Page 95 of Off Season

“Ran out of shit to say, eh?”

They’ve been the chirpiest team I’ve known in a final, but as the games have gone on, they’ve become quieter and quieter.

“Fuck off, Parkes.”

“Nah.” I shove the young player slightly with my shoulder, causing him to lose his balance. “I’m good, thanks.”

He grumbles something else under his breath, but I don’t catch it because the linesman drops the puck, Blaine passes it straight to me, and I one-timer it into the top right corner of the net. For the second time in the space of a minute, the goal horn sounds, and the guys crush me against the boards, hollering and whooping.

“Fucking yesss!” someone screams.

We make our way back to the bench, and I can’t help the smile that takes over my face. My eyes burn withunshed tears as the clock counts down. It’s the final minute of the game, and Boston looks like they’re ready to throw in the towel. The bench vibrates as we begin to celebrate. Some of the guys are jumping up and down and hugging, but all I can do is focus on the timer ticking down.

Five...

Four...

Three...

Two...

One...

The buzzer sounds, not only declaring us the Stanley Cup Champions but also signaling the end of my NHL career.

I informed Coach Harris and management last week that this would be my last season, but we agreed not to tell the rest of the team until after the Finals.

I didn’t want them to lose focus or worry about me. We had too much at stake, and it’s not like I’m moving away from Chicago. I’ll still be living here because it’s where Jacob is, and my home is wherever he goes.

The confetti cannons go off. Helmets, sticks, and gloves are thrown into the air as we swarm the ice, huddling together as we celebrate. Some of the guys let their tears fall. Blaine and Elliot are in a tight embrace as Elliot’s tear-streaked face lights up with a bright grin.

We did it.

We fucking did it.

We’re Stanley Cup Champions.

Our hard work and dedication have finally paid off, and I couldn’t be prouder of all of us. I hug everyone, tellingthem how proud I am of them and how amazing they played.

They deserve this so much, and I’m so honored to be a part of this incredible achievement.

Glancing out toward the family seats, I search for the person who makes my heart beat, and when I see him, a wide grin splits my face.

He’s jumping up and down next to my mom, his hands on his cheeks, like he’s trying to hide that wide grin. When our eyes catch, he blows me a kiss and waves, fresh tears rolling down his beautiful face.

I skate back to the boys, and we line up to shake each of our opponents’ hands. I thank each of them for a great series, and when the carpet is rolled out, I’m physically shaking.

This is what we work for.

We sacrificed so much for this moment.

Long days, nights away from our loved ones.

Blood, sweat, sometimes losing our teeth, or injuries that could cost us our careers.

At that thought, I glance over to Zach, relieved that he’s able to be with us. And as if hearing my thoughts, he looks up, giving me a watery smile and a tip of his chin.

I’m so fucking glad he’s here.

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