Page 26 of Rookie Attraction

SELWIN

After another shitload of questions, all aimed at Coach and Berg, Hugo calls an end to the press conference. I glance up again and notice that Finn’s gone.

“Kirkland.” Hugo motions to me. “A word in private, please.”

“Of course.”

I follow Hugo down the hallway to his office and my gut roils with every step. He motions for me to take a seat, and once I do, he closes the door and follows suit.

“We need a plan.”

“Okay.”

“We can’t roll back the clock; you’re out. But we can guide the story.”

“And how do you mean to do that?” I ask.

“By setting you up with a boyfriend.”

My jaw drops and I stare at him like he’s lost it.

“Excuse me?”

“I have someone in mind. There’s another professional athlete, in a different sport, who’s just come out. We get you on a few dates, making sure they’re all public events, and the press eats it up. A win-win for you, him, and both our organizations.”

I’m not totally shocked by Hugo’s idea. PR relationships are common in the entertainment business, but it still makes me uncomfortable.

“You know that me dating a guy, especially a high profile one, may make things worse?” I snark.

“There might be pushback from some of the fans, but I’m telling you, the majority, as well as the media, will eat this up.”

“Really? Is that why I was asked if my coming out was distracting?”

Hugo shrugs.

“Sports reporters are slow to change, but the entertainment press love this kind of thing, and it will carry over in time. You’re not a hockey player, you’re a celebrity. Teams like New York want to be more inclusive, and that’s not just coming from me, but from the top. You’ll be a role model for other players across the league.”

“So, is this the only reason I was signed? For the Rush to get the media’s attention as an LGBTQIA+ ally?” I snap.

“No. Well, it wasn’t the main reason. Your stats speak for themselves. New York was more than lucky to sign you, but that doesn’t mean they’re not highly aware of the… other benefits you offer. Having you around will diversify our fan base.”

“Wait.” I hold a hand up. “First my sexuality is a problem, but now you’re turning it into a benefit?”

“This team is going to be the role model for modern hockey.”

“Yay for you, but this is my life we’re talking about,” I snark. “And if I say no to this plan?”

“That’s not advisable.”

I sigh with resignation. I don’t know that I have the strength to fight.

“How long do I have to ‘date’ this guy?”

“As long as it takes for the media to fall for the two of you. Reporters love a power couple and that’s what we’re going to give them. And they’ll see that coming out hasn’t affected your game. NY Rush is supportive, which is also positive press coverage, so we’re all good.”

I bite my lower lip and hold back my temper. I’m far from happy about this.

“So, the press will accept my queerness as long as I’m only dating one person?”