Something Old, Something New

Part 16

The next day following training, Kelley and Emily are asked to stay behind. They both eye each other knowing what it's about.

Coach Jill Ellis approaches them and directs them over to the bench, "Sit down, we need to talk."

Kelley and Emily do as they are told making sure that there is ample space between them.

"Move closer, I'm not planning on yelling." They move in closer still allowing for a buffer between them. Jill shakes her head at them.

"I'm sure you both know why I wanted to speak with you, so I'm not going to drag this out. We've spoken with everyone who was witness to your altercation and the Network was also kind enough to forward us a copy of the video of it. As far as we are concerned this was just a verbal disagreement between teammates, and we want to limit it to that. However, Kelley as you are already aware, we have a no-tolerance policy for threats and that's why you aren't playing in the game tomorrow. You have admitted being at fault and there will be no further ramifications for you as a result of this incident. Now, Emily, after speaking with everyone we have reason to believe this was a pre-meditated attack on Kelley and her relationship, while there are no guidelines towards handling this, we have decided along with the Federation that you also be suspended for the next game for conduct unbecoming. Both of you will be required to attend at least one joint counselling session at your own cost to address your issues with each other, should you not complete this, you will both be ineligible to return to the team for our next set of friendlies. You will be provided with a list of approved counsellors to choose from when you return to Georgia. This separation amongst teammates will not be allowed to continue, you are both very aware of the what can happen when a team isn't a cohesive unit, so I strongly suggest you deal with your issues and get your heads back in the game. All of this being said, you will both be allowed to dress for the game tomorrow but will remain on the sidelines with no expectations of playing. Do you both understand?"

Kelley and Emily both nod.

"Good, now get ready to go back to the hotel for recovery."

"Yes, Coach."

Kelley and Emily both head inside to get changed.

Back at the hotel after completing recovery, Kelley is hanging out with Alex and Allie in the latter's room.

"Do you think you are going to be able to forgive Sonny?"

"Maybe, eventually, we've been friends for a long time, but she hurt me with what she did."

"We completely understand that Worms, it's just, have you given it any thought as to her motivation for doing it?"

"I know perfectly well why she did it, she is jealous of Avery and the fact that I'm in love with her."

"True, but look at it this way, you and Sonny have always been attached at the hip and now that Avery is in the picture, you've barely been spending any time with her. She is not only struggling with her feelings towards you, but also the fact that she has lost her best friend to someone else. Sonny was wrong in what she did and how she did it, but she's hurting and acted out in response. The two of you need to talk about everything, your friendship is important and worth fighting for. Avery and you have already talked and moved forward from it, you need to do the same with Sonny."

"Suddenly, I'm surrounded by shrinks and relationship specialists."

"Be serious Worms, the sooner this is dealt with the better."

"I get it, I'm going to head back to my room and call Avery now."

Kelley leaves the room and as she is walking to her room, meets Emily and Lindsay in the hallway. They all stop and look at each other. Lindsay not wanting to get caught in any crossfire bolts for her room, leaving the two alone.