Touch My Neck ✓

Chapter Seven | What hockey players can't be trusted?

Angel Huxley Novak

I find myself growing increasingly frustrated as I flip through Eros' file for what feels like the hundredth time. He has missed ten physical exams already, and it's becoming clear that he's intentionally avoiding me. I know he's a private person, but his health is at stake, and I can't just let this go.

Just then, Jake appears in my office, looking surprisingly relaxed as he leans against the examination bed. "What are you doing here?" I can't help but chuckle, grateful for the distraction from my mounting irritation.

"Still trying to catch out Eros?" He asks, a knowing glint in his eyes. I nod, shaking my head in exasperation.

"This is the tenth exam he's missed, and I need to find a way to get through to him," I reply, my frustration evident. "I can't help him if he keeps avoiding me."

"I'd rather be chasing someone than folding all these towels," Jake jokes, referring to his own duties as an equipment manager. He moves closer, leaning against my desk. I can't help but notice how his presence brings a sense of comfort amidst the chaos.

"The team is going out for drinks tonight, since it's lucky Friday," he continues. "You didn't come last week, and now you have to come."

I raise an eyebrow, intrigued by the sudden invitation. "Oh, so now you're making demands, huh?"

Jake smirks, his eyes glinting mischievously.

I give a playful smile, shaking my head slightly. "I appreciate the invitation, but I have a lot of work to catch up on. Maybe some other time."

He raises an eyebrow at me. "Come on, Angel. You work too hard. A little break won't hurt."

I sigh, knowing he's right. It has been a hectic couple of weeks, and a break would do me good. Besides, it might give me a chance to run into Eros and finally get him to do his physical exam.

"Fine, fine," I concede. "I'll come, but just for a little while."

"That's all I'm asking for," he says with a grin. "I'll pick you up?

"That sounds good to me. Now, if you don't mind, I have a bear to catch," I whisper, standing up from the chair.

Jake nods, understanding my determination, and I quickly exit the office.

As I enter the gym, I take a quick scan, but all I see are hockey players showing off their muscles, comparing abs like it's a competition.

I then head towards the rink and address the players, "Have any of you seen Eros?"

Coach shakes his head, "He just finished practice and headed to the stretching center." I thank him and rush towards the stretching center, my heart pounding with anticipation.

I push the door open, and there he is—Eros, sitting on the mat, resting an ice pack against his inner thigh. The door closes with a thud, and Eros turns his head, his eyes widening in surprise at my sudden appearance.

I see Eros shoot up from the mat as I enter the stretching center, but I can't help but notice the slight wince that crosses his face. Something isn't right.

Concern gnaws at me, and I take a step closer.

"What are you doing? This is a private session." He speaks.

"I know it is."

"Clearly not." He responds.

"Eros, are you okay?" I ask, my voice soft and gentle.

But Eros remains silent, his jaw tensing as he avoids eye contact with me. I can tell he's in pain, and I'm worried about him.

"You missed your exam again, and you've been skipping the physio sessions for weeks. What's going on, Eros?" I continue, trying to get him to open up.