Page 72 of Body Checked & Pucked

“Dad,” I whisper.

That’s all I can get out.

My right hand grabs his shoulder.

His now boney shoulder.

My hand shakes as I squeeze.

Just once.

“Dad,” I whisper again. “I think it’s time to go…”

The words escape my mouth and I turn away from the hospital bed.

I rush to the door and throw it open.

I’m ready to attack someone or something.

But I see Violet.

She’s holding a drink in each hand.

She sees the look on my face.

She drops both drinks to the floor.

I walk toward Violet as she runs toward me.

She grabs for me and jumps up into my arms.

I squeeze her tight.

Reality crushes my heart.

I think I just said goodbye to my father for good…

25

JAX

“Look, I get how a balance sheet works,” I say to Willow.

“Then quit being so stubborn and do the work,” she says.

“I don’t care about depreciation.”

“I do.”

“Then you get a business degree.”

“I’m undecided,” Willow smirks.

“Of course you are.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

“Nothing,” I say.

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