Page 102 of Behind the Bench

I pull up our text thread. As I’m thinking of what to say, I stare at our most recent texts.

Ellie

I just need some time Lincoln.

I understand. I’ll be here when you’re ready.

She never responded, so I sent her another text the next day.

I’ve been thinking of you. I hope you’re okay, baby.

It’s been over twenty-four hours since I sent that text and I’m losing my mind. Frustrated and unsure of how to approach this, I pull up the group text with Hunter and Sadie.

Ellie hasn’t spoken to me about anything other than the team since our meeting with Jerry. What should I do?

Sadie

Just give her some space. She’s really worried about the statement being released today.

She’s not the only one. But we need to figure out how we’re going to address the team later today after the statement goes live.

Hunter

Shit, I hadn’t even thought of that. Maybe I can talk to her?

Thanks for the offer, but this is really something she and I should work out together. Think I should come over?

Sadie

I don’t think an aggressive power play is the way to go here. Maybe we “accidentally” bump into you two later?

Hunter

Damn. Nice hockey reference Sadie

Even I’m impressed. But back to this run in…

Hunter

We bump into them and then I whisk Sadie away to talk about a new idea I have for a goat yoga class.

Sadie

DID YOU JUST SAY GOAT YOGA?

Focus.

Sadie

Sorry, sorry. Yes, that works. But Lincoln, be gentle with her. People are already going hard online about the rumors. Half of them are tearing her apart while the other half is wanting to give you a high five for “banging the hot coach.”

For fuck’s sake.

Hunter

Yeah, it’s pretty bad man. I’d stay off the internet today if I were you. You’ll want to burn the world down.

Noted. Okay send me the details of where and when. Hunter, I'll pick you up on the way

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