Chapter 22

“Seattle comes to town next Tuesday,” Coach Donovan mentioned casually at the end of the weekly strategy meeting. “Reynolds’ first game back in Boston.”

Emma kept her expression neutral despite the sudden tension in the room. Two months had passed since the Adams scandal, and things had finally settled into a new normal. The media frenzy had eventually died down, Adams’ replacement on the Board—a progressive-minded woman with extensive sports management experience—had integrated seamlessly, and Emma and Alek had found a comfortable balance between professional collaboration and personal privacy.

Jack’s return threatened that hard-won equilibrium.

“Marketing wants to know if we’re doing any acknowledgment,” Peterson said, looking uncomfortable. “Video tribute or something for his years with the team.”

“Standard protocol for returning veteran players is a brief highlight reel during the first timeout,” Alek replied evenly. “I see no reason to deviate.”