Page 240 of Wrong Pucking Player

“I… well… I mean…”

“When their advances got fucked, you went and talked to Mr. Champion and worked with Andrews to make a whole damn counter plan to prove Pincers deserved an upgrade.”

I didn’t know that specific part, and neither did the rest of the boys because we’re looking between Xandra and Caren, the two of them blushing.

“We knew you guys deserved better,” Xandra admits. “So, we did our best to try to fight for the team to get higher advances. I don’t think much was done when we submitted our appeal, but Caren was the one who helped me with everything. Despite being busy with helping Dr. Francisco and taking over your assessments on the days I was sick or away. Therefore, Leo has a point. Caren with a C may be perceived by many as some sort of bitch, out to get everyone, but when you learn about the real Caren, she’s a delight to be around.”

Xandra’s words actually has Caren blinking away tears.

“Jeez, Andrews. You can’t be saying emotionally moving shit like that when I didn’t use waterproof mascara,” she whispers.

“My bad,” Xandra replies with a tiny smile before she looks at everyone else. Lifting her beer, she bobs her head. “We’re here to help you guys reach the highest level in this industry. There may be some bumps in the roads, and we may not even win every time, but your rise and success are our end game, and I hope you’ll acknowledge our mission.”

“Sorry, Caren,” Royce apologizes, and soon enough, the other guys are all doing the same. “We won’t call you a bitch anymore.”

“Good,” Leo emphasizes and puts an arm over Caren’s shoulder. “And she’ll aim to be slightly nicer to you douches.”

“Not with you calling them douches,” Caren sighs but smiles as a few tears leave her eyes. “Okay. Change the subject before I’m forced to ditch to the washroom and save my makeup.”

“Let’s cheer to loyalty and being the best team we can be on the ice,” Mitchel declares.

“Cheers!” We all reach in to clink our beers before downing them.

“Let’s get another round,” Mitchel encourages.

“Hopefully, you guys don’t mind holding off until we share some news.”

We turn our heads to the two new individuals standing behind Caren and Leo.

“Mr. Champion? Coach Johnson? What are you two doing here?” I ask.

“We’d gladly explain as long as you don’t mind us elders joining you,” Mr. Champion chimes in.

“We’re not elders,” Coach Johnson groans. “Late thirties isn’t old.”

“Sure, sure,” Mr. Champion brushes off with a smirk.

“Please, have a seat,” I encourage and hope this is something good.

Fingers crossed this night will end on a high note.

PROTECT THE FUTURE WE ALL DESIRE

~MACKENZIE~

“So, we thought this would be a good place to talk, so you all wouldn’t think you’re in trouble in any way,” Mr. Champion announces after he and Coach Johnson order beers for themselves.

I know they suggested we come to this club because fans would get a chance to see the Pincers after their first win performance, but I don’t think anyone expected them to actually meet us in a place like this.

Seeing them so relaxed is a different experience.

“Why do I still feel like we’re in trouble?” Axel mutters as if none of us can hear him.

“Because sharing a table at a club with your superiors is a rare occurrence,” Kane comments but is all smiles. “Alright. Spill the truth, so we know whether this night is going to end horrendously or us continuing to celebrate our win today.”

“Be a bit more respectful Kane,” Caren scolds. “It’s Mr. Champion and Coach Johnson you’re talking to.”

Coach Johnson sighs.

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