Page 64 of Rafferty

“Good evening, everyone,” Callum says. “Thanks for joining us after a great win against the Wildcats. I know there’s a lot to discuss. As you can see, we have Rafferty Abrams here, who will make a statement regarding the false doping allegations against him. But let’s focus on the game tonight and take those questions first.”

A reporter from the front row raises her hand, and Callum nods at her. “This question is for Coach West. How do you feel the team performed tonight, especially the defense, which seems to have tightened up significantly?”

Coach leans forward, his hands clasped. “I’m extremely pleased with our performance. The defense did tighten up, and it was a collective effort. We’ve been working on a few strategies that I think are starting to pay off. The players executed brilliantly tonight.”

Another reporter, a young guy with a notepad, turns to Penn. “Penn, two goals tonight and an assist. What was working for you out there?”

Penn smiles, although admittedly, it doesn’t seem to reach his eyes. “Just felt good tonight, you know? The line was clicking, and we found some rhythm early on. It’s all about finding those gaps and taking advantage. My teammates set me up perfectly, can’t take all the credit.”

Coach and Penn are peppered with more questions, drilling down to the impact moments during the game. They answer with the ease and confidence of a team that just came off a decisive win.

But as the game-related questions wind down, I feel the shift in the room. A seasoned reporter from a major sports network clears his throat, his eyes on me. “Now, if we can, I’d like to address Rafferty. Can you share how you’ve been dealing with the recent allegations and the effect this has all had on your game?”

I’ve been waiting for this, preparing mentally for what I’d say. I lean into the microphone. “Sure. It’s been tough, obviously. No one wants their integrity questioned, especially not over something completely false. The last few days have been really hard, especially missing the game last week against the Breakers. Formally, I’d like to thank Brienne Norcross, Coach West and Callum Derringer for their belief in me, as well as my teammates’ support. Most of all, I really appreciate the outpouring of positivity from the fans. That has meant the world to me.”

“Rafferty,” someone calls from the back of the room. “How has this specifically affected you personally?”

That doesn’t take much thought. “Again, my teammates have had my back, but I want to really thank my family. My parents are always there for me, as is my sister. I’d also like to thank my girlfriend, Tempe.” My eyes land on her, and I can see she’s shocked and embarrassed to be called out but her return gaze doesn’t waver. “She’s been my rock throughout all of this. As to how it affected me personally, I’ve tried to keep my focus on the ice. That’s where I can prove my dedication, not just to the game but to my teammates and our fans.”

A woman toward the back stands up, her recorder in hand. “We understand that someone within the organization made up these rumors. Would you care to identify that person?”

This was the question I’m most ready for. I lean forward and in a low voice, I simply say, “I would not.”

The reporter isn’t satisfied. “But there’s no proof that the lab reports and photos were fabricated. Until that part of the investigation is concluded, how do we really know what the truth is?”

Callum clears his throat as if to take the question and move the heat off me, but I beat him to it. “You know it’s the truth because I say it is, and you don’t have the person responsible to say otherwise. But what’s most important is that I took a drug test no more than an hour after the allegations broke and it was negative. You have certified copies that can’t be impeached. The Titans’ organization also got a confession from the individual and that person is no longer a part of this company, so I’m not sure what else you need to prove my innocence.”

The woman has the grace to look chagrined and lobs an easy question my way, perhaps to save face. “Can you tell us how you felt when you heard the news that you were cleared?”

Solace floods through me remembering that moment. “Relieved, obviously. Grateful for Brienne’s support and the team’s. They believed in me from the start, which meant everything. It’s behind us now, so I’m looking forward to playing hockey and helping the team win games.”

Another hand shoots up, this one belonging to a blogger known for his deep dives. “Can you comment some more on the support you’ve received from the fans during this time? Particularly since the city has so tightly rallied around the Titans since the plane crash.”

I nod, a smile finally breaking through. “The support has been incredible. It really shows you how tight-knit the hockey community is. I’ve received messages and encouragement from fans not just here in Pittsburgh, but from all over. It’s something I won’t forget, and it’s given me even more reason to give my all every time I step on the ice.”

Callum interjects because the press has all the information they need to put this story to rest. “Thanks, everyone. I think Rafferty’s answered your questions well. We’re all glad to put this chapter behind us and focus on the season ahead. Let’s keep the conversations on the ice moving forward.”

As we stand to leave, the reporters begin to disperse, some lingering to exchange thoughts on the revelations. Coach West claps me on the shoulder, a silent show of support. I’m shocked when Penn offers me a fist bump, quietly stating, “Great job.” He’s gone before I can even respond.

Turning from the dispersing crowd, I see Tempe and Farren waiting for me near the exit. Tempe’s eyes meet mine, her smile wide and proud. I make my way over to them, the fatigue of the past days finally starting to hit me.

“Hey,” I greet, slipping an arm around Tempe as I reach her. She leans into me, her presence instantly grounding.

“Hey yourself,” she replies brightly. “You were amazing up there.”

Farren, ever the supportive sister, punches my shoulder lightly. “Yeah, not bad for a guy who almost got taken down by a scandal.”

I chuckle, the sound more relieved than amused. “Thanks. Glad that’s over.”

“We were just talking about heading to Mario’s to celebrate,” Farren adds, her tone suggesting it’s more of a statement than an invitation. “Willa and Mazzy are already rallying the troops. They sent me to fetch you two.”

Tempe looks up at me, her eyes searching. “We could go, if you want. Might be fun to unwind a bit with everyone.”

The idea of a noisy bar, even with friends, suddenly feels overwhelming. I shake my head. “Actually, I’d like to go home. Chill out for the rest of the night. Just us.” The last part I say softer, meant only for Tempe.

She nods, understanding immediately. “Home sounds perfect.”

Farren, picking up on our vibe but not wanting to press, shrugs. “All right, you two old folks enjoy your quiet night. I’ll tell the gang you send your regrets.” With a playful wink, she hugs us both quickly. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” she teases, before heading out the door.

---