Page 12 of Interference
I want to avoid Irina and my coaches as badly as I want to avoid Brett. Actually, I would rather tell Brett than them. If anything, it’s their disapproval that will cut deep. I know what they will say.
You can’t get on the ice.
While it’s safe to skate while pregnant for a while, I can’t jump, spin, or do any tricks, period. My feet have to stay firmly planted on the ground.
My heart aches at the thought of not being out there every day, pushing myself to be the best.
I have to face it, though. There’s no going back.
I force myself to get up and get ready for the day. The drive to the rink goes by quickly, and I head inside. Tears form in the corners of my eyes as I hear the sound of skates on fresh ice.
I can’t believe it’s going to be almost a year until I feel that feeling again.
It will be worth it, though. I have to believe it.
When I reach Irina’s door, I knock.
“Come in.”
Opening the door, I step inside and shut it behind me. “You wanted to see me?”
She looks up from her computer and nods. “Have a seat.”
On shaky legs, I move to the chair and do as she said.
“Did you go to the doctor?”
I lick my lips and nod. “I did.”
She raises a brow. “And.”
“I’m pregnant,” I say quietly.
Irina blinks once and then twice before shaking her head. “I’m sorry, I think I misheard you.”
My voice is even lower when I say, “You didn’t. I’m pregnant.”
A million emotions flash across her face as she shakes her head.
Sadness. Disappointment. Acceptance.
“You cannot continue to prepare for the Olympics. Or be on the ice.”
Looking down at my hands, I nod as I fight back the tears. “I know.”
“How did this even happen? I thought it was understood that mistakes like this weren’t to be made. Years of practice, time, and commitment, gone down the drain because you ‘messed up.’”
I can’t help but wince at her jab.
No, this wasn’t supposed to happen, but it did.
I can’t regret it.
I won’t.
“Are you keeping it?” she asks.
Taking a deep breath, I look her in her eyes. “Yes.”
