On the Edge (SCU Hockey #3)

by J.J. Mulder

I try to tell Atlas as much as possible how much he means to me. That I love him, and I treasure every year we’ve spent together. He doesn’t tell me he loves me back, but I don’t need him to. I hear the words in the way he supports my career, even though it means late nights and extensive periods apart. I feel the words in the quiet, accepting way he treats me. He never pushes, or asks for more than I can give. He is, in all ways, the perfect partner. I do not need to hear I love you to know it is true.

“I love you,” he says in a stern, almost forceful voice. “I know I don’t say it. I should, but it’s not easy for me.” “I know that. I do not need you to say it.” “Except, apparently you do, because you have a ring and a receipt dated two years ago,” he says, voice thin and anxious. “Why haven’t you asked?” “Because I did not know what you would say,”

“You thought I’d say no.” “I thought that I would give you time,” I correct gently. “Just because I knew you were it for me, does not mean that you were at the same place. I did not want to give you an impossible choice.” He stares at me for a moment, before repeating his earlier words: “I love you.” “I love you, too.”

“If someone were to ask me something—anything—I’d probably say yes,” he interrupts. “I’m feeling pretty agreeable.” “Oh? I suppose there is a first time for everything.” Atlas’ lips twitch.

“Atlas.” “Yeah?” “You are the world to me. You are a blessing, and a gift. I am the happiest man alive with you beside me. Atlas—my love, my Bärchen—would you marry me?” “Yes,” he whispers. “Of course I will. You’re it for me, too. You’ve always been it for me, even when I was too dumb to see it.” “Atlas, you have been holding out on me. That sounded like a wedding vow. I thought I was the romantic one?” He laughs,

I do not need anything else, so long as I can have my Atlas.