Like You’ve Nothing Left to Prove (Breakaway #2)

by E.L. Massey

He watches all of Alex’s games and has made an effort to actually understand hockey rules (though what actually counts as goaltender interference is still a mystery to him).

It’s a mystery to the refs as well

“Alex,” Asher asks, squinting at the TV. “Are you playing NHL16 as yourself?” “Of course, my stats are awesome.”

“I want the whole everything with you. Joint Christmas cards and buying a house together and stupid inside jokes. And kids. Maybe. Someday. Mite hockey. Or figure skating. Or nothing on the ice at all. Maybe, like, chess. Just… Whatever they want. To be happy. I think we’d be really happy. You make me happy.”

Eli is worth it. Eli is worth risking hockey. Not at some indistinct time in the future, but now. Right now.

“I more than love you.”

“Hey, Alex. I want to try something.” “If it’s a sex thing, can it wait until after playoffs?” Alex says, not opening his eyes. “If it’s a sex thing, can it wait until I’M NOT HERE?” Jeff yells from the kitchen.