Game Changers, #6
The Long Game
by Rachel Reid
Contents
Chapter Fifteen
Overview
Shane and Ilya share domestic intimacy, cooking a meal that fits Shane’s regimen and joking about a documentary. A shocking clip of Shane’s past injury exposes Ilya’s visible panic, deepening their emotional connection. After affectionate sex and playful FanMail mischief, Shane receives an unexpected meeting request from the NHL commissioner, raising new stakes.
Summary
Shane arrives at Ilya’s house and they tumble into kissing before Ilya redirects them to cook a meal tailored to Shane’s nutrition plan. They assemble farro bowls with salmon and vegetables, joke about dessert and sex, and exchange sincere I-love-yous. They settle in to watch their new documentary.
Ilya impulsively buys a FanMail request from Hayden to tease Shane. The documentary largely rehashes highlights until it shows Shane’s concussion against Boston. The footage reveals Ilya’s visible panic as he stays by Shane on the ice, which shakes them both. Shane comforts Ilya, acknowledging he hadn’t realized how traumatic it was for Ilya.
Later, in bed, playful banter about Shane’s erotic dream turns into tenderness. Ilya admits he’s glad they met, and then goes down on Shane, reinforcing their intimacy and trust. They sleep content.
In the morning, they bicker affectionately over breakfast—Shane’s smoothie versus Ilya’s bagel smothered in cream cheese, Nutella, and banana. An email arrives from commissioner Roger Crowell requesting a meeting in New York. Shane spirals, fearing unknown motives, while Ilya teases to diffuse tension. Despite worry, they kiss, choosing closeness over anxiety.
Who Appears
- Shane HollanderProtagonist; cooks with Ilya, comforts him during injury footage, shares intimate moments, and panics after receiving a surprise meeting request from the NHL commissioner.
- Ilya RozanovShane’s secret boyfriend; plans a diet-friendly dinner, teases via FanMail, relives fear watching Shane’s injury, expresses gratitude for their relationship, and offers reassurance.
- HaydenFriend/teammate figure; does paid FanMail videos, becomes the target of Ilya’s playful prank and replies with a rude photo.
- Roger CrowellNHL commissioner; emails Shane to schedule a private meeting in New York, creating uncertainty and new stakes.