Page 85 of Wrong Pucking Jersey

“Not sure,” Maddox replied.

“Nah.” Damien doesn’t seem interested.

“Probably not,” I admit. “I honestly just want to chill. What are you doing this weekend, Mishka?”

“Going to the cemetery.”

None of us say a word, but we’re all looking her way.

She doesn’t seem pained by admitting it, but she does get off Damien’s lap, a sign she’s disassociating herself.

“I just realized I promised to pass by Mack’s dorm before sundown. She had some conflict with Caren with a C.” I know it’s just an excuse not to talk about it. “Do you guys mind waiting around? I won’t be long.” She looks back at us, and man…

Our baby girl is still hurting.

She hides it so perfectly, but I know we all see it.

“Go ahead, baby,” Maddox encourages. “Take your time. We’ll chill here.”

“Okay.” She smiles thankfully at us before she grabs her new card key and heads out.

“Fuck,” I curse after a long silence. “It’s this weekend.”

“Yeah,” Maddox answers and stands up. “Coach Johnson was saying she’s been drinking a lot this week and last. We should stay with her if she’ll let us.”

“Agreed,” Ace confirms. “Man, can’t believe we’re back here.”

“Except separated,” Damien mumbles. “So plans are to stick here for the weekend.”

“Yup,” the rest of us agree, and he nods. “Better go buy some food and drinks before the store closes.”

“I’ll come with,” Ace replies, and they’re up. “Tell Mickey we went to buy her cake.”

“Don’t get her hopes up,” Maddox laughs but nods. “Don’t take too long.”

“Cool.”

They’re gone, leaving me with Maddox.

“You good?” Maddox asks, staring my way.

“More than good,” I assure him and rise up. “I’m gonna go piss.”

He blocks my path, though, his tall ass right in my path.

I hate being shorter than him.

Like why am I 5’11” and not a good 6’6”?

God can’t tell me he doesn’t have favorites.

At least I’m a goalie, so my height isn’t as detrimental in the game.

Would have helped, though.

“You sure?” Maddox asks again and leans in close.

“Fuck…” I curse under my breath, which doesn’t scare our captain off. There’s something different between him and Damien. I can’t pinpoint it, but these two seem to be very bold as of late. “I-I’m fine.”

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