¡± she called back, voice remarkably steady. ¡°Just finishing my makeup.¡± She wrapped the pregnancy test in tissue paper and buried it in the bathroom trash, mind racing. She needed time to process this before telling Alek. Time to understand what it meant, what risks it carried. Time to decide if she dared hope. ¡°Your hormone levels are excellent,¡± Dr. Crawford said, reviewing Emma¡¯s blood work. ¡°We should have no trouble retrieving multiple viable eggs for fertilization.¡± Emma nodded mechanically, guilt churning in her stomach. She should say something. Stop the process before they went further. But the words stuck in her throat. ¡°Next steps will be daily hormone injections,¡± the doctor continued. ¡°Mr. Volkov, many partners assist with these. Would you befortable administering the shots?¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Alek replied without hesitation. ¡°Whatever Emma needs.¡± < Book 2 Face Mask More Rewards! His unwavering support only intensified her guilt. They¡¯de so far in their rtionship, rebuilding trust after months of mimunication. Now she was keeping the most important secret imaginable. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a moment to review the consent forms,¡± Dr. Crawford said, stepping out of the consultation room. The second the door closed, Emma turned to Alek. ¡°I can¡¯t do this today.¡± Concern immediately crossed his features. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°I¡¯m just¡ overwhelmed,¡± she said, not entirely lying. ¡°It¡¯s all happening so fast.¡± ¡°We can reschedule,¡± Alek assured her, taking her hand. ¡°There¡¯s no rush.¡± But there was, Emma thought desperately. Katie was waiting. ns were in motion. And meanwhile, inside her, cells were dividing and multiplying¨Ca pregnancy that statistics said had significant chances of following the same dangerous path as before. ¡°I need a few days,¡± she managed. ¡°To process everything.¡± Alek nodded, worry still evident in his eyes. ¡°Of course. Whatever you need.¡± Three dayster, Emma sat in Dr. Winters¡® private office¨Cnot Franklin¡¯s cardiologist, but the high¨Crisk obstetrician who had treated her after the ectopic pregnancy. ¡°You¡¯re definitely pregnant,¡± the doctor confirmed, setting aside the ultrasound wand. ¡°Approximately eight weeks along, and the embryo is properly positioned in the uterus.¡± Relief made Emma light¨Cheaded. Not ectopic. At least not this time. ¡°What are the risks?¡± she asked. ¡°Of anotherplication?¡± ¡°Elevated but not prohibitive,¡± Dr. Winters replied honestly. ¡°Having one functioning fallopian tube doesn¡¯t increase risks once the pregnancy is established in the uterus. However,¡± she added carefully, ¡°your previous experience does ssify this as high¨Crisk, requiring careful monitoring.¡± Emma nodded, processing. ¡°And chances of carrying to term?¡± ¡°Good, assuming no otherplications develop.¡± The doctor studied her face. ¡°You don¡¯t seem as happy as most patients receiving confirmation of a healthy pregnancy.¡± ¡°It¡¯splicated,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°We¡¯ve already begun a surrogacy process.¡± Understanding dawned in the doctor¡¯s expression. ¡°Ah. That does present unique challenges.¡± < Book 2 Face Mask ¡°I haven¡¯t told my husband yet,¡± Emma confessed. ¡°I needed to be sure first.¡± More Rewards > ¡°Understandable,¡± Dr. Winters said gently. ¡°But I¡¯d rmend sharing this news soon. Support systems are crucial in high¨Crisk pregnancies.¡± Emma left the appointment clutching an ultrasound image in her purse, mind whirling with impossible decisions. Should they continue with Katie¡¯s surrogacy as a backup, knowing the risks to Emma¡¯s pregnancy? Was that fair to Katie? To Alek? To any of them? She drove to Franklin¡¯s mansion, seeking wisdom from the one person who always saw throughplexity to the heart of matters. ¡°Well, this is an unexpected visit,¡± Franklin said when she entered his study. ¡°Thought you¡¯d be at that clinic appointment.¡± ¡°I cancelled it,¡± Emma replied, settling into her usual chair. ¡°Grandpa, can I ask you something hypothetically?¡± Franklin set aside his newspaper, eyes sharpening with interest. ¡°Mitchell men excel at hypotheticals.¡± ¡°If you had two paths to the same goal,¡± Emma began carefully, ¡°one riskier but more personally meaningful, the other safer but requiring letting go of control¨Cwhich would you choose?¡± ¡°Depends on the goal¡¯s importance,¡± Franklin answered without hesitation. ¡°Some prizes justify any risk. Others don¡¯t.¡± ¡°And if the prize was family?¡± Emma asked softly. ¡°The next generation?¡± Understanding dawned in Franklin¡¯s eyes. ¡°Emmy,¡± he said gently, ¡°are you pregnant?¡± Chapters first released on F¦Énd£Îovel The simple question broke her carefulposure. Tears spilled down her cheeks as she nodded, pulling the ultrasound image from her purse. ¡°Oh, my dear girl,¡± Franklin moved with surprising speed to embrace her. ¡°This is wonderful news.¡± ¡°It¡¯s terrifying news,¡± Emma corrected, voice muffled against his shoulder. ¡°After what happenedst time. And now with Katie¡¡± ¡°Katie?¡± Franklin asked, puzzled. ¡°Our surrogate,¡± Emma exined, wiping her eyes. ¡°We¡¯ve signed contracts. She¡¯s preparing her body to receive our embryo. And now I¡¯m pregnant naturally, against medical odds, and I don¡¯t know what to do.¡± : < Book 2 Face Mask More Rewards > Franklin guided her back to her chair, his expression thoughtful. ¡°Does Aleksander know?¡± Emma shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ve been too afraid to tell him.¡± ¡°Afraid of what?¡± Franklin asked gently. ¡°His reaction?¡± ¡°Afraid of getting his hopes up,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°Afraid of his fear for me. Afraid of what this means for all our careful ns.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± Franklin nodded with understanding. ¡°You¡¯ve been protecting him from worry, just as he once tried to protect you from risk.¡± The parallel hadn¡¯t urred to Emma, but its truth struck immediately. ¡°I suppose I have.¡± ¡°And how did you feel when he made decisions based on what he thought was best for you?¡± Franklin pressed. ¡°Dismissed,¡± Emma acknowledged. ¡°Like my voice didn¡¯t matter.¡± ¡°Precisely.¡± The simple response carried all the guidance she needed. Emma checked her watch¨CAlek would be home soon from his afternoon meetings. ¡°I need to tell him,¡± she said, rising. ¡°Tonight.¡± Franklin squeezed her hand. ¡°That¡¯s my girl.¡± Alek found Emma in their kitchen, stirring pasta that she had no appetite for. His expression registered immediate concern. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked, setting down his briefcase. ¡°You look pale.¡± Instead of answering, Emma handed him an envelope. Puzzled, he opened it, withdrawing the ultrasound image. For a moment, he stared uprehendingly. ¡°Is this¡¡± His voice trailed off, eyes widening as understanding dawned. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant,¡± Emma confirmed. ¡°Eight weeks. The doctor confirmed it¡¯s not ectopic this time.¡± Alek¡¯s face transformed¨Csurprise to joy to fear, cycling in rapid session. ¡°How? When did you find out?¡± ¡°Three days ago,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°I took a home test, then saw Dr. Winters today for confirmation.¡± < Book 2 Face Mask More Rewards > ¡°Three days?¡± Hurt shed across his features. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me immediately?¡± ¡°I needed to be sure it wasn¡¯t ectopic again,¡± Emma exined. ¡°I couldn¡¯t bear to give you hope and then¡¡± ¡°Have it shattered,¡± Alek finished, understanding softening his expression. He crossed the kitchen to pull her into his arms. ¡°Emma, whatever news you receive¨Cgood or bad¨CI want to hear it together.¡± She rested her head against his chest, tears threatening again. ¡°I was so afraid.¡± ¡°Of course you were,¡± he murmured into her hair. ¡°After what happened before.¡± They stood silently for a moment, processing the magnitude of this unexpected development. ¡°What about Katie?¡± Alek asked finally, voicing theplication they couldn¡¯t ignore. ¡°The surrogacy?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°Dr. Winters says this pregnancy is high¨Crisk. The chances are good, but not guaranteed.¡± Alek guided her to the living room sofa, the pasta forgotten. ¡°So we could potentially have two pregnancies proceeding simultaneously?¡± ¡°Theoretically,¡± Emma nodded. ¡°Though I don¡¯t know if that¡¯s ethically right¨Cfor Katie or us.¡± ¡°There are legal implications too,¡± Alek noted, analytical mind engaging despite his evident joy. ¡°The contracts we¡¯ve signed, financialmitments¡¡± ¡°I know,¡± Emma sighed. ¡°It¡¯s incrediblyplicated.¡± Alek ced his hand gently over her still¨Ct stomach. ¡°But also incredibly miraculous.¡± The wonder in his voice brought fresh tears to Emma¡¯s eyes. For all their careful nning, life had thrown them another curveball¨Cbeautiful and terrifying all at once. ¡°Dr. Winters emphasized that stress could be dangerous,¡± Emma said. ¡°For me and the baby. These decisions, the uncertainty¡¡± ¡°Then we¡¯ll take it one day at a time,¡± Alek said firmly. ¡°Together. No more secrets, no more protecting each other from reality.¡± Emma nodded, leaning into his embrace. The path forward was unclear, tangled withplications both emotional and practical. But for the first time since seeing those two pink lines, she allowed herself to feel something beyond fear. < Book 2 Face Mask Hope. Fragile as a butterfly¡¯s wing, but undeniably present. More Rewards Like a face mask in hockey¨Cunexpected, sometimes ufortable, but ultimately protective¨Cthis pregnancy had appeared when least expected but perhaps when most needed. The question now was whether it would guard their dreams orplicate them beyond recognition. 3 18 year 47 Book 2 Double :. More Rewards > ¡°Bed rest doesn¡¯t mean ¡®work from bed,¡± Alek said, eyeing theptop, three tablets, and stacks of reports surrounding Emma like a paper fortress. ¡°It absolutely does,¡± Emma countered, not looking up from her screen. ¡°Dr. Winters said physical rest, not brain death.¡± Two weeks after discovering her pregnancy, Emma had experienced light spotting¨Cnothing serious, ording to her doctor, but enough to warrant precautionary bed rest. What was supposed to be a two¨Cday restriction had stretched to two weeks as her blood pressure remained stubbornly elevated. ¡°The team has survived without direct Mitchell oversight before,¡± Alek reminded her, setting a ss of water on her nightstand. ¡°It can manage a few weeks.¡± ¡°Easy for you to say,¡± Emma grumbled. ¡°You get to leave the house.¡± Alek¡¯s expression softened. ¡°I know this is difficult-¡± ¡°It¡¯s infuriating,¡± Emma corrected. ¡°I¡¯m not sick. I¡¯m pregnant. Women have been doing this since the beginning of time without being treated like invalids.¡± ¡°Women with high¨Crisk pregnancies follow medical advice,¡± Alek countered gently. ¡°Even powerful, brilliant women who run hockey franchises.¡± Emma sighed, knowing he was right but hating it nheless. ¡°Any news on the Katie Checktest chapters at FindN()vel situation?¡± They¡¯d informed their surrogate of Emma¡¯s unexpected pregnancy the day after confirming it with Dr. Winters. Katie had been genuinely thrilled for them, agreeing to pause the surrogacy process while maintaining openmunication about future possibilities. ¡°She sent flowers,¡± Alek gestured to the bright arrangement on Emma¡¯s dresser. ¡°And says to tell you she¡¯s still avable if needed, no pressure either way.¡± ¡°She¡¯s remarkable,¡± Emma said sincerely. ¡°Most surrogates would be frustrated by the uncertainty.¡± ¡°Most surrogates aren¡¯t Katie,¡± Alek agreed, checking his watch. ¡°I need to go. Board meeting at eleven.¡± ¡°Tell them I expect full reports,¡± Emma instructed. ¡°And remind Peterson themunity outreach budget needs approval today.¡± < Book 2 Double More Rewards ¡°Yes, boss,¡± Alek said with fond exasperation, leaning down to kiss her. ¡°Try to actually rest today? For me?¡± ¡°For the baby,¡± Emma corrected, cing his hand on her still¨Ct stomach. ¡°Not for you.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll take what I can get.¡± His smile faded slightly. ¡°Franklin¡¯s nurse called. His blood pressure was elevated this morning, so they canceled his therapy session.¡± Emma frowned. ¡°Did they call Dr. Singh?¡± ¡°Already handled,¡± Alek assured her. ¡°Just thought you should know.¡± After he left, Emma tried to focus on quarterly projections, but worry about her grandfather kept intruding. Since her pregnancy and subsequent bed rest, she¡¯d been unable to visit him daily as had be her habit. Their video calls, while frequent, weren¡¯t the same as being there to see his condition firsthand. Her phone buzzed with a text from Lisa, the team¡¯s PR director: Media inquiring about your absence fromst three public events. Statement needed ASAP. Emma groaned. She¡¯d hoped to keep her pregnancy private until at least the twelve¨Cweek mark, but her sudden disappearance from team functions was causing spection. Temporary health matter, nothing serious, she replied. Working remotely for a few weeks on doctor¡¯s rmendation. Lisa¡¯s response came quickly: Vague health issues invite worse spection than the truth. Rmend controlled announcement before rumors start. Before Emma could reply, her phone rang¨CWalter¡¯s ringtone. ¡°Everything okay?¡± she asked immediately. ¡°Mr. Mitchell insists on speaking with you,¡± Walter said, sounding strained. ¡°He¡¯s being quite¡ emphatic.¡± Franklin¡¯s voice came through before Emma could respond. ¡°Emmy, this is ridiculous. I¡¯m perfectly capable ofing to you if you can¡¯te to me.¡± ¡°Grandpa, your doctor said-¡± ¡°My doctor says many things, most of which I ignore,¡± Franklin interrupted. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen my granddaughter in two weeks. It¡¯s uneptable.¡± ¡°I¡¯m on bed rest,¡± Emma reminded him. ¡°Doctor¡¯s orders.¡± ¡°Precisely my point.¡± Franklin¡¯s tone turned crafty. ¡°We¡¯re both restricted by overzealous (Book 2 Double medical professionals. The logical solution is to consolidate our confinement.¡± Emma frowned. ¡°What are you suggesting?¡± More Rewards > ¡°I¡¯m moving in with you and Aleksander,¡± Franklin announced. ¡°Walter¡¯s already packing my things.¡± ¡°Grandpa, that¡¯s not necessary-¡± ¡°It¡¯s entirely necessary,¡± Franklin insisted. ¡°Your husband leaves you alone all day while you¡¯re carrying my great¨Cgrandchild. Meanwhile, I¡¯m surrounded by nurses who treat me like I¡¯m made of ss. This arrangement benefits everyone.¡± ¡°Alek and I haven¡¯t discussed-¡± ¡°I¡¯ve already spoken to him,¡± Franklin interrupted again. ¡°He agrees it¡¯s sensible.¡± Emma made a mental note to have a serious conversation with her husband about consulting her before making household decisions. ¡°When exactly is this move happening?¡± she asked, already recognizing defeat. ¡°The cars are being loaded as we speak,¡± Franklin replied with satisfaction. ¡°See you for lunch.¡± 2 18 year 48 < Book 2 Double Minor More Rewards Book 2 Double Minor By dinner time, Emma¡¯s peaceful recovery had transformed into barely controlled chaos. Franklin had arrived with not just Walter, but his day nurse, night nurse, physical therapist, chef, and enough medical equipment to stock a small clinic. ¡°I thought you were bringing essentials,¡± Emma said, watching from her doorway as staff arranged Franklin¡¯s things in the guest suite. ¡°These are essentials,¡± Franklin replied from his wheelchair¨Cused for transport only, as he insisted on walking whenever possible. ¡°A man has standards.¡± ¡°A man has a luxury hospital room in his own home,¡± Emma muttered. Alek appeared beside her, expression sheepish. ¡°I may have underestimated the scale of the operation.¡± Th? link to the orig?n of this information r?sts ?n Find¡ïNovel ¡°You think?¡± Emma red at him. ¡°Next time your grandfather¨Cinw proposes moving in with his entire medical entourage, perhaps mention it to your wife before agreeing.¡± ¡°He didn¡¯t exactly present it as a question,¡± Alek defended himself. ¡°More like a royal decree.¡± ¡°Wee to life with Franklin Mitchell,¡± Emma sighed, leaning against him despite her irritation. ¡°I should have warned you years ago.¡± Franklin¡¯s voice carried from the guest room. ¡°I can hear you two, you know. My hearing is perfectly fine, unlike my supposedly failing heart.¡± Despite herself, Emmaughed. For all the disruption, having her grandfather nearby eased a worry she hadn¡¯t fully acknowledged. By the one¨Cweek mark of Franklin¡¯s residence, they¡¯d established an unexpected routine. Mornings found Emma and Franklin holding court from their respective confined locations- Emma in the master bedroom, Franklin in the guest suite¨Cwith staff, team executives, and business associates shuttling between them with reports and updates. ¡°It¡¯s like having twomand centers,¡± Alek observed, bringing Emma lunch. ¡°The Mitchell¨CVolkov Strategic Operations Complex.¡± ¡°Very funny,¡± Emma said, though she couldn¡¯t deny the efficiency of the arrangement. With Franklin handling Mitchell Industries matters and Emma focusing on the team, they¡¯d maintained surprisingly effective management despite their restrictions. ¡°How¡¯s the presentation prep going?¡± Alek asked, nodding toward herptop. 115 < Book 2 Double Minor More Rewards > Emma had insisted on participating virtually in the uing league owners¡® meeting, refusing to let her condition limit her professional responsibilities. ¡°Almost ready,¡± she said. ¡°Though I¡¯m still debating whether to address the elephant in the room.¡± ¡°Your pregnancy?¡± Emma nodded. ¡°The rumors are getting ridiculous. ording to Lisa, spection ranges. from secret cancer treatments to stic surgery gone wrong.¡± ¡°Perhaps transparency is best,¡± Alek suggested. ¡°On your terms, before someone else creates the narrative.¡± ¡°That¡¯s what Lisa said.¡± Emma pushed aside herptop. ¡°It¡¯s just¡ once we announce it, it bes everyone¡¯s business. The press, the league, the fans¨Ceveryone will have opinions about how I bnce motherhood and career.¡± ¡°Since when do you care about others¡® opinions?¡± Alek asked with a raised eyebrow. ¡°Since hormone fluctuations made me irritatingly sensitive,¡± Emma admitted ruefully. Alek sat beside her on the bed. ¡°Whatever you decide, I support you. Public announcement or continued privacy. Your choice.¡± His unwavering support warmed her. These past weeks had shown Emma a side of Alek she¡¯d always sensed but never fully appreciated¨Chis ability to adapt without controlling, to support without suffocating. ¡°I¡¯ll decide after tomorrow¡¯s ultrasound,¡± she said. ¡°If everything looks good at twelve weeks, maybe it¡¯s time to share the news.¡± ¡°Blood pressure¡¯s still elevated,¡± Dr. Winters noted, checking the monitor. ¡°Not dangerous, but higher than I¡¯d like.¡± Emmay on the examination table, Alek beside her holding her hand as the doctor prepared the ultrasound. ¡°I¡¯ve been taking it easy,¡± Emma insisted. ¡°Mostly.¡± ¡°Mostly isn¡¯tpletely,¡± Dr. Winters replied, applying gel to Emma¡¯s abdomen. ¡°And stress doesn¡¯t help, which I suspect is unavoidable in your position.¡± The room filled with a rapid whooshing sound¨Ctheir baby¡¯s heartbeat, strong and fast. Emma felt Alek¡¯s hand tighten around hers, his eyes fixed on the monitor where a distinct shape appeared. 215 ¡°There we are,¡± Dr. Winters said, pointing. ¡°Good size for twelve weeks. All structures. developing normally.¡± Relief washed over Emma. After her previous loss, each milestone felt like a victory against impossible odds. ¡°So everything¡¯s on track?¡± Alek asked, his voice slightly hoarse with emotion. ¡°The baby looks perfect,¡± Dr. Winters confirmed. ¡°It¡¯s mom I¡¯m concerned about.¡± She turned to Emma. ¡°The elevated blood pressure,bined with your history, puts you at higher risk forplicationster in pregnancy. I¡¯m rmending continued bed rest and reduced stress exposure.¡± ¡°For how long?¡± Emma asked, already dreading the answer. ¡°Until delivery, ideally,¡± the doctor said firmly. ¡°Though I recognize that¡¯s unrealistic given your responsibilities. At minimum, through the end of the first trimester.¡± Emma nodded, trying to hide her disappointment. Another two weeks of confinement stretched before her. ¡°What about working remotely?¡± she asked. ¡°Video conferences, document review?¡± ¡°Limited screen time,¡± Dr. Winterspromised. ¡°And absolutely no stressful confrontations.¡± As they left the appointment with a new ultrasound image and stricter restrictions, Emma¡¯s phone buzzed with a notification. She opened it to find a sports blog headline: ¡°BLADES OWNER EMMA MITCHELL¨CVOLKOV SPOTTED AT OBSTETRICIAN¡¯S OFFICE: BABY NEWS OR HEALTH CRISIS?¡± ¡°Well,¡± she said, showing Alek the screen, ¡°looks like the decision about an announcement has been made for us.¡± His expression darkened. ¡°How did they get this information?¡± ¡°Someone at the clinic, probably,¡± Emma said resignedly. ¡°Or another patient who recognized us.¡± ¡°We should get ahead of it,¡± Alek said, already texting Lisa. ¡°Release a statement on our terms.¡± Emma nodded, cing a protective hand over her stomach. The public nature of their positions meant privacy was always tenuous. Now, their growing family would develop under the same scrutiny that followed their professional lives. < Book 2 Double Minor More Rewards > ¡°The statement should be brief,¡± she decided. ¡°Confirm the pregnancy, request privacy, emphasize that team operations continue unaffected.¡± ¡°And your health situation?¡± Alek asked carefully. ¡°Minimized,¡± Emma said firmly. ¡°Thest thing I need is the entire hockey world treating me like I¡¯m made of ss.¡± By the time they arrived home, Lisa had drafted a statement for their approval. Emma reviewed it from her bed, making minor adjustments before sending it back with her blessing. Franklin wheeled himself into her room¨Cusing the chair he imed to hate but secretly appreciated for longer distances. ¡°Heard you¡¯re going public with the news,¡± he said, positioning beside her bed. ¡°About time. I¡¯m tired of pretending not to know why my granddaughter is confined to bed.¡± ¡°You could have just visited less,¡± Emma suggested dryly. ¡°And miss watching Aleksander run himself ragged trying to manage both of us?¡± Franklin¡¯s eyes twinkled mischievously. ¡°Never.¡± Emmaughed despite herself. For all theplications of their current living arrangement, having her grandfather close had been unexpectedlyforting. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± she asked, noting the slight gray tinge to hisplexion. ¡°Old,¡± Franklin admitted with unusual candor. ¡°But determined to meet this great¨Cgrandchild. He or she will need someone to teach them how to properly intimidate board members.¡± ¡°I think Alek and I can manage that lesson,¡± Emma said with a smile. ¡°Perhaps,¡± Franklin conceded. ¡°But some things require a Mitchell touch.¡± As if summoned by his name, Alek appeared in the doorway. ¡°Statement¡¯s been released,¡± he reported. ¡°Lisa says to expect media calls but she¡¯ll handle everything.¡± ¡°Good, Emma sighed, suddenly exhausted from the day¡¯s events. ¡°One less thing to worry about.¡± ¡°You should rest,¡± Franklin dered, signaling Walter to wheel him out. ¡°Doctor¡¯s orders.¡± After they departed, Alek sat beside Emma on the bed. ¡°How are you really feeling? About the news getting out?¡± ¡°Relieved, honestly,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°Now we can stop hiding and start nning openly.¡± < Book 2 Double Minor Alek ced his hand gently on her stomach. ¡°nning for three.¡± More Rewards: The simple statement carried such weight of hope and responsibility that Emma felt momentarily overwhelmed. Despite theplications¨Cbed rest, health concerns, public scrutiny¨Cthey were creating something miraculous together. Their family, growing against all odds. Like a double minor penalty in hockey¨Cchallenging but survivable with the right strategy and support. And support, Emma reflected as she heard Franklin¡¯s voice directing his staff in the hallway, was something they had in abundance¨Ceven if it came withplications of its own. 3 18 year 49 Book 2 Line Change More Rewards Book 2 Line Change ¡°Jack Reynolds leaked the pregnancy news,¡± Lisa announced, tablet in hand as she entered Emma¡¯s bedroom office. ¡°Our sources confirmed it.¡± Emma looked up from herptop, surprised. ¡°Jack? Are you sure?¡± ¡°Positive. He apparently mentioned it to a reporter after drinks celebrating his son¡¯s birth.¡± Lisa settled into the chair beside Emma¡¯s bed. ¡°The timing matches¨Chis son was born two days before the story broke.¡± Emma processed this information, unsure how to feel. Jack leaking private medical information felt like a vition, yet something about the circumstances gave her pause. ¡°Was it malicious, do you think?¡± she asked. Original content can be found at find[?]ovel Lisa shrugged. ¡°Hard to say. The reporter described him as ¡®emotional¡® and ¡®reflective about his own journey to fatherhood.¡® Could have been an alcohol¨Cfueled slip rather than deliberate sabotage.¡± The door opened as Alek entered, carrying Emma¡¯s prenatal vitamins and tea. His expression darkened when he caught the conversation. ¡°Reynolds,¡± he said, the name carrying volumes of displeasure. ¡°I should have known.¡± ¡°Before you overreact,¡± Emma cautioned, ¡°it sounds more careless than calcted.¡± ¡°Carelessness with your privacy is still uneptable,¡± Alek replied, setting down the tea with more force than necessary. Emma exchanged nces with Lisa, who tactfully gathered her materials. ¡°I¡¯ll draft response options for your review,¡± she said, making a quick exit. Once alone, Emma patted the bed beside her. ¡°Come sit. You look exhausted.¡± Three weeks into her bed rest, with Franklin stillmanding the guest suite like a general¡¯s headquarters, Alek had been running himself ragged between team management, household coordination, and caring for both Mitchells. ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± he insisted, though the shadows under his eyes told a different story. ¡°Liar,¡± Emma said fondly. ¡°You¡¯re trying to do everything yourself, and it¡¯s not sustainable.¡± ¡°Someone has to manage things.¡± ¡°Not single¨Chandedly, Emma argued. ¡°We have staff. Delegate more.¡± < Book 2 Line Change Before Alek could respond, Emma¡¯s phone chimed with Katie¡¯s special ringtone. ¡°It¡¯s Katie,¡± she said, answering immediately. ¡°Hi Katie, how are-¡± More Rewards > Katie¡¯s voice came through, tight with worry. ¡°Emma, I¡¯m sorry to bother you, but I¡¯m at the hospital. Some spotting and cramping this morning. Probably nothing, but the doctor wanted to check.¡± Emma sat up straighter, concern flooding her. ¡°Which hospital? Do you need anything?¡± ¡°Mass General. Tim¡¯s with the kids so I¡¯m alone, but really, it¡¯s probably nothing-¡± ¡°Alek will be there in thirty minutes,¡± Emma decided, looking to him for confirmation. He nodded immediately, already reaching for his keys. ¡°He¡¯ll bring you anything you need and keep me updated.¡± After the call ended, Emma exined the situation. ¡°She shouldn¡¯t be alone there.¡± ¡°Of course not,¡± Alek agreed. ¡°I¡¯ll go now.¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± Emma squeezed his hand. ¡°For understanding.¡± Though their surrogacy ns had been paused due to Emma¡¯s natural pregnancy, Katie had remained an important part of their lives¨Ca friend now, rather than just a surrogate. Her own unexpected news three weeks earlier¨Cthat she¡¯d be pregnant naturally with her third child¨Chad seemed like cosmic confirmation they¡¯d all made the right choices. Now, with both pregnancies experiencingplications, the connection between them felt even more significant. ¡°Keep me posted,¡± Emma called as Alek headed out. Left alone, Emma tried focusing on work emails but found her mind drifting repeatedly to Katie in the hospital, to Jack¡¯s unintentional betrayal, to the precarious nature of all their interconnected lives. Her door creaked open slightly as Franklin peered in. ¡°Where¡¯s your Russian shadow?¡± ¡°Hospital,¡± Emma exined, making room as Franklin wheeled himself beside her bed. ¡°Katie¡¯s havingplications.¡± ¡°The surrogate?¡± Franklin rified. ¡°Friend,¡± Emma corrected gently. ¡°She¡¯s pregnant too¨Cnaturally, with her third child.¡± Franklin¡¯s bushy eyebrows rose. ¡°Quite the coincidence.¡± < Book 2 Line Change More Rewards > ¡°Life¡¯s full of them,¡± Emma agreed. ¡°Like you and me being confined at the same time.¡± ¡°Nothing coincidental about aging and high¨Crisk pregnancy,¡± Franklin countered, studying her face. ¡°You¡¯re worried about her.¡± ¡°I am,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°And about Alek. He¡¯s exhausting himself trying to manage everything.¡± Franklin nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Perhaps a line change is in order.¡± ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°In hockey, when yers are fatigued, you substitute fresh legs,¡± Franklin exined unnecessarily. ¡°Your husband needs reinforcements.¡± Emma smiled despite her concerns. ¡°Are you volunteering? Because doctor¡¯s orders apply to you too, Grandpa.¡± ¡°Not me,¡± Franklin waved dismissively. ¡°But I have resources. Connections. Staff who could be reassigned to lighten his load.¡± ¡°He won¡¯t ept help easily,¡± Emma warned. ¡°He sees it as his responsibility.¡± ¡°Amon affliction among strong men,¡± Franklin said knowingly. ¡°He¡¯ll ept if ites as a business decision rather than charity. Leave it to me.¡± Before Emma could question what exactly he meant, her phone rang¨CAlek calling from the hospital. ¡°How¡¯s Katie?¡± she asked immediately. ¡°Stable,¡± Alek replied, relief evident in his voice. ¡°False rm, thankfully. Minor irritation that looked concerning but poses no risk to the pregnancy.¡± Emma sank back against her pillows. ¡°Thank goodness. Is she being released?¡± ¡°Shortly. I¡¯ll drive her home after.¡± ¡°You¡¯re a good man, Aleksander Volkov,¡± Emma said softly. His voice warmed. ¡°I¡¯m learning from the best. Your grandfather just called the hospital administrator demanding Katie receive the VIP suite during her observation.¡± Emma nced at Franklin, who looked entirely too innocent. ¡°Did he now?¡± ¡°Apparently Mitchell Industries¡® annual donation gives him certain privileges,¡± Alek said with amusement. ¡°Katie was mortified but impressed.¡± < Book 2 Line Change After hanging up, Emma raised an eyebrow at her grandfather. ¡°VIP suite?¡± More Rewards > ¡°Merely ensuring proper care for someone important to my granddaughter,¡± Franklin said mildly. ¡°Now, about that line change we discussed¡¡± 3 Get Bonus (Ad) > 18 year 50 < Book 2 Dyed Game Book 2 Dyed Game The specialist entered Emma¡¯s bedroom, setting down her medical bag. ¡°I¡¯m Dr. Chen, the maternal stress management therapist Mr. Mitchell arranged.¡± Emma smiled apologetically. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you came all this way, but I didn¡¯t request a therapist.¡± ¡°Your grandfather was quite insistent,¡± Dr. Chen replied, unperturbed. ¡°Something about ¡®managing Mitchell stubbornness before it affects the baby.¡± Despite her initial resistance, Emma found herself engaging with Dr. Chen¡¯s practical approach. The session focused on concrete stress¨Creduction techniques she could implement from bed rest¨Cbreathing exercises, modified meditation, even specialized visualization for high¨Cachieving patients who found traditional rxation methods frustrating. ¡°It¡¯s not about stopping work,¡± Dr. Chen exined, sensing Emma¡¯s primary concern. ¡°It¡¯s about creating mental boundaries around stressors you can¡¯t eliminate.¡± By the end of the hour, Emma had to admit she felt calmer. The constant background tension of managing team operations while growing a high¨Crisk pregnancy had eased slightly. ¡°Same time Thursday?¡± Dr. Chen suggested, packing her materials. ¡°Actually, yes,¡± Emma decided. ¡°Thank you.¡± After the therapist left, Emma realized her grandfather¡¯s ¡°line change¡± was already in progress. Beyond Dr. Chen, she¡¯d noticed other subtle shifts¨Cadditional administrative staff appearing to manage household logistics, a dedicated assistant handling Franklin¡¯s medical scheduling separately from his business matters, even meal preparation reorganized to reduce kitchen traffic during rest hours. All changes reducing Alek¡¯s daily burden without directly suggesting he needed help. Her phone buzzed with a message from Katie: Feeling much better today! Tim¡¯s mother arrived to help with the kids. Your grandfather sent FLOWERS to my house? How did he even get my address? Emmaughed, typing back: Franklin Mitchell has mysterious ways. Best not to question them. d you¡¯re feeling better! Katie replied immediately: You have a remarkable family. Also, is Alek OK? He seemed exhausted yesterday. The observation confirmed Emma¡¯s concerns. If even Katie, in her own medical distress, had < Book 2 Dyed Game noticed Alek¡¯s fatigue, the situation was worse than he was admitting. More Rewards Emma called Lisa, implementing her own contribution to Franklin¡¯s line change strategy. ¡°I need your help with something.¡± ¡°Name it,¡± Lisa replied immediately. ¡°Alek¡¯s taking on too much. I need you to reassign some of his immediate responsibilities- quietly, without making it obvious we¡¯re lightening his load.¡± ¡°Already on it,¡± Lisa surprised her. ¡°Your grandfather called yesterday. We¡¯ve redistributed next week¡¯s meetings and postponed the Montreal trip.¡± Emma smiled, shaking her head at Franklin¡¯s efficiency. ¡°Of course he did.¡± ¡°Should I tell Alek the changes came from you?¡± Lisa asked. ¡°No,¡± Emma decided. ¡°Let him think it¡¯s standard reorganization.¡± That evening, Emma finally convinced Alek to take a night off from his hospital¨CCEO¨Ccaretaker rotation. They settled in bed watching old hockey games, his arm around her shoulders, her head resting against his chest. ¡°Katie looked better today,¡± he mentioned, fingers absently stroking Emma¡¯s hair. ¡°Color back in her cheeks.¡± ¡°Mmm,¡± Emma agreed. ¡°She mentioned you seemed tired, though.¡± Alek tensed slightly. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± ¡°You always say that,¡± Emma pointed out. ¡°Even when you¡¯re running on empty.¡± ¡°Someone needs to keep everything moving,¡± he replied, echoing his earlier sentiment. Emma sat up, facing him. ¡°That someone doesn¡¯t always have to be you. We have team executives, household staff, medical professionals¨Call capable people who can help carry the load.¡± ¡°It¡¯s my responsibility,¡± Alek insisted. ¡°You¡¯re on bed rest. Franklin¡¯s health is precarious. The team is mid¨Cseason. Someone has to-¡± ¡°Someone has to recognize when they¡¯re reaching their limits,¡± Emma interrupted gently. ¡°Before they crashpletely.¡± Alek fell silent, the truth of her words settling between them. Finally, he nodded slowly. ¡°Perhaps I have been pushing too hard.¡± < Book 2 Dyed Game More Rewards ¡°Perhaps?¡± Emma raised an eyebrow. ¡°Alek, you¡¯re working full¨Ctime while managing two medical situations and a household staff of twelve. You¡¯re not superhuman.¡± ¡°I just want everything to be perfect for you,¡± he admitted. ¡°For the baby.¡± Emma ced her hand on his cheek. ¡°What this baby needs most is a father who¡¯s present and healthy, not exhausted from trying to control everything.¡± The conversation seemed to reach him, and that night Alek slept deeply for the first time in weeks, Emma curled protectively beside him. Which made it all the more shocking when, during his press conference the following afternoon, he copsed mid¨Csentence on live television. Emma was on a video call with the leaguemissioner when Franklin¡¯s day nurse burst into her room. ¡°Mr. Volkov has copsed at the arena! They¡¯re taking him to Mass General!¡± The world seemed to tilt sideways as Emma ended her call without exnation, hands shaking as she called Lisa. ¡°I¡¯m already on my way to the hospital,¡± Lisa confirmed. ¡°Security caught him before he hit the ground. Early reports suggest exhaustion and dehydration, nothing more serious.¡± ¡°I need to be there,¡± Emma insisted, already trying to get out of bed. ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Franklin¡¯s voice came from the doorway, his expression unusually stern. ¡°You will remain exactly where you are. Walter is driving me to the hospital now. I will personally oversee Aleksander¡¯s care and keep you updated every fifteen minutes.¡± ¡°Grandpa, I can¡¯t just¡ª¡± ¡°You can and you will,¡± Franklin interrupted firmly. ¡°Your job right now is to remain calm and protect that baby. My job is to make sure your stubborn husband receives proper care. Division of responsibilities, Emma. Basic management principle.¡± Despite her frustration, Emma recognized the wisdom in his words. Her blood pressure had already spiked with the news¨Cshe could feel the pounding in her temples. ¡°Every fifteen minutes,¡± she insisted. ¡°And video calls once he¡¯s conscious.¡± ¡°Agreed.¡± Franklin¡¯s expression softened slightly. ¡°He¡¯s going to be fine, Emmy. Men like Aleksander don¡¯t fall easily.¡± After they left, Emma found herself in the strange position of organizing resources from her bed. She called team management to arrange coverage for Alek¡¯s responsibilities, contacted their doctors to coordinate care rmendations, even arranged for Katie to bring clothes on either of them¨Cthat it had taken his copse to finally convince Alek of what Emma had been saying for weeks. Sometimes the game had to be dyed before yers recognized they needed rest. 1 Get Bonus (Ad) > E Vote 155 Original content can be found at fin?novel 18 year 51 Book 2 Overtime ¡°She¡¯s perfect,¡± Emma whispered, cradling the newborn in her arms. Six pounds, four ounces of pink perfection, with a dusting of dark hair and what Emma swore were Alek¡¯s blue eyes, though the nurses insisted all babies¡® eyes started blue. Katie watched from her hospital bed, exhausted but smiling. ¡°She looks like you around the eyes.¡± Emma nced up, emotion threatening to overwhelm her. ¡°Thank you seemspletely inadequate.¡± ¡°She¡¯s your daughter,¡± Katie said simply. ¡°I was just the temporary housing.¡± Twenty¨Ceight weeks into Emma¡¯s own pregnancy, she sat carefully in the hospital chair, her rounded belly making movement increasingly awkward. Beside her, Alek looked shell¨Cshocked, staring at the infant with wonder. ¡°Would you like to hold her?¡± Emma asked him softly. His hands trembled slightly as he epted the bundle. ¡°She¡¯s so small.¡± ¡°All babies are small, darling,¡± Emma teased gently. ¡°That¡¯s rather the point.¡± The journey to this moment had been unexpected andplicated. When Katie had experiencedplications with her own pregnancy at sixteen weeks¨Ca condition that threatened both her life and her baby¡¯s¨Cemergency intervention had saved Katie but not her pregnancy. The loss had devastated all of them. Two weekster, Katie had approached them with a surprising proposal: she still wanted to be their surrogate, if they were interested. ¡°I know it seems strange,¡± she¡¯d exined, ¡°wanting to be pregnant again so soon after a loss. But carrying your baby would help heal my heart whilepleting your family. If you still want me to.¡± The decision hadn¡¯t been easy. Emma¡¯s own pregnancy was progressing well despite the high¨Crisk designation, but Dr. Winters had been honest about potentialte¨Ctermplications. Having Katie proceed with surrogacy provided both a backup n and the family expansion they¡¯d originally envisioned. Nine monthster, Charlotte Natalia Mitchell¨CVolkov had arrived three weeks early but perfectly healthy. ¡°Have you told your grandfather yet?¡± Katie asked, adjusting her position against the pillows. < Book 2 Overtime im For original chapters go to find¡¤novel ¡°Walter¡¯s bringing him now,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Nothing could keep him away, doctor¡¯s orders or not.¡± Right on cue, Franklin appeared in the doorway, using his walker rather than the wheelchair- a sign of how important this moment was to him. ¡°Where¡¯s my great¨Cgranddaughter?¡± he demanded, making his way slowly to Alek¡¯s side. Alek carefully transferred the baby to Franklin¡¯s arms, supporting them both as the elderly man gazed down at the newborn. ¡°Charlotte,¡± Franklin said, testing the name. ¡°A strong name. Regal.¡± ¡°We thought so,¡± Emma agreed, watching three generations of her family together for the first time. ¡°Two Mitchell women now,¡± Franklin observed with satisfaction. ¡°The dynasty grows.¡± Emma exchanged smiles with Katie over Franklin¡¯s head. They¡¯d developed a friendship that transcended their unusual arrangement¨CKatie now family in all but blood. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Emma asked her. ¡°Tired but good,¡± Katie replied. ¡°Ready to see my own kids soon. They¡¯re dying to meet Charlotte.¡± The unusual extended family they¡¯d created still raised eyebrows among more traditional observers, but Emma had stopped caring about conventional arrangements months ago. What mattered was thework of love surrounding both Charlotte and the baby still growing inside her. The peaceful moment was interrupted when Franklin suddenly stiffened, his face contorting. The baby let out a startled cry as Franklin¡¯s arms ckened. ¡°Grandpa?¡± Emma half¨Crose from her chair as Alek quickly reimed Charlotte. ¡°Just¡ need to sit,¡± Franklin managed, his color rmingly gray. Alek hit the nurse call button while helping Franklin to a chair, ¡°Get Dr. Singh on the phone,¡± he instructed the responding nurse. ¡°Now.¡± The next hour passed in controlled chaos. Franklin was wheeled to cardiac care, diagnosed with a minor arrhythmia that his doctors insisted wasn¡¯t immediately life¨Cthreatening but required monitoring. ¡°Go with him,¡± Katie urged when Emma was torn between her grandfather and the newborn. : < Book 2 Overtime ¡°Charlotte and I will be fine. Tim¡¯sing soon anyway.¡± Emma hesitated, one hand on her pregnant belly, eyes darting between the baby and the doorway where Franklin had disappeared. ¡°I¡¯ll stay with Charlotte,¡± Alek decided. ¡°You check on Franklin.¡± im In cardiac care, Emma found her grandfather already hooked to monitors, looking irritated but less gray. ¡°Ridiculous overreaction,¡± he grumbled. ¡°A little chest difort and suddenly everyone panics.¡± ¡°Chest difort is a serious symptom with your history,¡± Emma reminded him, taking the chair beside his bed. ¡°You promised you¡¯d tell someone immediately if you experienced any.¡± Franklin had the grace to look slightly abashed. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to ruin Charlotte¡¯s wee.¡± ¡°You nearly did by copsing while holding her,¡± Emma pointed out, though her tone softened. ¡°Grandpa, you have to take these symptoms seriously.¡± ¡°At my age, every day is a victory,¡± Franklin said philosophically. ¡°I lived long enough to meet one great¨Cgrandchild. Now I just need to hang on for the second.¡± The reminder of her own precarious pregnancy sobered Emma. ¡°One day at a time,¡± she said. ¡°For both of us.¡® Dr. Singh arrived to examine Franklin, her expression professionally neutral as she checked readings and adjusted medications. ¡°Well?¡± Franklin demanded when she finished. ¡°What¡¯s the verdict?¡± ¡°You experienced a cardiac event that we need to monitor,¡± Dr. Singh replied carefully. ¡°Not immediately life¨Cthreatening, but concerning given your history.¡± ¡°English, please,¡± Franklin insisted. ¡°Am I dying or not?¡± ¡°Not today,¡± Dr. Singh allowed with the faintest smile. ¡°But you need to remain hospitalized for observation and treatment adjustments.¡± Franklin grimaced but nodded. ¡°Fine. But I want regr updates about my great¨Cgranddaughter.¡± ¡°I think we can arrange that,¡± Dr. Singh agreed, exchanging knowing nces with Emma. Later, when Franklin dozed under medication, Emma returned to the maternity ward to find an unexpected tableau: Alek in the visitor¡¯s chair with Charlotte asleep on his chest, while Katie¡¯s children¨Cdelivered by Tim for a brief visit¨Cpeered curiously at the baby. < Book 2 Overtime ¡°Is she our cousin?¡± Katie¡¯s daughter asked when Emma entered. im ¡°Something like that,¡± Emma replied, easing herself into a chair. ¡°How¡¯s your mom doing?¡± ¡°Tired but talking a lot,¡± the little girl reported seriously. ¡°Daddy says that¡¯s a good sign.¡± Emmaughed, feeling the weight of the day¡¯s emotional extremes. Charlotte¡¯s birth, Franklin¡¯s setback, the strange new family configuration they were creating¨Call of it swirled together in a mixture of joy and concern. ¡°How¡¯s Franklin?¡± Alek asked quietly over the children¡¯s heads. ¡°Stable,¡± Emma replied. ¡°They¡¯re keeping him for observation.¡± Alek nodded, his expression understanding theyers of worry behind her simple answer. ¡°One crisis at a time,¡± he murmured. ¡°We¡¯ll get through them all.¡± Emma reached out to touch Charlotte¡¯s tiny hand, marveling at perfect fingernails smaller than sequins. ¡°She¡¯s worth everyplication.¡± ¡°Both of them are,¡± Alek agreed, his gaze dropping to Emma¡¯s rounded belly where their son continued his own development. Like overtime in hockey, Emma reflected, life¡¯s most challenging moments often led to unexpected victories. Charlotte¡¯s early arrival, though concerning at first, now seemed providential given Franklin¡¯s health scare¨Callowing him to meet his great¨Cgranddaughter before his own condition deteriorated further. The game wasn¡¯t over. The final score remained uncertain. But in this moment, despite theplications, they were winning. 18 year 52 Book 2 Hattrick im ¡°Franklin Alexander Mitchell¨CVolkov,¡± Emma announced, cing the sleeping newborn in his great¨Cgrandfather¡¯s arms. ¡°Meet your namesake.¡± Franklin, propped against pillows in his home hospital bed, blinked rapidly to dispel unexpected tears. ¡°Handsome devil,¡± he dered gruffly. ¡°Strong Mitchell chin.¡± ¡°Volkov eyes,¡± Alek countered with a smile, standing protectively beside Emma, who was still moving carefully two weeks after her C¨Csection. ¡°Perfectbination,¡± Emmapromised, easing into the chair beside Franklin¡¯s bed. ¡°Just like his sister.¡± As if hearing her name, three¨Cmonth¨Cold Charlotte stirred in the portable bass nearby. The nursery staff¨Cexpanded to amodate two infants¨Chad ced it where Franklin could see both great¨Cgrandchildren during his good periods. His recovery from the cardiac event had been slower than previous episodes, his good days now bnced with concerning setbacks. But he¡¯d rallied determinedly as Emma¡¯s pregnancy reached its critical final weeks, insisting he felt stronger despite medical evidence suggesting otherwise. ¡°I¡¯m not missing this one¡¯s arrival either,¡± he¡¯d dered when Emma¡¯s blood pressure had spiked dangerously at thirty¨Csix weeks, prompting her doctor to schedule an immediate C¨Csection. True to his word, Franklin had been wheeled to the maternity ward¡¯s waiting room during the procedure, refusing to return to his room until Alek brought news of a healthy delivery. ¡°Frankie has your nose,¡± Emma observed, using the nickname they¡¯d already adopted to distinguish son from great¨Cgrandfather. ¡°Poor child,¡± Franklin quipped, though his expression remained tender as he studied the newborn¡¯s features. The door opened as Katie entered with Charlotte¡¯s diaper bag. ¡°Form¡¯s in the side pocket,¡± she exined to the nurse following her. ¡°She usually takes four ounces now.¡± Their unusual family arrangement had evolved into afortable rhythm. Katie visited several times weekly, helping with Charlotte while forming a genuine friendship with Emma that transcended their surrogate rtionship. Her own children had be regr visitors, fascinated by the babies they considered extended family. < Book 2 Hattrick ¡°How¡¯s our boy today?¡± Katie asked,ing to coo over Frankie. ¡°Hungry and determined,¡± Emma reported. ¡°Just like his great¨Cgrandfather.¡± Franklin harrumphed, but his pleasure at theparison was evident. im ¡°The pediatrician says he¡¯s gaining weight perfectly,¡± Alek added, his initial new¨Cfather anxiety gradually easing as both infants thrived. Katie checked her watch. ¡°I should head out¨CTaylor has ser practice. Need anything before I go?¡± ¡°We¡¯re good,¡± Emma assured her. ¡°Tim stilling for dinner tomorrow?¡± ¡°Wouldn¡¯t miss it,¡± Katie confirmed. ¡°The kids made cards for Frankie¡¯s homing.¡± After she departed, Franklin handed the baby carefully back to Emma, his movements slower than even a week before. ¡°You¡¯ve built quite the unconventional family,¡± he observed. ¡°Learned from the best,¡± Emma replied, adjusting Frankie against her shoulder. ¡°You never cared much for convention either.¡± Franklin smiled tiredly. ¡°True enough.¡± Alek¡¯s phone chimed with a message that made his expression tighten. ¡°What is it?¡± Emma asked immediately. ¡°Jack Reynolds,¡± Alek replied, reading the screen. ¡°Car ident in Seattle. Nothing life¨Cthreatening, but he¡¯s hospitalized.¡± Emma frowned. ¡°That¡¯s terrible. Is Veronica with him?¡± ¡°Apparently in Mn for a shoot,¡± Alek continued reading. ¡°He¡¯s listed you as his emergency contact after her.¡± ¡°Me?¡± Emma¡¯s surprise was genuine. ¡°Why would he- ¡°You were married eight years,¡± Franklin reminded her. ¡°Some connections don¡¯t disappear entirely, despite circumstances.¡± Emma considered this, feeling Alek¡¯s eyes on her face. ¡°We should send flowers,¡± she decided. ¡°And check if he needs anything for his son.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll handle it,¡± Alek offered, his tone carefully neutral. The moment highlighted how far they¡¯de in their rtionship. Months ago, Jack¡¯s < Book 2 Hattrick im ident might have triggered jealousy or suspicion in Alek. Now, secure in their family and future, he could respond withpassion rather thanpetition. As Franklin dozed off, Emma and Alek retreated to the nursery where both infants now slept, a remarkable sight that still overwhelmed them at times. ¡°Did you ever imagine this?¡± Emma whispered, gazing at the two cribs. ¡°A few years ago, I mean.¡± ¡°Two babies within three months?¡± Alek shook his head. ¡°Never. But I always imagined us building something extraordinary together.¡± Emma leaned against him, grateful for his strength as her body continued healing. ¡°A hat trick,¡± she murmured. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± ¡°In hockey, three goals by the same yer is a hat trick,¡± she exined. ¡°We¡¯ve scored three remarkable goals¨CCharlotte, Frankie, and us finding our way through it all.¡± Alek¡¯s arm tightened around her waist. ¡°Four goals, including your grandfather¡¯s recovery.¡± This content belongs to Find[?]ovel ¡°That one¡¯s still in y,¡± Emma said quietly. ¡°The doctors aren¡¯t optimistic about long¨Cterm improvement.¡± ¡°He¡¯s ousted medical predictions before,¡± Alek reminded her. ¡°And he has powerful motivation now.¡± He nodded toward the sleeping infants. Emma nodded, allowing herself hope despite the realistic concerns. Whatever came next, they would face it together¨Ctheir unconventional, expanding family supporting each other through victories and setbacks alike. The quiet moment was interrupted by her phone buzzing with a hospital notification. Jack¡¯s ident details, forwarded from Veronica¡¯s assistant with a request for Emma to check on him until Veronica could return from Europe. Emma stared at the screen, an unexpectedplication in their alreadyplex life. ¡°I should go,¡± she said, showing Alek the message. ¡°Just briefly, to make sure he¡¯s alright.¡± Alek studied her face, then nodded. ¡°Of course. Family obligationse first, then we¡¯ll handle this together.¡± The understanding in his voice¨Crecognition that their lives would always include unexpected connections andplications¨Creinforced Emma¡¯s certainty that whatever challenges awaited, they had built the foundation to withstand them. 3 18 year 53 Book 2 Zamboni Time ¡°I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m doing this,¡± Emma muttered, walking carefully through the Seattle hospital corridors with three¨Cweek¨Cold Frankie strapped to her chest in a carrier. Beside her, Katie pushed Charlotte in a stroller, having insisted oning along for the trip. ¡°Someone needs to help with the babies while you visit Jack,¡± she¡¯d reasoned practically. The flight from Boston had been Frankie¡¯s first, and he¡¯d slept through most of it, much to Emma¡¯s relief. Charlotte, now four months old and more alert, had charmed the flight attendants with her bright eyes and ready smiles. ¡°Room 314,¡± Emma said, checking the hospital directory. ¡°This way.¡± They found Jack propped against pillows, his left leg in a cast and his face bearing the colorful evidence of his encounter with a guardrail. But his eyes lit up when he saw them approach. ¡°Emma,¡± he said, voice slightly hoarse. ¡°You actually came.¡± ¡°Of course I came,¡± Emma replied, settling into the visitor¡¯s chair while Katie positioned Charlotte¡¯s stroller where Jack could see her. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± ¡°Like I got checked into the boards by a freight train,¡± Jack grimaced, then noticed the baby carrier. ¡°Is that¡?¡± ¡°Franklin Alexander,¡± Emma said, carefully lifting Frankie from the carrier. ¡°Three weeks old. And this is Charlotte,¡± she gestured to the stroller, ¡°four months.¡± Jack¡¯s expression softened remarkably as he gazed at both infants. ¡°They¡¯re beautiful, Emma. Absolutely beautiful.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Emma felt the familiar pride swell in her chest. ¡°How¡¯s your son doing while you¡¯re here?¡± ¡°Missing his daddy,¡± Jack admitted, pulling out his phone to show photos of a chubby¨Ccheeked toddler with Jack¡¯s green eyes. ¡°Veronica¡¯s assistant is watching him until she gets back from Mn tomorrow.¡± Katie stepped forward. ¡°I¡¯m Katie, by the way. Friend of the family.¡± Jack studied her face curiously. ¡°Katie¡ you¡¯re the surrogate, aren¡¯t you? For Charlotte?¡± ¡°Among other things,¡± Katie replied easily. ¡°Mostly just family now.¡± : < Book 2 Zamboni Time im Emma appreciated Katie¡¯s diplomatic response. Their rtionship had evolved far beyond its original parameters, but exining theplexities to Jack felt unnecessary. ¡°The ident,¡± Emma said, redirecting the conversation. ¡°What happened?¡± Jack¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Honestly? I was distracted. Got a call from my agent about a potential trade rumor, and I took my eyes off the road for two seconds.¡± He gestured to his injuries. ¡°Two seconds changed everything.¡± ¡°Is the trade serious?¡± Emma asked, unable to suppress her professional curiosity. ¡°Seattle¡¯s rebuilding,¡± Jack shrugged. ¡°Everyone¡¯s expendable, apparently. Even aging forwards with young families.¡± Emma heard the worry beneath his casual tone. ¡°Where would you go?¡± ¡°Calgary¡¯s interested. So is Minnesota.¡± Jack¡¯s gaze drifted to Charlotte, who had begun making soft cooing sounds. ¡°Either way, it means uprooting everything again.¡± ¡°That¡¯s hard with a young child,¡± Katie observed sympathetically. ¡°Harder than I thought it would be,¡± Jack admitted. ¡°Veronica¡¯s career is finally taking off internationally. My son needs stability. Sometimes I wonder if professional hockey is worth the constant upheaval.¡± The vulnerable admission surprised Emma. The Jack she¡¯d known had lived and breathed hockey above all else. ¡°Fatherhood changes perspective,¡± she said gently. ¡°I¡¯m learning that myself.¡± They talked for another hour, Jack sharing stories of his son¡¯stest milestones while Emma found herself rxing into the familiar rhythm of their old friendship. The romanticplications that had once defined their rtionship felt like distant history, reced by thefortable understanding of two people who¡¯d known each other at pivotal life moments. When Frankie grew fussy, Emma excused herself to feed him in the family lounge, leaving Katie and Jack chatting about the challenges of managing young children. Readplete version only at fin?novel Her phone buzzed with a text from Alek: *How¡¯s the visit going?* *Better than expected, she replied. ¡°He seems genuinely happy for us. How¡¯s Grandpa?* *Sleeping most of the day. Natasha¡¯s flying back tonight to check on him.¡± Emma frowned at this news. Natasha had returned to her residency program only two weeks ago, after spending months helping with Franklin¡¯s care. For her to drop everything and fly < Book 2 Zamboni Time back to Boston suggested her grandfather¡¯s condition was worse than he¡¯d been admitting. Should Ie home immediately?* she typed. *Not yet. Give Franklin another day to stabilize. He was asking about your trip this morning.¡± Emma returned to Jack¡¯s room to find him holding Charlotte, who was gazing up at him with serious concentration. ¡°She¡¯s remarkably alert,¡± he observed. ¡°My son was sleeping constantly at this age.¡± ¡°Charlotte¡¯s always been curious about the world,¡± Emma said, settling back with Frankie who had dozed off after eating. ¡°She takes everything in.¡± Katie nced at her watch. ¡°We should head back soon. Visiting hours end at eight, and the babies will need proper rest.¡± As they prepared to leave, Jack reached for Emma¡¯s hand. ¡°Thank you foring. I know it wasplicated, with everything between us.¡± ¡°That¡¯s all in the past,¡± Emma said honestly. ¡°We¡¯re different people now.¡± ¡°Better people,¡± Jack agreed. ¡°Parenthood suits you, Emma. Both of you look happy.¡± ¡°We are,¡± Emma confirmed, meaning itpletely. ¡°If I do get traded,¡± Jack said carefully, ¡°I¡¯d like to stay in touch. Not romantically,¡± he added quickly, seeing Katie¡¯s protective expression. ¡°Just¡ friends who¡¯ve been through a lot together.¡± Emma considered this. ¡°I think that would be nice.¡± As they left the hospital, Katie pushing the stroller while Emma carried Frankie, thete evening air felt crisp and clean. ¡°He¡¯s different,¡± Katie observed. ¡°From what I expected, I mean.¡± ¡°Fatherhood changed him,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Just like it¡¯s changing us.¡± Their hotel suite had been arranged with cribs for both babies, allowing Emma to maintain their normal routines despite the travel. As she settled them for the night, Emma reflected on the day¡¯s unexpected emotional journey. Seeing Jack as a father, vulnerable and questioning his priorities, had provided closure she hadn¡¯t realized she needed. Their marriage had failed partly because they¡¯d been unable to support each other¡¯s growth and change. Now, as a friend rather than a former spouse, she could appreciate the man he was bing. < Book 2 Zambont Time Her phone rang as she dimmed the lights¨CAlek calling to check in. ¡°How was it really?¡± he asked without preamble. ¡°Healing,¡± Emma said, settling into the hotel room¡¯s chair. ¡°For both of us, I think. He¡¯s struggling with career decisions and family bnce.¡± ¡°Sounds familiar,¡± Alek said with dry humor. ¡°How¡¯s Grandpa?¡± Emma asked, getting to her real concern. im Alek¡¯s pause told her everything. ¡°Dr. Singh says his heart function has declined significantly. The episodes are bing more frequent.¡± Emma closed her eyes, the weight of Franklin¡¯s mortality settling heavily on her shoulders. ¡°How long?¡± ¡°Months, not years,¡± Alek said gently. ¡°But he¡¯s determined to see the babies grow as much as possible.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll be home tomorrow,¡± Emma decided. ¡°First flight I can arrange.¡± ¡°The babies travel well enough for that?¡± ¡°They¡¯ll have to,¡± Emma said firmly. ¡°Grandpaes first.¡± As she ended the call, Emma gazed at her sleeping children¨CCharlotte¡¯s peaceful face and Frankie¡¯s tiny fists curled beside his cheeks. Franklin had lived to meet both his great¨Cgrandchildren, a victory against time that had seemed impossible just months ago. Now came the hardest part: learning to cherish whatever time remained while building the family legacy he¡¯d entrusted to them. Like zamboni time in hockey¨Cthe methodical process of smoothing rough ice to create a fresh surface¨Csome transitions required patience and care to prepare for what came next. Their visit to Jack had smoothed old rough patches, creating space for healthier rtionships moving forward. But the most important zamboni work awaited them at home, where Franklin¡¯s time was running out and their real family legacy needed tending. Get Bonus (Ad) > Vote 218 18 year 54 Book 2 Powery im ¡°This is supposed to be the easy part,¡± Emma muttered at 3 AM, bouncing a crying Frankie while Alek changed Charlotte¡¯s diaper across the nursery. ¡°Easy ording to whom?¡± Alek asked, his voice rough with exhaustion. ¡°Because whoever told you that lied.¡± Three weeks back from Seattle, they¡¯d finally moved both babies home full¨Ctime, ending the hospital nursery rotations that had sustained them through the early adjustment period. The reality of caring for two infants¨Cone month apart in age¨Cwas proving more challenging than either had anticipated. Latest content published on ?ovelFind ¡°Charlotte¡¯s been fed and changed,¡± Alek reported, lifting the now¨Ccontent four¨Cand¨Ca¨Chalf¨Cmonth¨Cold. ¡°Why is she awake?¡± ¡°Because Frankie woke her up,¡± Emma replied, still swaying with their son. ¡°And he¡¯s awake because¡ I have no idea. Fed, changed, burped. Maybe he just wantedpany.¡± They¡¯d established a system of sorts¨Ctaking turns with night feedings, rotating who handled which baby, trying to maintain some semnce of rest for everyone. But system seemed too organized a word for what felt more like barely controlled chaos. ¡°Maybe we should call Katie,¡± Alek suggested, noting Emma¡¯s frayed expression. ¡°She offered to help during the transition.¡± ¡°At three in the morning?¡± Emma shook her head. ¡°She has her own children to worry about.¡± Finally, mercifully, Frankie¡¯s cries subsided into hups, then silence. Emma held her breath, afraid to move and risk waking him again. ¡°Sess,¡± Alek whispered, settling Charlotte back into her crib. They tiptoed from the nursery likemandospleting a dangerous mission, copsing onto their bed with sighs of exhaustion. ¡°How do people do this with twins?¡± Emma wondered aloud. ¡°Very carefully,¡± Alek replied, checking the baby monitor. ¡°And with lots of help.¡± ¡°Speaking of help,¡± Emma said, ¡°Natasha called earlier. Franklin¡¯s asking when he can see the babies again.¡± Since returning from Seattle, Emma had been limiting Franklin¡¯s exposure to the infants, worried that their normal chaos might overstimte his increasingly fragile heart. But < Book 2 Powery im keeping her grandfather from his great¨Cgrandchildren felt cruel, especially given his limited. time. ¡°What did you tell her?¡± Alek asked. ¡°That we¡¯d bring them over this weekend,¡± Emma replied. ¡°For a short visit.¡± Alek nodded, understanding the delicate bnce they were trying to maintain. ¡°How¡¯s his condition overall?¡± ¡°Natasha says stable but declining,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°The medications are losing effectiveness.¡± Before Alek could respond, Charlotte¡¯s cries erupted through the monitor, followed immediately by Frankie joining the chorus. ¡°Round two,¡± Emma sighed, hauling herself upright. Saturday¡¯s visit to Franklin required military¨Clevel logistics. Diaper bags, form, extra clothes, nkets, bottles, pacifiers¨CEmma felt like she was moving households rather than bringing babies for a brief visit. ¡°You look tired, darling,¡± Franklin observed as Walter helped arrange the portable cribs in the sitting room. ¡°Everyone with newborns looks tired,¡± Emma replied, settling into her chair with Frankie while Alek handled Charlotte. ¡°It¡¯s the natural state of new parents.¡± ¡°Both at once seems excessive,¡± Franklin noted, his voice weaker than just weeks before. ¡°Even for Mitchells.¡± Emma studied her grandfather¡¯s appearance¨Cthinner, grayer, moving with the careful precision of someone managing pain. Yet his eyes remained sharp, alert, taking in every detail of his great¨Cgrandchildren¡¯s development. ¡°Charlotte¡¯s holding her head up well,¡± he observed as Alek supported her in a sitting position. ¡°Strong neck muscles.¡± ¡°The pediatrician says she¡¯s ahead of schedule developmentally,¡± Emma reported with pride. ¡°And Franklin?¡± her grandfather asked, using the baby¡¯s formal name. ¡°Growing fast. Eating constantly.¡± Emma adjusted the infant in her arms. ¡°He¡¯s going to be big like his father.¡± < Book 2 Powery im They spent a peaceful hour together, Franklin offeringmentary on infant behavior with the authority of someone who¡¯d observed multiple generations. His insights often proved remarkably urate¨Cpredictions about feeding schedules, sleep patterns, even personality traits emerging in their early behaviors. ¡°He¡¯ll be stubborn,¡± Franklin dered, watching baby Frankie¡¯s determined attempts to grasp a toy just beyond his reach. ¡°Look at that focus. Pure Mitchell determination.¡± ¡°God help us,¡± Emma said with feeling. Natasha appeared in the doorway, medical bag in hand. ¡°Time for afternoon medication,¡± she announced. Emma noticed her sister¨Cinw¡¯s expression¨Cprofessionally neutral but with underlying concern. Franklin¡¯s medical needs had be moreplex, requiring Natasha¡¯s frequent monitoring even during her brief residency breaks. ¡°How are you managing everything?¡± Natasha asked quietly as Franklin submitted grudgingly to his blood pressure check. ¡°Day by day,¡± Emma replied honestly. ¡°Some days better than others.¡± ¡°The babies are beautiful,¡± Natasha said, watching Charlotte grab unsessfully for Alek¡¯s fingers. ¡°But exhausting, I¡¯m sure.¡± ¡°Worth it,¡± Emma said immediately. ¡°Even at three AM when they¡¯re both crying and I can¡¯t remember thest time I showered.¡± Natasha smiled. ¡°Spoken like a true mother.¡± As they prepared to leave, Franklin insisted on holding each baby briefly despite Natasha¡¯s protective hovering. ¡°My legacy,¡± he said simply, cradling Frankie with practiced ease. ¡°Everything I¡¯ve built leads to this.¡± The weight of his words¨Cthe reminder that these babies represented not just their family¡¯s future but the continuation of everything Franklin had created¨Csettled heavily on Emma¡¯s shoulders. ¡°We need more help,¡± Alek dered that evening as they copsed onto the sofa after finally getting both babies settled. ¡°What kind of help?¡± Emma asked, though she already suspected his direction. < Book 2 Powery ¡°Full¨Ctime nanny,¡± Alek said bluntly. ¡°At least for the first year. Maybe longer.¡± im Emma¡¯s initial reaction was resistance¨Cthe idea of someone else caring for their children feeling like failure. But practical reality was hard to ignore. They were both exhausted, barely maintaining their professional responsibilities, and Emma still needed to focus on Franklin¡¯s remaining time. ¡°I don¡¯t want strangers raising our children,¡± she said carefully. ¡°Not raising,¡± Alek corrected. ¡°Supporting. We¡¯d still be their primary caregivers.¡± Emma considered this. ¡°What about Katie? She¡¯s between nursing assignments, and she already knows the babies.¡± Alek brightened. ¡°You think she¡¯d be interested?¡± ¡°We could ask,¡± Emma said. ¡°Part¨Ctime help during the day, so we can maintain some semnce of normal schedules.¡± The solution, when they proposed it to Katie the following day, proved surprisingly wee. Her husband Tim¡¯s job provided steady ie, but Katie missed working with children. Helping care for Charlotte and Frankie offered the perfect bnce¨Cmeaningful work with babies she already loved, flexible scheduling around her own family¡¯s needs. ¡°I¡¯d love to help,¡± Katie said immediately. ¡°These babies are special to me too.¡± Within a week, they¡¯d established a new routine. Katie arrived mid¨Cmorning and stayed throughte afternoon, allowing Emma to focus on team responsibilities and Franklin visits while ensuring the babies received expert care from someone who genuinely loved them. The arrangement also meant more regr interaction with Katie¡¯s own children, who adored ying with the babies during after¨Cschool visits. Their household began to feel less like a fortress under siege and more like the busy, happy family home Emma had always envisioned. ¡°This is working better than I hoped,¡± Emma confided to Alek one evening as they watched Katie¡¯s daughter carefully help feed Charlotte her bottle. ¡°Extended family,¡± Alek agreed. ¡°Not the traditional version, but ours.¡± Emma nodded, appreciating how their unconventional family structure had evolved naturally into something that served everyone¡¯s needs. Katie gained meaningful work and remained connected to Charlotte¡¯s development. Her children gained experience with babies and additional adult mentorship. Emma and Alek gained essential support without sacrificing their primary roles as parents. < Book 2 Powery im Most importantly, it gave them energy and time to focus on Franklin¡¯s final months, ensuring their children would have memories and photographs with their great¨Cgrandfather, even if they were too young to remember him directly. Like a power y in hockey¨Ca temporary advantage that required strategic thinking to maximize their current family structure was working precisely because everyone brought strengths thatplemented the others. But Emma knew power ys were temporary. Eventually, they¡¯d need to adapt again as circumstances changed. For now, though, they were making the most of their advantage, building the strongest possible foundation for whatever challengesy ahead. 1 218 < 18 year 55 Book 2 Blindside Hit im Book 2 Blindside Hit ¡°Boston¡¯s Hockey Princess: Having It All or Having a Breakdown?¡± Emma stared at the magazine headline disyed prominently at the airport newsstand, her blood pressure rising with each inmmatory line of the subtitle: ¡°Emma Mitchell¨CVolkov¡¯s juggling act between boardroom and nursery raises questions about women in sports leadership.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t read it,¡± Alek advised, steering her away from the newsstand. ¡°Lisa warned us it wasing.¡± ¡°Toote,¡± Emma muttered, fishing coins from her purse. ¡°I need to know what they¡¯re saying.¡± The article, when she skimmed it during their flight to the league owners¡® meeting, proved even worse than the headline suggested. Anonymous sources¨Cclearly other owners¡® wives- questioned whether Emma could effectively lead a franchise while caring for two infants. The piece dissected everything from her maternity leave duration to her decision to bring babies to the Seattle hospital visit with Jack. ¡°Sources close to the organization suggest Mitchell¨CVolkov¡¯s attention has been divided since bing a mother,¡± Emma read aloud with disgust. ¡°Her recent absence from key league functions raises concerns about the des¡® leadership stability.¡± ? ¡°Garbage journalism,¡± Alek said firmly. ¡°Everyone knows you¡¯ve been handling your responsibilities perfectly.¡± ¡°Have I though?¡± Emma set the magazine aside, self¨Cdoubt creeping into her voice. ¡°When was thest time I attended a full board meeting? Or stayedte to review contract negotiations?¡± ¡°When was thest time any owner with a newborn did those things?¡± Alek countered. ¡°This is sexist nonsense, Emma. They¡¯d never question a male owner¡¯smitment for taking paternity leave.¡± Emma knew he was right, but the article¡¯s implications stung nheless. She¡¯d worked years to establish credibility in the male¨Cdominated hockey world. Now, six months after bing a mother, critics were already questioning her dedication. Her phone rang¨CVeronica¡¯s ringtone. ¡°Emma? I hope you don¡¯t mind me calling.¡± Veronica¡¯s voice carried unusual tension. ¡°I read that awful article about you, and I¡¯m furious on your behalf.¡± < Book 2 Blindside Hit ¡°Thank you,¡± Emma replied, surprised by the solidarity. ¡°How¡¯s Jack doing?¡± im ¡°Much better. The castes off next week.¡± Veronica paused. ¡°Actually, that¡¯s partly why I¡¯m calling. I need advice about something.¡± Emma waited, sensing deeper conversationing. ¡°I¡¯ve been offered an incredible modeling contract,¡± Veronica continued. ¡°A year¨Clong campaign for a major European designer. It would mean traveling extensively¨CMn, Paris, London. The money is life¨Cchanging.¡± ¡°That sounds amazing,¡± Emma said carefully, hearing the ¡®but¡® in Veronica¡¯s tone. ¡°It would mean leaving Jack and the baby for weeks at a time,¡± Veronica admitted. ¡°The shoots can¡¯t be scheduled around family life. It¡¯s all or nothing.¡± Emma understood immediately. ¡°And you¡¯re torn.¡± ¡°Completely.¡± Veronica¡¯s voice cracked slightly. ¡°This is the opportunity I¡¯ve worked toward my entire career. But leaving my eighteen¨Cmonth¨Cold son for that long¡ I don¡¯t know if I can do it.¡± The irony wasn¡¯t lost on Emma¨Cbeing asked for career¨Cversus¨Cmotherhood advice while facing simr criticism herself. ¡°What does Jack think?¡± Emma asked. ¡°He says it¡¯s my decision entirely,¡± Veronica replied. ¡°Which is helpful and terrifying at the same time.¡± Emma smiled despite her own worries. ¡°That sounds like Jack. Supportive but not directive.¡± ¡°Exactly.¡± Veronica sighed. ¡°I keep thinking about what you¡¯ve managed¨Crunning a hockey franchise while having two babies. How do you make those impossible choices?¡± The question hit Emma harder than expected. Was she managing well, or was the magazine article more urate than she wanted to admit? ¡°Honestly?¡± Emma said. ¡°I don¡¯t think there are perfect choices. Just choices that feel right for your family at specific moments.¡± ¡°But how do you know which choice is right?¡± Emma looked across the airne aisle at Alek, who was reviewing yer statistics while simultaneously rocking Charlotte¡¯s carrier with his foot. Bnce in action, even on a ne. ¡°I think,¡± Emma said slowly, ¡°you have to decide what you can live with long¨Cterm. Not just : < Book 2 Blindside Hit financially, but emotionally.¡± im After ending the call, Emma reflected on her own advice. The magazine article had shaken her confidence, but watching Alek seamlessly blend professional responsibilities with infant care reminded her that their approach¨Chowever unconventional¨Cwas working. ???? ????s? ???????s ?? FindN0vel The league meeting proved surprisingly supportive. Fellow owners, many parents themselves, dismissed the magazine article as sensationalist garbage designed to generate controversy. ¡°Anyone questioning yourmitment clearly hasn¡¯t seen your quarterly reports,¡± the Calgary ownermented during lunch. ¡°Best rookie owner performance I¡¯ve seen in years.¡± ¡°Besides,¡± added the Minnesota owner, ¡°half of us have raised children while running franchises. It¡¯s called being an adult.¡± The validation helped, but Emma couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that expectations for her were different¨Chigher, more scrutinized¨Cthan for her male counterparts. During the afternoon session, she participated in discussions about sry cap management and yoff format changes, proving to herself as much as others that new motherhood hadn¡¯t diminished her business acumen. ¡°You were brilliant in there,¡± Alek said as they returned to their hotel suite that evening. ¡°The expansion proposal was genius.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Emma copsed into a chair, exhaustion hitting her as adrenaline faded. ¡°Some days I feel like I¡¯m proving myself all over again.¡± ¡°To whom?¡± Alek asked, settling Charlotte into her portable crib while Emma began feeding Frankie. ¡°Everyone. The league, the media, other mothers, myself.¡± Emma shifted the baby to a morefortable position. ¡°That article made me question everything.¡± ¡°The article was written by someone who¡¯s never tried to bnce anything more challenging than dinner reservations,¡± Alek replied with conviction. ¡°You¡¯re raising two babies while running a professional sports franchise. That¡¯s not just impressive¨Cit¡¯s heroic.¡± Emma smiled at his fierce defense. ¡°Heroic might be overstating it.¡± ¡°Is it?¡± Alek challenged. ¡°Name one other person doing what you¡¯re doing right now.¡± Emma considered this. While other female executives had children, she couldn¡¯t think of any < Book 2 Blindside Hit managing professional sports teams while caring for infants this young. ¡°I suppose it is unusual,¡± she admitted. im ¡°It¡¯s unprecedented,¡± Alek corrected. ¡°You¡¯re not just breaking barriers, Emma¨Cyou¡¯re creating entirely new models for what¡¯s possible.¡± That evening, as they settled into their hotel routine with the babies, Emma called Veronica back. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about our conversation,¡± she began. ¡°About impossible choices.¡± ¡°And?¡± Veronica prompted. ¡°Maybe the real question isn¡¯t whether you can have it all,¡± Emma said, ¡°but whether you want everything you¡¯re being offered. Some opportunitiese at the right time, others don¡¯t.¡± ¡°You mean timing matters more than the opportunity itself?¡± ¡°Sometimes.¡± Emma watched Alek efficiently manage Charlotte¡¯s bedtime routine, his natural parenting instincts now finely tuned. ¡°I turned down opportunities after the babies were born -speaking engagements, board positions, even expansion talks. Not because I couldn¡¯t handle them, but because they didn¡¯t align with what our family needed right now.¡± ¡°Did you regret those decisions?¡± Veronica asked. Emma considered this carefully. ¡°No regrets. Just recognition that choices have seasons. What I choose now doesn¡¯t limit what I might chooseter.¡± ¡°That¡¯s actually really helpful,¡± Veronica said with audible relief. ¡°Thank you for being honest about theplexity.¡± After hanging up, Emma reflected on her own words. The magazine article had made her feel defensive about her choices, but perhaps the real measure wasn¡¯t external validation but internal peace with the decisions she and Alek were making together. ¡°Good advice?¡± Alek asked, having overheard part of the conversation. ¡°I hope so,¡± Emma replied. ¡°For both of us.¡± The next morning brought another surprising phone call¨Cthis time from the journalist who¡¯d written the controversial article. ¡°Ms. Mitchell¨CVolkov? This is Sarah Chen from Sports Business Weekly. I¡¯d like to offer you the opportunity to respond to my recent piece.¡± Emma¡¯s first instinct was to decline, but something in the journalist¡¯s tone¨Cgenuine rather : < Book 2 Blindside Hit than confrontational¨Cmade her reconsider. ¡°What kind of response?¡± she asked carefully. im ¡°A feature interview,¡± Sarah exined. ¡°To present your perspective on bncing leadership responsibilities with new motherhood. The piece would focus on your approach rather than others¡® opinions about it.¡± Emma looked at Alek, who nodded encouragingly. ¡°I¡¯ll consider it,¡± Emma decided. ¡°Send me the proposed format and questions.¡± As they packed for their return flight to Boston, Emma felt something she hadn¡¯t expected- excitement about the interview opportunity. Rather than defending her choices, she could share practical insights about modern parenthood in high¨Cpressure careers. Like recovering from a blindside hit in hockey, the initial shock of criticism had given way to determination to control her own narrative. She wasn¡¯t just surviving the intersection of motherhood and leadership¨Cshe was pioneering it. And maybe that perspective was worth sharing, for other women facing simr impossible choices. 218 18 year 56 Book 2 Unexpected Book 2 Unexpected 126 Pours Emma sat between her sleeping babies in the early morning light, Franklin¡¯s letter trembling in her hands. The envelope had been tucked into her grandfather¡¯s desk drawer for months,beled in his precise handwriting: ¡°For Emmy When You Face Your Hardest Choice.¡± That choice had arrived unexpectedly yesterday when Alek received a phone call that would change everything. ¡°NHL Commissioner?¡± she had repeated in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re being offered Commissioner of the entire league?¡± Alek had looked as stunned as she felt. ¡°The currentmissioner is retiring earlier than nned. Health reasons. The board wants fresh leadership, someone with ying experience and modern business acumen.¡± ¡°It¡¯s your dream job,¡± Emma had said quietly, understanding immediately what this meant. ¡°In New York,¡± Alek confirmed. ¡°Full relocation required.¡± Now, at dawn, Emma finally opened her grandfather¡¯s letter with shaking fingers: *My dearest Emmy,* *By the time you read this, you¡¯ll be facing the choice I once had to make between love and legacy. When your grandmother received an offer to head the Chicago Symphony, I had to decide whether to support her dreams or ask her to stay for mine.* *I chose selfishly. I asked her to stay, and she did, but part of her always wondered what might have been. Don¡¯t make my mistake.* *The Mitchell legacy isn¡¯t a ce or a business¨Cit¡¯s the values we pass to the next generation. Charlotte and Franklin will carry our name wherever they live. What matters is that they grow up seeing their parents pursue their highest callings together.* *If Aleksander¡¯s opportunity requires leaving Boston, go with my blessing. The team will survive. Mitchell Industries will adapt. But a marriage built on mutual support is irreceable.* *Trust your heart, not your history.* *All my love,* *Grandpa* 174 < Book 2 Unexpected +25 Points Emma wiped tears from her cheeks as Charlotte stirred in her arms. The letter was so perfectly Franklin¨Canticipating her dilemma, understanding her torn loyalties, guiding her toward the decision she was afraid to make. ¡°Early morning reading?¡± Alek¡¯s voice was soft as he entered the nursery, already dressed for his emergency meeting with the NHL board. ¡°From Grandpa,¡± Emma exined, showing him the letter. ¡°He predicted this choice somehow.¡± Alek read silently, his expression shifting from surprise to understanding to something that looked like relief. ¡°Wise man,¡± he said finally. ¡°Even from his sickbed, he¡¯s taking care of you.¡± ¡°Of us,¡± Emma corrected. ¡°This affects all of us.¡± They¡¯d spent most of the night discussing the opportunity. Commissioner was indeed Alek¡¯s dream position¨Cthe chance to shape the future of professional hockey at the highest level. But epting meant leaving everything they¡¯d built in Boston, uprooting their children from the extended familywork they¡¯d created. ¡°The board needs an answer by end of week,¡± Alek said, settling beside her. ¡°But Emma, I need you to know¨Cif you can¡¯t leave Boston, I¡¯ll decline.¡± ¡°Would you resent that decision?¡± Emma asked directly. Alek considered this with his typical honesty. ¡°Probably not resent, but wonder. This opportunity may note again.¡± Emma nodded, appreciating his candor. ¡°And if we go to New York, I¡¯d need to rebuild my entire professional identity.¡± ¡°Or create a new one,¡± Alek suggested. ¡°The league has been discussing expanding women¡¯s hockey development. A position like that might interest you.¡± The possibility intrigued Emma more than she¡¯d expected. Leading women¡¯s hockey expansion would be pioneering work, different from but equally meaningful as running the des. Before they could continue the conversation, Emma¡¯s phone rang¨CDr. Singh calling from Franklin¡¯s bedside. ¡°You shoulde quickly,¡± the doctor said without preamble. ¡°Your grandfather is asking for you.¡± < Book 2 Unexpected +25 Points They found Franklin propped against pillows, looking frailer than ever but with familiar fire in his eyes. Natasha sat beside his bed, medical monitors beeping softly in the background. ¡°There you are,¡± Franklin greeted them, voice weak but determined. ¡°Bring those babies closer. I have things to say.¡± Emma carefully settled into the chair beside his bed with Frankie while Alek positioned Charlotte where Franklin could see her. ¡°First,¡± Franklin announced, ¡°I¡¯m proud of the parents you¡¯ve be. These children are lucky to have you.¡± ¡°Grandpa,¡± Emma began, but he raised a trembling hand. ¡°Second, I know about the Commissioner opportunity. Walter may have mentioned overhearing yesterday¡¯s phone calls.¡± Emma shot a look at Walter, who appearedpletely unrepentant about his eavesdropping. ¡°And third,¡± Franklin continued, ¡°I¡¯ve made some arrangements you should know about.¡± He nodded to Natasha, who handed Emma a thick legal envelope. ¡°Trust documents,¡± Franklin exined. ¡°The des and Mitchell Industries both now have session ns that don¡¯t require your physical presence in Boston.¡± ¡°Who Emma stared at the papers. does that mean?¡± ¡°It means,¡± Franklin said with satisfaction, ¡°that you can pursue opportunities anywhere in the world while maintaining your ownership and legacy interests. The businesses will run themselves through qualified management.¡± The arrangements were even moreprehensive than Emma had imagined. Franklin had restructured everything to give her maximum flexibility¨Cshe could be actively involved from Boston, provide strategic oversight from New York, or step back entirely while retaining ownership and decision¨Cmaking authority. ¡°When did you arrange all this?¡± she asked, amazed. ¡°Months ago,¡± Franklin admitted. ¡°When it became clear that extraordinary people like you and Aleksander shouldn¡¯t be limited by geography or tradition.¡± Alek shook his head in wonder. ¡°You nned for a scenario you couldn¡¯t have predicted.¡± ¡°I nned for the certainty that my granddaughter would face opportunities worthy of her < Book 2 Unexpected +28 Foints talents,¡± Franklin corrected. ¡°The specifics were just details.¡± As they absorbed this information, Franklin¡¯s expression grew more serious. ¡°Now,¡± he said, ¡°there¡¯s something else. Aleksander, you should know that Dr. Crawford has made some¡ concerning allegations about workce conduct.¡± The Get Bonus (Ad) > Read full story at f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l? 18 year 57 D:. +25 Points Book 2 Sudden Death Emma¡¯s blood chilled. Elise¡¯s harassment im, which they¡¯d hoped was resolved, had apparently resurfaced. ¡°What kind of allegations?¡± Alek asked, tension evident in his voice. ¡°Inappropriate behavior, abuse of power, hostile work environment,¡± Franklin replied, watching Alek¡¯s face carefully. ¡°All nonsense, of course, but requiring proper response.¡± ¡°I never,¡± Alek began, but Franklin waved him quiet. ¡°I know. Everyone who matters knows. But defending against false usations while pursuing the Commissioner position would be¡plicated.¡± Emma felt her heart sink. Even if they proved Alek¡¯s innocence, the scandal could derail his opportunity. ¡°However,¡± Franklin continued with a slight smile, ¡°Dr. Crawford seems to have a history of simr allegations at previous employers. Our legal team has been quite thorough in their research.¡± ¡°Meaning?¡± Emma asked. ¡°Meaning theint will likely be withdrawn once she understands the full scope of our investigation,¡± Franklin replied. ¡°But it will take time to resolvepletely.¡± The implication was clear¨Canother factorplicating their decision about New York. ¡°So much for simple choices,¡± Emma murmured. ¡°There¡¯s no such thing as a simple choice at your level,¡± Franklin observed. ¡°Only better and worse options, and the courage to choose between them.¡± That afternoon, while Franklin rested and the babies napped, Emma and Alek walked through the mansion gardens, finally able to speak freely. ¡°The harassment allegation doesn¡¯t change how I feel about you,¡± Emma said immediately. ¡°I know it¡¯s baseless.¡± ¡°But it changes the practical implications,¡± Alek replied. ¡°Taking a league position while under investigation, even false investigation, isn¡¯t ideal.¡± ¡°Franklin seems confident it will be resolved.¡± ¡°Franklin¡¯s confidence doesn¡¯t guarantee timing,¡± Alek pointed out. ¡°The NHL board needs an < Book 2 Sudden Death answer this week.¡± $25 Points They walked in thoughtful silence, the weight of the decision pressing on both of them. ¡°What does your heart tell you?¡± Emma asked finally. ¡°Setting aside theplications, what do you want to do?¡± Alek stopped walking, turning to face her. ¡°I want to take the job. I want us to move to New York together and build something new while staying connected to everything we¡¯ve built here.¡± ¡°Even with the uncertainty about Elise¡¯s allegations?¡± ¡°Even with that,¡± Alek confirmed. ¡°I believe in our ability to handle whateveres.¡± Emma felt something settle in her chest¨Crelief, maybe, or recognition of a truth she¡¯d been avoiding. ¡°Then we should do it,¡± she decided. ¡°Take the job. Move to New York. Trust that we can figure out the details.¡± Alek¡¯s smile was radiant. ¡°Are you sure?¡± ¡°As sure as I can be about any major life decision,¡± Emma replied. ¡°Which is to say, terrified butmitted.¡± They sealed the decision with a kiss, standing in the garden where Emma had yed as a child, preparing to create new memories for their own children elsewhere. Three dayster, Alek epted the NHL Commissioner position, with a start date allowing for the Elise situation to be resolved and family arrangements to bepleted. Franklin¡¯s legal prediction proved urate¨Cfaced with evidence of her pattern of false usations, Elise withdrew herint in exchange for a confidential settlement. ¡°Nuisance payments,¡± Franklin called it dismissively. ¡°Cheaper than prolonged litigation and worth it for your clean reputation.¡± As they prepared for the transition to New York, Emma reflected on the unexpected path that had brought them here. A year ago, she¡¯d been recovering from pregnancy loss and struggling to connect with Alek. Now they were parents to two healthy babies, preparing for his dream job, supported by an extended family that would remain connected despite distance. ¡°Regrets?¡± Alek asked as they packed the nursery, preparing to move to temporary housing while their New York arrangements were finalized. Book 2 Sudden Death ¡°About leaving Boston? Some,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°About the decision itself? None.¡± +25 Points Katie appeared in the doorway with boxes and her characteristic practical energy. ¡°Tim found more baby stuff in the basement. How much did you two umte in six months?¡± ¡°Apparently everything Target sells,¡± Emmaughed. ¡°Are you sure about the move to New York?¡± Katie had surprised them by announcing that her family would also relocate to the New York area, where Tim had received a promotion offer and Katie could continue her nursing career while remaining part of their extended family. ¡°The kids are excited about the adventure,¡± Katie confirmed. ¡°And I¡¯m not ready to lose touch with Charlotte and Frankie. We¡¯re family now.¡± Emma felt tears threaten at this reminder of the love surrounding their children¨Cbiological family, chosen family, and everything in between. Franklin, though too weak to help with packing, held court from his wheelchair, directing operations and dispensingmentary on their preparations. Read full story at find(?)ovel ¡°New York will suit you,¡± he dered as Emma sorted through baby clothes. ¡°Mitchell women have always thrived on new challenges.¡± ¡°What about you?¡± Emma asked, the unspoken question hanging between them. Franklin¡¯s expression grew gentle. ¡°I¡¯ll be exactly where I¡¯ve always been¨Cin your heart, in your values, in those babies¡® DNA. Geography is irrelevant to that kind of presence.¡± As evening fell and they prepared for their final night in Boston before the move to temporary housing, Emma found herself standing in Franklin¡¯s study, surrounded by decades of family history. ¡°Taking it all with you?¡± he asked from the doorway. ¡°The important parts,¡± Emma replied, gesturing to a box of family photos and documents. ¡°Though I suspect the most important parts were never physical anyway.¡± Franklin nodded with satisfaction. ¡°Now you¡¯re thinking like a Mitchell.¡± Later that night, as she nursed Frankie while Alek settled Charlotte, Emma felt the strange peace thates with major transitions. Not the absence of uncertainty, but the presence of confidence in their ability to handle whatever came next. ¡°Ready for the next adventure?¡± Alek asked softly. < Book 2 Sudden Death Emma looked around their bedroom¨Csoon to be someone else¡¯s space¨Cthen at their sleeping children, then at her husband¡¯s expectant face. ¡°Ready,¡± she confirmed. ¡°All of us.¡± 425 Pointe Outside, Boston slept under spring stars, unaware that one of its most prominent families was preparing to write their next chapter elsewhere. Inside, the Mitchell¨CVolkov household dreamed of possibilities yet to unfold, challenges yet to face, and love strong enough to bridge any distance. Like sudden death overtime in hockey, life¡¯s most important moments often arrived without warning, demanding immediate decisions that would shape everything that followed. They¡¯d made their choice. Now came the exhrating, terrifying work of living with it. The game wasn¡¯t ending¨Cit was entering a whole new phase, with higher stakes and unlimited potential for both victory and defeat. Either way, they would y it together. END OF BOOK 2 The Mitchell¨CVolkov family¡¯s story continues in Book 3: ¡°CHAMPIONSHIP ICE¡± ¨C where new challenges in New York will test everything they¡¯ve built, while Franklin¡¯s legacy influences decisions from afar and unexpected opportunities arise for Emma in women¡¯s hockey development. The question isn¡¯t whether they can seed in their new life¨Cit¡¯s whether they can maintain their family bonds while pursuing individual dreams on the biggest stage in professional hockey. 1 18 year 58 475 Points Book 2 Bonus Chapter 1 ¡°Tell me about the stars again, Grandpa Franklin,¡± five¨Cmonth¨Cold Charlotte babbled in her own babynguage, reaching for the twinkling lights Emma had strung around Franklin¡¯s hospital bed at home. Franklin¡¯s weathered hand, now so thin the veins stood out like roadmaps, gently caught Charlotte¡¯s tiny fingers. ¡°Those aren¡¯t just lights, little princess,¡± he whispered, his voice barely audible. ¡°Those are all the dreams your great¨Cgreat¨Cgrandmother and I shared. Each one burns for you now.¡± Emma sat in the chair beside his bed, seven¨Cweek¨Cold Frankie sleeping against her chest, tears silently streaming down her cheeks. Three weeks had passed since their decision to move to New York, but Franklin¡¯s condition had deteriorated so rapidly that travel was now impossible. Instead, they¡¯d converted the mansion¡¯s sunroom into a makeshift hospice, filling it with everything that brought him joy¨Cfamily photos, fresh flowers, and most importantly, his great¨Cgrandchildren. ¡°The blue star there,¡± Franklin continued, pointing a trembling finger at a sapphire¨Ccolored light, ¡°that one¡¯s for all the hockey games you¡¯ll y someday. I can see you already, Charlotte¨Cfierce as your great¨Cgrandmother, smart as your mother, with a p shot that¡¯ll make grown men weep.¡± ¡°Grandpa,¡± Emma said softly, ¡°save your energy.¡± ¡°For what?¡± Franklin asked with a ghost of his old humor. ¡°I¡¯m dying, Emmy. The least I can do is spend myst breaths telling these babies who theye from.¡± Alek entered quietly, carrying a tea service that had be their evening ritual. Even knowing Franklin could barely manage a few sips, the ceremony of preparing his favorite Earl Grey gave them all something to focus on besides the monitors that showed his heart struggling with each beat. ¡°How are we tonight?¡± Alek asked, settling beside Emma and automatically reaching to support baby Frankie¡¯s head as Emma adjusted her position. ¡°Franklin¡¯s been telling Charlotte about the stars,¡± Emma exined, watching her grandfather¡¯s eyes follow Alek¡¯s gentle movements with the baby. ¡°And what about young Franklin here?¡± the elderly man asked, nodding toward his namesake. ¡°What does his star say?¡± Alek leaned closer so Franklin could see the sleeping infant clearly. ¡°What do you see in him, Grandpa?¡± Book 2 Bonus Chapter 1 +25 Points Franklin studied the baby¡¯s peaceful face with an intensity that seemed to drain his limited energy. ¡°I see a boy who¡¯ll ask hard questions and demand honest answers, I see someone who¡¯ll fight for what¡¯s right, even when it¡¯s not popr.¡± His voice dropped to a whisper. ¡°I see the best of both his parents, and the stubborn Mitchell spirit that¡¯s kept our family strong for four generations.¡± Charlotte had grown fussy in her portable crib, and Emma reached to lift her, but Franklin shook his head weakly. ¡°Let me,¡± he insisted. ¡°Please.¡± With Alek¡¯s careful assistance, they positioned Charlotte in Franklin¡¯s arms, supporting his weakened limbs. The baby immediately calmed, staring up at her great¨Cgrandfather with the serious expression that had be her trademark. ¡°She knows,¡± Franklin said with wonder. ¡°Look at those eyes. She knows exactly who I am.¡± ¡°Of course she does,¡± Emma whispered. ¡°You¡¯ve been singing to her since the day she was born.¡± Franklin had indeed developed a ritual of soft lubies during visits¨Cold songs his own mother had sung to him, passed down through generations of Mitchells. His voice was too weak for singing now, but he hummed a few bars of ¡°Danny Boy,¡± Charlotte¡¯s favorite. The baby¡¯s eyes grew heavy, and Franklin looked up at Emma with an expression of profound peace. ¡°I need you to promise me something,¡± he said urgently. ¡°Anything,¡± Emma replied immediately. ¡°Promise me you¡¯ll tell them stories. Real stories, not sanitized fairy tales. Tell them about your great¨Cgrandmother Eleanor, who built a business empire when women weren¡¯t supposed to have bank ounts. Tell them about your father, who died too young but lived fully. Tell them about me¨Cthe mistakes I made and the lessons I learned.¡± ¡°I promise,¡± Emma said, her voice breaking. ¡°And promise me,¡± Franklin continued, his gaze moving to include Alek, ¡°that you¡¯ll let them make their own mistakes. Don¡¯t protect them from failure. Let them fall down and get back up. That¡¯s how Mitchells be strong.¡± ¡°We promise,¡± Alek said solemnly. Franklin nodded, satisfied, then looked down at Charlotte one more time. ¡°Your turn to hold the family legacy now, little one. But don¡¯t worry¨Cyou won¡¯t be alone. All of us who came 215 < Book 2 Bonus Chapter 1 before will be cheering you on.¡± +25 Points As if understanding the weight of his words, Charlotte reached up and grasped Franklin¡¯s finger with surprising strength for such a tiny hand. ¡°That¡¯s my girl,¡± Franklin smiled, tears sliding down his cheeks. ¡°Already got a Mitchell grip.¡± Dr. Singh appeared in the doorway, making her evening rounds. She checked Franklin¡¯s vitals silently, her expression confirming what they all knew¨Chis time was measured in days, perhaps hours. ¡°Pain level?¡± she asked gently. ¡°Manageable,¡± Franklin lied, the same response he¡¯d given for weeks. Emma suspected he was refusing stronger medication to stay alert for these precious moments with his great¨Cgrandchildren. After the doctor left, Franklin insisted on holding baby Frankie as well, marveling at the differences between the siblings even at their young ages. ¡°Charlotte¡¯s a thinker,¡± he observed. ¡°See how she studies everything? But this little man¨Che feels everything deeply. Look at how he responds to voices, to touch. He¡¯s going to be the family¡¯s heart, while she¡¯s the mind.¡± ¡°What does that make me?¡± Emma asked, trying to lighten the heavy atmosphere. ¡°The bridge between them,¡± Franklin replied without hesitation. ¡°The one who helps them understand that thinking and feeling aren¡¯t opposites¨Cthey¡¯re partners.¡± As the evening wore on, Franklin¡¯s energy visibly declined, but he refused to let anyone take the babies away. ¡°Not yet,¡± he insisted when Emma suggested they should let him rest. ¡°Let me have tonight. Please.¡± So they created a cocoon around Franklin¡¯s bed¨CEmma and Alek taking turns holding babies, adjusting pillows, bringing water Franklin couldn¡¯t drink. Walter hovered nearby, ready to assist but understanding that these hours belonged to family alone. ¡°Sing to them,¡± Franklin requested as his eyes grew heavy. ¡°The luby your grandmother taught you.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was shaky at first, but she found strength in the familiar melody: *¡°Sleep now, my darling, the day is done, Book 2 Bonus Chapter 1 Dream of tomorrow and morning sun. Angels watch over you through the night, Until you wake to the morning light.¡°* 475 Points Franklin¡¯s breathing grew more peaceful as she sang, his hands never leaving the babies even as consciousness began to fade. ¡°That¡¯s perfect,¡± he whispered. ¡°Just like Eleanor used to sing it.¡± ¡°Tell me about her,¡± Emma said, desperate to keep him talking, to hold onto thesest lucid moments. ¡°Strongest woman I ever knew,¡± Franklin replied, eyes still closed but a smile ying at his lips. ¡°Used to say that love wasn¡¯t something you felt¨Cit was something you did, every single day, even when you didn¡¯t want to.¡± He opened his eyes one more time, looking directly at Emma and Alek. ¡°That¡¯s what you two have built. Not just romance, but the daily choice to love each other through everything life throws at you. Don¡¯t ever stop choosing each other.¡± As midnight approached, Franklin¡¯s breathing became morebored, but he held on, unwilling to let go while the babies were still in his arms. ¡°Grandpa,¡± Emma said softly, ¡°it¡¯s okay. We¡¯re here. We¡¯ll take care of them.¡± ¡°I know you will,¡± Franklin whispered. ¡°You¡¯re the best of all of us, Emmy. And these babies¡ they¡¯re going to change the world.¡± He closed his eyes again, and for a moment Emma thought he¡¯d fallen asleep. But then he spoke one more time, his voice barely audible: ¡°Tell them I was proud. Tell them their great¨Cgrandfather believed in them before they even knew who they were.¡± The room fell quiet except for the soft sounds of sleeping babies and the steady beep of monitors. Franklin¡¯s breathing grew shallow but remained steady, as if he was determined to see one more sunrise with his great¨Cgrandchildren. Emma and Alek maintained their vigil through the night, taking turns holding babies and stroking Franklin¡¯s hand, whispering words of love and gratitude for everything he¡¯d given them. As dawn broke through the sunroom windows, painting everything in soft gold light, Franklin¡¯s 4/5 Checktest chapters at find{n}ovel < Book 2 Bonus Chapter 1 +25 Points eyes opened one final time. He looked at each of them¨CEmma, Alek, Charlotte, baby Frankie -with an expression of absolute contentment. ¡°Thank you,¡± he breathed. ¡°For letting an old man see the future of our family.¡± And then, surrounded by four generations of love, Franklin Mitchell closed his eyes and prepared to say goodbye. 11 Get Bonus (Ad) > 18 year 59 Book 2 Bonus Chapter 2 +25 Points Franklin took hisst breath at 6:47 AM, just as the morning sun fully illuminated the garden he¡¯d spent forty years tending. Charlotte was sleeping in Emma¡¯s arms, and baby Frankie had finally settled against Alek¡¯s chest. The monitors stopped their steady beeping, reced by a silence so profound it seemed to echo through the entire mansion. Emma felt the exact moment her grandfather left them¨Cnot from the machines, but from the sudden emptiness in the room, as if all the warmth had been sucked away despite the morning sunshine streaming through the windows. ¡°He¡¯s gone,¡± she whispered, the words feeling impossible even as she spoke them. Alek reached across Franklin¡¯s still form to squeeze her hand. ¡°He waited for the sunrise. He wanted to see one more morning with them.¡± Dr. Singh appeared as if summoned, moving with quiet efficiency to turn off the monitors and begin the necessary procedures. But she paused first, cing a gentle hand on Franklin¡¯s forehead. ¡°He was a remarkable man,¡± she said softly. ¡°In thirty years of medicine, I¡¯ve rarely seen someone fight so hard to stay for the people they loved.¡± Emma couldn¡¯t respond. Speech felt impossible when her entire world had just shifted on its axis. Franklin had been her anchor, her guide, her biggest supporter and fiercest critic. The idea of navigating life without his voice seemed iprehensible. ¡°The babies,¡± she managed to say. ¡°Should we move them?¡± ¡°Let them stay a few more minutes,¡± Dr. Singh advised kindly. ¡°Children understand more than we think. They should have time to say goodbye too.¡± As if sensing the change in the room¡¯s energy, Charlotte opened her eyes and looked directly at Franklin¡¯s peaceful face. She didn¡¯t cry¨Cinstead, she reached out one tiny hand toward her great¨Cgrandfather, her expression unusually solemn for an infant. ¡°She knows,¡± Alek observed, his own voice rough with unshed tears. Emma stood carefully, carrying Charlotte to Franklin¡¯s bedside. ¡°Say goodbye to Grandpa Franklin, sweetheart,¡± she whispered. ¡°Tell him you¡¯ll remember his stories.¡± Charlotte stared at Franklin¡¯s face for a long moment, then made a soft cooing sound¨Cthe same happy noise she¡¯d made whenever he sang to her. It was as if she was trying to sing back to him onest time. Baby Frankie stirred in Alek¡¯s arms, and they brought him close as well. Unlike his sister¡¯s solemn response, Frankie began to fuss, as if he could sense that something important was missing from their family circle. ¡°He always got upset when Franklin stopped talking during visits,¡± Emma remembered. ¡°Even at three Book 2 Bonus Chapter 2 weeks old, he seemed to recognize his great¨Cgrandfather¡¯s voice.¡± +25 Points Walter appeared in the doorway, his usuallyposed demeanor cracking as he saw Franklin¡¯s still form. The elderly valet had served the Mitchell family for over thirty years, and losing Franklin was like losing a brother. ¡°Sir Franklin would want you to know,¡± Walter said, his voice barely steady, ¡°that all the arrangements have been made ording to his wishes. He nned everything so you wouldn¡¯t have to worry about details during your grief.¡± Of course he had, Emma thought. Even in dying, Franklin was taking care of his family. ¡°What did he arrange?¡± Alek asked gently, recognizing that Emma wasn¡¯t ready to handle logistics. ¡°Private service at St. Paul¡¯s, where he married Mrs. Eleanor,¡± Walter replied. ¡°Burial beside her in Mount Auburn Cemetery. Reception here at the house afterward. He wrote his own eulogy and asked that it be read instead of traditional service.¡± Emma finally found her voice. ¡°He wrote his own eulogy?¡± Walter nodded, producing a sealed envelope from his jacket. ¡°He said it would be easier for everyone if he spoke for himself onest time. His words, not our grief.¡± The next few hours passed in a blur of necessary tasks. The funeral home arrived to care for Franklin¡¯s body. Natasha flew in from New York, her medical training helping her assist with arrangements while her personal grief remained carefully controlled. Phone calls were made to family friends, business associates, and team management. Through it all, Emma felt disconnected from her own actions, as if she was watching someone else handle her grandfather¡¯s death. The babies provided the only anchor to reality¨Ctheir needs for feeding, changing, andfort continued regardless of the family¡¯s loss. ¡°I need to call the NHL board,¡± Alek said quietly that afternoon as Emma nursed Frankie in Franklin¡¯s study. ¡°To let them know about the funeral timing.¡± Emma nodded absently, then a thought struck her. ¡°What about the Commissioner position? Will Franklin¡¯s death affect your start date?¡± ¡°They¡¯ll understand if we need to dy,¡± Alek assured her. ¡°Familyes first.¡± But Emma could see the worry in his eyes. The NHL was a business, even in times of personal loss. Content originallyes from F?nd-Novel Dying his start couldplicate an alreadyplex transition. ¡°No,¡± she decided firmly. ¡°Franklin would be furious if his death derailed your opportunity. He nned the service quickly for a reason.¡± ¡°Emma, you don¡¯t have to-¡± ¡°Yes, I do,¡± she interrupted. ¡°Grandpa spent hisst weeks restructuring his business so we could move to New York. He would haunt us both if we let his death undo that work.¡± Book a Bonus Chapter 2 +25 Point Katie arrived that evening with dinner for the household and gentlep¨¦tence that Emma hade to depend on. She took charge of the babies¡® evening routine while Emma and Alek focused on funeral preparations. ¡°How are you really doing?¡± Katie asked when she found Emma standing in Franklin¡¯s empty bedroom, staring at his reading chair. ¡°I keep expecting him to startining about something,¡± Emma admitted. ¡°The hospital bed blocking his view of the garden, or the nurses fussing too much. The silence feels wrong¡± Katie nodded understandingly. ¡°When my father died, I used to call his phone just to hear his voicemail message. Grief makes us look for the person in all the ces they used to be.¡± ¡°Did it get easier?¡± Emma asked. ¡°Different,¡± Katie replied honestly. ¡°Not easier, but different. The sharp pain bes a gentle ache, and eventually, the ache bes a warm feeling when you remember good times.¡± That night, as Emma and Aleky in bed with both babies sleeping between them¨Ca arrangement that had be theirfort during Franklin¡¯s final weeks¨CEmma finally allowed herself to truly feel the magnitude of her loss. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to be a Mitchell without him,¡± she confessed into the darkness. Alek¡¯s hand found hers across the babies. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be the same kind of Mitchell he was. You just have to be the kind of Mitchell these babies need.¡± ¡°What if I make mistakes? What if I forget important family stories or traditions?¡± ¡°Then we¡¯ll make new stories and traditions,¡± Alek replied firmly. ¡°Franklin didn¡¯t want you to be him, Emma. He wanted you to be you¨Cjust with the foundation he provided.¡± Emma thought about this, feeling some of the panic ease. Franklin had spent hisst weeks giving her tools, not expectations. His restructured businesses, his letters of guidance, his stories about family history¨Call of it was meant to support her choices, not limit them. ¡°The babies won¡¯t remember him,¡± she said sadly. ¡°They¡¯ll know him through your stories,¡± Alek countered. ¡°Through the values you teach them, the strength you show them, the love you give them. Franklin will live in every decision you make as their mother.¡± As if proving his point, Charlotte stirred in her sleep and instinctively reached toward Emma, her tiny hand finding her mother¡¯s face. Even in dreams, she sought thefort and security that would carry Franklin¡¯s legacy forward. Emma pressed a soft kiss to her daughter¡¯s forehead, then reached to stroke baby Frankie¡¯s dark hair. Tomorrow would bring the funeral, the formal goodbye, the beginning of life without Franklin¡¯s physical presence. But tonight, surrounded by the family he¡¯d helped them create, Emma began to understand what Franklin 314 Tonk 7 Monut Chapter had tried to tell her in his final days. The Mitchell legacy wasn¡¯t a burden to carry¨Cit was a foundation to build upon. And she would build something extraordinary, exactly as he¡¯d always believed she would. The empty in hockey urs when a team pulls their goalie for an extra attacker, leaving their goal undefended in a desperate attempt to score. It¡¯s a moment of maximum vulnerability and maximum possibility. That¡¯s how Emma felt now¨Cundefended without Franklin¡¯s guidance, but with infinite possibility stretching ahead for her children and their children after them. The game wasn¡¯t over. It was just entering a new phase, with different yers but the same fundamental goal: to love, to protect, and to build somethingsting for the next generation. Franklin had taught her how to y. Now it was her turn to coach. 18 year 60 Book 2 Bonus Chapter 3 # BONUS CHAPTER 3: LEGACY ON ICE +25 Points St. Paul¡¯s Cathedral had never held a more unusual funeral service. At Emma¡¯s insistence, Charlotte and baby Frankie were present in the front pew, their soft baby sounds asionally punctuating the solemnity with reminders of continuing life. Franklin would have approved¨Che¡¯d always believed children belonged wherever family gathered. The church was packed beyond capacity. Hockey legends sat beside business executives, longtime household staff mixed with socialites, and fans who¡¯d never met Franklin but understood his importance to Boston sports filled every avable space. Outside, local news crews broadcast the service to thousands more who wanted to pay their respects to the man who¡¯d built a hockey dynasty and raised a granddaughter who¡¯d carried it forward. Emma sat between Alek and Natasha, holding Charlotte while trying to process the magnitude of her grandfather¡¯s impact. She¡¯d known Franklin was respected, even feared in business circles. But seeing the diverse crowd gathered to honor him revealed something she¡¯d never fully appreciated¨Chow many lives he¡¯d touched beyond their family. ¡°Before we hear from Franklin Mitchell himself,¡± the minister announced, ¡°his granddaughter would like to share a few words.¡± Emma hadn¡¯t nned to speak. The idea hade to her that morning while dressing Charlotte in the tiny ck dress Franklin had bought her during one of hisst shopping expeditions. She handed Charlotte to Alek and approached the podium, her voice initially shaky but growing stronger as she spoke: ¡°My grandfather wrote his own eulogy because he said he didn¡¯t trust anyone else to get the story right. That¡¯s pure Franklin Mitchell¨Cneeding to control the narrative even from beyond the grave.¡± Gentleughter rippled through the congregation, exactly as Emma had hoped. ¡°But before you hear his words, I want you to hear mine. Franklin Mitchell wasn¡¯t just a businessman or a hockey owner or even just a grandfather. He was a force of nature who taught me that love isn¡¯t gentle- it¡¯s fierce. It demands excellence. It refuses to ept mediocrity. It fights for the people it protects, whether they want protection or not.¡± She paused, looking at the sea of faces, many tear¨Cstained but all attentive. ¡°Three days ago, my grandfather died holding his great¨Cgrandchildren, after spending his final weeks rearranging his entire life¡¯s work to give his family freedom to pursue their dreams. That wasn¡¯t sentiment -that was strategy. Franklin Mitchell¡¯s final power y, ensuring his legacy would grow stronger in his absence rather than weaker.¡± Emma¡¯s voice caught slightly, but she continued. ¡°Those babies he held will never remember his voice or Book 2 Banus Chapter 3

24 Points

his stories, but they¡¯ll live every day with the foundation he built for them. They¡¯ll attend schools he endowed, y in hockey rinks he funded, work in industries he helped create. More importantly, they¡¯ll grow up with the values he insisted on¨Cintegrity, determination, and the unshakeable belief that with enough work and heart, anything is possible.¡± She looked directly at Alek, who was gently bouncing Charlotte. ¡°Grandpa¡¯s final gift to our family was teaching us that legacies aren¡¯t preserved by staying in one ce¨Cthey¡¯re extended by having the courage to grow beyond what came before.¡± Returning to her seat, Emma nodded to the minister, who opened Franklin¡¯s sealed envelope and began reading his final words: ¡°If you¡¯re hearing this, I¡¯m dead, which means I finally lost an argument with my doctors. Don¡¯t worry¨Cit took them four years longer than they predicted, so I consider it a victory.* *I¡¯m not going to bore you with false modesty or deathbed philosophy. I lived exactly the life I wanted to live. I built businesses that mattered, raised a granddaughter who exceeded my wildest expectations, and lived long enough to see her create the family I always dreamed she¡¯d have.* *To my business associates: thepanies will survive and thrive without me. I hired excellent people The source of th?s content is FindN()vel and gave them the tools to seed. Don¡¯t screw it up.* *To my hockey family: keep winning. The des exist to bring joy to Boston and championships to our fans. Emma and Aleksander will carry that mission forward better than I ever could.* *To my household staff, especially Walter: thank you for pretending I wasn¡¯t impossible to work for. The mansion is yours for as long as you want it.* *To my granddaughter Emma: stop crying and start nning. You have a family to raise, a husband¡¯s career to support, and a legacy to expand. I didn¡¯t spend forty years teaching you everything I know so you could waste time mourning me. Make me proud by being better than I was.* *To Aleksander: take care of my girls. All three of them¨CEmma, Charlotte, and whatever that boy turns out to be when he grows up. You¡¯ve already proven you¡¯re the man I hoped my granddaughter would find.* *To Charlotte and Franklin: your great¨Cgrandfather believes you¡¯ll change the world. I won¡¯t be here to see it, but I know it¡¯s true. Be kind, be brave, be stubborn when it matters, and remember that Mitchell blood means you¡¯re never allowed to quit.* *Finally, to everyone else: stop looking so sad. I lived ny¨Cone years, built an empire, saw four generations of my family, and died surrounded by people I loved. That¡¯s not a tragedy¨Cthat¡¯s a victoryp.* *Now go have some whiskey, tell embarrassing stories about me, and get back to the business of living. I have your grandmother to catch up with, and she¡¯s probably irritated that I kept her waiting this long.* *-Franklin Mitchell, still the boss even when dead.¡±* The church erupted in surprisedughter at Franklin¡¯s final irreverent words. Even the minister was smiling as he folded the letter, clearly charmed by Franklin¡¯s refusal to be solemn even at his own funeral. < Book 2 Bonus Chapter 3 $25 Points As the service concluded and mourners filed out to the reception at the mansion, Emma felt something unexpected¨Cpeace. Franklin had orchestrated even his goodbye to be exactly what his family needed: not prolonged grief, but permission to move forward with joy. The reception transformed the mansion into something magical. Walter had outdone himself, creating disys of Franklin¡¯s life that celebrated rather than mourned. Photo coges showed him as a young entrepreneur, a devoted husband, a proud grandfather, and finally a delighted great¨Cgrandfather. The hockey memorabilia room was opened to guests, allowing them to see trophies and championships that told the story of Franklin¡¯s impact on the sport. Most memorably, someone had arranged for baby Charlotte¡¯sughter to y softly through the house¡¯s sound system¨Crecordings Franklin had made on his phone during recent visits, now serving as a reminder that life continued with joy even in sorrow. ¡°He would have loved this,¡± Veronica said, approaching Emma near the garden windows. She¡¯d flown in specifically for the funeral, bringing Jack who had offered condolences before joining a group of current and former yers sharing Franklin stories. ¡°He nned most of it,¡± Emma replied, watching guests mingle easily between business conversations and baby admiration. ¡°Even the menu was his idea.¡± ¡°Smart man,¡± Veronica observed. ¡°Making his own funeral feel like a celebration.¡± They stood infortable silence, watching Alek navigate the crowd with baby Frankie, who seemed to enjoy the attention and stimtion of meeting dozens of new people. ¡°I¡¯m sorry we won¡¯t be in Boston much longer,¡± Emma said suddenly. ¡°I would have liked our children to grow up knowing each other.¡± ¡°About that,¡± Veronica said carefully. ¡°Jack¡¯s been offered a position with the NHL¡¯s yer development program. Based in New York.¡± Emma turned in surprise. ¡°Really? He¡¯s considering retirement?¡± ¡°After the ident, he¡¯s been thinking about life beyond ying,¡± Veronica exined. ¡°Working with young yers appeals to him more than another few years chasing championships.¡± ¡°That would be wonderful,¡± Emma said sincerely. ¡°The kids could grow up together after all.¡± ¡°Just like their parents did,¡± Veronica agreed with a meaningful look. As the afternoon wound down, Emma found herself in Franklin¡¯s study with Katie and her children, who were saying their own goodbyes to the house they¡¯de to consider a second home. ¡°It feels different already,¡± Katie observed, watching her daughter trace patterns on Franklin¡¯s desk. ¡°Empty without his voice,¡± Emma agreed. ¡°But Walter says he can hear Franklinining about the flower arrangements from beyond the grave, so maybe his presence isn¡¯tpletely gone.¡± Book 2 Bonus Chapter 3 +25 Points Katie¡¯s son, now six, looked up seriously from the hockey stick he¡¯d been examining. ¡°Will the new people who live here know about Mr. Franklin?¡± ¡°The house isn¡¯t being sold,¡± Emma exined gently. ¡°Walter and the other staff will keep living here, and we¡¯ll visit whenever wee back to Boston.¡± ¡°But it won¡¯t be the same,¡± the boy said with childhood¡¯s direct honesty. ¡°No,¡± Emma agreed. ¡°It won¡¯t be the same. But different doesn¡¯t always mean worse. Sometimes it means new adventures.¡± That evening, after thest guests had departed and the caterers had cleaned up, Emma and Alek sat in their bedroom with both babies, surrounded by the strange quiet that follows intense social gatherings. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Alek asked, settling Charlotte in her travel crib while Emma fed Frankie. ¡°Grateful,¡± Emma said after consideration. ¡°For the time we had, for the way he died peacefully, for everyone who came today to honor him.¡± ¡°No regrets about the timing? With everything else happening?¡± Emma knew he was referring to their nned move to New York, Alek¡¯s new position, the major life changes that Franklin¡¯s death had interrupted. ¡°Grandpa would haunt us if we let his death dy our ns,¡± she said firmly. ¡°He spent hisst weeks making sure we could move forward without guilt or logisticalplications.¡± ¡°The board extended the start date by two weeks,¡± Alek offered. ¡°To give us time to settle everything here.¡± ¡°Perfect,¡± Emma decided. ¡°Enough time to close this chapter properly and open the next one.¡± She looked around their bedroom, soon to be packed up and left behind, and felt ready for the transition. Franklin¡¯s death had been the ending of one era, but his funeral had shown her something important¨Chow many people were invested in their family¡¯s continued sess. ¡°The babies did well today,¡± Alek observed, watching Charlotte fight sleep with typical stubborn determination. ¡°Franklin would say they were working the room,¡± Emma smiled. ¡°Especially Charlotte. Did you see her charm the governor¡¯s wife?¡± ¡°Future politician,¡± Alek predicted. ¡°With her great¨Cgrandfather¡¯s people skills and her mother¡¯s strategic mind.¡± ¡°God help Massachusetts,¡± Emmaughed. As they settled for their final night in the mansion where Emma had grown up, she felt Franklin¡¯s presence not as grief but as foundation. His voice would echo in her decisions, his values would guide her parenting, his love would strengthen her marriage. Book 2 Bonus Chapter 3 125 Pits But most importantly, his belief in her abilities would give her courage to write the next chapter of the Mitchell legacy¨Cnot as a copy of what came before, but as something entirely new and uniquely theirs. Three weekster, as their ne lifted off from Logan Airport bound for New York, Emma held sleeping Charlotte while Alek managed baby Frankie, Katie and her family in seats nearby beginning their own adventure. Below them, Boston spread out in afternoon sunlight¨Cthe city where Franklin had built his empire, where Emma had learned to be strong, where their children had taken their first breaths. But aheady New York, where Alek would lead professional hockey into its next era, where Emma would pioneer opportunities for women in sports, where Charlotte and Frankie would grow up knowing they came from greatness but were expected to create their own. ¡°Ready for the next adventure?¡± Alek asked softly, echoing the question that had be their family motto. Emma looked at her sleeping daughter, her infant son, her husband whose dreams were finally being realized, and the friend who¡¯d be family sitting nearby. ¡°Ready,¡± she confirmed, meaning itpletely. Outside the airne window, clouds stretched endlessly ahead¨Cas full of possibility as the future Franklin had made possible for them all. The legacy lived on, stronger than ever, carried forward by love that refused to quit. Just as Franklin had nned. THE END Franklin Mitchell: 1932-2024 ¡°Still the boss, even when dead¡± The Mitchell¨CVolkov family story continues¡ 18 year 61 Book 3 opening Face off +25 Points Emma stared at the pregnancy test in her trembling hands, watching the second pink line appear. Three children under three years old. The thought made her dizzy. ¡°Mama!¡± Charlotte¡¯s voice echoed from the nursery, followed by the crash of something breaking. Emma shoved the test into her robe pocket and rushed down the hall. Two¨Cyear¨Cold Charlotte stood in her crib, tears streaming down her face, surrounded by the pieces of her favorite snow globe. ¡°It broke, Mama,¡± Charlotte sobbed. ¡°The princess is gone.¡± ¡°Oh, sweetheart.¡± Emma lifted her daughter, stepping carefully around the ss. ¡°We¡¯ll get you a new one.¡± Eighteen¨Cmonth¨Cold Frankie chose that moment to wake up, his cries joining Charlotte¡¯s. Emma juggled both children, her mind racing. How would she tell Alek about the baby? They¡¯d just gotten into a rhythm with two kids and their demanding careers. Original content can be found at find(?)ovel ¡°Rough morning?¡± Katie appeared in the doorway, already dressed for the day. ¡°You could say that.¡± Emma handed Frankie to Katie gratefully. ¡°Charlotte had an ident with her snow globe.¡± Katie¡¯s sharp eyes caught the stress in Emma¡¯s voice. ¡°Everything okay?¡± Before Emma could answer, Alek¡¯s voice boomed from the kitchen. ¡°Emma! Where¡¯s my presentation folder?¡± Emma¡¯s stomach clenched. Alek¡¯s first major NHL board meeting was today, and he¡¯d been stressed for weeks. The owners were questioning some of his decisions, and he needed today to go perfectly. ¡°Coming!¡± Emma called, settling Charlotte on her hip. She found Alek in the kitchen, his usually neat appearance slightly frazzled as he searched through papers. ¡°The blue folder,¡± Emma said, pointing to the counter. ¡°Next to the coffee maker.¡± Alek grabbed it, then pulled Emma close for a quick kiss. ¡°Sorry I¡¯m scattered. This meeting¡¡± ¡°You¡¯ll be brilliant,¡± Emma assured him, breathing in his familiar scent. ¡°You always are.¡± But as Alek hurried out, Emma felt the weight of her secret pressing down. Three children. A husband under career pressure. Her own women¡¯s hockey league demanding more attention every day. ¡°Mama sad?¡± Charlotte asked, patting Emma¡¯s cheek with her small hand. ¡°No, baby. Mama¡¯s just thinking.¡± Katie appeared with Frankie, who was now happily chewing on a piece of toast. ¡°Kids are fed. Why don¡¯t you grab a shower? You look like you need five minutes.¡± Emma nodded gratefully. In the shower, she let herself think about the test in her pocket. They¡¯d talked < Book 3 opening Face off about having more children, but not yet. Not with everything happening at once, +25 Points Her phone buzzed with a text from her assistant: ¡°Reporter called about the women¡¯s league expansion. Wants interview today.¡± Emma groaned. Thest thing she needed was media pressure on top of everything else. After her shower, she found Katie in the kitchen with both children. Charlotte was finger¨Cpainting at the table while Frankie yed with blocks on the floor. ¡°Better?¡± Katie asked. ¡°Marginally.¡± Emma poured coffee, then remembered she shouldn¡¯t be drinking caffeine. She set the mug down untouched. Katie¡¯s eyebrows rose. ¡°Okay, what¡¯s going on? You¡¯ve been weird all morning.¡± Emma nced at the children, then back at Katie. ¡°Can we talkter? After the kids¡® nap?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Katie¡¯s expression softened. ¡°Whatever it is, it¡¯ll be okay.¡± Emma wasn¡¯t so sure. At lunch, she tried calling Alek, but his phone went straight to voicemail. The board meeting was probably running long. ¡°Dada?¡± Frankie asked, looking around the kitchen. ¡°Daddy¡¯s at work,¡± Emma exined. ¡°He¡¯ll be home for dinner.¡± But when seven o¡¯clock came and went with no sign of Alek, Emma started to worry. She tried his phone again. Nothing. ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯s fine,¡± Katie said, helping clean up after the kids¡® dinner. ¡°Big meetings sometimes runte.¡± At eight¨Cthirty, Emma finally heard Alek¡¯s key in the lock. She met him at the door, taking in his exhausted expression and loosened tie. ¡°How did it go?¡± she asked. Alek pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly. ¡°I need a drink.¡± That wasn¡¯t a good sign. Emma led him to the kitchen, where she poured him a ss of wine. He drank half of it before speaking. ¡°They want me to relocate,¡± he said finally. Emma¡¯s heart stopped. ¡°What?¡± ¡°The board thinks I need to be closer to the main operations. They want me to move to Toronto.¡± ¡°For how long?¡± Alek¡¯s silence was answer enough. ¡°Permanently?¡± Emma¡¯s voice came out as a whisper. Book 3 opening Lace off ¡°They said it¡¯s not negotiable. If I want to keep the Commissioner job, I have to be in Toronto by the end of the month.¡± Emma sank into a chair, her mind reeling. They¡¯d built a life in New York. Her women¡¯s league was based here. The children were settled. And now she was pregnant with their third child. ¡°What did you tell them?¡± she asked. ¡°That I needed to discuss it with my wife.¡± Alek sat across from her, reaching for her hands. ¡°Emma, I know this is a lot. But this job¡ it¡¯s everything I¡¯ve worked for.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma squeezed his hands, feeling the pregnancy test burning a hole in her pocket. ¡°It¡¯s just¡ the timing.¡± ¡°The women¡¯s league can be run from anywhere,¡± Alek said carefully. ¡°And the kids are young enough that moving won¡¯t traumatize them.¡± Emma nodded, but inside she was screaming. How could she tell him about the baby now? When he was already dealing with this massive career decision? ¡°How long do we have to decide?¡± she asked. ¡°Two weeks.¡± Two weeks to uproot their entire life. Two weeks to figure out how to tell him about the pregnancy. Two weeks to decide if she was ready to give up everything she¡¯d built in New York. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± Emma said, forcing a smile. ¡°We always do.¡± Alek leaned across the table to kiss her. ¡°I love you.¡± ¡°I love you too.¡± But as they headed upstairs, Emma¡¯s hand went to her pocket where the pregnancy test waited. Some secrets were harder to share than others. And this one might change everything. 18 year 62 Book 3 Penalty Assessment Emma woke up at 3 AM with her stomach churning. She barely made it to the bathroom before morning sickness hit full force. ¡°Emma?¡± Alek¡¯s sleepy voice called from the bedroom. ¡°You okay?¡± ¡°Just something I ate,¡± she lied, sshing cold water on her face. ¡°Go back to sleep.¡± But when she returned to bed, Alek was sitting up, studying her in the dim light. ¡°You¡¯ve been off all week,¡± he said quietly. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Emma¡¯s heart hammered. Tell him about the baby. Just say it. But the words stuck in her throat. ¡°I¡¯m stressed about the Toronto thing,¡± she said instead. It wasn¡¯tpletely a lie. Alek pulled her close. ¡°We don¡¯t have to decide anything tonight.¡± If only it were that simple. Emmay awake for hours, her hand resting on her still¨Ct stomach, thinking about the impossible choices ahead. The next morning brought chaos. Charlotte spilled orange juice all over herself, Frankie had a diaper blowout, and Emma¡¯s assistant called with a crisis at the women¡¯s league office. ¡°Three sponsors are threatening to pull out,¡± Lisa exined over speakerphone while Emma wrestled Charlotte into clean clothes. ¡°They¡¯re worried about the league¡¯s stability if you relocate to Toronto.¡± Emma¡¯s stomach dropped. She hadn¡¯t even told her team about the potential move yet. ¡°How did they find out?¡± Emma asked. ¡°Someone leaked it to the press. There¡¯s an article in Sports Weekly about Alek¡¯s relocation and spection about what it means for your league.¡± Emma closed her eyes. This was getting worse by the minute. ¡°Schedule a meeting with all the sponsors for tomorrow,¡± she decided. ¡°I¡¯ll handle damage control.¡± After hanging up, Emma found Alek in the kitchen, reading the same article on his phone. His jaw was tight with anger. ¡°I specifically asked the board to keep this confidential until we made a decision,¡± he said. ¡°Well, it¡¯s out now.¡± Emma poured herself orange juice, then remembered she couldn¡¯t have citrus with morning sickness. She set the ss down untouched. Alek looked up from his phone. ¡°You¡¯re not drinking your juice.¡± ¡°Not in the mood.¡± ¡°You love orange juice.¡± His eyes narrowed slightly. ¡°Emma, what¡¯s-¡± Book 3 Penalty Axessment ¡°Mama!¡± Charlotte ran into the kitchen, holding her stuffed elephant. ¡°Ellie¡¯s ear is broken!¡± 25 Points Emma examined the tiny tear in the elephant¡¯s fabric. ¡°We can fix this, sweetie. Let¡¯s get some thread.¡± But as she searched the junk drawer for sewing supplies, her vision suddenly blurred. The room tilted sideways. ¡°Emma!¡± Alek caught her as she swayed. ¡°Sit down. Now.¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± she protested, but her legs felt like jelly. ¡°No, you¡¯re not.¡± Alek guided her to a chair, then knelt beside her. ¡°When¡¯s thest time you ate?¡± Emma tried to remember. Yesterday¡¯s lunch? Maybe? ¡°That¡¯s what I thought.¡± Alek stood and pulled out his phone. ¡°I¡¯m calling Katie toe watch the kids. You¡¯re seeing a doctor.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t need-¡± ¡°Emma.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°You almost fainted. With everything going on, thest thing we need is you getting sick.¡± Katie arrived within twenty minutes, took one look at Emma¡¯s pale face, and shooed them toward the door. ¡°Go,¡± she said. ¡°The kids and I will be fine.¡± In the car, Alek kept ncing at Emma with worried eyes. ¡°Maybe we should go to the emergency room instead of urgent care.¡± ¡°It¡¯s probably just stress,¡± Emma said, but she was worried too. What if something was wrong with the baby? The urgent care clinic was busy, giving Emma time to think. She should tell Alek about the pregnancy before the doctor did. But every time she opened her mouth, fear closed her throat. What if he was angry? What if this pregnancy was the final straw that made him choose Toronto over their marriage? ¡°Emma Mitchell¨CVolkov?¡± A nurse called her name. Dr. Martinez was kind but thorough, asking questions about Emma¡¯s symptoms while Alek sat in the corner, watching everything with sharp eyes. ¡°Any chance you could be pregnant?¡± Dr. Martinez asked. Emma¡¯s heart stopped. ¡°I¡ possibly.¡± Alek straightened in his chair. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s do a quick test,¡± Dr. Martinez said, apparently oblivious to the tension crackling between Emma and her husband. Book 3 Penalty Assessment 25 Points Five minutester, the doctor returned with a smile. ¡°Congrattions. You¡¯re about six weeks pregnant.¡± The room went silent. Alek stared at Emma, his expression unreadable. ¡°Six weeks?¡± he repeated slowly. Emma nodded, unable to speak. Dr. Martinezunched into advice about prenatal vitamins and early pregnancy symptoms, but Emma barely heard him. She was too focused on Alek¡¯s face, trying to read his emotions. In the car afterward, neither of them spoke for several blocks. Finally, Alek pulled over and turned to face her. ¡°Six weeks. You¡¯ve known for how long?¡± ¡°I just found out yesterday,¡± Emma said quietly. ¡°The morning of your board meeting.¡± ¡°And you didn¡¯t tell me?¡± ¡°I was going to, but then you came home with the Toronto news, and the timing seemed-¡± ¡°There¡¯s never a perfect time for this kind of news, Emma.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was carefully controlled. ¡°We¡¯re supposed to be partners.¡± ¨C ¡°We are partners.¡± ¡°Partners don¡¯t keep secrets about pregnancies.¡± Emma felt tears threatening. ¡°I wasn¡¯t keeping it secret. I was waiting for the right moment.¡± ¡°The right moment?¡± Alekughed, but there was no humor in it. ¡°When would that have been? After we moved to Toronto? After you miscarried from stress? When, Emma?¡± The word ¡°miscarried¡± hit her like a physical blow. ¡°Don¡¯t say that.¡± Alek¡¯s expression immediately softened. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean¡¡± He reached for her hand. ¡°I¡¯m scared too, okay? This changes everything.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was barely a whisper. ¡°Three kids, Emma. Three kids under three years old.¡± ¡°I know.¡± ¡°And now I¡¯m supposed to choose between my career and my family.¡± Emma looked at him sharply. ¡°I never said you had to choose.¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you?¡± Alek started the car again. ¡°Because that¡¯s what this feels like. The board wants me in Toronto. You can¡¯t move your business. And now there¡¯s another babying.¡± They drove home in heavy silence, both lost in their own thoughts. At home, Katie took one look at their faces and quietly gathered her things. ¡°Call if you need anything,¡± she Book 3 Penalty Assessment said, giving Emma a meaningful look. *25 Points That evening, after the kids were in bed, Emma and Alek sat on opposite ends of their couch, the space between them feeling like an ocean. ¡°We need to talk about this,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°I know.¡± ¡°Three children. Toronto. Your league. My job.¡± He ran his hands through his hair. ¡°How do we make this work?¡± Find the newest release on Emma wished she had an answer. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not good enough, Emma. We have two weeks to figure out our entire future.¡± ¡°So what do you want me to say?¡± Emma¡¯s voice rose despite her efforts to stay calm. ¡°That I¡¯ll give up everything I¡¯ve built here? That I¡¯ll follow you to Toronto and pretend to be happy about it?¡± ¡°I want you to talk to me!¡± Alek stood up, pacing. ¡°I want you to stop keeping secrets and start acting like we¡¯re in this together!¡± ¡°We are in this together!¡± ¡°Are we? Because it feels like you¡¯re making decisions without me. Like you decided to handle the pregnancy alone, just like you¡¯re handling everything else alone.¡± Emma stared at him, hurt and anger warring in her chest. ¡°That¡¯s not fair.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Alek stopped pacing and looked at her directly. ¡°When¡¯s thest time you asked for my help with anything? When¡¯s thest time you let me be your partner instead of just the guy who lives here?¡± The usation stung because it held a grain of truth. Emma had been handling more and more on her own, telling herself she was being strong. But maybe she¡¯d been pushing Alek away without realizing it. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to do this,¡± she admitted quietly. ¡°Do what?¡± ¡°Bnce everything. Be a good mother, a good wife, a good businesswoman. And now there¡¯s another babying, and your career is taking off, and I feel like I¡¯m drowning.¡± Alek¡¯s anger deted. He sat back down, this time closer to her. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you just say that?¡± ¡°Because I¡¯m supposed to be strong. I¡¯m a Mitchell. We handle things.¡± ¡°You¡¯re also human, Emma. And you¡¯re my wife. You don¡¯t have to handle everything alone.¡± Emma leaned into his warmth, feeling some of the tension leave her shoulders. ¡°I¡¯m scared about the baby.¡± ¡°Me too.¡± Book 3 Penalty Assessment ¡°And I¡¯m scared about Toronto.¡± ¡°Yeah. Me too.¡± They sat in silence for a moment, both processing the magnitude of their situation. ¡°We¡¯ll figure it out,¡± Alek said finally. ¡°All of it. But we have to do it together. No more secrets.¡± Emma nodded. ¡°No more secrets.¡± But even as she said it, Emma wondered if that was a promise they could keep. Because some secrets weren¡¯t about hiding the truth. Some secrets were about being afraid of what the truth might cost them. 18 year 63 Book 3 Power y Strategy +25 Points Emma stared at the pregnancy vitamins on her nightstand, willing her stomach to settle enough to take them. The morning sickness was getting worse, not better. ¡°Try eating crackers first,¡± Katie suggested, appearing in the doorway with Charlotte on her hip. ¡°It helps some women.¡± ¡°Nothing helps,¡± Emma groaned, but she reached for the saltines anyway. Downstairs, she could hear Alek on a conference call with the NHL board, his voice tense as he discussed expansion details. They¡¯d been tiptoeing around each other for three days since the pregnancy revtion, both trying to be supportive while privately panicking. ¡°Mama sick?¡± Charlotte asked, reaching out to pat Emma¡¯s cheek. ¡°A little bit, baby. But I¡¯ll be okay.¡± Emma managed to keep the crackers down long enough to take her vitamins, then followed Katie downstairs. Alek was pacing in his office, phone pressed to his ear. ¡°I understand the timeline,¡± he was saying, ¡°but moving my entire family in two weeks isn¡¯t realistic.¡± Emma paused in the doorway. This was the first time she¡¯d heard him push back on the Toronto deadline. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m aware of the contract stiptions,¡± Alek continued, his tone growing sharper. ¡°But I¡¯m also aware that good leadership requires more than just following orders.¡± Katie raised her eyebrows at Emma, clearly impressed by Alek¡¯s backbone. When Alek finally hung up, he looked exhausted. ¡°How did it go?¡± Emma asked. ¡°They¡¯re not budging on the timeline. Two weeks, or they¡¯ll consider it a breach of contract.¡± Emma¡¯s heart sank. ¡°What does that mean?¡± ¡°It means I could lose the job entirely.¡± Alek sat heavily in his desk chair. ¡°Unless I can prove that relocating immediately would cause undue hardship to my family.¡± ¡°Well, it would,¡± Emma said immediately. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant with our third child, we have two toddlers, and my business is based here.¡± < Book 3 Power y Strategy +25 Points ¡°That¡¯s what I told them.¡± Alek looked up at her hopefully. ¡°Would you be willing to speak to the board? Exin why the move needs to happen more gradually?¡± Emma hesitated. Getting involved in Alek¡¯s career decisions felt like crossing a line they¡¯d carefully maintained. They¡¯d always kept their professional lives separate. ¡°What would I say exactly?¡± she asked. ¡°The truth. That you¡¯re building something important here, that the children need stability, that a sudden move would be disruptive for the whole family.¡± Emma nodded slowly. ¡°Okay. If you think it would help.¡± Relief flooded Alek¡¯s face. ¡°Thank you. The call is tomorrow at two.¡± But that evening, Emma¡¯s assistant called with news that changed everything. ¡°Netflix wants to meet,¡± Lisa said excitedly. ¡°They¡¯re interested in documenting the women¡¯s league for a series. This could be huge, Emma.¡± Emma¡¯s pulse quickened. A Netflix deal would legitimize women¡¯s hockey in ways they¡¯d never imagined. ¡°When do they want to meet?¡± ¡°Tomorrow at two.¡± Emma¡¯s heart sank. The same time as Alek¡¯s board call. ¡°Can we reschedule?¡± she asked. ¡°They¡¯re flying back to Los Angeles tomorrow night. It¡¯s now or never.¡± Emma closed her eyes, feeling torn in two directions. Alek needed her support with the board. But this Netflix opportunity could change everything for women¡¯s hockey. ¡°I¡¯ll call you back,¡± she told Lisa. She found Alek in the nursery, reading bedtime stories to Charlotte and Frankie. Both children were curled against him, Charlotte¡¯s thumb in her mouth, Frankie clutching his stuffed bear. ¡°And the little elephant found his way home,¡± Alek finished, closing the book. ¡°Again!¡± Charlotte demanded. ¡°Tomorrow night, sweetheart. Time for sleep.¡± After they tucked the children in, Emma followed Alek to their bedroom. < Book 3 Power y Strategy ¡°I have a problem,¡± she said. Alek looked up from hisptop. ¡°What kind of problem?¡± Emma exined about the Netflix meeting, watching Alek¡¯s expression shift from understanding to disappointment. ¡°So you can¡¯t be on the board call,¡± he said tly. ¡°I could try to do both, but-¡± ¡°But the Netflix meeting is more important.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what I said.¡± +25 Points Alek closed hisptop with more force than necessary. ¡°You didn¡¯t have to say it. I can read between the lines.¡± ¡°Alek, this could be huge for women¡¯s hockey.¡± ¡°And the board call could save my career. But I guess that¡¯s less important.¡± Emma felt her temper re. ¡°That¡¯s not fair.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Alek stood up, beginning his familiar stress¨Cpacing pattern. ¡°I ask for your help with one thing, and you immediately find a reason why you can¡¯t do it.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not like that.¡± ¡°Then what is it like, Emma? Because from where I¡¯m standing, it looks like you¡¯re prioritizing your career over mine. Again.¡± The usation stung. ¡°When have I ever-¡± ¡°The leagueunch party. You missed my first major speech as Commissioner because of a sponsor dinner.¡± ¡°That was important-¡± ¡°So was my speech! But you decided your thing was more important.¡± Emma stared at him, hurt blooming in her chest. ¡°I¡¯ve supported your career from day one.¡± ¡°Have you? Or have you just not actively sabotaged it?¡± The words hung in the air between them, cruel and cutting. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you just said that,¡± Emma whispered. < Book 3 Power y Strategy Alek¡¯s anger deted immediately. ¡°Emma, I didn¡¯t mean- +25 Points ¡°Yes, you did.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was steady despite the tears threatening. ¡°You meant it, or you wouldn¡¯t have said it.¡± She turned toward the bathroom, but Alek caught her arm gently. ¡°Wait. Please. I¡¯m stressed about the board, and I took it out on you. That wasn¡¯t fair.¡± Emma looked at his face, seeing genuine regret there. But the hurt was still fresh. ¡°I¡¯ve never sabotaged your career,¡± she said quietly. ¡°I know. I¡¯m sorry I said that.¡± ¡°And I do support you. Maybe not perfectly, but I try.¡± ¡°I know that too.¡± Alek pulled her closer. ¡°I¡¯m scared, Emma. This job means everything to me, and I feel like it¡¯s slipping away.¡± Emma leaned into his embrace, feeling some of her anger fade. ¡°The board will understand about the timeline. You¡¯re valuable to them.¡± ¡°Am I? Becausetely it feels like they¡¯re looking for reasons to get rid of me.¡± ¡°Why would they do that?¡± Alek was quiet for a long moment. ¡°There are rumors that some of the older owners don¡¯t like having a former yer as Commissioner. They think I¡¯m too close to the yers¡® perspective.¡± This was news to Emma. ¡°Since when?¡± ¡°Since always. But it¡¯s getting worse.¡± Alek¡¯s arms tightened around her. ¡°If I can¡¯t convince them that Toronto is workable, they might use it as an excuse to push me out entirely.¡± Emma felt the weight of his fear, and suddenly her own Netflix meeting seemed less important. ¡°I¡¯ll call Lisa,¡± she said. ¡°See if we can move the Netflix meeting to the morning.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to-¡± ¡°Yes, I do. We¡¯re partners, remember?¡± Alek¡¯s smile was grateful and relieved. ¡°Thank you.¡± But when Emma called Lisa, the response was disappointing. < Book 3 Power y Strategy ¡°They have meetings all morning,¡± Lisa exined. ¡°It¡¯s two o¡¯clock or nothing.¡± Emma looked at Alek, who was pretending to read but clearly listening to every word. ¡°Let me think about it,¡± Emma told Lisa. ¡°I¡¯ll call you back in an hour.¡± After hanging up, Emma sat on the bed next to Alek. ¡°They can¡¯t reschedule,¡± she said. Alek nodded, not looking up from his book. ¡°I figured.¡± ¡°So I have to choose.¡± ¡°Seems that way.¡± +25 Points Emma studied his profile, trying to read his emotions. ¡°What would you do? If you were me?¡± Alek finally looked at her. ¡°I¡¯d choose whatever felt right for our family long¨Cterm.¡± ¡°That doesn¡¯t help.¡± ¡°Sure it does.¡± Alek set his book aside. ¡°Emma, I want you to support me. But I also want you to build something amazing with women¡¯s hockey. Those things don¡¯t have to be mutually exclusive.¡± ¡°They are tomorrow.¡± ¡°Tomorrow, yes. But not forever.¡± Emma leaned against his shoulder, thinking. Netflix could open doors she¡¯d never imagined. But Alek needed her tomorrow, and their marriage was already strained. ¡°What if I did both?¡± she said suddenly. ¡°How?¡± ¡°What if I joined your board call from the Netflix offices? I could support you remotely, then do the Netflix meeting right after.¡± Alek considered this. ¡°That could work. If you¡¯re sure you can manage both.¡± Emma wasn¡¯t sure of anythingtely. But she was sure that finding ways to support each other was the only path forward. ¡°I can manage both,¡± she said, hoping it was true. ¡°Okay then.¡± Alek kissed her forehead. ¡°We¡¯ll make it work.¡± < Book 3 Power y Strategy +25 Points. But as they settled into bed, Emma couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that trying to do everything was a recipe for doing nothing well. Some days, being a Mitchell felt like more burden than blessing. Tomorrow would test whether she was strong enough to carry it all. H 26 Get Bonus (Ad) > Vote : < Book 3 Aggressive Cross¨Cchecking Book 3 Aggressive Cross¨Cchecking +25 Points Emma threw up twice before noon, which didn¡¯t bode well for her n to handle both meetings. She sat in the Netflix offices, trying to look professional while fighting waves of nausea. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov?¡± A young assistant appeared. ¡°They¡¯re ready for you in Conference Room A.¡± Emma checked her phone. 1:45 PM. Perfect timing to dial into Alek¡¯s board call first. But when she connected to the NHL conference line, the conversation was already heated. ¡°Commissioner Volkov,¡± a gruff voice was saying, ¡°your personal situation is bing a distraction from league business.¡± Emma¡¯s stomach clenched, and not from morning sickness. ¡°With respect,¡± Alek¡¯s voice was tight, ¡°my family situation hasn¡¯t affected my performance¡ª¡± ¡°Hasn¡¯t it?¡± another voice interrupted. ¡°The Toronto relocation was supposed to be finalized weeks ago. Instead, we¡¯re dealing with media spection and sponsor concerns.¡± Emma pressed the phone closer to her ear, trying to follow the conversation while Netflix executives waited in the next room. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov?¡± The assistant peeked in again. ¡°We really need to start.¡± Emma held up one finger, mouthing ¡°one minute.¡± On the phone, the NHL board was getting more aggressive. ¡°Commissioner, we need to know right now. Are you relocating to Toronto by month¡¯s end, or do we need to discuss other arrangements?¡± Emma¡¯s heart raced. This was worse than Alek had indicated. They weren¡¯t just pushing for Toronto¨Cthey were threatening his job. ¡°I¡¯ve exined that my wife¡¯s pregnancy-¡± Alek began. ¡°Your wife¡¯s pregnancy is not the league¡¯s concern,¡± came the cold response. ¡°Your contract obligations are.¡± Emma felt anger surge through her. How dare they dismiss her pregnancy like it was irrelevant? < Book 3 Aggressive Cross¨Cchecking ¡°Actually,¡± she found herself saying into the phone, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡± The conference line went quiet. +25 Points ¡°This is Emma Mitchell¨CVolkov,¡± she continued, her voice steadier than she felt. ¡°And I¡¯d like to address your concerns about my husband¡¯s contract.¡± ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov.¡± The board chairman¡¯s voice was carefully neutral. ¡°We weren¡¯t expecting you to join us.¡± ¡°Clearly.¡± Emma stood up, pacing the small office. ¡°I understand you¡¯re pressuring my husband to relocate immediately, despite our family circumstances.¡± ¡°We¡¯re discussing standard contract requirements-¡± ¡°No, you¡¯re bullying him because you think his family obligations make him weak.¡± Emma¡¯s temper was fully unleashed now. ¡°Well, let me be clear about something. Aleksander Volkov is the best Commissioner this league has ever had. And if you can¡¯t recognize that talent because you¡¯re threatened by a man who puts his family first, then maybe you don¡¯t deserve him.¡± The silence on the line was deafening. ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov-¡± someone began. ¡°I¡¯m not finished.¡± Emma¡¯s voice carried the authority she¡¯d inherited from Franklin. ¡°My husband has revolutionized this league in eighteen months. Revenues are up thirty percent. Fan engagement is at an all¨Ctime high. Television ratings have doubled. But you¡¯re willing to throw all of that away because he won¡¯t abandon his pregnant wife and two toddlers to suit your arbitrary timeline?¡± She paused, letting her words sink in. ¡°Here¡¯s what¡¯s going to happen. We will relocate to Toronto, because my husband honors hismitments. But it will happen on a reasonable timeline that considers our family¡¯s needs. If that¡¯s not eptable to you, then you¡¯ll be losing the best thing that ever happened to this league.¡± Emma hung up before anyone could respond. Her hands were shaking. Had she just saved Alek¡¯s career or destroyed it? ¡°Mrs. Mitchell¨CVolkov?¡± The Netflix assistant was back, looking nervous. ¡°We really do need to start now.¡± Emma took a deep breath, trying to shift gearspletely. ¡°Of course. Let¡¯s go.¡± 216 < Book 3 Aggressive Cross¨Cchecking +25 Points The Netflix meeting was a blur. Emma tried to focus on the executives¡® questions about women¡¯s hockey, but her mind kept reying the board call. Had she overstepped? Would they take out their anger on Alek? ¡°The authenticity angle is crucial,¡± one executive was saying. ¡°We want to show the real struggles and triumphs of building something from nothing.¡± Emma nodded, though she wasn¡¯t entirely sure what she was agreeing to. Content originallyes from ?ovelFind ¡°And the familyponent,¡± another added. ¡°Our research shows audiences love stories about bncing career and motherhood. Your story is perfect for that.¡± Perfect. If only they knew how imperfect everything felt right now. ¡°We¡¯d want to document the next year,¡± the lead executive exined. ¡°The challenges of expansion, the personal sacrifices, the victories and defeats. Full ess.¡± ¡°Full ess?¡± Emma repeated. ¡°Camera crews at games, in your home, following your daily life. The more real it is, the morepelling it bes.¡± Emma¡¯s mind immediately went to Alek¡¯s career crisis, her pregnancy struggles, their marriage tensions. Did she really want cameras documenting all of that? ¡°I¡¯ll need to discuss it with my husband,¡± she said carefully. ¡°Of course. But we need an answer by Friday. This opportunity won¡¯t wait.¡± Emma left the Netflix offices feeling overwhelmed. Two major decisions, both with impossible timelines. Her phone buzzed constantly during the cab ride home. Missed calls from Alek, from Lisa, from numbers she didn¡¯t recognize. Finally, she answered when Alek called for the fifth time. ¡°Emma.¡± His voice was tight. ¡°Where are you?¡± ¡°On my way home. How did the rest of the board call go?¡± ¡°We need to talk. In person.¡± That didn¡¯t sound good. Emma found Alek in his office,ptop closed, staring out the window. Katie was in the living room with the children, but Emma could hear the tension in her friend¡¯s voice as she tried to to you.¡± Emma¡¯s heart sank. ¡°I was trying to help-¡± ¡°By attacking the people who control my career?¡± ¡°They were being unreasonable- $25 Points ¡°They were doing their jobs!¡± Alek¡¯s voice rose, then he caught himself and lowered it. ¡°Emma, you basically called them ipetent and threatened to quit on my behalf.¡± ¡°I was defending you!¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t ask you to defend me. I asked you to exin our family situation, not dere war on the board.¡± Emma stared at him, hurt and confused. ¡°So what happened after I hung up?¡± Alek ran his hands through his hair. ¡°They gave me an ultimatum. Toronto in two weeks, or they¡¯ll invoke the behavior use in my contract.¡± ¡°Behavior use?¡± ¡°Conduct detrimental to the league. Apparently, having a wife who insults board members counts.¡± Emma felt like she¡¯d been pped. ¡°They can¡¯t do that.¡± ¡°They can and they will. Unless¡¡± Alek¡¯s voice trailed off. ¡°Unless what?¡± ¡°Unless you apologize. Publicly. And I relocate to Toronto immediately.¡± Emma sat down heavily. ¡°So this is my fault.¡± ¡°Emma-¡± ¡°No, you¡¯re right. I tried to help and made everything worse.¡± She looked up at him. ¡°What do you want me to do?¡± Alek¡¯s expression softened slightly. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Part of me is furious that you spoke without thinking. But part of me is grateful that someone finally called them out on their bullying.¡± Book 3 Aggressive Cross¨Cchecking ¡°But mostly furious?¡± +25 Points ¡°Mostly scared.¡± Alek sat across from her. ¡°Emma, I could lose everything. And with another babying¡¡± Emma felt tears threatening. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I really was trying to help.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Alek reached for her hands. ¡°But your way of helping might have cost me my job.¡± They sat in silence for a moment, both processing the magnitude of the situation. ¡°What about Netflix?¡± Alek asked finally. Emma had almost forgotten. ¡°They want to document our lives for a year. Full ess.¡± ¡°And?¡± ¡°I told them I¡¯d discuss it with you.¡± Alekughed, but there was no humor in it. ¡°Perfect timing. They can document my career imploding in real time.¡± ¡°Alek-¡± ¡°Actually, you know what? Maybe you should do it. At least one of us should have a career left after this.¡± The bitterness in his voice made Emma wince. ¡°It doesn¡¯t have to be like this.¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t it? Because it feels like every time I need your support, you find a way to make things about your career instead.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not fair.¡± ¡°Fair?¡± Alek stood up, pacing again. ¡°What¡¯s fair about any of this? I¡¯m about to lose my dream job because my wife can¡¯t control her temper.¡± Emma felt something snap inside her. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare me me for their sexist attitudes.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not ming you for their attitudes. I¡¯m ming you for making them worse!¡± ¡°So I should have just sat there while they disrespected you?¡± ¡°Yes! Because now instead of just questioning mymitment, they¡¯re questioning my judgment!¡± Emma stared at him, realizing how deep the divide between them had be. ¡°So what happens now?¡± +25 Points Alek stopped pacing. ¡°Now I figure out how to save my career while you figure out whether you want to be married to someone whose dreams you just destroyed.¡± The words hung in the air like a challenge. Emma stood up slowly. ¡°Is that what you think? That I destroyed your dreams?¡± ¡°I think you acted without considering the consequences. And now we both have to live with them.¡± Emma nodded, feeling numb. ¡°I see.¡± She turned toward the door, but Alek¡¯s voice stopped her. ¡°Emma, wait.¡± She looked back at him, hope flickering. ¡°The Netflix thing,¡± he said quietly. ¡°You should probably do it. Since you¡¯re so good at making decisions for both of us.¡± The hope diedpletely. Emma left the office without another word, her marriage feeling as fragile as everything else in her suddenlyplicated life. 18 year 64 Book 3 Major Penalty +25 Points Emmay in the guest bedroom, staring at the ceiling at 2 AM. Alek was in their room, and neither had spoken since their fight six hours ago. Her phone buzzed with another text from Lisa about the Netflix deadline, but Emma couldn¡¯t bring herself to care. She¡¯d ruined everything. Alek¡¯s career, their marriage, their future. All because she couldn¡¯t keep her mouth shut. A soft knock on the door interrupted her spiral of self¨Cpity. ¡°Emma?¡± Katie¡¯s voice was gentle. ¡°Can Ie in?¡± Emma sat up as Katie slipped into the room, carrying two cups of tea. ¡°Couldn¡¯t sleep either?¡± Katie asked, settling on the bed. ¡°Did we wake the kids with our fighting?¡± ¡°No, they¡¯re fine. But you two aren¡¯t.¡± Katie handed her a cup. ¡°Want to talk about it?¡± Emma found herself spilling everything ¨C the board call, her outburst, Alek¡¯s anger, the impossible choices ahead. ¡°He¡¯s right,¡± Emma finished miserably. ¡°I tried to help and made everything worse.¡± ¡°Did you?¡± Katie asked quietly. ¡°Of course I did. Now he might lose his job because of me.¡± Katie was quiet for a moment. ¡°Emma, what exactly did you say to the board?¡± Emma repeated her words as best she could remember. ¡°So you defended your husband¡¯s aplishments and asked for reasonable amodation for a pregnant wife and small children?¡± ¡°I attacked his bosses- ¡°You stood up to bullies.¡± Katie¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°There¡¯s a difference.¡± ¡°Tell that to Alek¡¯s career.¡± ¡°Maybe his career needed someone to stand up for it.¡± Katie sipped her tea thoughtfully. ¡°You know what I think? I think Alek is scared and taking it out on you because you¡¯re safe.¡± ¡°Safe?¡± < Book 3 Major Penalty +25 Points ¡°He can¡¯t yell at the board members who are actually threatening him. But he can yell at his wife, who will still love him afterward.¡± Emma considered this. ¡°Even if that¡¯s true, I still made things worse.¡± ¡°Maybe. Or maybe you forced a confrontation that was inevitable anyway.¡± Before Emma could respond, her phone rang. At 2:30 AM, it could only be an emergency. The caller ID showed Jack¡¯s number. ¡°Jack?¡± Emma answered, worry immediately recing her self¨Cpity. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°Emma, thank God.¡± Jack¡¯s voice was strained. ¡°I¡¯m at Seattle Children¡¯s Hospital. Something¡¯s wrong with my son.¡± Emma¡¯s heart clenched. ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°He¡¯s been sick for a week. Fever, not eating. Veronica thought it was just a virus, but tonight he got so much worse. The doctors¡ they¡¯re running tests.¡± Emma could hear the fear in Jack¡¯s voice. ¡°Is Veronica with you?¡± ¡°She¡¯s in Europe for Fashion Week. Her flight doesn¡¯t get in until tomorrow night.¡± Jack¡¯s voice cracked. ¡°Emma, I¡¯m terrified. And I know we¡¯re not¡ I mean, after everything¡ but I didn¡¯t know who else to call.¡± ¡°Of course you called me,¡± Emma said immediately. ¡°What do the doctors think it is?¡± ¡°They¡¯re not sure yet. Maybe pneumonia, maybe something worse. He¡¯s so little, Emma. He¡¯s only eighteen months old.¡± The same age as Frankie. Emma¡¯s throat tightened. ¡°I¡¯ll be on the next flight,¡± she heard herself saying. ¡°You don¡¯t have to-¡® ¡°Yes, I do. No one should go through this alone.¡± After hanging up, Emma sat in the darkness, processing what she¡¯d justmitted to. Flying to Seattle while pregnant, while her marriage was falling apart, while her husband¡¯s career hung in the bnce. But a baby was sick, and Jack was scared and alone. Everything else could wait. She was quietly packing a bag when Alek appeared in the doorway. < Book 3 Major Penalty ¡°What are you doing?¡± he asked. +25 Points Emma exined about Jack¡¯s call, watching Alek¡¯s expression shift from confusion to concern. ¡°His son is sick and you¡¯re flying to Seattle?¡± Alek asked. ¡°In your condition?¡± ?? ??? ???? ?? ???? ???? ???????s, ????s? ??s?? Find_Novel(. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant, not dying.¡± ¡°Emma, you can barely keep food down. You shouldn¡¯t be traveling.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t abandon him.¡± ¡°He¡¯s not your responsibility anymore.¡± Emma looked up from her suitcase. ¡°He¡¯s a friend whose child is in the hospital. That makes him my responsibility.¡± Alek stared at her. ¡°So you¡¯ll drop everything for your ex¨Chusband, but when I need your support-¡± ¡°Don¡¯t.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was sharp. ¡°Don¡¯t make this about us.¡± ¡°Everything is about us, Emma. Our marriage, our family, our future. But apparently Jack¡¯s crisis trumps all of that.¡± Emma felt tears of frustration. ¡°A baby is sick, Alek. A little boy the same age as our son.¡± ¡°And I¡¯m sorry about that. But running across the country won¡¯t help him, and it might hurt you.¡± ¡°I have to do something.¡± ¡°No, you don¡¯t.¡± Alek stepped into the room. ¡°You want to do something because you feel guilty about our fight and this seems like a way to prove you¡¯re still a good person.¡± The uracy of his observation stung. ¡°That¡¯s not-¡± ¡°It is.¡± Alek¡¯s voice softened slightly. ¡°Emma, you don¡¯t need to save everyone to make up for today.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not trying to save everyone.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you? The board call, the Netflix deal, now Jack¡¯s crisis. You¡¯re bouncing from one emergency to the next instead of dealing with what¡¯s happening here.¡± Emma zipped her suitcase with more force than necessary. ¡°What¡¯s happening here is that 315 < Book 3 Major Penalty my husband mes me for ruining his life.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t me you for ruining my life-¡± ¡°Yes, you do.¡± Emma faced him directly. ¡°You said I destroyed your dreams.¡± Alek flinched. ¡°I was angry-¡± ¡°But you meant it.¡± +25 Points They stared at each other across the guest room, years of love and months of growing tension crackling between them. ¡°Maybe I did mean it,¡± Alek said quietly. ¡°In that moment.¡± Emma nodded, the admission hurting less than she¡¯d expected. ¡°At least you¡¯re being honest.¡± ¡°Emma-¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to Seattle.¡± Emma picked up her bag. ¡°When I get back, we¡¯ll figure out whates next.¡± ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Emma paused at the door. ¡°It means maybe you¡¯re right. Maybe I do make everything worse. Maybe you¡¯d be better off making your own decisions without me.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what I want.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Emma turned back to him. ¡°Because that¡¯s what it feels like. It feels like you want a wife who stays quiet and supports you unconditionally, regardless of how anyone treats you.¡± ¡°I want a wife who thinks before she acts-¡± ¡°And I want a husband who doesn¡¯t me me when things get difficult.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was steady despite the tears threatening. ¡°But apparently we both want things we can¡¯t have.¡± She left before Alek could respond, her heart breaking with every step. At the airport, waiting for her red¨Ceye flight, Emma called Katie to check on the children. ¡°They¡¯re fine,¡± Katie assured her. ¡°Alek exined that you had to help a friend. How are you holding up?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Emma watched nes taxi on the runway. ¡°Katie, what if he¡¯s right? What if I do make everything worse?¡± +25 Points ¡°Well, figure it out while you¡¯re gone. Because those babies need their parents to work things out, one way or another.¡± Emma¡¯s flight was called before she could respond. As she boarded the ne, she wondered if she was running toward something or away from it. Either way, she was alone in a way she hadn¡¯t been since before Franklin died. And for the first time in years, she had no idea what came next. Three hours into the flight, Emma woke up to sharp cramping in her abdomen. She stumbled to the airne bathroom, her hands shaking as she checked for bleeding. When she saw the spots of blood, her world tiltedpletely off its axis. ¡°Please,¡± she whispered to whatever forces might be listening. ¡°Not now. Not like this.¡± But her body wasn¡¯t listening to prayers. By the time the nended in Seattle, Emma Mitchell¨CVolkov ¨C who had survived pregnancy loss, built a hockey empire, and buried the grandfather who taught her to be strong ¨C was quietly losing the baby she hadn¡¯t known she wanted until it was toote. And she was utterly,pletely alone. 1 Get Bonus (Ad) > Vote 26 18 year 65 Book 3 Emergency Timeout Emma gripped the hospital bathroom sink, trying to stop shaking. The cramping had gotten worse sincending, and the bleeding wasn¡¯t stopping. She needed to see a doctor. But first, she had to find Jack. The pediatric ICU was a maze of beeping machines and worried parents. Emma found Jack slumped in a chair outside Room 314, still in yesterday¡¯s clothes, his normally perfect hair disheveled. ¡°Emma.¡± He stood up immediately, pulling her into a grateful hug. ¡°You came.¡± ¡°Of course I came.¡± Emma held him tight, drawing strength from givingfort even as her own world crumbled. ¡°How is he?¡± ¡°Pneumonia. Severe, but treatable.¡± Jack¡¯s voice was hoarse from worry. ¡°They have him on antibiotics and oxygen. The doctors think he¡¯ll be okay, but¡¡± ¡°But he¡¯s so little,¡± Emma finished. Jack nodded, tears threatening. ¡°I keep thinking about all the times I was traveling, all the games I prioritized over bedtime stories. What if I¡¯d missed this? What if something happened and I wasn¡¯t here?¡± Emma felt a sharp cramp and had to grip Jack¡¯s arm to stay upright. ¡°Emma? You¡¯re pale.¡± Jack studied her face with concern. ¡°Are you okay?¡± ¡°I¡¯m¡¡± Emma started to say she was fine, then stopped. She was tired of pretending everything was okay when it wasn¡¯t. ¡°No. I¡¯m not okay.¡± ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Emma looked around the busy hallway, filled with other people¡¯s medical crises. ¡°Can we sit down?¡± Jack led her to a quieter corner of the waiting area. Emma struggled with how to exin without falling apartpletely. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant,¡± she said finally. ¡°Or I was. I think I¡¯m losing the baby.¡± Jack¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Emma, my God. Have you seen a doctor?¡± ¡°Not yet. I came straight here from the airport.¡± < Book 3 Emergency Timeout ¡°Forget about me. You need medical attention now.¡± ¡°Your son is sick- +25 Points ¡°My son is stable and sleeping.¡± Jack stood up, pulling Emma with him. ¡°You¡¯re bleeding and alone in a strange city. We¡¯re getting you help.¡± Emma wanted to protest, but another wave of cramping doubled her over. Jack caught her arm, steadying her. ¡°Emergency room,¡± he said firmly. ¡°Now.¡± The next few hours blurred together. ER doctors, blood tests, ultrasounds, sympathetic nurses who¡¯d seen this too many times. The medical term was ¡°inevitable miscarriage¡± ¨C clinicalnguage for the end of hopes she hadn¡¯t realized she¡¯d been harboring. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± the doctor said gently. ¡°There¡¯s nothing we could have done to prevent this. Sometimes it just happens.¡± Emma nodded numbly, staring at the ultrasound screen that showed nothing where a baby should have been growing. ¡°Do you have someone we can call?¡± the nurse asked. ¡°Your husband? Family?¡± Emma thought about Alek, probably still furious with her. About Katie, managing two toddlers without exnation. About the fight that had sent her fleeing across the country at the worst possible time. ¡°No,¡± she said quietly. ¡°There¡¯s no one to call.¡± Jack appeared in the doorway as if summoned. ¡°The doctor said I could see you. How are you feeling?¡± ¡°Empty,¡± Emma said, the word epassing more than just her physical state. Jack pulled a chair close to her bed. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Emma.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not your fault.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it? If I hadn¡¯t called, you wouldn¡¯t have been on that ne-¡± ¡°The doctor said it would have happened anyway.¡± Emma¡¯s voice was t. ¡°Stress doesn¡¯t cause miscarriages. Just bad luck.¡± ¡°Still. The timing¡¡± Emma looked at her former husband, seeing her own grief reflected in his eyes. ¡°How¡¯s your < Book 3 Emergency Timeout son?¡± +25 Points ¡°Better. The antibiotics are working.¡± Jack reached for her hand. ¡°Emma, I need to ask you something, and I want you to tell me the truth.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± ¡°Are you here because you care about my family, or because you¡¯re running away from yours?¡± The question hit harder than Emma expected. ¡°Does it matter?¡± ¡°It matters because you¡¯re grieving and making decisions from pain. And in my experience, that never ends well.¡± Emma pulled her hand away. ¡°So now you¡¯re giving me life advice?¡± ¡°I¡¯m returning a favor. You¡¯ve saved me from bad decisions more times than I can count.¡± Emma closed her eyes, remembering all the times she¡¯d talked Jack out of risky investments, impulsive career moves, rtionships that would have destroyed him. ¡°Alek and I had a terrible fight,¡± she admitted. ¡°I tried to help with his work situation and made everything worse. He basically said I destroyed his dreams.¡± ¡°And you believed him?¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear what I said? I made everything worse.¡± Jack was quiet for a moment. ¡°Do you remember what you told me when I wanted to quit hockey after my injury?¡± Emma didn¡¯t want to remember. She was too tired for wisdom. ¡°You said that sometimes the people we love most are the ones we hurt deepest, because we feel safe letting our worst fears out with them.¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t the same-¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it?¡± Jack¡¯s voice was gentle but insistent. ¡°Emma, you¡¯ve just lost a baby. Your husband is probably terrified about his career and taking it out on the person he trusts most to still love him afterward.¡± Emma felt tears finallying, hot and unstoppable. ¡°What if he¡¯s right though? What if I do make everything worse?¡± ¡°Then you learn and do better. But you don¡¯t run away.¡± 3/5 This update is avable on f?i?n?d?n?o?v?e?l? Book 3 Emergency Timeout ¡°I didn¡¯t run away. I came to help you.¡± ¡°And I¡¯m grateful. But we both know you came here for more than my crisis.¡± +25 Points Emma sobbed into her hands, months of pressure and fear and exhaustion finally breaking free. Jack rubbed her back, offeringfort without judgment. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to fix this,¡± she whispered. ¡°Start by calling your husband.¡± ¡°He probably doesn¡¯t want to hear from me.¡± ¡°Emma.¡± Jack¡¯s voice was firm. ¡°You just lost your baby. If Alek doesn¡¯t want tofort you through that, then he doesn¡¯t deserve you. But I suspect he¡¯s been worried sick since you left.¡± Emma¡¯s phone had been on airne mode sincending. When she turned it back on, seventeen missed calls from Alek lit up the screen. ¡°Seventeen calls,¡± she told Jack. ¡°That¡¯s not the number of someone who doesn¡¯t care.¡± Emma stared at the phone, afraid to call back. What if Alek was only calling out of duty? What if their fight had destroyed something that couldn¡¯t be repaired? ¡°I can¡¯t,¡± she said finally. ¡°Then I will.¡± Jack reached for her phone. ¡°Jack, no-¡± But he was already dialing. ¡°Alek? It¡¯s Jack¡ Yes, she¡¯s with me¡ She¡¯s in the hospital¡ No, wait, let me exin¡¡± Emma watched Jack¡¯s face as he exined the situation to her husband. She couldn¡¯t hear Alek¡¯s responses, but Jack¡¯s expression grew increasingly concerned. ¡°He¡¯s on his way,¡± Jack said, hanging up. ¡°He¡¯sing here? To Seattle?¡± ¡°He¡¯s already at the airport. Has been for three hours, trying to get on any flight to Seattle.¡± Emma felt something c***k open in her chest. ¡°He¡¯s been at the airport for three hours?¡± ¡°Since about twenty minutes after you left, ording to him.¡± Jack¡¯s smile was sad but < Book 3 Emergency Timeout knowing. ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound like a man who¡¯s done with his marriage.¡± +25 Points A nurse appeared to discharge Emma with instructions for rest and follow¨Cup care. Jack insisted on driving her to his apartment, where she could shower and change before Alek arrived. ¡°You¡¯re being too kind,¡± Emma protested as Jack made up his couch with clean sheets. ¡°You dropped everything to be here for my son. It¡¯s the least I can do.¡± Emma settled onto the couch, exhaustion finally overtaking her. ¡°Jack? I¡¯m sorry about earlier. About our marriage, about how it ended. You deserved better.¡± ¡°We both deserved better. But we were kids trying to y adult roles.¡± Jack covered her with a nket. ¡°What you and Alek have is different. It¡¯s real partnership, not just romance.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t feel very partnership¨Clike right now.¡± ¡°That¡¯s because partnerships go through rough patches. The question is whether you fight for each other or give up.¡± Emma closed her eyes, thinking about Alek rushing to the airport while she was bleeding alone on a ne. Maybe Jack was right. Maybe they were both scared and taking it out on each other. But some damage felt too deep to heal. Some words, once spoken, couldn¡¯t be taken back. And some losses changed everything, whether you wanted them to or not. Get Bonus (Ad) > H Vote 18 year 66 Book 3 Injury Timeout +25 Points Emma woke to the sound of hushed voices in Jack¡¯s kitchen. For a moment, she forgot where she was and why everything hurt. Then reality crashed back ¨C the miscarriage, the hospital, the terrible fight with Alek. ¡°She¡¯s been sleeping for about two hours,¡± Jack was saying quietly. ¡°Thank you for taking care of her.¡± Alek¡¯s voice was rough with exhaustion and emotion. Emma sat up slowly, her body aching in ways that had nothing to do with flying. Through the doorway, she could see Alek and Jack standing awkwardly in the kitchen, two men who shared aplicated history with the same woman. ¡°Emma?¡± Alek noticed her movement immediately. ¡°I¡¯m here.¡± He crossed the room in three quick steps, dropping to his knees beside the couch. His hair was messy, his clothes wrinkled from the flight, and his eyes were red¨Crimmed with worry. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry,¡± he whispered, pulling her into his arms. ¡°About the baby, about our fight, about everything.¡± Emma melted into his embrace, feeling safe for the first time in hours. ¡°You came.¡± ¡°Of course I came. I should have been here from the beginning.¡± ¡°You couldn¡¯t have known-¡± ¡°I should have been on that ne with you.¡± Alek¡¯s voice cracked. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have gone through this alone.¡± Emma pulled back to look at his face. ¡°I wasn¡¯tpletely alone. Jack was with me at the hospital.¡± Alek nced toward the kitchen, where Jack was busying himself with coffee. ¡°I owe him a debt I can never repay.¡± ¡°He understands what it¡¯s like to lose things,¡± Emma said softly. They sat in silence for a moment, Alek¡¯s arms around her, both processing the magnitude of their loss. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± Alek asked finally. ¡°Physically, I mean.¡± ¡°Tired. Sore. Empty.¡± Emma touched her stomach, still not quite believing the baby was gone. ¡°The doctor said it¡¯s normal. My body needs time to heal.¡± < Book 3 Injury Timeout ¡°And emotionally?¡± $25 Points Emma considered the question. ¡°I didn¡¯t know I wanted the baby until I lost it. Does that make sense?¡± ¡°Perfect sense.¡± Alek¡¯s hand covered hers on her stomach. ¡°I felt the same way.¡± ¡°You did?¡± ¡°The moment Jack told me what happened, I realized how excited I¡¯d been getting about another child. I just hadn¡¯t let myself acknowledge it because of all the stress.¡± Emma felt tears starting again. ¡°I keep thinking about Charlotte and Frankie, how they¡¯ll never meet this sibling.¡± ¡°They¡¯ll have other siblings,¡± Alek said firmly. ¡°When we¡¯re ready. When the timing is better.¡± ¡°What if this happens again?¡± ¡°Then we¡¯ll handle it together. Like we should have handled this together.¡± Jack appeared with three cups of coffee, setting them on the table with careful neutrality. ¡°I should go check on my son,¡± he said. ¡°Give you two some privacy.¡± ¡°Jack.¡± Emma reached for his hand. ¡°Thank you. For everything.¡± ¡°Thank you foring when I needed you.¡± Jack squeezed her hand gently. ¡°Even though you were dealing with your own crisis.¡± This update is avable on find?novel After Jack left, Emma and Alek sat curled together on the couch, drinking coffee and processing thest twenty¨Cfour hours. ¡°We need to talk about our fight,¡± Emma said finally. Alek tensed slightly. ¡°Do we have to do this now? You just-¡± ¡°Yes, we do. Because losing the baby doesn¡¯t fix what¡¯s wrong between us.¡± Alek was quiet for a long moment. ¡°You¡¯re right. What I said about you destroying my dreams¡ that was cruel and unfair.¡± ¡°But you meant it in that moment.¡± ¡°I meant that I was scared and looking for someone to me.¡± Alek set down his coffee cup. ¡°Emma, that board has been looking for reasons to push me out since day one. Your call didn¡¯t create that problem ¨C it just forced it into the open.¡± < Book 3 Injury Timeout ¡°But I made it worse-¡± ¡°Maybe. Or maybe you gave me the excuse I needed to stand up to them properly.¡± Emma looked at him skeptically. ¡°What do you mean?¡± +25 Points ¡°I called them back after you left. Told them that if they couldn¡¯t work with someone who has a family, they needed a different Commissioner.¡± ¡°Alek, no. Your career-¡± ¡°Will survive. But my marriage won¡¯t if I keep letting fear drive my decisions.¡± Emma felt a flicker of hope. ¡°What did they say?¡± ¡°That they¡¯d consider a modified relocation timeline. Six months instead of two weeks.¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡ actually reasonable.¡± ¡°It¡¯s what you asked for in the first ce.¡± Alek¡¯s smile was rueful. ¡°Turns out you were right, and I was too scared to see it.¡± Emma leaned against his shoulder. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have spoken without discussing it with you first.¡± ¡°And I shouldn¡¯t have med you for trying to protect our family.¡± They sat quietly, both thinking about theplexities of partnership and support. ¡°What about Netflix?¡± Alek asked. ¡°I missed the deadline while I was in the hospital. They probably moved on.¡± ¡°Maybe that¡¯s for the best. Thest thing we need is cameras documenting our marriage problems.¡± Emmaughed weakly. ¡°Though they might have gotten somepelling drama.¡± ¡°Toopelling.¡± Alek pulled her closer. ¡°Emma, I want to ask you something, and I need you to be honest.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± ¡°Do you resent me for the Toronto requirement? For asking you to give up what you¡¯ve built in New York?¡± Emma considered the question carefully. ¡°Not resent, exactly. But it scares me.¡± M Vote 26 *25 Points The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!