We haven’t defined who we are or even if we’re awe. As usual, I’m leaping ahead.
Theo isn’t open with his feelings, so I read his actions and body language instead. Although we’re not actually related, the media has dramatized our connection. And on top of that, I don’t know how I feel.
That’s another lie. Waking up with Theo in my bed made me happier than I’ve ever been. I hope he feels the same.
“Oh, I got you this.” Theo pulls a travel pillow out of his bag. “You looked so uncomfortable on the last flight.”
It’s nearly impossible not to kiss him to show my appreciation. “Thanks,” I whisper, and tuck the pillow between my head and the window, far away from his lips.
Coach wants a late, no-contact skills practice before we go to the hotel in Minnesota. Some of the guys are grumbling, but it’s not a big ask since we were served dinner on the plane. I’m in front of a wall mirror, putting a series of bands in my hair to hold it back under my helmet. As hard as I try, I can’t regret leaving my hair natural. Not with the way Theo reacts to it.
“You missed a section,” Theo says. “Sit and I’ll do it.” He gestures to the bench by my locker. He had me show him how I do my hair for hockey. His guilt is wack but adorable.
“Okay, this is too much,” Mav complains. “We don’t want to say anything offensive, especially after Benz and I already did. But we can’t let this go. It’s one thing for King to decide to go with…with…” He sputters for a description that won’t disrespect me.
“Colin Kaepernick hair,” I supply, picking a man I admire. Not only did he risk his career for social justice, but he unapologetically rocked his fro with pride. Something I’m determined to do.
“Yes.” Mav points at me. “But…but O’Keefe literally doing his hair is alternate reality level. We would chirp anyone coming in with a radically different flow. We’re not letting this go.” Mav stands with his arms crossed.
Theo sections off more hair for the next band. He’s surprisingly good at it. He pulls it tight enough, but it doesn’t sting my scalp.
“What do you want to know? My cousin was going to braid my hair today but got hung up at work.” I meet his stare as my insides go into hyperdrive.
“You didn’t wake up and say ‘I’m letting my hair down so Theo can play with it,’ ” Mav says in a high-pitched voice.
“No, I begged him to let me play with his hair. It’s been my goal since getting traded to this team. You caught me,” Theo deadpans. It’s so close to the truth, yet sounds implausible.
“Bullshit,” Mav mutters.
“Listen.” Ace commands everyone’s attention, “King can let whoever he wants do his hair.” He winks with a quiet laugh. “But seriously, are you two friends now? Because that’s new.”
“For a trial period,” I joke, and Theo yanks my hair.
“I found out he’s not the enemy, and if I act like his indentured servant, he will maybe, possibly consider being my friend. Right, Maj?” He says the last two words directly into my ear, and I fight a shiver.
“You’re an asshole,” I say.
“See, nothing has changed.” Theo saunters away, and I’m left helplessly staring at his back.
Chapter 26
Theo O'Keefe
Minnesota is colder than I remembered. The temperature dropped below zero, and the heating system at the arena hasn’t kicked on yet. We can see our breath.
We’re playing great hockey. It’s the middle of the second period, and even though the scoreboard shows we’re only up by one, we’re dominating the game.
Jamal gets a breakaway, and Mav and Griff are right there to support him. A defender body-slams him into the boards, and I realize the low growl is mine when Drake pounds his stick in front of me.
“I’ll get him on our next shift,” Drake promises. He’s the unofficial enforcer of the Enforcers. If the other team messes with our players, they have to deal with Drake’s wrath.
“Let me have him.” I knock him with my shoulder.
“Yeah?”
“My pleasure,” I confirm, itching to get a piece of their defender.
“He’s all yours,” Drake says, and vaults over the boards. My shift should start in another minute or two.
