All Chapters of Rejected By My Hockey Alpha: Chapter 51 - Chapter 60

Timothy's POVThe third period starts with us down two goals and the crowd nervous for the first time all season. In the tunnel, I can hear scattered conversations about upset potential and Cinderella stories.They're talking about Penelope like she's some kind of miracle. And maybe she is."We need to score early," Coach Grayson tells us during his between-periods speech. "Get one back fast and change the momentum."He's right, but easier said than done. Bloodfang's defense has been solid all night, and their goalie is playing like her life depends on it.The puck drops for the third period, and we come out flying. Shots from everywhere, sustained pressure in their zone, everything we should have done in the first two periods.But Penelope's line matches our intensity. Every time we think we have them cornered, she finds a way to clear the puck or create a counter-attack.With twelve minutes left, we finally break through. Ethan scores on a deflection that their goalie never saw. The

Timothy's POVThe headlines the next morning are brutal: "Ice Angel Outshines Fallen Alpha" and "Hale's Revenge Complete."I stare at my laptop screen, scrolling through article after article. Each one feels like a punch to the gut. The photos are worse—action shots of Penelope skating circles around me, her face glowing with triumph while mine shows nothing but defeat."Frostfang's Golden Boy Dethroned by Former Pack Omega" reads another headline. The article includes quotes from unnamed sources describing me as "arrogant" and "out of touch."My coffee turns cold as I read the most damaging piece yet—an opinion blog from a respected sports journalist:"Last night's upset wasn't just about hockey. It was about character. While Timothy Blackthorn coasted on reputation and natural talent, Penelope Hale worked twice as hard for half the recognition. Her victory represents something deeper—the triumph of substance over style, heart over hype."The blogger goes on to compare Penelope's "na

Timothy's POVThe nightclub is packed with willing bodies, but for the first time in months, I can't bring myself to choose one.The bass pounds through the floor, vibrating up through my feet and into my chest. Neon lights flash across faces glazed with sweat and alcohol, and everywhere I look there are opportunities. Blonde hair catching the strobe lights. Dark eyes promising no complications. Curves displayed in tight dresses that leave nothing to imagination.Six months ago, I would have had my pick within the first ten minutes. Tonight, I've been nursing the same whiskey for two hours."You're losing your touch, Blackthorn." Jake, one of my defensemen, slides up beside me at the bar. He's already half-drunk, his usual quiet demeanor replaced by sloppy confidence. "See that brunette over there? She's been staring at you all night."I follow his gaze to a girl in a red dress who's been sending obvious signals since I walked in. She's beautiful in the way that used to matter to me—p

Penelope's POV"If that's why I can't let go completely." I look down at my feet, scuffing through the fallen leaves with the toe of my shoe."Maybe I need to know what else is out there before I can appreciate what we have."The suggestion is loaded with implications neither of us wants to examine too closely as Liam takes a step back."Are you asking for permission to sleep with other people?" Liam's tone remains carefully neutral, but his shoulders tense."I don't know what I'm asking for." Frustration bleeds into my voice as I throw my hands up. "I just know I feel like I'm stuck between who I used to be and who I'm trying to become. And I don't want to hurt you while I figure it out."Liam drops my hands, running his own through his hair, his movement sharp and agitated."Okay. Let me ask you something, and I want you to be completely honest." His eyes lock on mine.I nod, bracing myself."If Timothy Blackthorn showed up right now and said he made a mistake, that he wanted you ba

Penelope's POV "Are you ready for this?" Isla bumps my shoulder as we step off the bus.I look up at the massive arena in front of us. Banners from eight different packs flutter in the morning breeze. The Inter-Territorial Tournament only happens every three years, and this is the biggest one yet."As ready as I will ever be." I adjust my gear bag on my shoulder. "Who are we playing first?""Silvercrest." Coach Martinez appears beside us. "Their Alpha's daughter plays center. Word is she's gunning for you specifically.""Me?" I frown. "Why?""Because you're the story everyone's talking about." He starts walking toward the entrance. "Unknown Omega makes varsity, wins against frostfang and leads team to tournament. You're the underdog that makes good a press."Great as if I needed more pressure.Inside the arena, the energy is electric. Wolves from different packs cluster together, wearing their team colors. I catch scents from territories I've never even heard of."There." Isla poin