Page 139 of The Substitute
Rhys: Teddy told me. I’m assuming it’s open?
That actually makes a lot of sense since Savage hasn’t tried to hide it and his roommate knows. I’m guessing that guy plays hockey too. How did I surround myself with hockey players?
Tobi: My…roommate plays hockey too. He wouldn’t shut up about it so I agreed to come to make him shut up.
Rhys:
Rhys: Since my goalie played like shit, I’m guessing you’re still not talking to him.
Tobi: I hate that my fucking business is so obvious to all of you.
Rhys: So what are you doing at the game?
Tobi: Being supportive or whatever. I didn’t know I’d get the third degree.
Rhys: I have a team meeting. Enjoy the game.
As the game goes on, I get more confused. How is slamming someone into the side wall things not a penalty? What is that clear stuff made of that doesn’t break when people are thrown into it? I start searching for the information and end up down a wormhole about how uniforms and pads have changed over the years.
The buzzer sounds, and they announce that the first period is over. The crowds of people stand and move around, heading for bathrooms and snacks, I assume.
Two more periods. I can do this.
I get some food and make my way back to my seat without anyone talking to me, thankfully. As I’m shoving a piece of pretzel into my mouth, my phone buzzes.
Ambrose: You must be my lucky charm.
Tobi: Why?
Ambrose: Are you not watching?
Tobi: It’s impossible to understand what’s going on.
Ambrose: There is a giant score board and an announcer?
Tobi: I don’t know what any of the words he’s saying mean!
Ambrose: I’ve gotten a goal and an assist!
Tobi: And that’s good?
Ambrose: You are fucking killing me, smalls.
Tobi: Smalls?! That seems rude.
Ambrose: It’s from the Sandlot. Have you not seen it?
I google the movie.
Tobi: It came out in 1993. How the fuck old are you?
Ambrose: It’s a classic!
I chuckle and shove more pretzel into my face, leaving some sticking out, and snap a picture to send him.
Tobi: Does this help?
Ambrose: It will do for now.
