Page 77 of Going All the Way (Knights of Passion)

He snorted, a sound of mirth but no real humor behind it. Dare he hope? Could he have his career back?

“You may never play a base again,” Cole said. “The surgery may allow you to be a designated hitter and occasional field player, but you and I both know, shoulder injuries are only a matter of time. As a designated hitter, you can continue working with these kids, developing them and mentoring them. A player-coach.” He studied him, sharp eyes assessing, weighing, judging.

Jason sat back in the seat in the owner’s box, watching the team,histeam, winning in the Division Series. The team was a tighter unit, knew how to win, because of his influence. He knew that, he’d made that happen. And he had had more satisfaction from that knowledge than any win or home run or play he’d ever made on the field. His influence was in the locker room. He could be a designated hitter, aging gracefully like so many other stars. He could extend his career, but always knowing it was a half of a career at best, a ghost of what he had always wanted. Now, his eyes had opened. He didn’t need to play the sport he loved to be his identity. He had other options. The Knights, and Stacia, had shown him other ways.

Scott leaned over next to him, whispering in his ear. “What do you think?”

He looked Cole and Seamus square in the eyes. “No thanks. I don’t think I’ll sign this.”

Scott made a sound of surprise and protest. Seamus frowned. “It was a good offer, boy. We’re taking a risk on you.”

“I know my shoulder. It’s done,” Jason said, a fatalistic shrug for effect.

Only Cole had a smile on his face, but not of triumph or satisfaction. “I had hoped you would say that. How about another proposition?”

---