Page 109 of Off The Rush
Don’t bother coming to the game.
“Are you kidding me?” Alec exclaims, looking as pissed off as I feel. JD just clenches his jaw, obviously trying to contain his anger.
“Unbelievable,” I mutter, tossing my jacket back onto the chair. The warmth of anticipation dissipates in an instant, replaced by frustration and disappointment.
“What happened? Why aren’t we going?” Emma asks.
“Coach says not to come,” I explain, still fuming. “Seems like we’re not wanted.”
“Is he allowed to do that? Isn’t there a protocol for suspensions?” she asks sympathetically, rubbing my arm in comfort.
“Yes there is and he isn’t following it,” Alec collapses on the couch.
“Let’s just watch the game here,” I say.
“Fine,” JD grumbles and we all gather in the living room, settling into the couch, our bodies tense with irritation.
The game starts, and I can’t help but analyze every play, my mind racing with thoughts of what I would have done differently. It’s hard to enjoy watching when all I want is to be out there on the ice myself.
“Ugh, if I were there, I would have passed to Thompson instead of taking that shot,” I say, unable to keep quiet any longer.
“Right?” Alec agrees, equally frustrated. “And did you see that missed opportunity for a breakaway earlier?”
“Yep,” JD chimes in, his voice tight. “I could have blocked that goal, no problem.”
Emma tries her best to lighten the mood, making jokes and offering snacks, but our grouchy demeanor is hard to shake. My gray eyes remain glued to the screen, my fingers gripping the couch cushions as I imagine myself in the game.
The commentator’s voice booms through the living room, and I can’t help but wince. “It’s clear that the team is struggling without their star players, especially JD Murphy, the goalie.”
“Shit,” JD mutters, downing his beer in one go.
I watch as our teammates scramble to get back in formation, but it’s too late. The opposing team scores again, and the final buzzer sounds. The screen displays the crushing score: 6-1.
“Unbelievable!” Alec shouts, slamming his empty beer can onto the coffee table. “We would’ve destroyed them if we were out there!”
“Exactly,” I agree, my hands curling into fists. “This never would’ve happened if we were out there.”
“Guys, calm down,” Emma says softly, her hand resting on my shoulder. “This isn’t your fault.”
“Doesn’t make it any less frustrating,” I snap, instantly regretting my tone. “Sorry, Em. It’s just… hard to watch.”
“I understand,” she replies, giving my shoulder a gentle squeeze.
“Ugh,” JD groans, getting up from the couch. “I can’t believe they benched us for this. Coach better change his mind after this.”
“Agreed,” Alec chimes in, his eyes still glued to the now-dimming screen.
My mind races with frustration and anger, trying to process the events of the night. The room falls silent, save for the quiet hum of the television as post-game interviews begin. We share glances, each of us feeling the weight of the situation.
We can’t lose our season because of this.
Chapter 49
As I walk down the music building’s hallway towards the dean’s office, anxiety gnaws at my stomach, twisting it into tight knots. I can’t help but think about the incident at the Spring Showcase – the one that almost ruined everything. Sure, the dean managed to save face during the concert, but what will she say when we’re behind closed doors?
“Emma Delaney?” The assistant, a woman with sleek black hair and glasses perched on her nose, looks up from her computer screen.
I nod hesitantly, my heart pounding in my chest. “Yes, that’s me.”
