Page 47 of Misconduct Zone

“That mural is fantastic.” It’s bright and cheery with a rainbow of people.

“Cole painted that. You’ve met him, right? Shane’s husband who owns Unframed Art with Alec.”

“Yep. A few times.”

We take a few kids around with one bored parent who only wants to know how much it costs.

“The Q Solutions is a nonprofit funded by grants and donations to ensure all the services are free for the participants.”

That changes their attitude quickly, and they ask about all the classes and the qualifications of the people teaching them.

I peek into the cafeteria and spot Lars at a round table with a few kids hanging on his every word. He’s a magnet pulling me closer, and Emmet gives me a light shove.

“Go see what’s up over there and if they’re going to want a tour.” Emmet’s grin is knowing, and my feelings must be written all over my face. How long until the team will be able to tell?

I take a winding path, approaching Lars from behind so Idon’t interrupt.

“So like, you’re in the NHL, but you’re bi so how does that work?” a freckled-face teen boy asks him.

Lars’s body language is open, and I’m shocked he’s trusting these boys with that information. There’s a moment of silence in which I assume he’s formulating his answer.

“In my personal life, my close family and friends know. I am not a person with a large circle of trusted friends. I am more of a loner,” he says, and the kids all nod as if they are as well. “In my professional life, I have not disclosed it…yet.”

“Will you?”

His fingers drill the tabletop. “Maybe.” He holds up a hand when the kids lean in like they’re going to ask a ton of follow-up questions. “In the past, it hasn’t been relevant because I was not involved with someone. The decision to come out will be a joint agreement with my partner when we choose to make it public.”

“Awesome!” The freckle-faced kid bounces in his seat and turns to his friends. “How cool will it be to have two out NHL players. On the same team! My parents won’t believe it.”

Lars shifts and I can tell he’s uncomfortable. “I am not planning it soon.”

His words are a huge relief and a punch in the gut. My sobriety is so important and the hate we’d get could derail me. But he’s who I choose to have by my side.

Chapter 25

Lars

Afew minutes ago, I felt the prickle of awareness of Dylon near me. Honesty with the kids is important, but I prefer he doesn’t struggle with the pressure of being a queer role model in the NHL. There are too many expectations associated with that, and we are trying to win The Cup.

“Hey.” Dylon steps toward our folding table with his hands in his pockets. “We’re wrapping up the tours soon. Does anyone want one?” Most of the dining area has cleared out with only a few kids talking to Patrik and Jamal. I’m impressed by how welcoming the space is with artwork and murals to soften the industrial walls and brick.

“Nah, we come here all the time. We’re here for the free food,” the freckled ringleader says.

“You really can’t beat free food,” Dylon agrees and takes a seat next to me. “Don’t tell anyone, but I love the team dinners sponsored by Mr. Dimon, our GM. He’s the guy that arranged for us to come here tonight.”

The organization has taken a new approach, reaching acceptance through actions as much as words.

“Are you hockey fans?” he asks, and there’s an unmistakable flush on the teen’s fair skin when he shakes his head. “What are you into?”

The moment the kid mentions his newest game, the conversation becomes animated. They discuss the game’s universe and which abilities they prefer.

I can contribute since Dylon introduced me to the game and we play often, but I enjoy watching him interact with the kids. He treats them as equals and listens to their opinions, giving thoughtful responses.

I’m struck by the independence of the kids and the surety of their sexuality. In the group of three, one is gay, another is pan, and the other is demi. I don’t talk about my sexuality. Even my best friend, Von, and I haven’t had a direct discussion about it. He knows but hasn’t pried.

There’s freedom in saying the words out loud and claiming what you know to be true about yourself. I respect these kids immensely for their pride in declaring their truth.

When Dylon and I climb into bed, I’m still thinking about the kids. “I had fun tonight.”

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