Page 10 of Wild Blades

I drop into the boardroom seat feeling as heavy as a billion tons of lead.

With no one on either side of me, I feel like I’m in the spotlight and about to be questioned over the missing person they once knew as Wade Collins.

Where did he go? What did you do with him?

I’ve never felt so out of my depth.

Marcus clears his throat to grab my attention. “Thank you for attending today’s meeting on such short notice.” He watches my every move. He’s a nice guy until he’s not. You can always tell when things are bad. Marcus Edwards doesn’t attend meetings unless necessary.

Might have something to do with me breaking his son’s nose.

Oh, did I forget to mention Zane Edwards is Marcus’ asshole son?

Sorry. Darling, can do no wrong,son.

He’ll take Zane’s side over mine any day of the week.

Yup, I’m fucked.

Fired.

With no other team wanting me.

A virtual hole below my feet opens up, teasing me as if it’s about to swallow me whole.

“How are you today, Wade?” Savanna asks, breaking through the silent stares across the table in my direction.

“I’m good.” I swallow my pride and speak before my fate is sealed. “But before you fire me, I would like to apologize for mybehavior following last night’s game.” I take a deep breath to calm my frantic heartbeat. “Zane may have spoken out of turn, but I took things too far. Please accept my apologies.” What I have to say next pains me. “I would like to personally apologize to Zane.”

Gretchen taught me to admit when you do wrong; apologize, and be polite. As well as being kind. Disappointingly, I haven’t been kind to anyone, especially myself.

Savanna opens her mouth to continue, but Marcus butts in. “You’re not being fired, Wade. Not today, kid.”

My body loosens. Relaxing my stiffened pose, I look heavenward.

Thank you, Gretchen.

Confusing me more, he continues, “Zane has been dealt with and I promise he won’t speak another word about your…” He pauses for a beat as if he can’t bring himself to say the words. “Mother again.” Marcus shuts his jaw, making it twitch as he grinds his teeth together. “You can apologize to Zane if it would make you feel better, but it’s unnecessary.”

Oh-kay.

Well, I never expected this.

“Savanna, please continue.” Marcus holds my gaze as he instructs her to conduct the rest of the meeting.

Under the table, I pick at the skin around my nails, still unsure why all these people are here today. Including Dustin MacKinnon, our general manager. Another one who only gets involved when he must. With so many important people around the table today, it’s a little overwhelming.

Oh fuck.

“I don’t want to be transferred,” I fire out as my heartbeat takes on a life of its own. “I’m an Eagle. I can’t play for anyone else. Please don’t transfer me.” I sound pathetic and needy.

Which I am.

From across the table, Leon and Ash chuckle softly.

It’s not funny. It’s the truth.

Savanna shakes her head and smiles. “You’re not being transferred either, Wade. Not today.”

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