Page 6 of Ruin The Friendship
“Got it.” I shuck my jersey over my head.
“Fuck, it feels good to be back,” Calvin says, shaking the sweat from his red hair.
I chuckle. “Couldn’t agree more. What a way to start the season.”
“Just gotta keep at it and hope for the best, my man.” He ruffles my sweaty hair.
I take the rest of my gear off, shower, and head to the press room with Calvin. The thought of doing press right now irritates me more than anything. I want to say fuck it and get to Lydia, to be with her as much as possible, but I have to remember that at the end of the day, this is part of my responsibility as a player and captain.
Calvin goes to one group of reporters while I go to the other, and they congratulate me on our win. A few people speak at once, asking me questions about plays or missed opportunities for goals. I answer everything with a non-answer, turning it around into excitement for the new season and the team.
“And how is Trigg Aadland settling in?” one reporter asks.
I run a hand through my damp hair. “Great. He’s fitting in really well. Of course, when you add a new person to a team, it can take time to get comfortable, but so far, it’s fantastic.”
“What about Crowley? Do you miss having him in the net?”
Crowley was our previous goalie who retired early to focus on his wife and kids.
“Of course,” I reply honestly. “He was a great player and teammate.”
How many more questions do I have to answer?
“He was two years older than you are now. Do you foresee yourself retiring early to start a family?”
What kind of questions are these? What do they have to do with anything?
I put on a fake smile and offer a laugh. “I don’t foresee myself settling down or having kids.”
Is that true? There’s one person I would want it all with, someone with bright blue eyes I always get lost in and rich brown curls I’d love to wrap my fingers around. I’d give up everything for her.
“At least not anytime soon,” I add quickly. “But never say never.”
With that, I offer them a tip of my head and wave, walking away as they continue to volley questions my way.
Back in the locker room, I heave a sigh. Press is all part of the job, but man, is it exhausting. I just want to play hockey.
There are only a few guys in here now; most of them have already left, probably heading to the bar or home.Wafford sits on the bench in front of his locker, staring at the puck in his hand.
“First NHL goal! Congrats, kid,” I say, sitting next to him and shoving his shoulder. “How does it feel?”
“A little surreal,” he says breathlessly, his gaze still locked on the piece of rubber.
“The feeling never gets old.” I can remember my first NHL goal like it was yesterday, and I still have the puck on my shelf at home. “You coming out to celebrate?”
His eyes grow wide. “Really? I’m invited?”
I chuckle. “Absolutely. You’re part of the team, kid.”
Calvin flops down on the opposite side of Shepherd. “You coming out, baby boy?”
Shepherd groans. “Yes, but only if you stop calling me kid or baby boy.”
“No chance,” Calvin says. “You’re our little baby.”
“What about Levine?” Shepherd asks pointedly, staring at the other rookie across the room. “He’s the same age as I am!”
“He is also baby boy,” Calvin confirms, standing up and waving him to follow.
