Page 31 of Twin Babies for the Pucking Billionaires

Axel snickers. “Guess I better practice being a nice guy.”

Coach glares at him. “One more wisecrack, Axel, and you’re benched. For real this time.”

Everyone laughs, even though we’ve heard that threat a hundred times. Coach Nate sighs but continues.

“We need to generate a buzz and fill the stands for the next game. The line-up is solid, and our only competition is the Blackhawks. If we can win in the playoffs, we’re that much closer to the Stanley Cup.”

Jamie chimes in, “The Blackhawks are tough, but we’ve got this.”

“Damn right, we do,” I add.

Coach nods. “Some of the higher-ups aren’t happy with how we ended last season. We have to make this season count.”

Declan speaks up, “We’ll put in the work, mobilize the team and put in the hours.”

Coach looks relieved. “Good. Let’s head to the rink for practice.”

We all shuffle out, making our way to the ice. The rink is closed to the public, so the stands are empty. It’s always nice to be able to focus on what we need to do as a team.

“All right, split into two teams. Declan, you lead one. Finn, you lead the other. We’re working on speed today,” Coach orders.

I grab my stick and head to the center of the rink, my team gathering around me. We start the drills Coach ordered, the sound of skates slicing through the ice filling the air.

“Let’s go, boys!” I shout, pushing us to go faster.

Declan’s team is good, but we’re better. I keep an eye on Axel, who’s skating hard, determined to prove himself. Jamie’s right beside him, pushing just as hard.

We do sprints, relay races and practice our passing. The competitive spirit is high, everyone wanting to outdo the other team. Sweat drips down my face, but I’m in the zone, fully focused.

Coach blows the whistle, signaling the end of the drill. “Good work, everyone. Take five.”

We skate to the bench, gulping down water. Axel grins at me, breathless. “That was intense.”

“Yeah, but we need it,” I reply, still catching my breath.

Coach calls us back to the ice. “We’re doing a scrimmage. Same teams. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

The scrimmage is fast-paced and brutal. Bodies collide, sticks clash, and the puck moves like lightning. I’m everywhere, directing my team, taking shots and defending our goal.

“Declan, watch your left!” I shout as he tries to break through our defense.

“Got it!” he yells back, narrowly avoiding a hit.

The game is tight, both teams giving it their all. Jamie scores a beauty and we celebrate, but Declan’s team quickly evens the score. It’s neck and neck, no one willing to give an inch.

Coach blows the whistle again. “All right, that’s enough for today. Good hustle, everyone.”

We skate off the ice, exhausted but exhilarated. As we head back to the locker room, Coach pulls me and Declan aside.

“Good leadership out there. Keep it up,” he says.

“Thanks, Coach,” we both reply.

In the locker room, the guys are still buzzing with energy. Axel, as usual, is cracking jokes, lightening the mood.

“So, what’s the deal with the puppy thing anyway?” Troy asks.

Coach Nate steps in. “We’re doing a photo shoot with Elite Paws and the local shelter. It’s for charity and we need the publicity.”

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