Chapter Thirty-Nine

In July, Shane arrives at Ilya’s house wearing an Ottawa Centaurs jersey after signing his new contract. They revel in the prospect of finally playing together and living openly, and Shane shares that management and Harris were welcoming, with owners gifting them a celebratory dinner.

On their wedding day, Ilya, nervous and clean-shaven, receives tender support from Shane’s father, David, who helps with cuff links and expresses that he sees Ilya as family. Ilya, moved, promises to care for Shane. Meanwhile, Shane’s mother, Yuna, steadies Shane’s nerves as they prepare to greet a large crowd gathered in their backyard.

Friends, family, and many Ottawa teammates fill the lawn. The justice of the peace, Nancy, begins the ceremony; Ilya and Shane exchange standard vows, both getting emotional. After Nancy pronounces them married, Ilya dips Shane into a celebratory kiss to cheers, and they briefly head inside to sign paperwork.

As evening falls under string lights, Ilya reassures Ruby that her earlier mock ceremony was the “real” one. Hayden congratulates them with mixed feelings about losing Shane from Montreal. When Yuna suggests a first dance, Harris nervously cues the music.

Ilya leads Shane in a slow turn to Rihanna’s “Diamonds,” a choice Ilya deems perfect. Surrounded by loved ones, they affirm their love with humor and ease, closing the night on a promise that life together will keep getting better, fully and publicly.