Soulmates and Slapshots by Melissa Baldwin

“Hi. Are you lost?” I ask.

Wow. That sounded like the worst pickup line ever, and I immediately regret saying it.

Before I can excuse myself, she turns around and gives me a curious look.

“No. At least I don’t think so,” she says. “Is Maple Falls even big enough to get lost in?”

I laugh. “That’s a good question.”

Why did I even say that? I’ve only been in town a short time, so I wouldn’t be able to help if she needed it.

“Honestly, I’m trying to decide what to do next,” she says. “I’m not used to having so much free time on my hands.”

“I wouldn’t know,” I admit. “What’s free time?”

She gives me a casual smile. “So what recommendations can you give a Maple Falls visitor?”

I knew it. She didn’t seem like a local.

I raise my eyebrows. “Well, I probably won’t be much help since I just arrived in town myself.”

She smiles. “Ah, another new person. That’s a relief because I’m assuming everyone else in this town already knows each other.”

“Most likely,” I agree. “But you’re not the only newbie, so don’t worry.”

“What brought you to Maple Falls, Washington?” she asks.

“Work,” I reply. This is the truth. I just leave out the hockey part, and I’m not sure why.

She flashes a slight smile. “That’s a good reason.”

I’m trying not to stare, but this woman is stunning. So flawless it can’t be ignored. And it’s obvious she has a confidence and openness that instantly draws people in.

“And while we’re on the subject, what made you come to this booming metropolis?” I ask, before she catches me staring.

A flash of amusement spreads across her face. “I’m visiting my aunt, and I actually left a booming metropolis to come here.”

“Really? Where?”

“New York.”

Now it all makes sense—she has a city girl vibe. She’s confident, polished, and a little bit mysterious.

“Ah, the city that never sleeps. It’s a great place,” I say. “One of my favorites for sure.”

She nods slowly. “It is. But there’s something special about this little town too.”

“I agree,” I say. “I moved here from Tennessee. Not quite as fast-paced as New York, but more thrilling than Maple Falls.”

She lifts an eyebrow. “I don’t know…I’ve heard Maple Falls isn’t as sleepy as people think.”

“Really?” I ask, leaning in a little.

She lowers her voice dramatically, even though the only other people nearby are across the street. “I heard there might be a town scandal happening right now.”

“Ooh, now that’s interesting.”

“Yes, it is,” she says with a playful smirk. “And they even have their own professional hockey team.”

I laugh. “Yes, I’m familiar with the Ice Breakers.”

She tilts her head, narrowing her eyes at me with curiosity. “Hockey fan?”

I shrug, unable to hide the grin pulling at my lips. “More than a fan. I play on the team.”

Her eyes widen. “Wait—seriously?”

“Weston Smith, defense,” I say, offering my hand. I’m not sure why I added my player position, but it doesn’t matter now. Maybe she likes hockey?

She takes my hand and grins. “Fiona Hale. And wait until I tell my aunt. She’s going to lose her mind when she hears this—she’s a die-hard fangirl of your team.”

I chuckle. “We love our fans. I’m sure I’ll meet her sooner or later.”

She studies me for a moment, clearly still processing. “So, you’re a hockey player.”