Page 24 of Icebound Attraction

As expected, the coach gives me a stern look.

“Sorry, I forgot the time when I was studying,” I lie.

“Don't let it become a habit! Off to the ice,” he says coldly.

I focus and it helps me forget my little panic attack. It's like entering another world when I'm on my skates.

After training, Coach Franklyn invites me into his office.

“Are you ready for tomorrow's exam?” he asks, slightly worried.

Holy shit! I completely forgot about this exam.

“Uh, yes...” I say uncertainly.

He breathes a sigh of relief. He obviously believes me.

“Good to hear! Good luck Liam,” he says, letting me go.

Once again, I rush home. I throw my bag in the corner and immediately sit down at my desk. I frantically rummage through my papers until I find the material I'll be tested on tomorrow. And I can't understand a word I'm reading. Yet I try to concentrate and learn it all by heart.

When my eyes start to burn, I throw the documents on the table, resigned, and go to bed. Why do I have such a hard time getting myself to study and get good grades outside of sports? I'm no dumber than anyone else, but it just won't go in! With my thoughts racing, I go to bed, unsure of what's going to happen tomorrow.

***

Nervous and tired at the same time, I sit in the examination room and struggle to keep my leg still. A student turns to me and glares. Some of the questions aren't that difficult and I manage to answer them. But as for the rest, I can't do a thing...

I leave my office early and, once I've handed in my copy, I walk into the campus park, frustrated. Business isn't my thing. My future manager will take care of everything for me.

I sigh.

In spite of everything, I have to finish my studies with good grades. Hell, I can do it! I've got the motivation to do it, I've got to keep going.

In the days that follow, I try to reconcile my training program with my academic obligations. I stay up until midnight every night to study for tests and exams. But very quickly, my tiredness has a negative impact on my athletic performance.

Once again, Coach Franklyn summons me to his office. It's almost becoming a habit these days.

“You look tired, Liam. Is everything all right?”

“Perfectly all right, Coach. I studied late last night, that's all,” I reply sincerely.

“If you need time to study, you can also skip training for a few days,” he suggests.

“No way, coach! If I don't train, I might not get drafted,” I protest.

“You have to find a better balance. You can't go on like this. Please try to get organized. Something that will help, without burning you out. Maybe you need a tutor for your classes? Think about it.”

I sigh and leave his office. I feel like I'm sinking into an abyss, and I don't know how I'm going to get out of it. The responsibility of being team captain and achieving my goals at university is weighing heavily on me.

When I get to my room, I sit down in front of my laptop and log on to the exam portal. The results are due to be announced today. I take a deep breath and close my eyes before reopening them and clicking on the result.

Failed the exam. Of course.”

It's not surprising, but I'm still upset. It's hard to breathe again and I'm desperate to move. I just want to slide on the ice and not think about anything.

“That's enough stress for today,” I decide, gathering my things.

Fortunately, the rink is empty. Just what I need. I grab a few pucks and practice shooting at the goal. Absorbed in my frustration, I don't even notice that Chase has entered the ice. When I turn around, he's skating towards me.

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