Page 93 of Puck'n Bully
“Logan...”
He suddenly turns to me and squeezes my shoulder, looking straight into my eyes. “Just know that we don’t care who you love either. As long as it’s someone worth your attention, we’ll support you.”
My eyes widen at the implication of what Logan is telling me.
Does he know about me and Liam?
How?!
“Well...just make sure you’re not distracted, Bastian,” Coach says, clearing his throat. “Other than that, no one cares what you get up to.”
Logan leans closer and whispers. “Orwhoyou get up with.”
I stare at him but there’s no malice or mockery on his face.
Onlyunderstanding.
Am I dreaming?
I have to pinch my arm to make sure I’m still rooted to reality, that my coach seriously said I’m getting drafted, that both my coach and my team’s captain are telling me they don’t care about my relationship with Liam.
I spent years fearing this exact moment.
Until now, hockey was the only thing that gave meaning to my life. Even imagining the consequences of my truth coming out filled me with cold terror.
I knew I’d never be able to handle my teammates’ rejection.
That’s why I almost gave up on Liam. I gave up on looking for happiness.
But Logan and Coach are telling me it doesn’t matter.
I try to keep breathing as my mind reels.
They’re not rejecting me. They’re even telling me they’ll protect me from my father.
I look back at Logan. Reallylookat him.
For the first time in my life, I’m not just seeing a teammate.
I’m seeing a friend. A brother.
Warmth spreads through me as the realization settles deep into my chest.
I finally have support. I have people who care enough about me to fight for me.
A strange emotion flares through me, assuring me that everything’s going to be okay, after all.
It’s hope...I realize with a start. And suddenly, I can’t wait to see Liam and tell him about every incredible thing that’s happened to me today.
31
Hayden
It’s almost dark by the time I’ve changed and stepped out of the locker room. Unable to hold myself back from telling Liam everything, I grab my phone from my bag.
Opening the phone’s screen, I see there’s an unread text from Liam.
Can you come to my apartment tonight?The text says.I’ve got to tell you something and this can’t wait!
