Page 68 of Revenge Puck

Preston

Isearch the stands for Elle during the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner, but the seat next to my sister is still empty. Damn. Guess her flight was late.

The Warhawks start off the game hot, with Nick scoring a goal within the first two minutes. But then Christian scores a goal right after, and his teammate does as well at the end of the first period, leaving the score two to one. It feels like all the air in the arena is sucked out on the way to the locker room for first intermission.

Again, I look at the front row, but there’s no sign of Elle yet. Not then or before the second period begins.

In the second, our goalie is able to stop every single puck. But on offense, we can’t seem to get a decent shot off.

When Elle doesn’t show up by the beginning of the third period, I start to worry incessantly.

Did something happen on her flight?

Did her Uber get in a wreck?

God forbid, did she get hit crossing one of D.C.’s streets?

Late in the third period, the Bobcats score again. We lose all hope of making up two scores, ending the game one to three. Now we’re two wins to their one in the damn series.

It sucks, but it’s rare for a team to sweep the finals in the first four games. Maybe we’ll do it in five.

I’m just glad it’s over so I can finally check on Elle.

There are no calls, voicemails, or texts from her on my phone, which has me even more concerned.

A text from my sister pops up while I’m holding the device.

Tough loss. You’ll get them in game four!

After a quick shower in the locker room, when I see that I still haven’t heard a word from her, I send her a message.

Preston:Is everything okay?

Elle:Everything is fine.

Fine? That’s all she’s going to tell me. Of course, I know it has to be complete bullshit.

Preston:Where were you tonight? I thought you were coming to D.C. for the game.

Elle:I am in D.C.

What the hell?

Preston:Where? You weren’t at the game.

Elle:I’m at thehotel now.

The hotel? She’s being vague on purpose. I just wish I knew why.

Preston:You’re not going to tell me which one?

Preston:Elle, what’s going on with you?

Dots appear and disappear over and over again. Finally, she hits send.

Elle:I talked to your sister.

She talked to my sister? Why does that sound like such a loaded response?

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