3
Finally, school started.
High school classes were surprisingly easy.
I began to plan my second meeting with Caleb.
During the Fall break, I found a part–time job cleaning at an ice hockey rink.
On the third morning, Caleb came to practice.
I watched him secretly from the back.
When he was almost done practicing, I spoke softly.
“You should twist your wrist when you pass the puck.”
Caleb turned sharply.
I couldn’t see his eyes under his helmet, but I could feel his shock.
“It’s you! You can spot my weakness?”
How could I?
He told me himself.
I played dumb.
“Just a little bit. Do we know each other?”
Caleb took off his helmet, his eyes sparkling with surprised delight.
Texaggeratedly widened my mouth.
A
We had lunch together.
“You’re underage, how are you working here?”
“Shh! Don’t let my boss find out. I’m pretending to be older.”
“Do you really need money that badly?”
“My dad died in a car accident, and Mom took all the money and left with my sister. What else am I supposed to do?”
Caleb was silent for a moment.
“Later, will you help me practice hockey?”
I hesitated.
“I still have to sweep.”
“Five thousand dollars an hour.”
“Alright, Boss!”
Caleb laughed again, nearly spitting out his food.
After practice that afternoon, Caleb asked me out for dinner again.
I was about to agree when I saw Chloe watching from outside the rink.
“Let’s reschedule! I have to go now.”
When he paid me, we exchanged contact information.
After I got back to the hotel, Caleb sent a message.
[Did you get home safe?]
I couldn’t help but smile.
But I only replied with a simple “Yep.”
