Page 89 of Pucking Amazing

Sighing inwardly, I try to focus on the stressed man in front of me, knowing that I’d give a lot to trade this conversation for one with Tyler, where he really opens up to me about what’s going on with him…

The next morning I sit across from Tomas in my cozy office, eyeing him with concern. He hunches forward, elbows on his knees, mouth turned down at the corners.

Something is clearly weighing heavily on him today.

“What’s on your mind, Tomas?” I ask gently, giving him an encouraging smile. “This is a safe space. You can talk to me about anything.”

He exhales slowly and runs a hand through his short, dark hair. “It’s just...things with my girlfriend. They’re not good.” His accent thickens, the way it does when he’s upset.

I nod, letting him take his time. We’ve discussed his relationship issues before, but he hasn’t been ready to make any big changes yet. Here’s hoping that starts today.

“She yelled at me on the phone again last night. Called me stupid, worthless.” Tomas’s jaw clenches. Pain flashes in his eyes. “Said I care more about hockey than her and I’ll never amount to anything.”

“I’m so sorry she said those things to you. She’s abusing you, Tomas.” Keeping my voice calm and nonjudgmental, I hold his gaze. I’ll keep telling him this for as long as he needs to hear it. “You don’t deserve to be treated that way by anyone, especially your partner.”

“I know.” He shakes his head. “And I keep making excuses, but...it keeps getting worse. The insults, the anger, the jealousy. She’s so controlling. I feel trapped.”

As Tomas shares more examples, each one breaks my heart. Every time we discuss this it hits too close to home, reminding me of how Paul used to berate and belittle me. No wonder Tomas always seems on edge lately. Living under constant criticism would erode anyone’s self-worth.

“Can I share something from my own experience?” I venture when he falls silent.

At his nod, I take a deep breath.

“I was in an abusive relationship too,” I say, “not that long ago. Similar to what you’ve described—the cruel put-downs, explosive outbursts, possessiveness. It started small but escalated over time.”

Tomas’s eyes widen. “Really? But you seem so...strong. Put together.”

“It can happen to anyone,” I assure him. “Abuse is insidious like that, chipping away at you bit by bit. But Tomas, leaving was the best and bravest thing I ever did. As painful as it was, I’m happier and healthier now. I got myself back.”

“I want that too. To feel...free again. Like myself.” He straightens up, something shifting in his expression. Determination mixed with grief. “I have to end it with her, don’t I? Forever?”

“That’s a big decision, and it has to be yours. But I think you’re incredibly strong for even considering it. For valuing yourself enough to walk away from a situation that’s hurting you.” I reach out and squeeze his shoulder. “You have so much to offer, Tomas. You deserve a relationship built on love, trust and respect. Never let anyone make you feel ‘less than’.”

Tears glisten in his eyes but don’t fall. He swallows hard and nods.

“You’re right. I know you’re right. I’ve been thinking it for a while, I just...” His hands clench. “I have to do it. I have to break up with Alicia. No more living like this.”

Pride and relief swell in my chest. This is a huge breakthrough. “I’m so proud of you for making this choice. I know it isn’t easy. And I’ll be here to support you every step of the way, okay? You’re not alone in this.”

“Thank you, Sydney,” he says hoarsely. “For listening, for understanding, for...everything. I couldn’t have gotten to this point without you.”

“You did the hard work,” I tell him firmly. “This is your strength. And things will get better from here, I promise.”

We spend a few minutes going over safety strategies and self-care for the difficult days to come. As our session winds down, I’m filled with bittersweet elation.

I’m overjoyed for Tomas and the abuse-free future that awaits him.

But it’s also stirring up a lot of feelings about my own healing journey. I know I still have work to do on rebuilding my sense of self, but helping Tomas makes me feel like I’ve taken a big step forward.

Tomas stands to leave and I walk him to the door with a warm smile. “Brighter days are ahead, Tomas. For you and the team.”

Tomas smiles back, then mutters under his breath, “Unless DJ’s knee’s shot again and we’re all screwed.”

I grab his shoulder before he can leave. “Wait, what? What’s wrong with DJ’s knee?”

Tomas waves it aside as if it’s none of my concern. “Oh, nothing—I just noticed that DJ was limping off the ice today, made me kind of nervous that his old injury’s acting up again.” He shakes his head. “Last fucking thing we need right now. Anyway, thanks again, I’ll keep you updated.”

With that, Tomas exits, leaving me blinking in surprise. DJ’s hurt?

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