‘I never wanted to be famous, you know. I just liked playing ice hockey. No, I loved playing – and the more I loved it, the more time I spent doing it and the better I became.’ He shook his head. ‘Next thing I know, I’m having scouts approach me and one thing led to another. Before I knew it I was a “professional athlete” and everyone seemed to think that entitled them to a piece of me – either money or my autograph or my time, and yeah, even my goddamn body.’ Hannah tried to ignore his pointed sidelong glance as if trying to unsettle her. ‘It was like I wasn’t even myself anymore. Just some kind of … commodity. And that’s why I hate this crap. I’m not just a product, a cereal box that needs rebranding.’

‘That’s not why I’m here though,’ she said, now resisting the urge to put a gentle hand on his shoulder. ‘I genuinely want to help you. Your agent said you’re on your last chance with the team and—’

He shook his head. ‘That’s only ’cos of my injury. Once I’m good, the top brass don’t care what I do off the ice.’ But Hannah could tell he was trying to convince himself more than her.

‘Regardless, you want to consider income potential down the line too,’ she encouraged. ‘Endorsement deals, maybe some TV work. An athlete’s playing life – no matter how good they are – has an expiry date; I’m sure you know that.’

‘I’m into some stocks and real estate, I’ll be OK.’

‘Maybe, but why not kill two birds with one stone? Get back on the team, yes, but there’s another game you can play just as well. You think you already know the rules, but honestly, there are lots of different ways to win at that too. I just need you to trust me and let me guide you through. Like a teammate, a wingman or whatever.’ She laughed. ‘Sorry, I’m not familiar with ice hockey.’

‘You want to turn me into some new improved fake version of myself? Take some pictures of me at an orphanage this time – doing a “Make A Wish” tour or something?’

The mocking smirk was back on his face as he spoke, and again remembering Ed’s words of wisdom about straight talking, this time Hannah set aside her restraint.

‘Maybe I could set up a camera crew at an AA meeting instead. How does that sound?’

He stared at her, eyes wide with surprise at her tone or the words, she wasn’t sure.