Page 185 of Rookie Attraction

There’s a loud pause on the line and I’m pretty sure Hugo is growing more gray hair than Miki.

“No,” I state firmly. “There’s nothing to talk about.”

“Not at this time,” Finn adds.

“Fuck me,” Hugo hisses.

Running an agitated hand through my hair, I cup my neck and will myself to stay calm. Or as calm as I can get in this situation.

“Can we please get back to the statement?” Miki adds.

“Okay, here goes,” Hugo starts. “We’ll confirm that you and Taylor are no longer dating, but are still friends. It’s all amicable.”

“Which is true⁠—”

“And as to the rest of it,” Hugo continues. “Yes, the Rush have temporarily lost one d-man to injury, but there’s no blame on any individuals when it comes to losing games. The team will be back in the new year stronger than ever. The personal life of players isn’t affecting the game, and speculations about friendships among fellow teammates is off limits.”

“And what about Brady?” I walk around, pacing faster. “Are you going to tell him to back off, or do I need to go to management directly, because I’m done with his shit.”

“I will if he answers me. Meantime, he’s got a meeting with head office when he returns from break.”

“Is there anything else?” Finn asks.

“I think that’s it. Miki, I’ll work on this press release now and send you a copy to approve,” Hugo adds. “That work?”

“That’s good for me.”

“Super, everything’s settled,” I sigh. “Now, if you don’t mind, Finn and I would like to get back to our respective families, and I’m sure you’d like to do the same.”

“Of course,” Miki replies. “Happy holidays.”

I’m not sure about that...

“Same to you, Mik. And to you, Hugo.”

They disconnect from the call. Finally, it’s just me and Finn.

“Are you okay, sweetheart?”

“Never mind me, are you alright?” Finn asks. “I can’t believe Brady said those things about you. Jesus, wait until I’m back in New York. I’m going to kick his stupid fucking ass.”

“He’s not worth it.”

“But you are.”

His protectiveness makes me smile.

“Fuck, I miss you.”

“I miss you more.”

We say our goodbyes and feeling drained, I stroll back to the living area where Mom is sitting with Karson, showing him something on her tablet.

“Hold on,” she says.

The comfy leather couch across from them is calling my name, and as soon as my ass hits the cushion, Coco and Bean pounce on me. Like psychic twins who can sense my discomfort, the dogs curl up on my lap and fall asleep. I don’t mind the company at all. In fact, I think I’d like to adopt a dog eventually. Or better yet, maybe Finn and I can adopt one together. That idea improves my mood exponentially.

Holy shit, first a boyfriend, and someday, a pet parent? Sel Kirkland, what the hell’s happened to you?