I shake my head. “That’s true. I’m an only child. My mother’s miracle baby, so she gave me anything I wanted. I think it affected my preparation for the world.”
I turn to Wyatt. He looks at me with understanding.
“You know what hard work is because you are on this team. No matter how easy everything else was for you, hockey never was.”
I nod. “I think that’s why I chose it. I liked the challenge. Things were handed to me, but I appreciate the hard work it takes to get here. As for last year, it really was the worst year of my life. I learned a lot of truths about myself and the world.” I look up at Clay. “Lessons I needed to learn to be a better person.”
The rest of the guys keep the game going, but I’m too far in my head. I excuse myself before the game has ended, heading toward the bathroom, and Wyatt follows me inside.
“I’m okay. You don’t need to hover,” I tell him.
“I know you are. That was deep, but that’s what Clay wanted from us. You did good out there. I know he wanted to talk to you before this and what he planned to say. I wanted to let you know that not all of us agree with him. I have your back. We are a team, and that makes you family.”
I snort. “So you feel Hendricks is family?”
He shakes his head. “He’s an interloper who will be a blip on our roster. He will be gone next year. Coach is already tired of him, but we have to keep him until the end of the season unless he fucks up.”
“Thank God. I wasn’t sure I could do another season with him after this.”
“I’ll leave you alone. I just wanted to make sure you weren’t leaving and to tell you that you are making progress and to keep it up. It’s being noticed.” He steps back out the door, leaving me alone.
I take several deep breaths, my mind clearing. That feeling on my chest is still there, but it’s manageable.
When I step out of the bathroom, I see all the guys getting their phones and leaving. I wait while the line goes, seeing Clay on the side talking to Hendricks. They look like they are arguing. I don’t like how the man is stepping up to our captain.
After a moment, he snatches his phone from Clay’s hand and storms out.
Clay walks over as I finally make it up to the desk to claim my phone.
“Seems we have a new problem child,” he mutters.
“He sure is a peach,” I say sarcastically.
I turn and start to head out, but Clay calls to me.
“Where are you going?”
I frown as I look over at him. “Home?”
He shakes his head. “The entire team building is over, but we still have some bonding to do. Wyatt, ride with Kellan. Show him where to go.”
I’m confused as to why I’m being invited, but I don’t question it, and I lead Wyatt to my car.
It is only a short drive, but when we pull up to the place, I raise an eyebrow.
“Karaoke?”
He nods. “Song choice is everything, Cooper. So choose wisely.”
As he climbs out, I can’t help but smile.
This is what I missed. Having people to count on.
Cora gave this back to me.
I shoot her a quick text.
Kellan
