Page 9 of Puck & Her Blades

I feel like I’ve been rejected all over again.

But what does it mean to be a dependent? A gimmick?

I stare at Lopez in shock, as she marches to the locker and swings it open.

Inside the locker is a hideous, fluffy mascot outfit.

It’s a striking violet. A smiling mouth and eyes are attached to it, as well as dangling tights like legs and fake over-sized skates.

“What in the hell is this?” I demand. “Monsterfucker the Mascot?”

“You need your mouth washing out with soap.” Lopez slams her hand against the locker, and I jump. “This is Puck. Isn’t she pretty? She’s the new mascot for the Washington Blades.”

My heart sinks.

I can see where this is going.

Don’t say it.

Please, please, please.

“You’re lucky enough to have been chosen to become the first ever Omega hockey mascot.” Lopez looks smug. Of course, she had to say it. “Plus, you’re no longer to be known as Ice. Your name has officially been changed to Puck. You should be proud. You’re now the only person in the world who holds the record for first Omega figure skater and the first mascot. One more record and you’ll match your parents’ triple.”

I study the mascot outfit, which is hanging in the locker, before turning back to Lopez.

I feel sick.

I haven’t been matched with a pack who want to love me.

They don’t intend to bond with me.

I’ve only been chosen because I can skate.

I’m going to be out on the ice again, but instead of being able to dance beautiful, daring routines as my true self, expressing my emotions through my dance, touching the hearts and Souls of my audience, and inspiring Omegas everywhere to reach for the stars, I’m going to be hidden inside a freaky costume as Puck.

I’ll be lost. Hidden. Invisible.

A fucking joke.

Who am I going to become?

I’ve never felt so alone.

If my parents’ strict training has taught me anything, however, it’s how not to show my emotions in front of other people.

I tilt up my chin, even though I feel like I’m dying inside. “Is anyone going to meet me, before I need to go on as Puck?”

“You’re Puck all the time now. You need to accept that.” To my surprise, Lopez’s gaze softens. “It’s unusual for a new pack not to meet their Omega, even a dependent. But I imagine that they’re rather busy with the game tonight. They keep to their coach’s tight schedule, from everything that I’ve been told. Plus, you were bought last minute. I’m certain that one of them will drop in and explain things. Concentrate on getting dressed. Here’s a piece of advice. The coach is a legend. I’m certain that you know Roarke won the Alpha Cup twice as a player himself. He’s revered. But he’s a strict Traditional. He’s rumored to have a temper. So, don’t try any of your rebellious, liberal attitudes with him, unless you want to be put in your place.”

I blanch.

Wait, so I’ve been bought by an extreme Traditional as well?

I’m fucked.

“Apparently, that place is inside a mascot outfit,” I reply. “Well, also becoming a puck, but then, he owns me like a piece of equipment. So, why not?”

“And there’s the attitude.” Lopez struts to the door. “Good luck.”

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