Page 2 of Over the Moon

I chuckled, taking the icepack off my knee and making my way to the freezer before placing it inside the door. “Something like that. When you grow up in a small town, they celebrate everything.”

“We won the fucking Stanley Cup, dude!” he shouted. “You go own that shit tomorrow.”

“I plan on it,” I said. “And you’re giving me a hard time when you’ve got some big party planned for you back home this weekend, don’t you?”

“Yep. I’m leaving to head out in a little bit.” He lived two hours outside the city in Brenswick, California, a town that was twice the size of Rosewood River. “I’m fairly certain I’m the first professional athlete to ever come out of Brenswick. So winning the cup is a big deal back home.”

“As it should be.” I smiled, still reveling in the fact that we actually pulled it off. “All right, drive safe. Text me later. We can commiserate when we start training on Monday.”

“Count on it,” he said. “We fucking did it, Chadwick. Let’s enjoy this before we start the grind again.”

“Yeah, we did, buddy. And I say we do it again next season.”

He barked out a laugh. “Hell, yeah! Tell your fam I said hello, and we’ll talk soon.”

I told him to do the same before I ended the call.

A text came through as soon as I set my phone down on the counter.

Unknown Number

Hello, Clark. It’s Eloise Gable. I’ll be in Rosewood River Sunday evening, and we’ll start physical therapy and training on Monday. Just wanted to make sure you were aware of the situation.

Hey, Eloise. I heard you’re thrilled about relocating for the next few months.

I chuckled, knowing that was going to irritate her, and for whatever reason, I enjoyed it.

I updated her contact info as I waited for her to respond.

Eloise

I’m fine. It’s my job. So, we’re good to start working together Monday morning?

If you come early, you could attend the parade they're throwing for me downtown tomorrow. I’m sure you’d love that.

Reaching for my water bottle, I barked out a laugh because I knew that would be the last thing she’d want to do.

Eloise

Well, Clark, I just found out I’m relocating for three months, and as much as I’d love to see you dance around on a float once again… I’ll be packing for my move.

I detect sarcasm.

Eloise

Nope, but I would appreciate it if you’d be careful moving around on that leg. I’m coming to help you heal, and it would be easier if you would get on board with that.

It’s called taking a minute to celebrate the biggest win of our lives.

Eloise

Well, I’m taking three months to get you ready for the season.

This should be fun.

Eloise

It’s not about fun for me. This is my job. Text me the address to the gym, please.

---