Page 18 of Offside Attraction

I resist the urge to scowl.

I shove my hands into my pants pockets and stare back at her as she leans into her chair, fingers interlaced against her chest. It’s obvious she doesn’t tolerate bullshit.

“I’m willing to overlook this since it’s your first day,” she says. “But inmyschool, I don’t allow smoking.”

Oh. Fuck.

I lift my hand to my left ear, my fingers brushing the cigarette tucked there. Slowly, I pull it out and slip it into my pocket.

How the hell did I forget that?

“If I catch you smoking on or around school premises again, you’ll be suspended indefinitely,” she continues. “And your appearance—this is a clear violation of our dress code. Where is your tie? Why isn’t your uniform tucked in?”

I sigh, already over this, and start fixing my clothes—tucking my shirt properly into my pants, buttoning the top buttons.

“And your tie?” she presses.

“Must’ve left it in my locker.”

Her scowl deepens. “Must have?” She gives me a slow once-over. “This isn’t New York, young man. And when you address me, you will addma’amat the end of your sentence. Am I clear?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“I don’t want to see you back in my office—not tomorrow, not next week, not at the end of the term. You stay out of trouble, and I won’t make your life difficult here. Do you understand?”

I force a smile. “Yes, ma’am.”

For fuck’s sake. Are we done yet?

As irritating as this is, it’s nothing new. I’ve sat across from more principals than I care to remember—always for the same reasons. Smoking. Dress code violations. Detentions. Other stupid shit.

I’m not proud of it.

“Good,” Principal Caldwell says with a sigh. “Now—one more thing. You’re an athletic kid. I can see it. I suggest you consider participating in extracurricular activities. Sports, especially.”

She pauses, watching my reaction.

“You might try ice hockey. With your build, I’m sure you’d fit in somewhere. Besides, Hayes Griffin is our star player, and there’s always room for fresh blood.”

I stiffen.

Of course.

Why am I not surprised?

Hayes Griffin.

Star of the ice hockey team.

Another reason for everyone to worship the ground he walks on.

Ever since I’ve known him, Hayes has played hockey—and he was good. Too good. He was Dalton Middle School’s golden boy, team captain, the pride of the rink. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised he carried it into high school. Hell, he’ll probably play in college too.

I played hockey once.

For a while.

Until Hayes made sure I stopped.