Page 192 of Puck Me Back to Life

The ache in my chest sharpens. “I told him to leave.”

“Yeah.” Coach offers me a hand. “He didn't listen.”

For a long moment, I stare at his hand.

I don't feel better.

I don't feel fixed.

But Ash is downstairs.

Waiting.

Still.

So I take Coach's hand and let him pull me to reality.

18

Ash

Idon't know how long I sit in Coach's office before the door opens. Long enough for the adrenaline to leave. Long enough for guilt to settle into its place.

My elbows rest on my knees, my hands pressed against my forehead as I replay the last twenty-four hours for what has to be the hundredth time.

I told Coach. The thought still twists in my stomach.

Kai trusted me with something he'd hidden from almost everyone. Then I'd turned around and told someone else.

I know why I did it.

I know I would've hated myself if I hadn't.

That doesn't make it feel any less like a betrayal.

The office door clicks open. I look up immediately. Coach walks in first and Kai follows a step behind him.

Relief hits me so hard I nearly stand too fast. He's here. His eyes are swollen from crying. His hair is still damp from the game, and dark circles sit beneath his eyes like bruises. He looks exhausted in a way I've never seen before.

But he's here.

Coach catches my eye. “Take him home.”

I nod before he finishes speaking.

Coach looks at Kai for a long moment. “You've got tomorrow morning off.”

Kai nods quietly. “Yes, Coach.”

“No skating.”

Another nod.

“No gym.”

“Okay.”

“And answer your damn phone.”