Game Winner (The Penalty Kill Trilogy #3) (14 page)

“
I think that’s a mature answer, Levi, but you need to remember that’s my little girl. Contrary to belief, she means the world to me, and letting her go to Pennsylvania is hard enough, let alone someone marrying her.”

It hits me then that, in a way, I’m taking Presley away from her family. I didn’t ask her to come down there; Presley had applied way before we even knew I was coming. That has always been where Presley wanted to go. But I am one more reason for her to want to go. Ben might tell me no. It’s too soon or maybe even that he isn’t ready for Presley to be one step farther away from her home and her family. And I would have to respect that.

Ben stares me down before a smile starts to appear. “I’m impressed that you wanted to speak with me, Levi. That seems to be a tradition that has faded for most. You’re a good man, Levi. As long as she’s happy, I’m happy. And you’ve made her very happy. You will make a great son-in-law, I’m sure.”

I grin, extremely thankful for his words and relieved that I have his support. “Thank you, sir.”

He shakes his head in disbelief and says more to himself, “I can’t believe my kids are getting engaged.” Ben smiles again before adding, “Let’s go before they start looking for us.”

We return to the living room just as Marley appears to inform us that it’s time to eat. I have Pops on one side and Presley on the other as we sit down at the table. It’s probably one of the best gatherings I’ve ever experienced with all of us. Conversation flows easily and there’s plenty of laughter. I’m on a bit of a high and part of that is due to the fact that I just verbalized my want to propose. Glancing at Presley, the happiness radiates from her. I’ve missed seeing her laugh and smile. She catches me watching and squeezes my thigh underneath the table.

After dinner, Mrs. McCarthy insists that we leave the dishes alone. So we help put all the food away before retiring to their living room. We start to watch a game, but about halfway through, I notice Pops looks a bit worn out, and a surge of worry passes through me. It’s soon followed by guilt because I’m not around to make sure he’s doing as good as he says he is.

I lean over and quietly ask, “Are you ready to go?”

Pops surprises me by nodding. “Actually, yes. But we can stay as long as you and Presley want.” He rode with us, and I know he only says this out of politeness.

Presley hears us and adds, “I would like to stay longer, but I can get a ride with Trev and Marley. This way you can spend some time with Victor.”

“Okay, I guess we’re going to go then.” We stand and thank the McCarthy’s for their hospitality and having us over for Thanksgiving. Ben gives me a smile and a knowing, approving look. It’s a little bit of a drive to Pops, and I can’t help but pepper him. “Are you feeling okay, Pops?”

He chuckles. “How did I know that was coming?”

“I’m serious. You know I worry and especially now that I don’t live a short drive away anymore. I don’t want you to downplay something if you aren’t feeling well.”

“
Son, I wouldn’t put you through that. We didn’t ‘downplay’ your mother’s illness, and if something felt off with me, you would be the first to know.” There’s a harshness in his tone as if he resents what I said.

“
I didn’t mean it like that, Pops,” I say solemnly. “It makes me nervous that I’m not nearby, and I would-”

“
I know,” he cuts me off. “I’ve been fine, Levi. I promise. But I don’t feel great today. Probably getting a cold or something. You know that I usually get sick like that around this time of year anyway.”

That is true, and it eases my worries a bit now that he’s mentioned it. A few minutes pass in silence before I say, “I told Ben that I wanted to propose to Presley.” I glance at him for his reaction and see his mouth part before I focus back on the road.

Pops doesn’t say anything for what seems like forever. And when he does, his quiet words sear through me. “Your mother would be tickled to have Presley become family. This is definitely one of those moments where I wish she was here.”

My throat constricts, and my eyes blur. I blink rapidly until the road becomes clear again. “Do you really think she would love her as much as we do? I was her little boy, you know.”

Pops laughs. “There wasn’t anything little about you, Levi. But yes, Amanda would have loved her. She probably would have been the first to know that this was coming too.” We pull into the driveway, but make no move to get out of the car just yet. Pops unbuckles his seatbelt and turns towards me a little. “When are you planning to ask her? Have you thought about what kind of ring she would like?”

“
I don’t know when. I want to get the how sorted first. And I’m not sure about the ring. Presley doesn’t really wear jewelry. She’ll probably want something simple. But I’m not sure. Not really knowledgeable about these things.”

He nods, like he knows what I’m talking about. Pops glances down at his own wedding ring before looking at me. “Your mother’s ring was simple, you know. You remember it, don’t you?” I shake my head that I do. It’s a beautiful ring with a small band and one diamond sitting on top. “Amanda isn’t here to wear hers, and I have a feeling that she would want you to have it, if you want it. If you want to give that to Presley.”

To have him tell me that she would have Momma’s approval means everything. To have him pass down her wedding ring nearly chokes me up. I feel like I need to decline, though. “I can’t take that from you, Pops. That’s your piece of her.”

Pops gives me a small smile. “It is, but I want to give you that piece of her, a small piece, because she lives in our hearts. Nowhere else.”

I can’t help but feel like if I do accept this, that it’ll remind me that I’ll have my mom, her approval, and her love with me on such an important day in my life. The only thing I manage to do is nod. Pops smiles.

“
I’m happy for you, son. You and Presley both.”

“
Thanks.”

We finally make our way inside. Pops tells me to have a seat and then he disappears. Moments later, he returns with a faded blue box. I take it from his outstretched hand.

“She had to keep the box too,” he chuckles.

I admire the ring for a moment, before gingerly putting it in my pocket. That box is a comfortable, reassuring weight. Pops and I hang out for a little bit before he tells me he’s going to retire for the night. I hug him tightly. “Thanks, Pops.”

“You’re welcome, son. Drive safe, and call me when you make it back.”

“
I will.”

I can’t go back to Presley’s without going to see my momma first. The drive to the cemetery is short, and the walk from my car to that cement bench isn’t long either. It’s been a while since I’ve been here. It would probably sound very weird to say that I’ve missed it, but I have. I’ve missed the feeling that my mom is near, and I do feel like she is here.

“Hey, Momma,” I start in a soft voice. “Pops gave me your ring because I’m going to propose to Presley. He said you would be happy about that. I guess, I wanted to come see for myself.” A soft breeze blows. “I don’t know how I’ll ask her yet, but turns out, I can be quite romantic.” I chuckle and continue, “Let’s hope I can be this for Presley. Before I go, don’t forget to keep an eye on Pops. Miss and love you.”

Then I stand and walk back to my car. I feel really calm as I drive back to her apartment. This all seems a little crazy, but it’s undeniably right. Just as I get out of my car, I see Marley and Trevor making their way towards the parking lot. Perfect timing.

“Hey, Levi. We were just dropping Pres off. Is your dad feeling okay?” Trevor greets as we come to stand across from each over.

“
Yeah, probably just coming down with something. Thanks for asking.” I pause, glance at Marley wondering if I should say this in front of her and decide against it. “Could I get your opinion on this new workout regimen I’m thinking of trying?”

“
Uh, sure. Marley, I’ll meet you in the car.” He hands her the keys, and I’m thankful he picked up that I wanted to speak to him alone. Marley says goodbye, and as soon as she’s out of earshot, Trevor gets skeptical. “What’s this about, Levi? Everything is good between you and Pres, right?”

“
Thanks for the confidence, McCarthy,” I say sarcastically.

“
Well, you don’t ever want to talk to me by myself.”

“
Yeah, I know. But I wasn’t sure about Marley.” His eyes narrow, so I add, “Because of what I’m going to tell you, I mean. I wanted you to know that I’m going to propose to Presley. Your father approves too.”

Trevor grins. “She’s going to freak out. Thanks for telling me.” The smile disappears, and he adds, “Don’t fuck it up, either, Levi. We’re on good terms, but I’ll still beat the shit out of you if you hurt my sister. The stakes are even higher now, and Presley deserves the best of everything.”

“Don’t worry. She’ll get that. I promise.”

Presley

Since the amazing Thanksgiving I had, my nose has been stuck in a book. Finals week has come, and I’m sitting in my last class. My head is killing me, I’m barely wearing makeup, and I'm so tired. To top that off, Levi’s been traveling a lot, and we've hardly talked this week.

I grip my pen tightly as the professor hands out the blue books for the essay test to start. I detest these types of test. I’ll take multiple choice or short answer any day of the week over essay. I shake my head, take a deep breath, and begin.

After almost a straight hour of writing about the impact the economy has on business laws, my hand is cramping up. I shake it out as I hand in my essay and walk out of the classroom. When I walk outside, I feel different. I’m done with this chapter in my life. I have finished my undergraduate, and I’m about to embark on my new adventure: law school and being on my own.

I close my eyes because the tears are building, and all I want to do is call Levi. Sure, I’m acting a bit silly. I mean, it’s just school, but I did it.

“Wow, you look like you need a tall drink.”

I turn to see my twin brother coming up to me. I smile. “How did you know I was still here?”

“Oh, just a guess.” He hugs me tightly. “What would you say if we went to the diner and grabbed a bite to eat?”

“
That sounds like a perfect idea.”

On our walk over, Trevor never lets go of my shoulders. Marley had told me that he was having a hard time with my leaving, and I knew it too. He’s my twin and being separated is difficult for us, but I’m not going to let our bond break because of it.

Surprisingly, the diner isn’t that busy, then again, classes are still going on. We find a booth and settle into it. The waitress takes our drink and food order. Trevor doesn’t say anything at first, but the sadness all over his face.

“
Hey,” I reach over and squeeze his hand, “it’ll be okay. I promise you.”

He nods, remaining quiet. We hold that position for several moments; letting the noises of the diner overtake us. I thought Trevor might actually cry, and it will break my heart if he does. I need to break the tension, because if I don’t, I will start bawling.

“So, I was packing up some boxes last night, and you won’t believe what I found.”

Trevor looks up at me. “What?”

“The picture of us with Dad when you played for pee-wee league. We were like six or something like that. It’s the one right before you hooked me on the ice, and I fell, spraining my wrist. Do you remember that?”

“
I didn’t hook you.” He smiles.

“
Yes, you did. I have a great memory, and it was clearly a penalty,” I inform him.

“
You’re going to make a great lawyer, Pres, because you bend the truth.” He winks at me.

“
What? I was hurt, and you laughed at me.” I fake gasp.

“
You’re such a girl.” He rolls his eyes and laughs.

Our food and drinks come, and we dive right in. It’s nice to spending time with him, just us two.

“I was talking to Marley, and we figured something out,” Trevor says between bites.

“
And what’s that? Is it about the wedding?”

“
No,” he shakes his head, “it’s about you.”

I stop mid bite. “Me? What about me?”

“Well, you’re going to law school to be a lawyer, right?”

I nod, unsure of where he’s going with this?

“So, what kind of lawyer are you going to be? None of us know the answer.”

I have been avoiding this question as much as possible when someone asks because I don’t want anyone to really know.

“Have no clue.” I brush the question off and go back to eating,

“
You’re lying. You plan almost everything out, so.” Trevor leans back, crossing his arms, waiting for me to tell him.

“
I don’t.” I really am lying now because that’s exactly what I do.

“
Presley, I’m your twin, and you’re lying your ass off right now.” He gives me a stern look. “Why won’t you tell us?”

“
Crap.” I sit my sandwich down and wipe my hands on the napkin. “I’ve been trying to dodge this forever.”

“
Well, it worked because none of us know. What the big deal?”

I take a deep breath. “Alright, I want to be a sports entertainment lawyer.”

“Ha! I knew it. Marley thought some corporate law, but I knew you wanted to do something with hockey.” He smiles at me.

“
Well, I can’t play in the NHL, but I could represent players.” I shrug. “It’s the closest thing I could do.”

“
So, you’ll be like an agent?” Trevor asks.

“
Not per se, but in a way, yes. Most agents have a law background, and mainly, I would go over contracts from the teams, the NHL, and sponsors, and make sure everything is legit.”

“
Then as your twin brother, I’ll get a discount when you read over my contracts?” He grins.

“
Hell no, I’m charging you double.” I tease, and we both laugh.

Our conversation moves to more lighter topics. Trevor thinks he did really well on his finals, and Marley finished all hers yesterday. I know that because she's supposed to help me finish packing today. I have most of it done, but the movers are coming on Sunday, and I need to make sure it’s all done.

Trevor pays the bill, and he walks me home. Even with the snow on the ground, it's a pleasant stroll. Not much is said, and I know that he realizes that it’s really time for me.

“
Shit, you’re almost done,” he exclaims when I open the apartment door.

I look around and the living room, kitchen, and most of my bedroom is in boxes, lined up against the wall.

“Yep, just got to finish up the closet and bathroom tonight.” I toss my purse onto the couch. Trevor stares at the wall, not saying anything. The tears building in my eyes again, looking at his face. I wrap my arms around him. “It’ll be okay,” I whisper to him.

He hugs me back. “I’m going to miss you so much,” his voice slightly cracks.

“I’m always here. I’m your twin. You can’t get rid of me even if you try.” The tear escapes my eye. We stay like that for a moment before Trevor breaks our connection.

“
I love you.” He kisses my temple.

“
I love you, twin.”

Trevor nods, the tears at the brim of his eyes, and walks out of the apartment. I stare at the door that he shut and cry. It’s like when our parents had divorced, and he left. The difference is, I’m the one leaving. I didn’t know that the pain was going to be this intense, but it is. I go over to the couch and put my head in my hands, letting the tears fall. 

I don’t know how long I sit there, but the knock on the door causes me to wipe my tears away, and I open it. There stands Marley, my best friend, and soon to be my sister.

“
So,” she walks past me into the apartment, “my fian
cé
called me and he sounds like a whiny girl, and I figure you need alcohol.” Marley pulls out a large bottle of tequila from her purse.

“
Have I told you that we’re soulmates?” I tease her, heading to the kitchen. All my dishes are packed, but I still have some red Solo cups. Marley cracks the seal and pours a shot for each of us.

“
Here is to the game winner,” she boldly states.

I look at her strangely. “The ‘game winner’?”

“Yes, don’t you want to be the ‘game winner’ of your own story, Pres?”

I never thought about it, but she’s right. I’d accomplished a lot, and I had finished at the top. I’m a game winner.

“To the game winner.” We toast. 

My best friend takes a deep breath, and the burn of the drink seeps through me. “Let’s get started. Bring the cup.” She grabs the bottle, and we head off to the bedroom.

After an hour of sitting on my bedroom floor, drinking half a bottle and giggling, hardly anything is packed, but I’m feeling very tipsy. We started reminiscing about our high school days, guys we had crushes on, and the fun we had. The stories take me back to a time that I loved, and I’m so thankful to have my best friend with me.

“
Alright, let’s get packing,” Marley shouts, clapping her hands together.

“
I can’t stand.” I laugh for no reason.

“
You can’t hold your liquor. You’re such a lightweight.” She teases. “Fine, you stay there, and I’ll start pulling stuff out of the closet.”

Marley stands at the open doors, looking at my clothes. Of course, she grabs all my jerseys. “Okay, I have a question.” She tosses the pile onto my lap. “Do you own every player's jersey that was ever on the Penguins team?”

“Maybe,” I giggle, looking at the pile on my lap. Of course, Levi’s is on top.

“
Oh, is that really Levi’s?” Marley kneels down next to me.

“
Yep, it’s the one he gave me.” I trace the outline of his name. I feel pride doing it. It’s my Levi, he’s my Penguin. I love him more than anything else.

“
Come on, chick, let’s focus.” Marley pulls me from my thoughts, and I help her
carefully
pack up my prized possessions.

Box after box, we finally finish. My closet is empty. I left out a couple of outfits for the next few days. Next, we head into the bathroom and make sure everything is gone, but what I would need. I stand there looking at the two rooms. The bare walls and the empty drawers leave a hole in my heart. I have been in this apartment since I came to JWU, but like Marley said, I won my game, and it’s time for the next round.

“You want to be alone?” Marley lays her head on my shoulder.

I nod, because I need to be.

“Presley?”

“
Yes.”

“
Even if I never marry Trevor, you’ll always be my sister.” Marley’s words hang in the air, and the tears fall for us both.

“
You sound like a whiny girl,” I tease her, sniffling.

“
It’s because of you damn McCarthy’s.” We both laugh as she hugs me. “I love you, Pres.”

“
I love you.”

With that, she leaves, and I’m alone in my apartment. As I look at the clock, I know Levi should be home, but when I call it goes to voicemail. I’m sure that he’s working out again. I decide the best thing for me is sleep.

~ ~ ~

I move a couple of boxes around, so I will have a path to walk around the house. I swear I didn’t realize that I had this much stuff. A knock at my door makes me drop the box I’m holding, and I answer it.

“Trevor, what are you doing here? Don’t you have a game?” My brother walks into the apartment the best that he can.

“
I do, but later.” He has a strange grin on his face.

“
What’s up?” I ask cautiously.

His grin deepens. “I received a small gift for you today.”

“Huh?” I watch Trevor pull out a small box from his pocket. “What is that?”

“
Well, Levi sent it.” He hands to me, and I remove the red ribbon from it.

I slowly open it and there’s a puck in it. I carefully take it out, and the white tape around it reads:
Goal #1 Hat Trick Levi Carr
.

I gasp. It’s a puck from Levi’s hat trick from his comeback game. My heart fills with pride that he would share this honor with me. It makes me love him more.

“I think there is something else written on it.” Trevor points.

I flip it over and in silver it says:
To my #1 fan Forever yours, Levi

My eyes fill with tears because I’ll always be his fan, and I wish he was here now with me.

“Oh, he sent this too.” Trevor hands me a white envelope. My heart races a little bit as I open it. Inside is Levi’s handwriting:

Hey, Smarty. I want to send you on another adventure. Don't worry. There are only three stops this time. I won't keep you long. Go have lunch with your parents at their house. I'll see you soon.

“Did you know about this?” I narrow my eyes at Trevor.

“
Maybe,” he sings out.

“
Is Levi here?” I didn’t think I was going to see him until Christmas.

“
I’m not telling you anything, except,” he comes closer to me, “I love you and I’m proud of you.” My brother kisses my forehead and walks out.

I stand there a second, my heart thumping loudly. Why is he sending me on this hunt? Maybe because I finished finals? I have to know. I put the puck in my purse, grab my phone and keys, and race to the car. It takes me a little longer to get to my parent’s house because the snow is falling, but I make it and go inside.