Chapter 73

“Mama on TV!” Charlotte squealed, pointing at the television where Emma’s confrontation with the NHL board was playing on repeat across sports networks.

“Yes, baby, Mama’s on TV,” Emma confirmed, trying to sound casual while internally cringing at seeing herself argue with powerful men in front of millions of viewers.

“You look fierce,” Katie observed from the kitchen, where she was making lunch for the kids. “Like a hockey player defending her territory.”

“I felt fierce,” Emma admitted. “Terrified, but fierce.”

Three weeks had passed since the board meeting, and the response had been overwhelmingly positive. Fan support was unprecedented, with social media campaigns demanding more transparency in hockey governance. Sponsors were actually increasing their commitments to Emma’s league, drawn by the authenticity of her approach.

“The Toronto move is officially happening next month,” Alek announced, entering with a stack of relocation documents. “I just si