Chapter 5
H ENRY
I stare out at the frozen pond thinking tonight can’t come soon enough. I wish Elijah would show up and help me ready the pond for our hockey match tonight. Jah , it’s a little early, but I wouldn’t mind practicing a bit so I can show off for Ellie.
I can’t wait to see her tonight. I’ve thought of little else since our time together last night. I’m still stoked that I got to kiss her.
I just know that she must’ve loved the whoopie pies. I’ve been imagining her reaction to them all day, since I dropped them off on her doorstep early this morning. Maybe I’ll even get another kiss.
I snort at the thought. Jah , right. In my dreams.
But, stranger things have happened. I don’t know what they are, but I’m sure it must be true since everyone says it. And, honestly, I haven’t really sat down to think about it. If I did, no doubt I could come up with something.
“Henry?”
I whirl around at my neighbor’s voice. One I haven’t heard in many months.
“Jude!” He strides near and we fist each other’s shoulders—our masculine version of a hug. Jude’s a couple inches taller than my six-foot-two frame, and I can see by his bulk he’s been working out since he left the farm to play hockey for a brand-new professional team. “I hoped you’d be back in town soon. How are things going in your fancy hockey world?”
“Pretty amazing. I have a short break, so I thought I would come see my mom. She’s been missing me.”
“I’m sure she has.” I won’t mention Jude’s father. It has always been a sore subject with my friend.
“Hey, how’s your mom and sister?” Jude stuffs his hands in his pockets and glances toward the house.
“My mom called and said she won’t be home until later. Been up in Ohio helping out with her folks. But Ivy’s still here. She’s taking off somewhere but is pretty tight-lipped about it.”
“I imagine that if I was a girl, I wouldn’t want my brother knowing all my business either.” Jude chuckles. “Mind if I go say hello?”
“Nah.” But I don’t want Jude and Ivy to be alone, so I accompany my friend to the house.
“Are you playing on the pond tonight?” Jude’s head angles toward the frozen water, eagerness in his eyes.
“That’s the plan. Gonna join us and show us farm boys how to play?”
Jude laughs. “I think some of you guys can still show me a thing or two.”
I shake my head. “I doubt that.”
“Hey, Eli was pretty darn good if I recall correctly.”
When we reach the house, the door bursts open.
“Jude!” Ivy squeals and practically bowls our neighbor over. She’s always liked Jude, but I’ve never seen this much enthusiasm for him.
“Hey, Ives.” Jude kisses her cheek, and I try not to growl. Why would he do that? “I see you’ve missed me.”
Ivy bounces on her toes. “Did you bring us tickets?” Her grin spreads wide.
“Aw, is that all I’m good for?” He chuckles good-naturedly.
“I can bribe you with whoopie pies.” Ivy holds the plate out.
“Those are for tonight, sis, but I suppose we can spare a couple for Jude,” I say.
Jude snaps his fingers. “Shucks. Coach has us all on a strict diet. Otherwise…” He shrugs.
“You have to taste them. They are so good. Henry made them for his girlfriend.” Ivy sings.
Jude eyes me. “You have a girlfriend, huh?”
I shake my head. “I wish.”
Jude laughs. “Still crushing on Ellie Petersheim?”
“You know it.” I can’t help but smile at her name.
“Well, don’t give up. She’s gotta come around sooner or later, right?” I love the fact that Jude is so encouraging. He looks at Ivy. “I guess I can try a bite.” He winks at her and again I stuff down my irritation.
“Take your pick. Strawberry, lemon, and chocolate peanut butter.” Ivy raises her eyebrows twice.
“They all sound good.” Jude snags a strawberry whoopie pie and bites into it, the filling landing square on his stubbled chin. “Oh, wow. This is amazing.” He swipes his chin, takes another bite, and sets the treat down.
“Think they’ll win her over?” My face stretches as I don’t even attempt to contain my smile.
“If these don’t, I don’t know what will, bro.”
I pump a fist in the air. “That’s what I’m praying for.”
“So, you need help clearing the pond so we can get some practice in?” Jude eyes me.
I grin. “Thought you’d never ask.”