In the Game

Raleigh Growing up, the ice was my safe space. I excelled at playing hockey. However, these days, it's hockey players who provide sanctuary—one bed at a time. We have an arrangement. I offer them a night of pleasure, and in return, they grant me all the temporary, artificial love I can get my hands on—a chance to feel whole. Happily ever after doesn't exist where I come from, but I crave it just the same. It was a foolproof system. Until Barrett. One night with him was all it took to tear down walls and crack the facade I worked so hard to build. The connection we had felt real, which made it all the more heartbreaking when it was time to leave. To him, I was simply another puck bunny. I never planned on seeing him again, until I discovered our one night changed my life forever. When I tried to reach out, he turned callous and cruel. That was the day I swore I'd never allow Barrett back into my life. Barrett It's been over five years since our one-night stand and I still can't get her