Page 83 of Walk the Line

“You too, Captain.”

“Kaylah, over here,” a reporter asks. I try not to dwell on the amount of cameras in my face, or on the amount of eyes on me, by thinking of how proud I am of myself for doing this instead. It’s a good option, especially as imagining them naked didn’t work out. “This was a new team, an experiment Coach Campbell thought up. How do you think your performance has been overall at the start of the season in comparison to how it would have been if things stayed the same?”

Satisfied with the response that comes to mind I say, “I think it was an interesting experiment that Coach Campbell decided to run with, but I’m glad he did. I think he saw a value in combining our talents, which turned out well because we all complement each other in different ways. The season is currently going really well and I can only imagine we’re going to continue on that trajectory, so I think Coach Campbell had the right vision.”

We get through several more questions, and I listen intently for the last one that’s directed to Julius. “Julius, you were Captain of what was known as a sinking ship last year.” I watch as Julius fights to roll his eyes. I know hearing about the team’s performance last year is a sore spot for him. “Do you think sharing the responsibility of Captain this year has played a part in the overall success of your new team?” the reporter finishes.

“That’s a good question, and I would say yeah.” His quick response makes it impossible for me to hide the smile on my face. “The team wasn’t meshing well last year, and a good part of that was because of me and, admittedly, how I was taking on my duties as Captain. Just like Kaylah said about the team we have now, her and I complement each other as well and we’ve managed to utilise both our weaknesses and strengths to our advantage.”

We see Coach after the press conference, and just knowing he’s Julius’s dad makes me understand why his stern face is so permanent.

It also has me feeling awkward that I have all of this information about him and his other family, while all he talks about is his current family.

I try to put it out of the way to respond to his, “Great job, guys,” he says to us.

“Thanks, Coach,” I say.

I gaze at Julius and remind myself that maybe I need to be more self aware sometimes because my feelings are nothing compared to his on the matter.

He nods his thanks at Coach, but they’ve never been the best of friends so none of his words or actions towards him ever appear to get Coach suspicious of him.

“So, just one thing,” he continues. Oh no. “I know I said I wanted you guys to be aligned with each other, but are you aware that didn’t mean⁠—“

“Oh, gosh, Coach,” I wince.

“It’s fine, because we’re not talking about this, Coach,” Julius says, slipping his fingers into mine. “All you need to know is that the team is doing great.“

This is what he means about us understanding each other. I’m quick to notice Julius’s nose flaring as he speaks, but no one else would gage that he’s angry.

“Good, but just don’t give me anything to worry about. Be sure to keep any problems you have off the ice.”

“We will,” I say.

“My daughter told me you guys are new friends,” he directs to me.

“Yeah, I like her.”

“That’s good. That’s good.” He nods. Seems like you two will get along well. And who knows, you might even be able to convince her to switch to Hockey.”

“I think she’s pretty set on Basketball.”

Should I have said think? Maybe I should have given less room for argument.

“She says that, but it’s never too late. I’ve always wanted my child doing Hockey.”

I’ve never been so thankful for Nathan and his big mouth to interrupt the moment by shouting about the party we’re apparently having at our house later.

* * *

The sound of a balloon pops, but Daniel’s voice still pierces through the air.

He raises a glass. “Here’s to us in a good fucking position mid season!”

Loud cheering erupts around the room.

“Here’s to scoring so many fucking goals!” he says.

The cheering continues.