Page 120 of Off The Rush
“From what you’ve told me,” the director begins, his voice steady and measured, “and from my own investigation, it’s clear that you boys have been treated unfairly in this situation.” He pauses, letting his words sink in, and I feel a spark of hope flicker within me. “Your… unconventional relationship has nothing to do with hockey and should never have affected your status on the team.”
I let out a quiet sigh of relief, feeling some of the tension leave my body. Beside me, JD shifts in his seat, and I can see the gratitude in his eyes. Luka gives us a small, reassuring smile, and I know we’re all thinking the same thing - it’s going to be okay.
“Furthermore,” the director continues, “Coach has been fired, effective immediately. The assistant coach will take over for the rest of the season.”
My eyes widen at the news. While I knew the coach had crossed a line, I hadn’t expected him to be fired. But maybe it’s for the best. With a new coach at the helm, we can finally focus on what truly matters: hockey.
“Thank you, sir,” I say earnestly, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders. “We won’t let you down. We’ll give it our all on the ice.”
JD and Luka nod in agreement, their faces reflecting the same determination.
“See that you do,” the director replies, his stern expression softening ever so slightly. “Now, go get ready for your next game. And remember, keep your personal lives separate from hockey.”
“Of course, sir,” we all respond in unison, rising from our seats.
As we leave the director’s office, I can’t help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. We’ve been given a second chance, and we won’t waste it.
As we stand up to leave, the assistant coach, now head Coach Benson, enters the room. He’s a tall, black man with a strong build and friendly eyes that seem to radiate warmth.
“Sorry for all the trouble Coach caused you boys,” the director replies, looking genuinely apologetic. “But now it’s time to move forward.”
“Thank you, we will,” I say.
He nods at us with a smile. “Just wanted to add my kudos for standing your ground. But remember, no more fights on or off the ice. You don’t want anything else jeopardizing your spot on the team.”
“Understood,” Luka says in his calm, collected manner.
“Also,” our new coach continues, “I’ve heard some NHL scouts have been sniffing around lately. Keep your focus on the game, and who knows what opportunities might come your way. You’ve always been on the NHL’s radar.”
NHL scouts? The idea sends a thrill through me. It’s every hockey player’s dream to make it to the big leagues. If we can impress those scouts, our futures could be set – not just for ourselves, but for Emma too.
“Thanks for the heads-up,” JD replies, a determined gleam in his warm brown eyes. “We’ll give it everything we’ve got.”
“Good to hear,” Coach Benson says, clapping us on the back as we exit the office. “Now go get ready for the next game!”
As we step out of the director’s office, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement course through me. We’re back on the team, and our future in the NHL is within reach. Luka, Alec, and I exchange grins and pull each other into a tight group hug.
“Guys, we did it! We’re back!” I exclaim, my voice muffled by their shoulders.
“Damn straight,” JD says, giving my back a firm pat.
Luka laughs, his eyes sparkling with happiness. “And now that we’ve got this chance, we’ll make the most of it. For us, for the team, and for Emma.”
I nod vigorously. “Absolutely. We’ll play our hearts out and show everyone just how valuable we are.”
“Speaking of Emma…” JD trails off, pulling away from the hug. “We should go tell her the good news!”
“Definitely,” I agree, feeling a warmth in my chest at the thought of sharing this moment with her. “She’s gonna be so proud.”
“Then let’s not keep her waiting,” Luka says, motioning towards the exit.
Chapter 55
It’s been a week since the guys got their good news, and we’re all lounging in my living room, feeling more content than ever. The sun streams through the window, casting a warm glow on Luka, Alec, and JD as they sit sprawled across the couch and floor.
“I can’t wait for playoffs,” JD admits, his brown eyes lighting up with excitement. “The professional scouts are going to love us.”
“Hey, we earned it,” Alec chimes in, his blue eyes twinkling mischievously. “And you know what? We’re going to kick ass out there.”
