Page 189 of Rookie Attraction

“Of course.”

“I could stay closeted, but who knows how long my hockey career might be? I can’t take another four years of pretending, never mind ten or fifteen.”

“No one gets it more than me.” I look at him and grip his shoulder. “And you know no matter what, I’ve always got your back.”

Chapter Thirty-One

SELWIN

NEW YORK

Arriving at LaGuardia airport is always an adventure. Especially in late December when there’s snow, ice, and wind gusts that have you clutching tight to the armrests until the plane rolls to a full stop. Despite that, I’m glad to be home and ready to play hockey, even though Finn will be a week behind me. His mom’s resting at home now, on oral antibiotics, and while his dad got back to work on the farm, Finn decided to stay a few more days to assist her.

I thought my mother would give me a break by letting go of her need to talk to Finn as soon as possible, but she insisted, and he graciously agreed. Of course, Finn charmed her so much they’re now texting and planning a meetup next month. I’m thrilled, even if my gut tells me that those two are going to be trouble together. I can only imagine what’ll happen when Finn meets Karson and Atticus…

More than anything, I’m returning to New York with nerves flying high. Not for me; for Karson. We spent a lot of time on our break hanging out, no distractions, and the more Karson talked about coming out, the more at ease he looked. I suggested he reach out to a therapist and start from there. He agreed. Good thing Karson’s smarter than I am. He’s taking his time; I made up my mind in the summer and winged it from there. Still, you can have the best strategy to win the game, but shit happens, and you gotta be prepared to pivot. I’m hoping my brother has an easier time than I did, but I’m also aware that he might not.

As I make my way through the arrival area, I’m so busy thinking about all this stuff that I don’t clock the group of reporters until their mics are crammed in my face. Cameras flash and I reach for my sunglasses. The shouting starts and while I’m tempted to haul ass, I pause and let them ask their questions. I don’t know who tipped them off about my arrival time—Hugo—and I’m pissed. Pissed, but not running away.

“Kirkland! Any further comment on your breakup with Taylor Grimaldi?”

“How are you feeling after that road trip in December? Is the defensive team helping or hurting the Rush?”

“What about Brady saying you’re the reason the team’s struggling? And his suggestion about your relationship with the rookie?”

More questions are lobbed at me, but it’s hard to hear with all the noise. I clear my throat and raise my hand.

“I have no further comment when it comes to Taylor, so please, move on to other, more exciting news.”

A couple of reporters chuckle and I continue.

“I gave a statement a week ago and commented on the team’s efforts. I won’t be answering any more questions on this topic. When it comes to Brady, he has a lot of opinions, but I don’t care for any of them. If I have something to say about my relationship with Finn Baran, I’ll be the one to say it. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go home and do laundry before practice day.”

Hugo’s going to be ticked off at my comment about Finn, but I don’t give a shit, especially if he’s the one who sicced these reporters on me without warning. Finn and I discussed how we want to handle this and I’m sticking to it. Brady tried to put a target on our backs. We can’t stop the speculation that’s followed, but we’re not going to tell anyone anything until we’re ready.

I offer a polite smile to the reporters and push my way through the crowd.

When I finally escape into my rideshare, I tap my phone.

Sel: You’ll see me on the news shortly. Reporters got me when I landed in NYC. I think I handled it pretty well but be mindful on your return. You may get ambushed. Text or call me when you can. Love you.

A minute later, my phone buzzes.

Finn: Are you okay?

Sel: I’m fine. They caught me off guard, but I’m handling things better now, don’t worry.

Finn: You’d tell me if you aren’t?

Sel: Swear on my skates

Finn: Okay. How did they know where/when?

Sel: Hugo’s my best guess. I’m calling him next.

Finn: Wow, welcome home

Sel: Right? Call you later, miss you, love you