Three Pucking Wedding Dates (Hockey Harems #1)

10. Oakley

10

OAKLEY

A s they step back into the foyer, I’m immediately struck by the sight of Gray and Reid wearing what they consider to be “disguises”—glasses, sweatpants, and ball caps. It’s almost comical how ridiculous they look.

“Seriously?” I snort, unable to contain my laughter. “You guys really think those outfits will fool any reporters?”

Gray grins at me, completely unfazed. “You’d be shocked at how stupid they can be sometimes.”

“True,” I concede with a smirk, still chuckling as I follow them through the house and into the garage.

Once inside, I can’t help but gawk at the impressive collection of cars. There must be at least ten, all gleaming and pristine, just waiting to be driven. I shake my head, a playful smile tugging at my lips.

“Really? How many cars do you boys need?” I tease, giving them a sidelong glance.

Reid leans against one of the cars, his playful expression giving way to something more serious. “You know how much I love cars, Oakley. I’m still working on my collection.”

“Speaking of cars,” I say, glancing around, “where’s Charlie? Isn’t his job to cart you guys wherever you ask him?”

“Charlie’s got the day off,” Reid replies with a smirk. “I’ll be driving us today.”

“Really?” I feign surprise. “I didn’t even know you knew how to drive.” Grinning, I quickly call, “Shotgun!”

“Hey, no fair!” Gray protests with a laugh, but I can tell he doesn’t really mind.

As we pile into one of the sleek vehicles, I feel a thrill of anticipation ripple through me. With Reid at the wheel, we pull out of the garage and onto the streets, the engine purring beneath us like a contented cat. The conversation flows easily between the three of us, touching on everything from our favorite TV shows to the latest hockey game. As we chat, I can’t help but marvel at how comfortable I feel with these two.

The sun glints off the store windows, forming a dazzling display as we pull into the parking lot of a clothing store. Reid expertly maneuvers the car into a spot at the back, away from prying eyes and potential attention.

“Alright, let’s get you some new clothes,” Gray announces with a grin as he hops out of the car, stretching his long legs.

I follow suit. As I take in the array of clothing through the store window, I’m suddenly overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. Inside, my eyes dart from one rack to another, trying to find something affordable but still stylish.

“Remember, Oakley, don’t even look at the price tags,” Reid warns, as if reading my thoughts. “We’ve got you covered.”

“Thanks, but I can still try to be economical,” I reply, a hint of sass in my voice.

“Uh-huh, sure.” Reid smirks. “Now, excuse me for a moment—I need to do something.” He jogs off toward one of the store employees, a young woman who looks starstruck once she sees his face.

I roll my eyes, watching him engage in conversation with her. Classic Reid—always charming and never missing an opportunity to flirt.

I feel a tiny twinge of annoyance before quickly dismissing it. I’m not his girlfriend, and even if I were, I wouldn’t want to be one of those clingy, jealous types.

“Enjoying the show?” Gray teases, catching me staring. His expression says it all— I told you so .

“Very funny,” I retort, forcing my gaze back to the clothing racks. “Let’s just find something for that cooking class, alright?”

“Fine by me,” Gray agrees, his eyes scanning the store as we walk through the aisles together.

We sift through various outfits, pulling out potential options and playfully critiquing each other’s choices. It’s nice to have a moment like this with Gray, free of any tension or drama. Just two friends enjoying each other’s company.

Friends. Why does that word feel so ungenuine?

“Hey, check this out,” Gray says, holding up a cute apron adorned with cartoon vegetables. “This would be perfect for the cooking class.”

“Ha! That’s adorable,” I laugh, imagining myself wearing it while attempting to cook some extravagant meal. “But let’s focus on finding something to wear underneath first.”

“Alright, fair enough,” Gray concedes, returning the apron to its place on a nearby rack.

As we make our way to another section of the store, Gray suddenly stops in his tracks. “Oakley, look at this.” He holds up a stunning blue figure skating dress, its fabric shimmering under the store’s lighting.

My heart skips a beat as memories of my past passion come flooding back. I remember the countless hours spent practicing jumps and spins, the thrill of competition, and the joy of performing for an audience.

“Wow,” I breathe, reaching out to touch the delicate fabric. “I haven’t seen a dress like this in years.”

“I remember watching you at the shows. You used to have all the pretty dresses.”

“Yeah, I did,” I admit, feeling a bittersweet pang of nostalgia. “But that was a long time ago.”

“Still, it’s a beautiful dress,” Gray says, giving me an encouraging smile. “And you never know when you might want to get back on the ice.”

As I run my fingers over the smooth fabric, I can’t help but feel a yearning for the days when figure skating was such a significant part of my life.

“Oakley?” Gray prompts gently, sensing my hesitation.

I shake my head, forcing a smile that doesn’t quite reach my eyes. “No, figure skating isn’t me anymore,” I admit, my voice tinged with sadness. Despite the lingering love for it, I know I can’t go back to that part of my life.

“Alright,” Gray says, understanding my decision.

“Hey,” Reid’s voice interrupts my thoughts as he returns from his conversation with the young store worker. His grin is wide and carefree, but I can’t help feeling a twinge of jealousy.

“Hi,” I reply, trying to sound casual as I turn my attention back to the clothes. My fingers brush against a soft sweater, but I’m too distracted to appreciate its texture.

“Find anything you like?” Reid asks, leaning against a nearby display, clearly unfazed by our earlier exchange.

“Maybe,” I mumble, not wanting to engage in conversation. I focus on the rows of clothing, pretending to be absorbed in my search.

“Are you alright, Oakley?” Reid inquires, his playful tone replaced by genuine concern. I can sense him watching me closely, and it takes every ounce of willpower not to meet his gaze.

“Of course. I’m fine,” I insist, still avoiding eye contact.

“She saw you flirting with that worker,” Gray comments.

“I didn’t know you cared so much about who I talk to,” Reid teases, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“What? No, don’t flatter yourself,” I sputter defensively, my cheeks flushing hot. I try to appear nonchalant, but I can tell he sees right through me.

“You sure about that?” he challenges playfully, poking me in the side. “You’ve got that look in your eye. The one where you’re trying not to let something bother you.”

“Reid, seriously. It’s not a big deal,” I insist, avoiding his gaze and focusing on a rack of colorful scarves. In truth, it stings more than I care to admit, but I refuse to let him see that.

“Alright, alright,” Reid concedes with a chuckle, holding up his hands in surrender. “I’ll drop it, but just so you know, I wasn’t flirting with her. I could tell she recognized us, and I wanted to make sure she didn’t share it on social media or tell reporters or anything.”

“Did you…?” I start to ask, piecing together what happened between Reid and the worker.

“Consider it a little insurance.” He grins sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “I wanted to make sure we could shop in peace.”

“Reid, you didn’t have to do that,” I say softly, touched by his actions.

“I know, but it’s worth it to keep you smiling,” he replies, ruffling my hair affectionately. “Now quit it with the attitude.”

As Gray heads to the checkout with our finds, I can’t help but feel a warmth spreading through me.