Page 86 of Playoff

“Seriously?” I’m genuinely shocked.

Excited but shocked.

“Yup. They really love what you’re doing out there, the energy you’re showing on the ice and your productivity. They’ve watched you for a while, but you haven’t had a lot of chance to shine in Phoenix. It’s been a totally different thing in L.A.”

“Shit. That’s… well, I guess I wasn’t expecting anything like this.”

“Look, best case scenario, you walk away with a three-year deal. Worst case, you have bargaining power with the Phantoms.”

I hadn’t considered that.

“Are we talking real money?”

“Probably just over the league minimum, around the seven-figure mark, but they’re keeping it quiet for now. We don’t have a choice. I just don’t want to waste my time if it’s a hard no.”

“Of course it’s not a hard no,” I say. “This has always been the goal.”

“That’s what I think too.”

“Nothing like turning up the pressure right before a game,” I say dryly.

He laughs. “Well, I’m in town, but I figured it would be easier to talk shop on the phone and then maybe we can get a drink or something tonight or tomorrow.”

“Absolutely. You need a couple of tickets?”

“Nah, got that covered. But I’ll see you tonight—and remember, don’t tell a soul. Not your mom, your girlfriend, your therapist—we could both get into trouble if word got out.”

“My lips are sealed. Thanks, Anson.”

“This is what I’m here for.” He laughs and disconnects.

Off in the distance, I see Rowan talking with Bristol, and it’s becoming abundantly clear that we need to talk.

There’s so much happening, and I know firsthand the secrets have a way of coming back to bite you in the ass.

Since I can’t talk to her now, I decide to text her. Not just because we need to talk but also because I miss spending time with her.

BLAKE: Hey… just wanted to say I miss you. Two days apart feels like two years.

She doesn’t react at first, continuing her conversation with Bristol. Eventually, she pulls her phone out of her back pocket, and I see her smile. She says something to Bristol and starts walking back toward her office.

I want to follow but it’s better if I don’t. Being alone together will probably be more temptation than I can resist.

ROWAN: I miss you too. You can stay with me in Vegas. My dad will have his own room. We’ll just have to be more careful about coming and going.

BLAKE: For sure. Let’s find a time to be together.

ROWAN: Vegas is definitely our best bet since my dad is currently sleeping on my couch.

BLAKE: Yeah and he’s not thrilled with me as it is.

ROWAN: He’s fine. He’s just overprotective. But I’ve told him we’re taking things slow and you’re not the same guy you were in high school.

BLAKE: I am definitely not. So, it’s a date. Two nights from tonight, your room. Vegas.

ROWAN: LOL Deal.

BLAKE: See you later, beautiful.

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