AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Then he leans back, thoughtful. “How about this? I’ll check into some options for you. Our team has access to sports psychologists and therapists to help with stress and anxiety. I’ll reach out and get some recommendations for therapists specializing in your field.”
I am left speechless by his offer and all I can do is give a grateful nod.
I move my hands away, grab my purse and stand. “Thank you for listening, Harvey. I’m going to go to the restroom. I’ll be right back.”
The way he looks at me, the concern clear in his eyes, moves me unexpectedly.
I didn’t know how much I needed to let all that out until now. I hadn’t even really let myself face it. And now, for the first time in the last two years, I feel a glimmer of hope that things might end up being okay.
As I push open the bathroom door, I grab a tissue and wipe my eyes then blow my nose. I try and fix my mascara then use the restroom. After I wash my hands and take a few deep breaths, I feel more composed, and I feel lighter and more grounded.
I will figure this out.
I head out and walk through the maze of people and tables as I head back to Harvey. I see him standing up and looking at the game on the TV and talking to another tall muscular guy. Their backs are to me.
As I walk slowly up to them, I hear the other guy say to Harvey, “Seems like you’ve got a type, man.”
That doesn’t bother me, but what Harvey says next does.
“I've got her wrapped around my finger, just like the others.”
The other guy laughs and slaps him on the back before saying goodbye. I realize I’m just standing at the table, feeling like a deflated balloon, when Harvey turns around.
“Oh! You’re back already. Want dessert?”
I just stare at him, my eyes narrowing.
“Just like the others, huh?”
He doesn’t even have the decency to look ashamed.
He just shrugs and says, “He’s on my team. It doesn’t mean anything.”
I start to back up stiffly and he reaches out a hand.
“Where are you going?”
I grit my teeth.
“I’ll find my way back home. And don’t worry. Even though I don’t want to, I’ll live up to my end of the bargain and do this, but there’s no need for us to meet again until the wedding. I’ve already got you all figured out anyway.”
And I turn and walk out of the bar.
Chapter Four
HARVEY
Idon’tthinkIdid anything wrong.
Then why do I feel like shit?
The ice rink is buzzing with energy as our team gathers for our morning practice. The crisp, cold air fills my lungs as I step onto the ice, fully dressed in my team's practice jersey and gear.
The echoes of skate blades scraping against the ice filled the arena. We all begin with a warm-up lap, circling the rink to get ready for the intense training ahead.
As I glide along, my thoughts keep turning back to Elsa’s hurt and angry face that night over a week ago.
The head coach, Coach Dawson, blows his whistle and calls us to gather at center ice.
