On the Ice (Stick Side, #1)

by Amy Aislin

“Good evening, everyone,” he said. “Thank you for coming and apologies for the late start.” “My fault,” Dean said into the microphone in front of him, his deep voice resonating through the lecture hall. The half-grin on his lips practically oozed charm and confidence. The crowd tittered. No lie, they fucking giggled, as if even the non-hockey fans knew they had a celebrity in their midst. Halley introduced the lecture series, then the individual panelists. “And finally, we have Mr. Alex Dean, NHL defenseman with Tampa Bay.” The crowd applauded loudly. Mitch felt for the other panelists, who’d gotten only mild claps, but, well, they weren’t celebrities. “Unfortunately,” Halley continued, “Chris Blair, Tampa’s director of sports science and rehabilitation, was unable to make his flight due to unforeseen circumstances. However, as Mr. Dean was already in the area, he kindly agreed to take Mr. Blair’s place at the last minute.” What the hell was Dean doing all the way in Vermont? It was a long way from Tampa. “As some of you may know,” Halley continued, “Mr. Dean is a GH alumnus and he’ll be speaking this evening about his experience from the perspective of a patient.” More applauding from the crowd. Dean shifted in his seat, embarrassed.