Page 87 of Neo
God, no, I can’t.
“And there’s more.” She hesitates, then says, “Just when Neo was ready to take a deal to protect the big lie the university called. President Harmon threatened to revoke your scholarship if he didn’t stay and play for another year.”
“Wait, what did you say?” I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut. “Are you saying that he just made that announcement because President Harmon blackmailed him?”
Kennedy reaches out, squeezing my hand. “What I think is that Neo found a way to protect everyone he loves, including you.”
Anger and admiration war within me. I had no idea how much pressure Neo’s been under this entire time. I’ve always assumed he walked this easy path and all he had to worry about was goals and assists, but I was wrong. And now I find out that my father’s so-called friend is using me as leverage for some damn championship?
I turn back to the TV, where Neo is answering questions with his usual charm and grace. “I can’t believe him.”
Kennedy nods, her voice firm. “He’s a hockey god with a heart and he loves you, Violet. More than anything. He’d do anything for you. I see that now and I hope you do, too.”
Tears sting my eyes as I watch him, my heart swelling with love and adoration. Neo, my grumpy, fiercely protective hockey star, putting everyone he loves (including me) first.
“He’s amazing,” I whisper, more to myself than to Kennedy.
She wraps an arm around my shoulders. “He really is. And he’s all yours if you still want him.”
As the news conference ends and the screen fades to black, I’m left with a whirlwind of emotions. Pride, love, anger, gratitude. Neo has made his choice, a choice that speaks volumes about who he is and what he values.
I stand up, determined. “I need to see him. I need to tell him... that I was wrong.”
“I’ll call the Uber, girl.” Kennedy nods. “The press conference was in the athletic building, so he’s either on his way to the rink or the house.”
I grab my tote bag and head for the door, my steps quick and purposeful. Neo has shown me, in the most profound way, how deep his love runs for everyone he cares about.
And now, it’s my turn.
* * *
As I rush to the ice house, my heart is pounding, every beat a mix of love, gratitude, and determination. There are a few players inside, but I don’t really know any of these guys by name. A tall guy with brown skin and jet black hair I’ve definitely seen before approaches me once he notices me looking around the main room like a lost puppy.
“Violet?”
“Yes, hi.”
“What’s up, I’m Deuce.”
“Nice to meet you. I was wondering if Neo was back yet?”
“You saw him on television?”
“Yes, I did.”
“Then he’s probably at the rink.”
“Is the team practicing today?” I ask him.
“Not today,” he tells me. “Everyone’s too excited about our boy going pro, but I guarantee you that he’ll be there.”
“Okay, thanks.” I study him a little closer. “Have we met before?”
“Probably here at the house,” he answers sheepishly. “ I don’t live here, but I’m always dropping by to hang out with the guys.”
“Oh, okay.”
“Um, do you need a ride to the rink or anything?”