Page 85 of His Jersey

A woman in a slinky dress and heels intercepts me while I make my way to Ella. My groan is masked by people cheering as they pass.

Aston says, “Congrats from your dad and me. He couldn’t make it. But I wouldn’t miss this.” She cackles.

I offer a tight-lipped smile.

She wears a clipped expression that I can’t quite read. “The post-game party is at Club Luna. Make sure you’re there.”

Coach calls us for the debrief. I can’t catch Ella’s eye before I return to the locker room to review everything that worked well during the game. After the highlights, Badaszek pinpoints the weak spots, including improving gap control and how our defensemen have to call the proper play in the go zone faster.

Vohn Brandt, the assistant coach, adds, “Guys, you know this, but speed is one of our secret weapons. We have Bouchelle, who holds one of the top NHL records, but that’s not going to help us if we’re not passing properly. Look for openings and not just ahead of the goal. You know the layout of the ice. You’ll get it there, but you have to visualize how and anticipate the opponents’ every move before it happens.”

“Basically, you’re asking us to be psychic,” Ted asks with a laugh.

Vohn, nearly as stoic and serious as the goalie, Beau Hammer, simply nods.

We talk for a few more minutes, and I can’t help but contrast my new teammates to the Storm. I’ve been behind closed doors, but it’s never been like this. Everyone is relaxed and it’s not just because they’re ahead in the season. Several years ago, we were undefeated, and the tension in the room could’ve been sliced with a skate’s blade.

I’m not psychic, none of us are, but I can see how everyone in this organization respects each other, works together, and has one goal—the same as everyone else in the league. Get the Cup. But they’re different because the moves they make to get there are chess game-level strategic, organized, and thoughtful. These guys are professionals and I firmly believe that I made the right decision and am thankful I didn’t walk away from my career.

I’m just out of the shower and notice five missed calls from my father. I tell myself that Ella is in good hands with Leah. Plus, the rest of the women associated with the team seem genuinely friendly. Coach made it clear that puck bunny drama is not tolerated. Badaszek said, and I quote,They can take their little cotton tails and bark up another tree.

I’ve never seen a bunny bark or go up a tree, but I’m not going to argue with the guy.

Just before my phone stops ringing again, I pick up. “Are you calling to congratulate me on sweeping the win?” I ask even though I already know the answer.

“No. There’s a fine line and you’re skating all over it.”

“Are you referring to the ring on Ella’s finger?” Carlos shared the photos of our engagement and the official announcement with various media outlets, friends, and family.

My father says, “You’re making a big mistake. Lucia is still single.”

“Last I checked, this is my life.”

He counters, “Last I checked, it’smymoney.”

“You can keep your money and marriage of convenience deals and ultimatums.”

“I’m urging you to do the right thing, Jack.”

“No, you do the right thing.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Love me like a son. Honor your deceased wife. Stop messing around.”

“You’re the one who needs to grow up.”

I scoff. “That’s rich coming from a man married to a woman young enough to be my sister.”

“You don’t know what you’re getting into with thatmaid,” my father says like it’s a dirty word.

“I don’t?” I practically shout, pacing in the hallway. “Do enlighten me because I’m pretty sure I know more about Ella than you.” Spending time with her has shown me that life isn’t only about hockey and parties and wealth. Going to get coffee, taking a walk, or eating popcorn and doing simple things together makes life rich.

“That’s not going to make you money.”

“Are you listening to anything I’m saying?” I’m about to hang up when I realize that in the same way my father treats me like a business associate, I’ve treated people, especially the women in my life like that, too. For goodness’ sake, I paid Ella to wear my jersey. Am I so used to paying for everything I thought I could buy love? Was I too afraid to ask her to wear it in case she rejected me? I want to change. For her. But is that enough?

Recalling Mom in her last moments, I decide to extend an olive branch. “Dad, I’d like you to understand that I love Ella. We’re engaged and are getting married. I hope you can come to accept that and be happy for us.”

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