Just Don't Fall (Sweater Weather, #1; Appies, #1)

by Emma St. Clair

“How was your first day?” Parker asks. “Were the guys nice?” They were, but it doesn’t really matter. I’m used to showing up, giving it all on the ice, and going home. Not bonding or making friendship bracelets. But I can tell from Parker’s eager face that she’s hoping for more. “It was good. They were fine.” “Man of many words,” she says with a smile and a roll of her eyes. “One thing hasn’t changed much.” I grunt in response, hoping she’ll laugh. She does, and I fight back a smile. “I saw you filming today.” “Yeah—and?” “It didn’t look so bad,” I admit. Right after practice, she filmed a segment with Tucker and Dumbo on the bench, holding and discussing a book. It was quick, and looked mostly like they were talking to each other and then faking a fight. “Though I don’t get how books are involved.” Her cheeks flush and she focuses hard on the soup she’s stirring. “Hockey romance is a big thing. I’m trying to reach a crossover audience of readers as well. But while keeping with our, um, family friendly vibe, just considering our target audience.” I frown, wondering what’s in the books that wouldn’t be family friendly. And does Parker read hockey romance? “Anyway,” Parker says, obviously trying to steer us away from the topic of romance novels. “You should watch some of our videos sometime. Maybe you’d be surprised.” “That would mean actually getting on social media.” “You’re such an old man.” “Get off my lawn,” I say, and she laughs again. It’s so easy with her. Conversati...