“We are.”
We watch for a while, each making comments regarding our own play and others. It’s all in the name of improving, not tearing the guys down.
“Roman’s gaining confidence,” Wild notes. He played with Roman on the Sockeyes before coming here. We’re both well aware of Roman’s biggest challenge. If things start going sideways, Roman collapses, and his play deteriorates.
“Yeah, he’s on a roll. Let’s hope he stays there.”
“No shit.”
We share a smile before I turn serious. “I’ve been meaning to ask your advice.”
Wild snorted and shook his head. “My advice? I’m not sure what I can do for you. You’re on top of your game now that Aria isn’t writing trash pieces on you.”
“It’s not about my game, but it is about Aria.”
“How so?” Wild’s brows knit together in confusion.
“You didn’t know about Leo. How did you tell him you were his dad, and how did you find it in your heart to forgive Addison?” Addison had given birth to Leo and given him up for adoption years ago. Wild never knew about his son until recently when Addison found Leo after his adoptive parents died and she regained custody.
Wild’s eyes narrow, and he scrutinizes me with interest. He answers my question in detail before adding, “I won’t shit you, man. Forgiving her was difficult, but I love her, and love finds a way. Why are you asking me these questions?”
“Because I just found out I have a son I didn’t know about.”
Wild’s face doesn’t reflect any emotion. He merely nods. “Does your son know about you?”
“He knows me, but he doesn’t know I’m his dad. I didn’t know either until today.”
“Damn. Today?”
“Yeah.”
“Who’s the kid?” Before I can answer, Wild nods almost to himself. “It’s Noah, isn’t it?”
“Yeah.” I’m shocked how perceptive he is, or maybe it’s that obvious to my teammates because Noah and I do look a lot alike. “That explains why Aria attacked you relentlessly.”
“Not really. Why be mad at me when I didn’t know?”
“Maybe she thinks you did know and didn’t care. Have you discussed your revelation with her?”
“Not yet. I’m not sure if I should wait until we come back from Games One and Two in Dallas or if I should get it over with tonight.”
“Is it going to affect your game more to air out your grievances with her now or to wait until you don’t have the playoffs on your mind?”
“I don’t know.” I answer honestly because I really don’t.
“Seems like you need to figure that one out. We fly to Dallas at ten tomorrow morning. It’s now after 6:00 p.m. That’s up to you. Just keep your head in the game. We need you, Drakos.”
“I know. I don’t know what to do.”
He’s inadvertently putting additional pressure on me to make the right decision for me and the team. I don’t know what’s worse. Confronting Aria and getting it over with or waiting until playoffs end, which could be another couple months, if we’re lucky.
“Sorry, buddy. I can’t answer that one for you. I’ll say one thing though, Aria’s redeeming herself now that she’s not with All Hockey News. Is there a chance the two of you might become a couple?”
I laugh but immediately grow serious. “I don’t know. I’ve been sleeping with her on occasion.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, really.”
