Page 30 of Cold Carnage

"Without going into too much detail," I replied carefully, "it stemmed from a misunderstanding during an unexpected but deeply appreciated fan interaction. Tensions were already high due to missing out on the playoffs, and unfortunately, things escalated quickly."

Another reporter chimed in. "How is the team handling this internally?"

"We're addressing it head-on," I said without hesitation. "Open communication is key. We've had several team meetings since the incident to air grievances and rebuild trust among players."

I glanced at Ryker standing just behind me for support before turning back to the crowd.

"Our focus remains on growth and unity," I concluded with a determined smile. "We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we navigate through this challenging time."

Another hand shot up, and I nodded towards the reporter, bracing myself for the next question.

"Can you explain Kane's unexpected outburst during the incident?" she asked, her tone probing but not unkind.

I took a moment to gather my thoughts. "Mr. Kane's outburst was unfortunate," I began, choosing my words carefully. "It stemmed from a place of deep frustration. He is incredibly passionate about the game and his team. That night, he felt a lot of pressure and stress, which unfortunately boiled over." A murmur rippled through the room, but I held my ground. "Mr. Kane has since acknowledged his mistake and is committed to addressing it. He’s been working closely with our sports psychologist to manage his emotions more effectively in high-stress situations."

Another reporter, a man with a graying beard, raised his hand next. "Why would a fan be targeted in such a way? It seems out of character for your team, especially considering the Mathers incident so recently…"

I nodded, understanding the gravity of the question. "It's important to clarify that the fan was not intentionally targeted," I said firmly. "The altercation began as a misunderstanding and quickly escalated. The fan in question was enthusiastic but in that enthusiasm, might have teetered a line from discussinghockey to discussing things that were personal in nature. And while our team loves interacting with fans, it's a general rule of decorum that personal lives will be kept out of constructive criticisms."

I saw some heads nodding in understanding, which gave me a bit more confidence to continue.

"We've reached out to the fan personally," I added. "We’ve apologized and offered them compensation for their distress. It's crucial for us to maintain good relationships with our supporters; they are the heart and soul of our team."

The graying reporter seemed satisfied with my response and scribbled something in his notebook.

Another hand went up, this time from a young woman in the back. "How do you plan to prevent similar incidents in the future?"

I smiled slightly; this was something I had prepared extensively for. "We are implementing several new measures," I explained. "First, conflict resolution workshops will be mandatory for all team members moving forward. Second, we’re establishing clearer guidelines on how to handle interactions with fans during high-stress periods, especially in the off-season." Pausing for effect, I continued. "Finally, we’re fostering an environment where players can express their frustrations constructively rather than letting them fester."

A few more hands went up as I finished my answer, but before calling on another reporter, I glanced back at Ryker once more. His eyes met mine briefly before he stepped forward to join me at the podium. The room seemed to hold its breath. His presence commanded attention in a way that was almost unsettling. He adjusted the microphone slightly before speaking, his voice cool and measured.

“Good afternoon,” he began, his tone devoid of any warmth. “I’m Ryker Kane, and I’m here to address the incident that has caused quite a stir.”

He paused for a moment, letting his words sink in. The room was silent, hanging on his every word.

“What happened was unfortunate,” he continued, his eyes scanning the crowd. “But it’s also important to understand that emotions run high in our line of work. We push ourselves to the brink every day—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Even—and especially—during the off-season."

A few reporters nodded, their pens scribbling furiously.

“I take full responsibility for my actions,” Ryker said, his gaze unwavering. “I allowed my frustrations to get the better of me. I’m not here to make excuses. The responsibility is mine.”

There was no apology in his tone, just a stark acknowledgment of the facts.

“One thing I want to make clear,” he added, his voice growing firmer, “is that our team stands united. We are taking steps to ensure this doesn’t happen again, but we will not be apologizing for our passion or our commitment to each other.”

A murmur rippled through the room at his words. I could see some reporters exchanging glances, perhaps surprised by his bluntness.

“We’re implementing new measures to manage stress and conflict more effectively, as Ms. Adams mentioned,” Ryker continued. “But I'm taking it a step further specifically when it comes to the team."

He glanced at me briefly before turning back to the crowd.

“Paige Adams here has been instrumental in these efforts,” he said, giving me a nod of acknowledgment. “Her dedication to this team is unwavering, and her strategies have already begun to make a difference.”

My heart skipped a beat at his unexpected praise, but I kept my face composed.

“We appreciate your support as we navigate through this challenging time,” Ryker concluded. “Our focus remains on growth and unity. Thank you.”

He stepped back from the podium, signaling the end of our statements. The room erupted into questions once more, but I felt a strange sense of relief wash over me. For better or worse, we had faced this together.

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