Page 127 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

Before I can answer, my phone vibrates on the nearby bench.Neither of us pays much attention. It vibrates again. Then a third time.

Annette glances toward it. "Popular today?"

"I doubt it."

I walk over and pick it up. Megan Brooks. Director of Public Relations for the Blizzards.

I hesitate. Annette notices. "You should answer."

I nod and step a few feet away.

"Jamie."

"Good morning, Captain."

I smile despite myself.

"Megan."

"I hope I'm not interrupting."

"Rehabilitation."

"So yes."

"A little."

"I'll be quick." Her voice changes slightly. Business. "We've got a situation."

That usually isn't a sentence anyone enjoys hearing.

"What happened?"

"Nothing bad." A pause. "The Blizzards Foundation charity skate is next Saturday."

I remember.

Every January the team hosts an afternoon skate for children from local youth programs. Autographs. Equipment giveaways. Fundraising for community rinks.

Normally I'd spend half the day tying skates and pretending not to lose games of mini hockey to eight-year-olds.

"We'd love to have you there."

I look across the therapy gym. Annette is helping another patient adjust a resistance band but hasn't completely stopped paying attention.

"I can't skate."

"We know."

"I can't sign for three hours."

"We know."

"I'm still in rehab."

"We know."

Another pause. "No interviews. No skating. No speeches. Just..." Her voice softens. "...show your face."