She studies me over the table.
“Do you regret not going somewhere with a women’s team?”
If I hesitate too long, she’ll start asking questions. And the truth is absolutely not an option. So instead, my mouth betrays me completely.
“I’ve taken up underwater hockey.”
The words fall out before I can stop them. I immediately wish I could shove them straight back into my mouth.
Underwater hockey?
Where did that even come from?
Mum blinks. “Underwater hockey?”
I nod weakly. “Yes.”
Why did I say that?
She looks surprised but not suspicious. “Oh.”
There’s a pause.
“Well, that’s… different.”
I nod again, trying to look like this is a completely normal life choice.
“Very different.”
She tilts her head slightly. “How does that work?”
Oh no.
My brain scrambles desperately.
“Um… you wear snorkels.”
Brilliant start.
“And you push a puck along the bottom of the pool.”
“With sticks?”
“Tiny ones.”
I want the floor to open up and swallow me.
Mum nods thoughtfully.
“Well, that actually sounds quite athletic.”
“Oh, it is. I’m getting better at holding my breath.”
“Do you like it?”
“Sure.”
There’s another pause while she takes a sip of water. Then she smiles gently.
