Page 109 of The Game
As my team leaves the ice, I can’t help but look around the arena one last time, taking in the cheers of our fans.
We just made it into the Stanley Cup playoffs.
For the first time in 17 years, the Chicago Coyotes will play for the Cup.
What a fucking feeling, and what a fucking game.
As I skate off, I spot my girl with the media team, her delight radiating from her.
Luckily, we’re all in the clear with the whole organization about our relationship, because right now, I really need to kiss her.
I make my way over to her, and she meets me halfway.
I bring her up into my arms, kissing her, pouring all my love into it.
“Fuck, Sarah. We fucking did it.”
“Yeah, you did.”
We turned the team around just in time to make a difference.
The game nights at my apartment have quickly become a regular gathering, and even though our resultsmay not rely entirely on a bunch of guys playing card games, I have seen progress in the group’s dynamics ever since that first night.
The newer guys on the team have warmed up more and are getting more comfortable around the rest, which has made our practices run more smoothly. This has further strengthened our on-ice play, giving us a stronger foundation.
“This wouldn’t be possible without you, you know,” I tell her, grazing my hand down her face. Sarah rolls her eyes at that.
“Oh, come on, this was all you, baby. I’ve just been here and given you a little push when needed.”
Sarah will never accept the credit, but she’s made me a better captain, hell, a better man, ever since she became part of my life. Before her, I was nose-deep in game tape and technical stuff.
Those things are still crucial parts of a hockey team, but you can analyse yourself to death, and it won’t make a difference if the players don’t work well together.
With her by my side, I’ve been pushed to see past the technical aspects and include other structures in my captain duties as well.
With one last parting kiss, I take off to the locker room where my team awaits.
I’m sprayed down with champagne as soon as I step inside, the noise louder than ever before.
“Fuck yes! We did it!” Noah practically yells in my ear, swinging his arms around my neck.
“Yeah, we fucking did.”
The guys gather around, and I seize the moment to say some words to my team.
“I want to congratulate every single one in this locker room on your game. We fucking did it!” I say, the cheers erupting around me before I continue.
“Now, we’re going to fight for that cup!”
~
After the team is showered, media duties are finished, and we’ve had our after-game team meeting, we’re all meeting up at The Rove.
When I get there, I look for Sarah, but I don’t spot her right away. I see Samantha and head for her.
Those two usually stay together during the games.
“Hey, Samantha. Have you seen Sarah?” I ask her, a sinking feeling settling in my stomach.
