Page 253 of Wrong Pucking Jersey

“Hmm. You know, sometimes I feel you should have gone into crime logistics or become a detective.”

“It was my second career choice, but I couldn’t let the Cyrus legacy go to the pits of hell. It’s a sin, punishable by death, to go against your father’s future for you.”

“I’m glad your dad is fucking dead.”

There’s a chuckle.

“Me, too. Wyatt can live his life and make his own decisions. If he was around, he’d never let him be interested in Mackenzie.”

“Are they dating?”

“Honestly, I feel like they’re playing it out, but there may be a competitor.”

“Fun.”

“Drama and tribulations.”

“If Jayce really is the culprit, how will we prove it? Dimitri may be able to trace it better than the police, who we know are easily bribed not to say shit, but they won’t let it reach the public.”

“You’re right, they won’t.”

“Then?”

“We’re not asking for the police’s permission, Isaac. All we have to do is find the evidence and begin to connect the dots. Then you find someone who can map it all together and post it on a platform that will get the world’s attention.”

“And who would possibly do that?”

“A little birdy, who’s a brilliant doctor by day, told me she’s hosting a social media influencer. She’s grown rather popular in recent weeks and would gladly work with us to get the exposure we need to aid our rise toward the finals.”

“The Moscow photographer.”

“Her code name is Iris.”

“You know that will make us look bad.”

“Depends on when your captain fucks up, Isaac.”

“I feel like I’m setting him up for failure.”

“That’s the coach in you talking.”

“True.”

“If we have to play dirty, Isaac, we play dirty. You already know firsthand how this industry can destroy anyone. That includes the men of the teams we’re coaching. We have to protect them because no one else will. If that means saving them from the ticking time bomb within their own circle, so be it.”

“I want to try something?”

“What?”

“We have three games left before the semifinals, yes?”

“Yes.”

“I’m benching Jayce for three of them.”

“Due to his potential involvement and to give the police time to wrap up their investigation. I’m following.”

“I have a strong feeling you guys can make it to the semifinals.”

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