Page 147 of Offside Rules

"I’ve called Boston. Your surgeon wants the scans as soon as we have them. His office is making room for you tomorrow if that’s what the assessment supports."

"Tomorrow."

"We’re arranging the transfer. Hospital first."

I look at her.

"What about the playoffs?"

She doesn’t answer quickly enough.

"Wolf, you’re not going back on the ice tonight."

"I didn’t ask about tonight."

"You’re done Wolf. Season’s over, and we need to work fast if you ever want to play hockey or lift your unborn children onto your shoulders. Do you understand how important this is?"

I turn my head away.

I knew surgery was coming. I’d accepted that much. I had a date in Boston, a father making plans for the summer, and a list of things I needed to do before I left.

I wanted the rest of the season.

I wanted more time.

Apparently, I’ve been asking for a lot of that lately.

The ambulance is waiting in the rain.

They’ve supported my arm and given me enough medication that I can breathe without swearing every time the stretcher moves. Kendall walks beside me, speaking to one of the paramedics.

There’s another conversation happening about scans and transport and who’s bringing my bag.

I don’t care where my fucking bag is.

"Wolf!"

I turn my head.

Baylor comes through the doors at a run, with Ellie close behind her.

She’s not wearing her coat.

Her hair is already getting wet by the time she reaches me.

"What did they say?"

"Hospital. Then Boston."

"Tonight?"

"As soon as they can get me there."

She looks at Kendall, who steps closer.

"We’ll know more after the images. I’ll make sure you have the information."

Baylor nods, but she’s barely looking at her now.