Why aren’t you sitting with meeeee.
Natalie
I’m sitting with my parents.
Tessa
Oh my god.
Where?
I’m coming.
Natalie
No. I really don’t think that’s a good idea.
Tessa
THAT’S BECAUSE IT’S A GREAT IDEA.
Do you want a soda?
Natalie
Tessa. No. I’m begging.
Tessa
This is what you get for sharing your location with me!
Diet Coke?
Never mind, forgot they have peanuts.
So didI. I’m getting hives from just touching these bleachers.
Natalie
Sharing my location with you was in case I get murdered.
Not to find me at a hockey game.
Tessa
How do I know you’re not currently being murdered?
Wait, is “I’m at a hockey game” your code word?
The cool air from the rink embraces my fingers as if an old friend is extending a welcoming hand to mine. Despite mypotential Tessa-induced demise looming, I sink into the chill of the bench beneath me and savor the nostalgic feeling that wraps itself around my shoulders like a heavy blanket. After all the painful memories and heartbreaks on and off the ice, I was unsure how I’d feel being back at a rink. Turns out, all I feel is at home.
And still, very terrified my roommate is about to bulldoze her way into an already chaotic situation. Hopefully disabling my location took care of her. Either she’ll get the hint or turning it off will keep her from finding me in this seven-thousand-seat, packed arena.
“You think disabling your location would stop me? Too late, bitch.” An ominous voice cuts through the arena’s usual sounds of chatter, clanging bleachers, and pucks.
A large figure looms over me, giving off serious serial killer vibes with her diabolical grin.
“Cheese and rice, Tess.” I jump, my heart pounding, and look up at my roommate. Tess always nails the balance between effortlessly trendy and cozy, and today is no exception. Her long platinum blonde hair cascades in loose waves around her face. Glitter star freckles in our team colors—green and black—sparkle on her cheeks. Her oversized hockey sweater extends to her knees, revealing black fleece leggings and forest green ankle boots.
