Rebecca Jenshak

“First home game of the season is always like this,” I tell him. “But damn, it never gets old.”

Leo’s face lights up when he spots them, and he automatically starts moving toward them. I go with him. The little guy is cute as hell. Scarlett holds up Callum when we get close, showing off his Wildcat shirt, then turns him so we can see it has Lohan on the back. Baby’s first jersey for his first NHL game.

“The little guy just needs some pads and a stick. I bet Coach Miller would make a spot for him.”

“I like your jersey,”

I hand my stick over the top of the glass. Her dad takes it and presents it to her. Her face lights up when her small hands wrap around the carbon fiber shaft. She gives her dad something and then he motions with his hand to indicate he’s going to throw it over. It takes two tries, but when I catch the item, a big smile stretches over my face. The little girl made me a friendship bracelet. Green and white beads surround my name and number. It’s small, obviously made for her tiny wrist.

I close my fingers around the adorable gift. “Thank you. I love it.”

“Nah. Just want to give it to a kid that couldn’t get one of mine from the gift shop.”

“Shut the fuck up.” I set my jersey on the top of the half-wall in front of the bench and scribble my name. “It’s for a little girl. She gave me a friendship bracelet.”

“Yep. I’m her favorite.”

“Enjoy the game,” I tell them.