Page 125 of In The Game

“I found this out by the pool, it was ringing,” Raleigh says, strolling inside and handing me my phone. Glancing at the screen, I see three missed calls. Two from Coach. One from Jeff.Here we go.

“Thanks, babe. Why don’t you jump in the shower and then we can go explore or grab something to eat.”

She nods in understanding and gives me privacy. I know who I need to call first.

He answers and I smile. “Hey, Coach.”

“Conway... So, retirement, huh?”

I run my hand through my hair and walk outside, closing the door behind me.

“Yeah, it’s time.”

“We wanted to offer you the captain spot—I don’t suppose that changes your decision at all. You must have known that was coming.”

Yeah, I figured as much. I’m already the alternate.

“I took that into consideration. It’s nothing personal, but this is the right move for me. Besides, somebody’s gotta babysit Sullivan.” I laugh to break the tension.

“Losing two caps in two seasons. Son of a bitch. What do you think about getting together for lunch to discuss this a little more?”

I run my hand over my facial hair. “I’m actually in Hawaii.”

There’s a pause and I pace.

“You took a vacation? You never take vacation.”

That’s not true. But I don’t take trips as much as some of the other guys. Sullivan and I have always been homebodies like that. We travel enough with the team. I’d rather stay home when I’m near my base.

“Yeah. I needed to clear my head.”Didn’t take long…

“Just answer one question for me. Is it worth it?”

“What?”

“Whatever it is that’s driving this decision. I know you didn’t wake up and decide to retire.”

I smile and look through the glass windows at Arthur eating cereal at the island countertop.

“Yeah. It’s worth it. It’s worth everything.”

“Well…” There’s a long pause, but I don’t fill it. He knows I’m set in my decision, and once I make up my mind, I don’t often change it. “Ya know, I love this organization… but I love the players more. In the end, you gotta do what’s best for you. I trust that you’re making the best decision for yourself. And I’m glad you’re giving me one last season.”

That’s why I love Coach. He’s a good guy. He knows hockey has been our life since we were young kids, and he understands there are other things that exist outside of it that are just as important. Like family.

“I’ve loved playing for you over the years, and when it’s time, I’ll help wherever I can with the transition.”

“Oh yeah? You’re gonna find a new cap for me?”

I chuckle. “Sure. Banksy.”

He laughs, but I don’t.

“Teller? Are you serious? I have a hard enough time keeping him out of the sin bin, the last thing we need to do is add to his ego. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a natural talent, terrific athlete, but the org would never go for it. He’s too much of a wildcard.”

I plead my case for Banks. He’s a good guy, a little misunderstood. “He only ends up in the box because he’s protective of the boys, it’s part of his intimidation. He’s an enforcer. You put a C on his sweater, and I guarantee he’ll surprise you. He needs something to challenge him, make him grow the hell up, focus on something other than women and whatever else he keeps himself busy with. Banksy’s ready, he just doesn’t know it yet.”

“I think that vacation has gone to your head.”

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