Page 45 of The Game She Hates

Losing the jacket is nothing compared to the pain I feel in my chest.

I stay rooted to the spot where she left me, gazing up at the sky. I raise both hands, intertwining my fingers behind my head. Where does one go from here?

I’ve fallen for a woman who considers her feelings for me a mistake.

Ouch, that stings.

30

Zane Ortiz

After the “mistake” with Pearl, I made my way back to the reception hall to inform Coach and his family that I was heading home. Even though part of me wanted to slip away unnoticed, I couldn’t bring myself to do so. Before he let me go, he shared with me that there’s an important announcement he wants to make after practice, just before the press release. He asked me to spread the word to everyone.

I’m not sure why he specifically singled me out for this task. Usually, it’s Tyler who’s the go-to guy for these kinds of things—he knows how to keep tabs on everyone.

Maybe Coach has noticed how I’ve been stepping up my game lately—handling conflicts, putting in the extra effort in practice, and improving my teamwork off the ice.

Perhaps the potential he once saw in me wasn’t just wishful thinking after all.

I send out a quick text, reminding everyone to dust off their professional attire and brace themselves for an announcement from Coach and the board.

My gut tells me it’s about Tyler’s retirement, a fact everyone’s already clued in on. I know the media’s itching to know what’s next for the team.

If those old rumors turn out to be true, and Coach has truly managed to convince the board to overlook my past suspensions, tomorrow could change everything for me.

It’s just tough to get hyped up for it all after what happened with Pearl.

I need to apologize, even if there’s a chance she won’t reply. If by some strange twist of fate, I completely misunderstood our moment, I can only hope she’ll forgive me. But apologizing for what could easily be classified as the best kiss of my life? That definitely doesn’t feel normal to me.

Zane

I’m sorry if I forced you into something you didn’t want. I tried my best to respect you, your body, and the boundaries I believe you hold. But you running away made me realize I still failed you somehow. It won’t happen again.

Her text bubble appears and I sit up straight on my bed. It’s been a while since I saw her typing. It feels like we’re texting for the first time—a giddy feeling rushes over me.

Sweet P

You didn’t do anything wrong, Zane. Sorry for running away with your jacket.

Zane

Keep the jacket, my clothes always look better on you. But why did you really run away? That kiss... It felt like you were finally showing me what’s really in your heart.

Sweet P

The heart is deceitful. Just because we had a moment that felt right to both of us doesn’t mean it was a good idea in the grand scheme of things.

Zane

So you agree it felt right? Can I call you? I have something I wanted to share with you today.

Sweet P

I know tonight brought a lot of confusion, and really, it’s all my fault. I’ve known your intentions since the very first day, and I owe you a big apology. Can we talk another time?

Zane

Let me know when you’re ready to talk. Good night.

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