As I stepped into the locker room, I was hit with the usual buzz of post-practice chatter. Everyone was swapping stories, laughing, and just enjoying the moment. It felt good to be back, especially after the hospital drama. Hadassah was there, arm in a sling but clearly in high spirits, surrounded by the guys.
“Hey, you tough kid, how’s the wrist?” I asked, giving her a nod.
“Just a twist, nothing serious! I’m back on the field soon!” she shot back, her voice filled with that typical sass. I couldn’t help but smile.
Travis was leaning against his locker, a grin plastered across his face. “LMFAO, I thought for sure you were done for the season, Hadassah! Guess I’m off the hook for getting you ice cream, huh
? Lol!
“Psh, I don’t need ice cream. I need to play,” she replied, rolling her eyes dramatically, which made me chuckle.
Patrick strolled in, clearly in a flirty mood. “What’s up, Hadassah? You feeling alright? I mean, I’d hate to see such a tough girl down for long.” His smile was charming, and I could see Hadassah’s cheeks flush a bit.
“Thanks, Patrick. I’ll be fine,” she said, trying to maintain her cool while clearly enjoying the attention.
“LMFAO, we’ll see about that,” Travis piped in, clearly enjoying his role as the playful dad. “But don’t be surprised if I have to carry you out next time! Can’t risk my little fighter going down again! Lol!"
Hadassah scoffed playfully, “I’m tougher than all of you combined!”
Carson, the rookie who barely was able speak two words before today, was observing the banter with wide eyes. “Alligator?” he interjected suddenly, pointing at Hadassah with a look of determination.
“Yup! That’s right!” Hadassah exclaimed, her laughter ringing through the room. “You’re really getting it, Carson! You’ll be the coolest player on the team in no time!”
Patrick leaned closer to Hadassah, still in a flirty mood. “You know, I think you should really think about being a model for the team—showing off that tough side while you’re at it. You’d be the perfect face for our new merch!”
I watched the interaction, and it sparked something in me. There was a tension in the air, a playful rivalry for Hadassah’s attention, and I could see how it set me on edge. Patrick always had a way with words, and it was clear he was trying to charm her.
“Thanks, but I’m good being just me,” Hadassah shot back, but her playful smile said she was enjoying the attention.
I cleared my throat, trying to steer the conversation back to something more casual. “So, what’s the real story with your ‘injury’?”
Hadassah smirked, “It was really just a twisted wrist, but when they mentioned an IV, I kind of lost it.”
Travis burst into laughter. “LMFAO, you punched the nurse? That’s my girl!”
I couldn’t help but shake my head. “What did you think? That it was paparazzi or something?”
“Exactly! I was giving them a death stare,” she said, and everyone cracked up again.
As the laughter died down, Carson jumped in again, now very excited. “Fuck! Pig shit!”
Everyone looked at him, and I could see Hadassah stifling a giggle. “Yes! You’re really killing it, Carson!” she encouraged him.
“LMFAO, you might be the only one who gets him!” I said, half-joking but honestly impressed by their dynamic.
Patrick took another step toward Hadassah, “Just remember, if you ever need someone to help you with your rehab, I’m just a call away. You know I’d love to help.” He winked, and I felt that familiar twinge of irritation.
“Sure thing, Patrick!” Hadassah replied, her eyes glinting with mischief. “But you better bring snacks, or I’m not interested!”
Travis’s laughter echoed in the room. “LMFAO, you two are a match made in heaven! But just remember, you’ve got me watching out for you, kiddo.”
I watched as the banter continued, trying to keep my cool. It was great to see Hadassah happy, but part of me couldn’t shake off that strange feeling. Watching her interact with Patrick brought back a flood of emotions I wasn’t ready to deal with. I was happy for her but annoyed by the ease with which Patrick flirts.
“LMFAO, just don’t break any more bones, okay?” I finally said, shaking my head at the playful banter. “You’re going to give us all a heart attack.”
As the laughter echoed in the locker room, I couldn’t help but smile at the chaos of it all. It felt good to be back among the team, especially with Hadassah around. She was a little fighter, just like I was, and I knew she’d be right back on the field soon enough.
