As soon as the introductions are done, Dr. Tumbler says, “I have some good news.”

Hanna’s grip on my hand loosens enough that my fingers start to tingle with the renewed blood flow. “What kind of good news?”

“The blood tests have all come back negative for abnormalities.”

Hanna’s hand comes up to cover her mouth, and she turns her head, her cheek pressing against my arm. “Oh, that’s a relief.”

I wrap my arm around her shoulder as she makes a squeaky sound and takes a deep breath.

Dr. Tumbler holds out a box of tissues, and I pluck one from it and pass it to Hanna, who dabs at her eyes.

“I know we’re not out of the woods yet, but this feels like a good step forward,” Hanna says.

Dr. Tumbler nods. “I do think it’s advisable to do further testing in the coming weeks. We can schedule the second part of your integrated screening in a few weeks, but I’m also going to suggest additional blood tests, an amniocentesis, and tests for neural tube defects.”

“Yes. Of course. I want to be as prepared as possible.”

“I’d like to keep a very close eye on your blood pressure, and your sugar levels are higher than normal. Nothing concerning at this point, but something to monitor.”

I ask the doctor as many questions as I can, wishing I could record her answers, because I’m not sure I’m taking it all in the way I’d like to. Once we’ve exhausted all the questions, we head back to reception to make follow-up appointments and set up new ones for blood tests and the next ultrasound. All of which we add to our shared calendar.

We’re also given an envelope with pictures from the ultrasound, as well as a video, complete with heartbeat. We didn’t have these options with Queenie, and I plan to take advantage of every one of them in this technologically advanced age.

“Are you hungry? Do you want to grab something to eat? We could get takeout and bring it back to your place if the smells in a restaurant are going to be too much.” I ask once I’ve helped her into her car and I’m behind the wheel.

“You are honestly the most considerate, conscientious man I have ever met. Do you even have time for that? I don’t think I asked when your flight out is.”

“Not until tomorrow morning.”

“Oh. Well, that’s good. I didn’t realize I was going to get another night with you.” Her cheeks color with embarrassment. “I’m really sorry I passed out so early last night.”

“That’s okay.” I give her hand a squeeze. “I’m happy to be your personal body pillow any night of the week, Hanna.”

She laughs, the tint in her cheeks deepening. “How did that even happen?”

“You pulled me into bed with you and wrapped yourself around me and wouldn’t let go.” I could have easily slipped out from under her, but I wasn’t particularly motivated to leave the bed. Not after the emotional conversation we had and our newly established relationship status.

“I can’t believe I did that.” She holds up a finger. “Well, I can, because you’re a hard man to resist. But I will say, I didn’t peg you for a cuddler.”

“Oh? And why is that?” In all honesty, I don’t think I’ve ever been much for spooning or letting someone use me as their body pillow. But in the past, I’ve always kept some walls up between the women I chose to date and me. It helped me manage my own expectations and theirs. With Hanna it’s different. I want the closeness with her.

“Maybe I should have suspected you’d be a closet cuddler. I just figured you didn’t get where you are by being a softie, and I’ve seen how you are with the boys when they’re not pulling their weight on the ice. It’s a lot different from how you are outside of your job. And definitely different than how you are with me.” She runs her thumb over my knuckles.

“My job is to keep my team in line and make sure they’re working together and unified. I can’t afford to be soft with them or they’ll walk all over me. Not because they’re a bunch of assholes, but because the only way you can be a successful elite athlete is by having guidance, structure, and rules.” It’s something I’ve had to learn how to balance carefully, and not let that hardass attitude seep into my personal and family life.

“Oh, I get it. Leading a team is a big deal. And watching you and Alex together . . .” She shakes her head and rolls her eyes to the ceiling. “Let’s just say my friend Paxton and the ladies in my painting class are big fans.”

“What do you mean they’re big fans? Of hockey? Do you want me to get you extra tickets for a few Tennessee games?”

“I’m pretty sure those women would love that.” Her smile widens. “Some of those ladies ship you and Alex.”

I’m sure I must look confused. “Doesn’t that mean they want us to be a couple? Or does ship mean something else? I’m too old for today’s slang. Why can’t things be rad and awesome and cool?” I can also feel my face warming.

Hanna props her chin on her fist and her eyes glint with humor. “Sort of, they dig on your bromance.”

“We don’t have a bromance.”

“You’re two very attractive men who manage and coach a hockey team. When you’re on the road, you’re always together. And Alex has four kids and a wife, and you have a daughter in her twenties who is always at the games, and it’s very clear that you’re close. Women of all ages find that incredibly sexy.”

“Wait, you think Alex is attractive?” I don’t know why I bother asking. Queenie always talks about his hot dad status.

Hanna arches a brow. “That’s your takeaway?”

“But not more attractive than me, right?”

“No, Jake. I don’t find him more attractive than you. Besides, I’ve heard more than enough about Alex’s man business to know that I would not want to be in Violet’s shoes.” She motions in the general vicinity of her crotch.

I don’t need to ask what she’s talking about. Alex had several endorsements when he was a top player, including one for prophylactics, all before he started coaching. Once, when he hosted a poker night, his wife thought it would be funny to put the life-size cutout at the door to the garage, sort of as a welcome. I can’t unsee him holding up a box of extra-large condoms wearing only a pair of tighty-whities. I’ve heard enough semi-drunk discussions between the wives about his grower versus show-er status to believe there was no photoshopping in that ad.

“Right. Yeah. I vote we stop talking about Alex and his junk.”

“Are you jealous?”

“No.” Maybe a little. “Queenie does this whole swoon thing whenever he brings the kids around and talks about ovaries exploding.” Which is an off-putting thing to think about.

Hanna barks out a laugh. “You should see my group chat with the girls. It was full of ovaries exploding gifs during every event where the kids were present.” She puts her hand on my arm. “Don’t worry. It’ll be the same when it’s you holding little JJ.”

“Little JJ?”

“Jake Junior. That’s what I’m calling him until we settle on a name.”

“I thought that was going to be his name.” I’m kidding, but apparently she doesn’t take it that way.