Absolutely Not in Love (Sweater Weather, #7; Appies, #2)

by Jenny Proctor

Parker has her arms folded across her chest and her lips pursed. If I didn’t know Parker so well, I might cower under that gaze, but for all her intensity, she’s got a good heart. She’ll make her point, but she’ll make it gently. “Just say whatever it is, Parker. I can tell you want to.” I hold out the water, and she takes both glasses, handing one to Logan. She takes a long drink before setting her glass on the counter. “I know you don’t do as much of the social media stuff as the other guys, but you’re doing more than enough to make up for it. I promise there isn’t some invisible scoresheet here. You know I won’t push you to do stuff that’s outside of your comfort zone.” I push my hands into my pockets. “I know that. I do.” She shrugs. “Then relax a little. You don’t have anything to prove, Felix. You’re an asset to this team, and you’re doing enough.” Her words strike an uncomfortable chord deep in my gut. You don’t have anything to prove. I know I’m a solid hockey player. My stats are great, I’m responsible, reliable, and I don’t get into any trouble. Two years ago, I was even offered a contract with the NHL. Ultimately, I turned it down because I would have been third goalie in line, which would have meant a lot more time riding the pine than I’m getting as an Appie and a lot more volatility in my career. Especially with my social anxiety, the idea of stability and less time in the spotlight, both things the Appies offered me, sounded a lot better. I know all this, so...