Page 83 of Match Point

“I don’t care,” I said. “They’re welcome to the job.”

Hammy put down his tablet and leaned back on the couch, studying me for a moment. “What’s gotten into you, Miranda?”

“What do you mean?”

“You don’t seem interested in doing anything. Even broadcasting, which you were quite enthusiastic about a year ago, seems like a bore to you. Do you even want to do anything?”

I shrugged. “I don’t know. Maybe it’s time Iactuallyretired. Not just from tennis, but from everything else surrounding it. I have enough money tucked away to live comfortably.”

Hammy sighed. “If you’re retired, you don’t need an agent.”

It took me a moment to realize what he meant. “Oh, Hammy…”

“I enjoy your company, Miranda, but if you aren’t interested in working then I need to focus my efforts elsewhere.” He smiled. “I’ve made quite a bit of money as your agent over the last decade, but not enough to retire comfortably, I’m afraid.”

Hammy had been with me longer than anyone else—even my coach. The weight of the moment overwhelmed me, and I quickly moved over to sit next to him on the other couch. “I’m not ready to make a decision yet. I’m still thinking about things. But you’re right, I need to decidesomethingsoon. I promise I won’t leave you on the hook.”

He squeezed my hand and said, “If there’s anyone’s hook I’d like to be on, it’s yours. But seriously, love. Is everything all right?”

“I just feel… I don’t know.”

“You feel like a sailboat without any wind.”

“Yes!” I exclaimed. “How did you know?”

“Happens to everyone who retires. Totally normal. It’ll pass once you figure out what you want to do.”

“Who says I want to do something at all?”

“Everyone does. Professional athletes like yourself are too driven to donothingall day.” He stood up. “Now, I need to meet with some clients whoaren’tlazy wankers.”

“Hey!”

“Just kidding. Love you tons, kiddo.”

Seeing Hammy brightened my mood, but not as much as the text I got later that night from a different Australian.

Tristan: Hello, gorgeous. Miss me?

Me: Actually, I just had a different Australian gentleman leave my house. He helped scratch the Aussie itch.

Tristan: It was Hamilton, wasn’t it?

Me: Boo. Okay, yeah, I’ve missed you :-)

Tristan: That’s the right answer, because it turns out I’m coming to America for the US Open earlier than expected.

Me: Oh! How much earlier?

Tristan: I can see you tomorrow, if you’re free.

Me: TOMORROW?

Tristan: Are those good capital letters, or bad capital letters?

Me: VERY GOOD CAPITAL LETTERS

Me: What time can I see you?

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