The Perfect Shot

Chapter 2: Media Day

 Stevie's POV

 The rink buzzed with a different kind of energy today. Media day had arrived, and with it came a chaotic mix of excitement, flashing cameras, and the ever-present hum of reporters and photographers. I arrived early, trying to make sense of the organized chaos as I set up my gear. The morning light filtered through the large windows, giving the room an almost serene glow amid the frenzy.

 As I finished setting up, Nico Hischier sauntered over, his casual stride a stark contrast to the frantic activity around us. He gave me a wave and a friendly grin."Hey, Stevie!" Nico greeted, his tone light and welcoming. 

 "How's it going? Survived the setup?"

 "Barely," I said with a smile. "This place is a madhouse, but I'm excited for the action. How about you?"

 "Oh, you know, just another day in the glamorous life of a hockey captain," he replied with a wink. "If you need anything, just holler. I'm around."

 "Will do," I said, appreciating his offer. "And thanks for the vote of confidence. I might need it."

 As the players began to arrive, I snapped candid shots of them mingling and preparing. Dawson Mercer was already in his element, chatting animatedly with a reporter. I caught a glimpse of Luke Hughes, who was speaking calmly but with an air of quiet confidence. Timo Meier was deep in conversation, his thoughtful demeanor evident. Jake Allen was engaged in a relaxed chat with a group of reporters, and Curtis Lazar was offering friendly advice to a rookie. 

 Erik Haula's easygoing nature made him a favorite among the media.Jack Hughes strode in with a casual confidence that was hard to ignore. He caught sight of me and flashed a knowing grin. 

 "Hey, Stevie," he called out, strolling over. "Ready for the circus?"I grinned back.

  "Ready as I'll ever be. Just hoping I don't get trampled by a horde of reporters."Jack chuckled. 

 "Well, if anyone can handle it, it's you. Just remember to keep the camera pointed away from my worst angles."

 "I'll try my best," I said, raising an eyebrow. "But you know, it's my job to capture the good, the bad, and the awkward."Jack laughed. 

 "Fair enough. If you catch me doing something ridiculous, just make sure it's in a flattering light."

 "Deal," I said, already envisioning the possible shots I could get. "But no promises on the flattering part."

 As the interviews started, the room buzzed with energy. I moved around, capturing the players in their element. Nico kept popping by to check on me, always with a friendly word or a thumbs-up. His support was a steadying presence amid the whirlwind of media activity.

   When Jack's turn for interviews came up, he was poised and charming, answering questions with practiced ease. But every now and then, his gaze would wander towards me. I could see him trying to maintain his focus, but the distraction was evident.

"So, Jack," a reporter asked, "what's the key to your performance this season?"

Jack's eyes flitted towards me again. He cleared his throat, visibly flustered. "Uh, w-well, you know, it's all about, um, staying focused and, uh, working hard with the team."

The reporter raised an eyebrow, sensing Jack's distraction. "And how's that going so far?"

Jack glanced at me, then back at the reporter, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Y-yeah, it's, uh, going great. Really great. I mean, the team's been awesome, and, uh, yeah, it's all about, um, teamwork."

I tried to hide my smile, focusing on capturing Jack's less-than-smooth moments. His stuttering and the occasional awkward glance in my direction were endearing, and I could see him trying to regain his composure.

As Jack continued to answer questions, his stuttering persisted, and I could see him becoming increasingly self-conscious. He shot me a few more distracted glances, his attempts to stay composed adding a touch of humor to the otherwise serious interviews. When the interview wrapped up.

  Jack walked over, grabbing a bottle of water from the refreshments table. He took a swig and wiped his brow, clearly ready for a break.

 Then he walked over to me, his expression a mix of sheepishness and amusement.

"Looks like I got a little, uh, distracted," he said, scratching the back of his head. "Hope I didn't make your job too hard."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Not at all. It was actually pretty entertaining."

"Good to know," Jack said with a grin. "I guess I'll have to step up my game if I want to avoid any more distractions.

 "So, how's it going over here? Survived the media gauntlet?" he asked, leaning casually against the table.

 "Barely," I replied, laughing. "It's been a whirlwind. I've got enough photos to fill a whole album, though."Jack raised an eyebrow. 

 "I hope you got some good shots of me. I'm aiming for 'best dressed' today."

 "Of course," I said, playing along. "I'll make sure you're the star of every photo. Just don't make too many goofy faces."

 "I'll do my best," Jack said with a grin. "But if I'm caught mid-blink or making a weird face, it's all part of the fun, right?"

 "Absolutely," I said, feeling more at ease with him. "We all need a little comedy relief."With the interviews wrapped up, the team began to disperse, heading towards the locker room. 

 Nico lingered for a moment, giving me an encouraging smile."You did great today," he said. 

 "I'm sure you'll fit right in with us."

 "Thanks, Nico," I said, feeling a genuine connection with him. 

 "I'm really starting to feel like part of the team."Nico gave me a thumbs-up. "That's what we like to hear. If you need anything, just let me know."As I packed up my gear, I reflected on the day. 

 The team had been welcoming, and despite Jack's earlier hesitation, he had shown a supportive side. Nico's friendship was a comforting presence, and I felt optimistic about what lay ahead.

 For now, I was focused on doing my job and proving that I belonged here. And if the day had shown me anything, it was that this team had a lot of character—both on and off the ice.