“Cameras aren’t the only distraction I’m worried about.”
“What else is there?” My father sounds skeptical.
“I mean this as a compliment to Freddie here, but she’s a young, good-looking gal. You know how athletes are, Hugh. I’m concerned about entanglements; things that might lead to a lack of focus from the team.”
I snort. He can’t be serious.
“Don’t worry, Coach, I prefer men with teeth,” I say.
“I don’t see anything to be concerned about,” Falkenberg says at the same time. Dick.
“It’s not like the Monarchs’ performance can get any worse,” I reply.
He narrows his eyes. “And you’re a hockey expert, I assume.”
“It’s a sport, not rocket science.”
“You look like you could use an education in athletics as well,” he remarks.
My mouth falls open. Is he calling me fat? I haven’t been to the gym in years, but just because I’m thicker than the dolls I’m sure he’s used to hanging around doesn’t mean my curves are anything to be ashamed about.
“Enough, Mattias,” Coach says.
“Looks like I’m distracting already,” I can’t help but say.
Falkenberg looks like he wants to kill me—maybe run me over in his creepy Volvo so he wouldn’t have to dirty his hands. Coach Marshall closes his eyes.
“My daughter is correct.” My father takes me by surprise. I don’t think I ever expected those words from his mouth. I hate the way somesmaller, younger version of me deep inside blooms at the praise. “If having Freddie around is an issue, I think it speaks to a greater lack of focus.”
“You said she hasn’t agreed yet. Who else are you considering?” Coach Marshall asks.
Just then, my phone vibrates. Not wanting to appear rude, I discreetly glance at my group chat titled Bad Vibes Birth Charts.
Grace
Holy shit, Fred. Just saw the news
Margot
Are you and Elle okay?
Grace
Drinks later? Need the tea ASAP
Margot
I knew I got weird vibes from your uncle. Remember when we were doing the lemonade stand, and he told us we should go inside because there were too many chemtrails ??
Grace
Ommmmg, or when we stopped by for Thanksgiving that one year and he wouldn’t eat the green bean casserole because he said only beta males eat vegetables?
Margot
STOPPPP
A snort escapes me before I can stifle it. My eyes snap up to Falkenberg, who’s watching me, just as Coach Marshall’s focus slides my way. He gives me a quizzical look and I flush.
