Troy and I had many happy hours at Finnegan’s over the last year and a half, but we didn’t do much outside of having a few drinks and the occasional weekend at our parents’ house in Staten Island—not by choice. And, despite living in the same apartment complex by the Brooklyn Bridge, my brother and I lived very separate lives ever since we graduated.

But Finn was right, there was no way I’d get away with not showing tonight. Not with the reunion Troy’s fan club planned for him here after what was supposed to be tonight’s big win. Gina Malone, our old high school head cheerleader had arranged for a gathering here—to celebrate and sing the man’s praises. If you asked me, the girl was trying to sink some claws into the famous NHL player ever since he was drafted more than a year ago.

I popped a mint just as the crowd started pouring in and stood again, moving to the back so I could quietly check my emails regarding a new strategy my team and I were working on. Once Troy showed up, I could buy him and all his friends a round, then slip out before I’m forced to re-live homecoming. Watching people fawn all over my brother was right up there with walking barefoot on hot rocks on my favorite things to do.

“I’ll keep you covered,” Finn assured, knowing my unspoken plans.

When Troy’s name popped up on my phone in the middle of my drafting an email to a junior analyst, I hit ignore and kept typing. Aggravated that I’d lost my train of thought.

Thirty seconds later, a text came through and I swiped down to read it.

Blinking, I read it again. Then again, knowing I had to be reading this shit wrong.

“You’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” I muttered.

Setting my jaw, I dialed Troy. When he didn’t answer, I shot out my response.

August: No way in hell. And since you’re not coming. I’ll be going now.

Troy: Dude, I can’t be a no show tonight.

August: Then don’t be.

I leaned against the back wall, waiting. This was the weaker version of me. The one that wouldn’t just walk out the fucking door and go home now that my only reason for being here wasn’t planning on showing. A moment later, another message came through and I sighed.

Troy: I know you watched. You know why I can’t face anyone today. Please.

All I needed right then was for him to tell me that it should have been me. It should have been my season opener they were all here celebrating, and that this could be my chance to live it all up.

August: I’m leaving.