41. Orchestrated

"Just throw it over the one you already have on, James. You're going to need all the help you can get," Alec advised with a wry smile.

Thankful for the solution's simplicity, I quickly layered Adrien's thicker shirt over my own. Within moments, Alec and Adrien were helping me suit up in goalie gear.

As they adjusted straps and pads, they started to ease my nerves by diving into the details of the goalie position.

Information I desperately needed.

Alec began with the basics. "First thing, your stance is critical. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight forward on the balls of your feet. This makes it easier to move side to side quickly," he demonstrated, his movements precise despite his bulky skates.

Adrien chimed in, pointing at the leg pads. "These pads are your best friends. They'll absorb most of the impact, but you need to learn how to direct the puck safely away using them. It's about angling your legs at the right moment."

"Puck control is key," Alec added, tightening a c