Page 32 of Breakaway

Getting a root canal.

Expressing Lady Sterling’s anal glands.

Receiving a million reply-all emails.

When the photographer dropped her arms and declared the shoot finished, I sagged in relief. Fletcher swaggered over, a mischievous smile on his handsome face.

“You survived. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone look so miserable before,” he joked. I stuck out my tongue, not hiding my embarrassment well.

“Henley doesn’t like being the center of attention,” Reese said, bumping my shoulder.

“They have a point,” I admitted, smiling at my sibling and not noticing the others gathering around us.

“It was a privilege to meet you both,” Nova said, as she stepped closer. “I’ve been curious about you both this season.”

“You have?” I asked, shocked.

“Of course. You’re both breaking ceilings. If you ever need to vent about it, let me know. My journey has not been an easy one.”

I nodded, my eyes wide. “Thank you, that’s very kind of you. You would be an excellent ally to have.”

“I agree. You can get my number from Keaton.”

Nova turned to Reese, picking up their hands. “You, little one, are magnificent, brave, and strong. Your fight won’t be easy, but you’re not alone. There are many of us who have been fighting, paving the way so it’s not so hard. You’re picking it up and taking it places we’ve never dreamed of breaking through. There are kids out there who will watch you play and feel seen for the first time in their life. You’re working for more than goals and records, for more than medals and cups. You’re working to make this sport a safe place for everyone. And that is the biggest reward you could ever gain. Please call me if you ever need a friend or someone who gets it. Okay?”

Reese nodded, tears brimming in their eyes. “Thank you. I will.”

I casually wiped my own, forgetting I had on fake eyelashes, and my fingers came away with a smear of makeup. Oops.

Nova smiled. “Can I give you a hug?”

Reese nodded, accepting the hug from them. There was a piece in my heart that settled at seeing Reese accepted and admired. I wasn’t the only one who saw them for the beautiful person they were.

Nova pulled back and patted Reese’s cheek before they walked away. I swear they left fairy glitter in their wake, making me blink to see if I was hallucinating.

“It was an honor to be part of this campaign with you,” Rohan said, his voice soft-spoken. “I look forward to facing you on the ice someday, Reese Henshaw.”

“Deal. I won’t go easy on you either,” Reese said, doing a special handshake with Rohan.

“I would expect nothing less. Best of wishes in your future endeavors.” Rohan bowed his head, moving over to talk to Keaton.

I lifted my eyebrow at Reese. “Okay, Popularity Captain,” I teased.

“Captain?” they asked, chuckling.

“I couldn’t think of another gender-inclusive word. Our language really needs more.” I shrugged as Reese thought about it, walking with me.

“Yeah. You’re right. Captain works then. I like the sound of that.” Reese smiled, reminding me I needed to make captains for the teams.

Once we had the wardrobe off, we used the wipes the makeup artist handed us. It felt like an hour before my face felt normal again, free of makeup. I tossed the last wipe into the trash, cringing at the pile I’d gone through.

“If I never have to wear makeup again, it will be too soon.”

Reese shook their head, but they didn’t deny what I’d said, so I took that as a win.

“Ready?” I asked, picking up the bag of goodies Keaton had given us. We got to keep all the stuff we’d worn and used today.

“Yep. Can you drop me off at the twin’s house? Sera’s making homemade lasagna tonight, and we’re going to do a movie marathon.”

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