Page 79 of The Play Maker

Cherry:

Wouldn’t you like to know.

My lips twitch.

Me:

I would. Tell me.

Cherry:

Maybe I’m out living my best life without you.

I shake my head, leaning back in my seat as the scoreboard flashes—end of second period. We’re up by two.

I lower my eyes back to my screen, typing out a reply.

Me:

Not possible. I’m great company.

Are you out shopping again? Clubbing? Secret underground chess tournament?

Cherry:

None of the above. I’m at a hockey game.

My brows pull together.

Me:

Wait, what?

Cherry:

You seem so surprised.

Surprised that Cherry is at a fucking hockey game? Yeah, I am.

Me:

I just didn’t know you liked hockey.

Cherry:

I’m still deciding if I do. I kind of hate how aggressive it is.

I glance back at the ice just in time to see Cole take a monster hit near the boards. He bounces off like a pinball, his shoulder crumpling slightly as he skates it off. The whole crowd lets out that collectiveoooh.

My nose scrunches, practically feeling the pain. That was a hard hit.

Cherry:

For example, a guy just got slammed into the boards. How is that fun to watch?

My heartbeat stutters.

I sit up straighter, my thoughts running wild.