Page 82 of Pucking Obsessed

Now, his smile is fully genuine. “You’re the fucking best, darlin’.”

When I glimpse movement out of the corner of my eye, I hurriedly step away from Shay.

Shay swings around as well.

Colton swaggers up to the boards. His arms are crossed over his barrel chest.

His white hair and mustache are bright points in the shadows.

“Where are the other players?” I call.

“This extra practice is only for you two. After all, aren’t you thestarplayers?” Colton answers. “Why are you wasting your time chatting? Stop fooling around. You always do this. Show some dedication.”

“Yes, coach.” Shay forces himself to smile.

I shift, uncomfortable.

I can’t stop thinking about Shay’s story of his shop job.

In my head, I’m imagining a young Shay forced to smile and take shit from the players, as their families treated them to rewards for winning the same games thatShayno doubt scored to win for them.

Yet Shay’s only reward was to accept humiliation with humility, bowing his head to serve people who should have treated him like a friend.

Their brother.

I can see the immediate change in Shay now. He’s putting on the same act with Colton.

Colton watches Shay’s skating critically. “Get your ass in front of the goal, Prince. What the hell do you call that?Faster. Practice scoring. It’s the one thing that you’re good for.”

Shay winces. “I’ll do my best, coach.”

“Damn straight you will, Prince. As we don’t have Zach here, a goal counts only if it hits the post and then goes in.”

Shay grins — the masochist. “I like a challenge.”

I skate toward Colton.

The pucks are lined up in front of the goal.

Shay shoots me a cocky glance over his shoulder.

When Colton is distracted, I subtly bring my glove to my mouth and bite down on it.

A reminder of Shay’s reward for each goal is good motivation.

Shay’s cheeks flush, but he instantly looks more focused.

I know my sub.

Until Colton hollers at Shay, “If you miss the target, then you skate five laps and back for the next shot.”

What the fuck?

Instantly, Shay’s joy evaporates. His shoulders become tight with tension.

“Yes, coach.” Shay’s smile dims.

I bite my cheek hard.

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