My advisor emailed me earlier to let me know the situation with the senior seminar that was up in the air is sorted. Another professor agreed to oversee the course. I’ll be able to take it next semester after all, so I’m right on track for my plans to graduate in May.
And…the guy who just might steal my heart keeps texting me.
Hat Trick King:Still thinking about earlier.
Maya:Isn’t your game about to start?
Hat Trick King:This is now part of my pregame ritual to get in the right headspace.
Maya:How’s that working out?
Hat Trick King:Might need to hide another boner. If I tell Coach I need to tape my stick again, it could buy me ten minutes to jerk off.
Maya:Omg [laughing emoji] I really need to change your contact name.
Hat Trick King:Why? I proved it was true when I had your sexy thighs wrapped around my head, didn’t I?
Maya:Keep it up and you’ll be named after this year’s least favorite mascot.
Hat Trick King:Nah, my girl wouldn’t do me dirty like that.
Maya:Try me [halo emoji]
Hat Trick King:Fine. But add a heart to my name.
Maya:Why? You’re so cheesy.
Hat Trick King:Because it’s all yours, baby. You’ve gotta keep it safe for me.
My cheeks hurt from smiling. Once I edit his name in my phone, I send him a screenshot. He sends back a selfie of his pleased grin. My heart swells.
Hana helps me with the AA group that visits the farm for a horse bonding session. We teach people about grooming with a pair of lazy mares that are more than happy to enjoy the pampering and attention.
Pride makes my heart swell each time I watch someone tear up or release heavy sighs of relief when they meet the horse’s eyes. One woman starts to cry as she’s taking her turn brushing the horse.
I hand her a tissue from the pack I bring to these sessions. “It’s okay. Whatever you’re feeling, that’s what you need to. This is a safe space to let out what we’ve been holding back.”
She nods in thanks, stroking the mare’s neck. I back away to let her work through her overflowing emotions.
I join Hana by the paddock fence, leaning against a wooden post. “Are you doing anything tomorrow night?”
“No.”
“I have an extra ticket to the hockey game. Want to come with me? They’re great seats.”
“Really? Yeah, okay. That sounds fun.” Her cheeks tinge with a pretty shade of pink. “Do you know if Elijah Adler will be playing?”
A slow grin spreads across my face. “I can ask Easton.”
Hana waves her hands. “No, no. Don’t do that.”
“So you’re in?”
“Yeah.”
“Cool. It’ll be fun!” Excitement bubbles up inside me. “Come over to my place before the game. We can pregame with pizza and wings while we get ready.”
“Perfect.” She beams. “I’ll be over after my meeting for our final performances. Thanks for inviting me.”
