Game Changers, #6
The Long Game
by Rachel Reid
Contents
Chapter Nineteen
Overview
Shane drives overnight to Ottawa to see Ilya returning from a brutal 0–4 road trip. Exhausted and sleepless, Ilya seeks comfort rather than sex, and the men share an intimate, grounding reunion. They confront their mismatched schedules, cling to plans for Christmas, and end the night quietly together.
Summary
After a late game in Montreal, Shane drives to Ottawa past midnight, too eager to wait until morning to see Ilya after two weeks apart. He keeps himself awake with a Russian podcast and memories of their recent escapades, then dozes on Ilya’s couch while waiting.
Ilya arrives from Winnipeg still in his suit, visibly drained from an 0–4 road trip and poor sleep. Their reunion is soft and relieved; they kiss and hold each other, with Shane noticing Ilya’s exhaustion beneath the affection.
Upstairs, as Shane undresses Ilya, they discuss how long Shane can stay and compare upcoming travel. Shane will leave Friday for Dallas and be home for nearly two weeks afterward, but Ilya will be away. They latch onto spending Christmas together as a bright spot amid the separation.
Desire flickers, but Shane prioritizes rest when Ilya admits he hasn’t been sleeping. After brief teasing and tenderness, Ilya drifts off almost immediately. Shane curls beside him, content to simply be there, and they end the night quietly breathing together.
Who Appears
- Shane HollanderDrives overnight to Ottawa to reunite with Ilya; offers comfort, prioritizes rest; confirms travel schedule and Christmas plans.
- Ilya RozanovReturns from a winless road trip, exhausted and sleepless; shares a tender reunion; discusses conflicting schedules and plans for Christmas.