In My Rearview Mirror, JACK.HUGHES

FORTY SIX

Omniscient narrator

Part one

After Nico, the team captain, pumped them up with an encouraging speech, the Devils are all set to hit the ice.

Meanwhile, in the Rangers' locker room, nerves are running high. They try to get hyped with upbeat music, but the tension is thick. Losing this game means risking their spot in the series, and the memory of their last defeat against the Devils is weighing heavily on their minds as they gear up.

As the game approaches, the locker room falls silent except for heavy breathing and equipment clanging. The Rangers are on edge, readying themselves for the battle to come.

Every move on the ice will make or break their season.

Jack Hughes hasn't been performing up to par lately. Despite his talent, he's been struggling to score and assist like he used to. His recent habit of drawing penalties, unlike his usual behavior, has the coaching staff worried.

Last week, the coaches called Jack in for a talk about his performance, adding more pressure to his already stressful situation. They made it clear that if he doesn't step up his game, he risks losing his chance to become captain and could even lose his current position as assistant captain.

These expectations weigh heavily on Jack, as he's consumed with thoughts of redemption and proving himself worthy of leadership roles. Each game is an opportunity for him to prove his value and quiet the doubts that chip away at his confidence.

Despite the pressure, Jack is determined to overcome these challenges. He understands that facing adversity is part of the journey to success, and he's determined to use it as motivation. Every time he hits the ice, he pushes himself to improve and recapture the form that once made him stand out.

As anticipation builds, the arena fills with cheers and applause, creating an electric atmosphere. The team's anthem blares through the speakers, adding to the excitement as the moment everyone has been waiting for finally arrives.

The players glide onto the ice, leaving sharp marks with their skates against the smooth surface.

In the first period, both teams are fired up, eager to take control. Right from the start, you can feel the intensity as each player gives their all.

The Devils start strong, pushing hard towards the Rangers' goal with speed and precision. Shots ring out, testing the Rangers' goalie with pinpoint accuracy. The crowd goes wild, cheering their team on.

But the Rangers hold their ground, defending against the relentless attacks. Bodies collide along the boards as players fight for the puck. With each passing minute, the tension builds as both teams battle for control of the game.

Morgan and Olivia are on the edge of their seats, eyes fixed on the ice below. The tension is thick, their nerves on high alert as they watch the game unfold.

As die-hard Rangers fans, they're desperate for a win. For Morgan, it's personal—her boyfriend Braden and her brother Cedric are both playing, giving their all for the team.

With every shot and close call, Morgan's heart races, her grip on her seat tightening. She and Olivia share anxious looks, their hopes pinned on the Rangers.

As the period goes on, the pressure grows. Every missed opportunity heightens their anxiety. But beneath it all, there's a glimmer of hope, a belief in their team's ability to triumph.

As the game heats up, so does the rivalry between the players. Tensions flare and tempers rise as the competition intensifies. On the ice, verbal jabs and physical clashes become the norm as emotions spill over.