Overview

After a home game, Rio handles a rare postgame press conference, then heads to the bar where Hallie works, determined to see her during a brief stop back in Chicago. He finds her mid-shift, flirts openly, and settles in to wait until she is off, admitting he misses her.

Full Summary

Rio participates in a postgame media session where a reporter highlights his record-setting defensive partnership with Evan Zanders. Though uncomfortable with extended interviews, Rio credits their off-ice friendship and long-shared experience for their success, and quickly exits once the media manager ends questions.

With only one night at home during a long road stretch, Rio decides to find Hallie. He changes back into his suit, drives to the bar where she works, and notes that her car is not in the lot, recalling recent texts about her using rideshares due to the first snowfall and her unreliable vehicle.

Inside, the bar is busy with fans in Raptors jerseys. Rio is delayed by autograph and photo requests as he searches for Hallie. He eventually takes a corner stool and, just as he considers leaving to find her at home, Hallie comes in from a side door carrying liquor bottles from storage.

A drunk fan loudly recognizes Rio, drawing Hallie’s attention to him. After a brief, public interaction with the fan, Rio focuses on Hallie, openly admiring her as she organizes bottles. He teases her about ignoring him while she works, and the two exchange playful banter and mutual, charged glances.

Hallie serves Rio water and compliments his game, which makes him feel boyishly pleased. They continue to flirt, including Rio hinting at wanting to know when her shift ends and Hallie noting other patrons wearing his jersey. When asked why he plans to stay while she works, Rio answers simply that he missed her.

Who Appears

• Rio DeLuca — narrator; professional hockey defenseman; handles postgame media, goes to Hallie’s bar, flirts, and decides to wait for her, admitting he misses her.
• Hallie — bartender and Rio’s former love; working a busy shift, exchanges playful, intimate banter with Rio and acknowledges his strong game.
• Evan Zanders — Rio’s defensive partner; mentioned as part of a record-setting duo.
• Media manager — team staff; ends Rio’s press availability.
• Drunk fan — new; recognizes Rio, takes a selfie, and helps create space at the bar.
• Ken Doll — bartender coworker; seen working the bar.