Alex (Cold Fury Hockey 1)

I’m rewarded with a piercing shriek from Sutton as she tears out of my arms and practically vaults the case to reach her. I know they haven’t seen each other in over a year and a half, and I know Shelley will undoubtedly be her matron of honor, so I knew that she should be here for this occasion. I had her flown in last night and she’s going to stay with us for a few days.

Sutton and Shelley hug, and cry, and laugh. Sutton turns to me with tear-stained cheeks and mouths, I love you. I just smile back at her, because this was nothing.

There is nothing I wouldn’t do for this woman. There is nothing I wouldn’t give up, nothing I wouldn’t sacrifice for her. She is the most important person in my life and always will be, because she showed me that life is about overcoming struggles and opening yourself up to possibility. She brought color into my otherwise gray existence, and for that I owe her everything.

She’ll always be first.

Above all else.

Forever.