C53 ICE FIFTY-THREE: I FAILED HER.

THANE'S POV:

She’d left with Joe right after the game, saying she couldn’t wait around for me—a first. Usually, she insisted we leave together.

Her response came immediately: "That's amazing! So proud of you. Have fun with the team."

But something in the quick reply felt off, too eager. Like she was relieved I wouldn't be home. She would've protested before now