The Hockey Star Regret
And somewhere between explaining why The Hobbit was basically a comfort blanket and arguing that fairytales weren’t just for kids, the conversation turned more personal.
“I used to… keep people at arm’s length,” I admitted, tracing the rim of my mug. “Still do, I guess. It’s easier that way. Less messy.”
Hayden’s gaze softened. “Messy doesn’t always mean bad.”
“It means vulnerable,” I countered. “And I’m not… great at that.”
He leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. “You don’t have to be great at it. You just… let people in, little by little. On your terms.”