Page 168 of The Fake Out Flex

Fraser has stepped up and taken the lead on that side of things, organizing structural repairs to fix the damaged roofing, replacing the outdated HVAC system, resurfacing the ice, upgrading the cooling system, installing new boards and glass, and basically making the stadium a place people would want to come and bring their families and friends to.

We've hired a small team to help with spreading the word about the two teams we'll be putting together, because yes, I want the teams I coach to be available to all kids. One team will be for boys and girls, and the other team will be for any child who wants to play, irrespective of their physical or intellectual abilities.

Support personnel are handling operations, admin, logistics, marketing, and communications.

My focus has been on getting ready to coach. Luckily, I know a guy who knows a thing or two about the game.

No, not Fraser.

My dad.

Hockey has always been the thing that's connected us, and I love that he's involved in this venture, too. It's been great spending time setting up the team together with him. He's been an invaluable source of information for me, allowing me to run my ideas by him, and he really does give the best advice.

I also enrolled in a USA Hockey coaching education program. Because while, yes, I know the game inside out, and yes, I have a lifetime of practice in doling out feedback, I'm determined to take this seriously. Just because I'm coaching junior and para teams doesn't mean I'm not going to be the best coach I can be. These kids deserve it.

And of course, I had to come up with a name for the team.

It took me a while to land on something special.

I'll never forget Fraser's face when I told him what I'd settled on. I was worried he'd think it was stupid, or might not want me to use it, but he got all choked up, hugged me, and said it was the best team name ever.

So what name did I choose?

Why, that would be…drum roll please…The Comfort Bay Oakeys.

It's perfect, don't you think?

I've never been as excited about anything like I am this. For the first time in my life, I believe in myself, and I've got the support and love of the most incredible guy ever. What more could I ask for?

"And why aren't you dressed up?" Summer asks, snapping me out of my thoughts. "It's a little strange how the only person not in a costume is the girlfriend of the guy who's throwing the party."

I smile, because yeah, being referred to as Fraser's girlfriend will never grow old, either.

"Guys, I am just as much in the dark about this as you are. Fraser gave me strict instructions not to dress up in costume. That's all I know."

Hannah: "And you didn't ask him why not?"

Me: "Of course I did. I asked him about a million times. I badgered him on a level that would make Mom proud."

Beth: "And?"

Me: "And nothing. That man is like a vault. I couldn't get anything out of him."

Summer: "So you really have no idea why Fraser has gathered pretty much everyone the two of you know?—"

Beth: "Which is pretty much everyone in Comfort Bay."

Summer: "Right, and asked us to wear these ridiculous costumes, but allowed you to wear that amazing dress, which I am so borrowing from you?"

Me: "I honestly don't know. And thank you, you can borrow it anytime you like."

Summer: "Thanks."

Beth: "And why is he throwing a historical romance-themed party? Does Fraser even like historical romance?"

Me: "That would be a hard no."

Hannah: "Guys, look, let's give Fraser some credit here. I'm sure he's got something amazing planned. After all, he did pull off the all-time most epic romantic gesture in Comfort Bay's history by buying Evie a hockey stadium and a junior team."

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