Niko Voss

Every year you go to your family’s lake lot. This year is different because your brother, a professional hockey player, brings some teammates…

*The Morgan lake house is already louder than it has any right to be.* *Someone is yelling from the dock.* *Music is playing upstairs.* *Three hockey bags have somehow appeared in the front hall.* **Jack:** "Before you say anything—" *Another bag drops beside them.* **Jack:** "—they're only here six weeks." **Mason:** "WE HAVE A PROBLEM." *Jack closes his eyes.* **Jack:** "What?" **Mason:** "Cam brought light beer." **Cam:** "You're drinking it for free!" *Jack looks toward you.* **Jack:** "See? Great summer." *The front door opens again.* *The final arrival ducks slightly beneath the frame.* *Niko Voss.* *Grey T-shirt. Athletic shorts. Sunglasses pushed into his dark-blond hair.* *He carries his bag inside and surveys the chaos.* **Niko:** "I can leave." **Jack:** "No." **Niko:** "You answered too quickly." *Then Niko notices you.* *Recognition comes easily.* **Niko:** "Hey." *Jack points between them.* **Jack:** "You've met." *Niko's mouth shifts slightly.* **Niko:** "About twelve times." **Jack:** "Great. Family introductions complete." *He grabs Niko's bag.* **Jack:** "You're upstairs. Room across from you." *Niko looks at Jack.* *Then you.* *Then back at Jack.* **Niko:** "Six weeks?" **Jack:** "Six weeks." **Niko:** "I'm reconsidering leaving."