Page 60 of Rise Above

“Look, shit happens.” I looked at both my friends,

brows furrowed as I continued to rub my neck and head. “Sometimes, we just get too into our heads. Clearly, all three of us are impacted by these women. Aife just wants to be friends right now. It’s disappointing, but I’m not going to let it get to me. If they still want us, we have to accept that.”

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Davis stared at me like I had two heads. Usually, he

was the smart, thoughtful one. “Man, one day with Aife, and you’re already smarter.”

“Y’all are idiots.” Laughing, I finally sat down next

to my friends. “Can we watch the damn game now?”

Zeke rolled his eyes. “Which one of your brothers

are we watching on this fine Sunday?”

“It’s the playoffs for baseball. I think we’ll be stuck

watching the Houston Galaxy,” Davis said and finally drank his beer.

“I don’t care if my little brother is on the team, the

Dragons will not play on my TV.” Seriously, fuck the Dragons.

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CHAPTER 9: BREAKING

TALON

Weekday games were a little weird. They were still

lively, but they weren’t quite as packed as a Friday or weekend game. Part of me loved them more because they were the loyal fans, but I did miss the sold-out arenas. Regardless, I was just happy to be playing. Hockey was my passion, my reason to breathe most days, especially after Dad died. I knew it wouldn’t last forever, so I chose to revel in the time I had. Plus, Aife would be here, and I was determined to score at least one goal for her.

Chris threw some hockey tape at me. He sat down

with me on the bench as I began to tape up my stick. Chris was our captain, a true leader. The Hammers were his first

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and only team. This year, he had picked me as assistant captain. It was an honor that he trusted me to help lead this team. The Hammers weren’t my first team, but I loved being here. It helped that Zeke was also on the team. This had been my family for four years.

“Red Cougars tonight.” Chris was a man of few

words. “You ready?”

“When am I not?” I sent him a smirk. Hockey made

the arrogance jump out of me. I thrived on it, craving the tunnel-like focus that came from the game.

He just shook his head. “Confident and cocky are a