I’d lost track of time when I stopped in at Brooklyn Lines to see Harper after my last meeting. I’d been on back to backs all day, I’d forgotten to check on Troy to make sure he didn’t have another setback and was ready to show up tonight.

I checked my watch. How was it already five? With the game starting in one hour, I’d need a miracle if I could get to Troy’s apartment and get him to the game. I didn’t typically drive to work but today I wish I had. There was no way I’d be able to get a taxi and two stops in Brooklyn in one hour.

I looked up at the traffic, not a single yellow cab with a light on. “I’m not going to make it,” I muttered.

“No limo to take you to your game?” Harper crossed her arms. “Come on, I’m across the street.”

I hesitated because I wasn’t heading to the arena. I needed to get to Troy. But I followed Harper crossing to the other side of the intersection. “You can sit in the front this time,” she called with a grin.

I don’t want to know.

I hopped in, confused at my lack of creativity. I could normally talk my way out of any situation, but this wasn’t my life I was dealing with.

If Troy lost his position with the Blades, it would take an army to bring him back.

“Take a left,” I called out sharply.

She swerved right—hard. Something told me she didn’t like my tone.

“I said left.”

“The only left you’re going to be is walking, now shut up and let me drive.”

I sighed. “Harper, I need you to take me to my apartment.”

She glanced at me in confusion. “Are you crazy? That’s on the other side of town. You’re going to be late. I’m taking you to the arena.”

I hesitated arguing. Because she was right. There was no way Troy was making the game. Heck, at this point if he went straight there, zero hesitation, he’d miss the pre-game routine.

Finally, I texted him Ryan’s warning. A moment later, I received a response that angered me.

Troy: Please bro. I’ll make the next one. Promise.

Anger boiled in me and I rubbed my face to keep from punching anything.

Another message came through when I didn’t respond.

Troy: Put on my uniform and sit it out for me.

“Fine. Let’s go.” I released a heavy breath.

Harper stole a glance at me and I hated and adored the fact that she was here with me. “You alright?”

“Fantastic,” I muttered.

She didn’t say anything but there were moments where it looked like she wanted to.