Page 141 of Unraveling Rain
In the locker room, Coach gives us a rundown—talks about grit, focus, and winning every battle. I zero in on my own goal: the puck hitting the net.
“We gotta get out there and play like I know we can. Let the noise fuel us,” I say to Viktor and Nico, my linemates. “Let’s go and kick some ass.”
The boys nod. We tap our sticks together, ready for war.
The second period starts, and Coach motions for me to get on the ice.
I grin as I take my position.
Matt wins the face-off and gets control of the puck. I shift into motion, ready.
He sends the puck my way, and I sprint forward.
I spot one of their defensemen closing in fast. I slide the puck to the other side, knowing Nico is there.
He picks it up and passes it to Viktor, who’s immediately flanked by two Boston players.
I’m open—and Viktor sees it.
He sends the puck my way, and I don’t even think. I lift my stick and hit it hard.
The puck slices through the air.
When the siren blares, I thrust my stick high, triumphant.
Viktor’s the first to reach me, throwing his arms around me.
“Fuck, yes. We got this,” he says, and I smile—because I know he’s right.
The rest of the game plays out with the same intensity, and thankfully, Cody’s in the zone. He stops every one of Boston’s shots.
Final score: 3-1, Red Wolves.
I’m ecstatic.
Two more road games until I’m back home with my Cherry.
I wave once more at my parents and Gramps before heading to the locker room. They always wait in the media zone—it’ll be nice to chat for a bit.
A reporter approaches, mic in hand. “Hell of a game, González,” he says, patting my back.
“Yes, it was definitely a team effort,” I say. “We’re very happy with the outcome.”
He turns to the camera and starts listing stats. “González had one goal and one assist, and goalie Cody Ritcher stopped fifteen shots on goal—it was a phenomenal night for the Carolina Red Wolves.”
I wipe sweat from my brow, smiling at the camera, proud of my goal and assist.
“I don’t want to jinx you so early in the season,” the reporter continues, “but judging by these first few games, it looks like you’ve picked up right where you left off last season. Any comments on that?”
I nod, pausing a beat.
“Yeah, I’m beyond grateful to bounce back after last year’s season-ending injury,” I say, looking directly into the lens. “But I need to give credit where it’s due. A whole team of doctors, therapists, and psychologists made this possible. I wouldn’t be here without them—thank you.”
As I speak, my mind drifts to Serene Lookout. I hope Ruin, Dr. Gutierrez, Dylan, and everyone back in Azalea Creek are watching.
“That’s great,” the guy says. “I’m sure the entire Carolina fanbase is grateful too.”
He clears his throat. “I don’t want to keep you, so one more question: What’s your favorite snack these days? I’m sureeveryone at home would like to know what their favorite Carolina forward is craving.”
