Page 85 of Perfectly Wedded

I throw myself into his arms as they wrap around my body. The crowd erupts into cheers, longer and louder than any game-winning goal.

Finally, a hand taps Vale’s shoulder, breaking up our moment.

He spins around and sees Leo impatiently waiting behind him.

“You gonna kiss all night?” Leo asks.

“You’re gonna pay for this, Ego,” Vale says, shaking his head.

“Shut up,Romeo,”he says, skating away. “We’ve got a game to win.”

TWENTY-EIGHT

Vale

“Iwant to sign the contract,” I tell my agent the next day over the phone. I scored two goals in last night’s game, more than any player, which gives me leverage for renegotiating my contract. Adding the no-movement clause will allow me to be home with Sloan as much as possible. The sooner I can provide the stability Sloan needs, the better.

“Unfortunately, Mr. Marco has a full schedule and can’t join us, but the operating manager can be there,” Jimmy says. “You wanna wait?”

It would be nice to have another person in the room who’s on my side, but I can’t delay this any longer.

“No, I’m ready to sign,” I decide.

If I’m staying with the Crushers, I want to finalize the no-movement clause before our wedding ceremony. There’s no question—I want to be with my wife as much as possible. Adding this clause keeps me in Sully’s Beach. I’ll still have to travel for away games, but I won’t get moved to another city. I can’t wait to see Sloan’s face when I reveal this surprise.

“How’s your wife?” Jimmy asks when he arrives at the Crushers’office.

“Feeling better than ever,” I say. “Thanks to this new medication.”

“That’s what I want to hear,” Jimmy says with a pleased smile. He knows that gives us leverage for our negotiations today. Forget Zach’s allegations that I wouldn’t be able to fulfill my obligations to the team. This proves I’m unlikely to miss a game due to Sloan’s health.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” Jimmy studies me when we sit down at the conference table in the Crushers’ office. “You know Tampa has been hounding me ever since we talked last. They really want you on their team and are willing to make a very nice offer.”

I swallow the lump in my throat. “I’m not taking an offer from Tampa right now. Only reason I’m here is to add the no-movement clause.”

Jimmy lets out a disappointed sigh. “I understand, even if I think you should reconsider. I have the feeling that Tampa’s contract would have blown away what the Crushers are going to offer you today.”

“It’s not about the money, Jimmy,” I say, leaning my elbows on my knees. “I’d rather have my wife than an NHL career.”

This time, I’m not just saying it. I mean it. Hockey has always been my focus, until Sloan walked into my life and flipped everything I thought I wanted on its head.

Jimmy nods once. “I’m glad it was a straightforward decision for you. How about this? I’ll tell Tampa you’re not interested for the next few months. We’ll reevaluate later.”

“I won’t need to,” I reply. “I’m staying here.”

“Vale, this is just smart business. Keep your opportunities open. You don’t know how things could change down the road.”

“What if I’ve already decided?” I say, more determined than ever.

Jimmy shakes his head. “You’re not my first player who’s said that and then changed his mind. I’ve asked for the new contract to only include half the season. If the Crushers give you a lowballoffer, you can always renegotiate later in the year. This is in your best interest.”

“Then I’ll want the same contract drawn up later,” I insist. Does Jimmy think my marriage might not work out? That I’ll wish I hadn’t added the clause? Because he’s wrong. I’m staying in Sully’s Beach with the Crushers, even if it means I might let the opportunity of a lifetime slip away.

Zach enters the room in a frenzy, barely even offering a nod as a greeting.

“Sorry I’m late. We’ve got a situation that’s blown up today,” he says, frazzled. “We’re headed into a meeting with everyone next.”

“About?” I ask, sensing this isn’t good news.

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