The Way Back

For as long as she could remember, hockey had been her escape.

A three-hour drive from northern Minnesota to St. Paul, a Red Bull in the cupholder, and her mom riding shotgun had become a ritual she could always count on. Through every high, low, and heartbreak, the Minnesota Wild gave her something to look forward to.

Joel Eriksson Ek noticed her the same way people notice a familiar song or a familiar face- slowly, over time.

Not at every game.

Not every week.

Just enough.

When life pulls away from the one place she's always felt at home, she doesn't expect anyone to notice she's gone.

She definitely doesn't expect him to.

A slow-burn story about healing, finding your way back, and the unexpected connections that happen when someone finally sees you.