Page 38 of Cold as (N)ice

Barrett swallowed – and his friends grew increasingly still. Yeah, this was certainly hitting a point that hit home with all of them.

“I was given a chance, took it, and gave it my everything, knowing I had support at my back should I ever need it – and you will too. I want your families to come to the dinners because it’s important that your wives and your children have people they can look to for support. Most of you are from America and relocated here, so French might be a challenge for some of you. Don’t worry – I will provide tutors and translators for you. If you need something, name it…”

Barrett’s hand shot up before he could reconsider his thoughts.

“Yes, Coeur.”

“My stepson is deaf, and the school is still going through the process of approving him. I don’t want him to fall behind. Tuition isn’t the issue but rather that they don’t have a spot yet…” and Mr. Finnegan nodded, smiling approvingly.

“This is what I want from you – trust and faith. What school, and I’ll have it handled immediately.”

“L’ECOLE DOUÉE POUR LES SOURDS,” he replied, realizing he was clenching the arms of the seat he was sitting in and holding his breath. He uncurled his fingers and let it go as the billionaire nodded approvingly.

“You should have your acceptance soon. How old is your boy?”

“Seven.”

“I look forward to meeting him someday,” Mr. Finnegan nodded and looked over the crowd. “Anyone else? Let me help you get comfortable in your new team. There will be plenty of time on the ice, dealing with gossip, and everything else. We’re here to build a new look, a positivity that shines from all of us, and as the old phrase goes – charity begins at home. You are my home, my business, my life. So, if you need something, ask, and I’ll give what help I can.”

“Could I get a few extra seats for my family for a few of the games?” someone else said, standing up. “My wife moved her sister up here with us and plans on flying her parents in so they can see us play. They are both very excited about the new team, and she already wearing the team gear you sent us in the gift boxes.”

“Good – that is what it was for. Be proud you are a Wolverine – and how many seats do you need?”

“We were given two each, but four would be incredible. I used to get four seats each game when I was on the…”

“Done. Jeff – I want each player to get four seats. If you don’t use all your tickets, hand them out to friends. Fill our stadium and build the excitement,” Mr. Finnegan urged openly, not bothering to hide his excitement. “I want everyone to love you and look to you as role models. If you need shirts for your kid’s school, Jeff has the authority for it all. If you don’t get what you need from him – then you can drop me an email, and I will make sure it happens. Everything has to be for the advancement of the team, job satisfaction, family, and the image we are creating here – got me?”

“Yes, sir!” everyone shouted almost in unison.

“Anyone else need anything?”

And the arena was silent.

“Perfect,” Mr. Finnegan smiled easily, giving a curt nod to their coach, Jeff Starnes. “Coach, let’s get them on the ice. We’ve got a cup to win.”

“Yes, sir,” Coach Starnes said easily, turning to look at them. “Boys, let’s suit up. Your gear is in the locker room waiting for you. Nobody messes with the showers, fellas. Nothing but the best for you guys, and the grout was sealed this morning. We’ve gotta let it dry, but you’ll be ready to go next week.”

Everyone stood, shook hands, and made their way in a huge group toward the locker rooms. Conversations and voices whispered among the men as they walked down the ramp toward them, and it hit him. This was his new ‘parade,’ his new path after the games, and couldn’t help the smile on his face.

As they entered the locker rooms, Barrett swallowed and heard the gasp from a few of the men surrounding him. The locker rooms were stunning. Gone were the tiny cubbies he’d once used, and in their place was a large locker with hooks for his bag, his gear, and his uniform jersey, pants, and a new pair of skates waiting for each of them.

“Pads, tape, helmets, and everything you could want is in there, fellas,” the coach called out behind them. “Mr. Finnegan wants you happy, proud to wear your gear, and excited to be a part of the team – in fact – mark your calendars now. My wife is makingpoutinefor everyone on Saturday afternoon and you are all invited over to the house.” Lafreniere, Boucher, and Barrett exchanged a disbelieving look.

This was crazy,he thought wildly, keeping his mouth shut. Nobody did this. Every detail, meticulously was thought out.

Beside him, Lafreniere let out a low whistle. “This is insane.”

Boucher let out a disbelieving laugh. “No kidding.”

Barrett ran a hand over his locker, his throat tightening.

This was it.

A fresh start.

“You give it your all out there, boys – and you’ll receive it back tenfold,” Coach Starnes said proudly. “We’re here to set the groundwork for a new team, a new outlook, and bring a little pride to our new hometown. Welcome to the Wolverines, fellas.”

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