Page 50 of Puck Me Secretly

Max visibly swallowed but didn’t speak.

“If you don’t get your ass in gear and act like you’re part of this team, I will ensure you get cut. Do you understand that? Everyone is sick of your spoiled and lazy attitude.”

Max’s eyes narrowed.

“Watch your back. I don’t want you on this team and I can’t wait until you're gone.”

Baxter skated away, leaving Max to stand there. I waited until Baxter disappeared off the ice before I headed down the stairs to the ice level. Max met me at the gate. His jaw was tight, and he seemed to be holding back a lot of emotion.

“What was that about?”

“Nothing,” he took off his helmet. Sweat ran down his face. His hair was dripping wet. Not the picture of someone who was lazy or coasting.

“Max, I saw you out there. You work harder than anyone else out there.”

“It’s fine.”

“I don’t know what kind of head games Baxter’s playing but he’s talking bullshit. Everyone else raves about your performance in practices and games.”

His eyes met mine. He was trying to gauge if I was telling the truth.

“You’re our most valuable player. Let no one tell you otherwise!”

“Max!” a voice called. From behind me, Katrina headed down the stairs. She wore nude heels, a black pencil skirt, and her blouse was almost see-thru. I clenched my teeth.

“Hey Katrina,” resignation traced in his voice.

She didn’t even glance my way. “I have great news.”

“Could use it.”

“Well, I did my magic behind the scenes and the reporter has dropped his charges against you and issued a public apology!” Her cheeks were flushed.

What the hell. She was taking credit for my work?

His blue eyes lit up. “That’s amazing. Wow, I owe you.”

She gave a cute little shrug. “You can count on me.”

I snorted, and they both turned to me.

I wanted to speak up and let Max know that I had been the one who helped him. My tired brain tried to think of a response.

She didn’t help you, I did.

I’m the one who had the reporter banned.

I’m the one who really has your back.

Everything that came to mind sounded stupid and petty.

Katrina’s lips curled. “Someone should have told me that it’s casual Tuesday.”

I felt myself flush as I watched Max’s eyes drop to my jeans and sneakers.

Without saying a word, I turned to head up the stairs.

Max’s voice made me pause on the steps. “What did you want to talk about?”

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