Total pages in book: 73
Estimated words: 67991 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 340(@200wpm)___ 272(@250wpm)___ 227(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 67991 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 340(@200wpm)___ 272(@250wpm)___ 227(@300wpm)
A woman toward the back stands up, her recorder in hand. “We understand that someone within the organization made up these rumors. Would you care to identify that person?”
This was the question I’m most ready for. I lean forward and in a low voice, I simply say, “I would not.”
The reporter isn’t satisfied. “But there’s no proof that the lab reports and photos were fabricated. Until that part of the investigation is concluded, how do we really know what the truth is?”
Callum clears his throat as if to take the question and move the heat off me, but I beat him to it. “You know it’s the truth because I say it is, and you don’t have the person responsible to say otherwise. But what’s most important is that I took a drug test no more than an hour after the allegations broke and it was negative. You have certified copies that can’t be impeached. The Titans’ organization also got a confession from the individual and that person is no longer a part of this company, so I’m not sure what else you need to prove my innocence.”
The woman has the grace to look chagrined and lobs an easy question my way, perhaps to save face. “Can you tell us how you felt when you heard the news that you were cleared?”
Solace floods through me remembering that moment. “Relieved, obviously. Grateful for Brienne’s support and the team’s. They believed in me from the start, which meant everything. It’s behind us now, so I’m looking forward to playing hockey and helping the team win games.”
Another hand shoots up, this one belonging to a blogger known for his deep dives. “Can you comment some more on the support you’ve received from the fans during this time? Particularly since the city has so tightly rallied around the Titans since the plane crash.”
I nod, a smile finally breaking through. “The support has been incredible. It really shows you how tight-knit the hockey community is. I’ve received messages and encouragement from fans not just here in Pittsburgh, but from all over. It’s something I won’t forget, and it’s given me even more reason to give my all every time I step on the ice.”
Callum interjects because the press has all the information they need to put this story to rest. “Thanks, everyone. I think Rafferty’s answered your questions well. We’re all glad to put this chapter behind us and focus on the season ahead. Let’s keep the conversations on the ice moving forward.”
As we stand to leave, the reporters begin to disperse, some lingering to exchange thoughts on the revelations. Coach West claps me on the shoulder, a silent show of support. I’m shocked when Penn offers me a fist bump, quietly stating, “Great job.” He’s gone before I can even respond.
Turning from the dispersing crowd, I see Tempe and Farren waiting for me near the exit. Tempe’s eyes meet mine, her smile wide and proud. I make my way over to them, the fatigue of the past days finally starting to hit me.
“Hey,” I greet, slipping an arm around Tempe as I reach her. She leans into me, her presence instantly grounding.
“Hey yourself,” she replies brightly. “You were amazing up there.”
Farren, ever the supportive sister, punches my shoulder lightly. “Yeah, not bad for a guy who almost got taken down by a scandal.”
I chuckle, the sound more relieved than amused. “Thanks. Glad that’s over.”
“We were just talking about heading to Mario’s to celebrate,” Farren adds, her tone suggesting it’s more of a statement than an invitation. “Willa and Mazzy are already rallying the troops. They sent me to fetch you two.”
Tempe looks up at me, her eyes searching. “We could go, if you want. Might be fun to unwind a bit with everyone.”
The idea of a noisy bar, even with friends, suddenly feels overwhelming. I shake my head. “Actually, I’d like to go home. Chill out for the rest of the night. Just us.” The last part I say softer, meant only for Tempe.
She nods, understanding immediately. “Home sounds perfect.”
Farren, picking up on our vibe but not wanting to press, shrugs. “All right, you two old folks enjoy your quiet night. I’ll tell the gang you send your regrets.” With a playful wink, she hugs us both quickly. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” she teases, before heading out the door.
Once she’s gone, I pull Tempe closer, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Thanks for being here today. For everything.”
She sighs contentedly, leaning back to look up at me. “Where else would I be? But seriously, I’m just relieved it’s all finally behind us.”
“Yeah, me too,” I admit, feeling the truth of it settle in. “Let’s go home.”
CHAPTER 26
Tempe
I suppress a yawn because, while I’m tired, I don’t want to be. Rafferty and I are curled up on the couch, a blanket draped over our legs as the gas logs in the fireplace burn merrily. I take a sip from my wineglass, savoring the rich warmth as I lean against Rafferty, feeling the steady beat of his heart through his shirt. He chose a beer, but it’s remained untouched on the table beside him.