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Chapter 25
I knew this day would one day come, my last professional game. I felt emotional and terrified that it wouldn’t be one of my better games. I didn’t want to go out like that ... I was scared my knee would give away. I desperately wanted to play well for the team, and because The Russian was going to be in the audience with his friends.
“I’m so nervous, it’s insane,” I said, trying to shake myself out. I was in the kitchen at The Russian’s place on Saturday morning, having another glass of water before I left.
He came up beside me, took the glass from my hand and turned me around.
“I understand, but let’s look at this. You’ve played games that have been more important,” he reminded me.
I nodded, feeling the security of his arms as he stood in front of me, looking delicious in his low slung jeans and a white t-shirt, which really set off his tan and muscles. I was in my Suns’ uniform, ready to go.
“You’re right, we’ve had semi-finals and finals that have been more important.”
“So,” he continued, “what’s the worst that could happen?” He pressed his body against mine, and I was temporarily distracted by his erection pressing against me.
I thought about his words. “The worst that could happen is that I have a really dud game and it’s my last game ever,” I said, breathing out.
“You’ve got enough medals and tin on your shelf not to need this game to prove your worth,” The Russian reminded me. “Just go out there, look flashy and confident, give it your best, remember what you’ve loved about playing and take a bow at the end,” he said, and kissed me on the top of my head. “Besides, you look very hot in your uniform.”
I smiled and moved closer to hug him.
“You’re right, thank you. I’ll focus on the moment and the competition, rivalry, fun ...” I said.
“That’s my girl.”
I pulled away. “You’ll bring my ...”
“…bag. I’ll bring your bag and change of clothes,” he said, assuring me again.
“And you’ve got your tickets and ...”
“VIP passes, I’ve got them,” he assured me.
“And you know our sign?” I asked.
The Russian took my hand and kissed it, placing it on his heart ... very old fashioned and sexy.
“I know it,” he said, and smiled at me.
“What?” I asked.
“So this is what you’re like before a game. I get it,” he said. “Now go, see you there and don’t forget to enjoy it.” He saw me down to my car and gave me another kiss.
I drove off full of butterflies – excitement, nerves, and a tinge of sadness as I’d never get to play with my Suns’ teammates again. But at least I’d be at most matches reporting the game from the commentary box ... that was almost as good. I also knew that at the end of the season, some would be retiring or traded or be dropped ... nothing stayed the same for long in professional sport – the Suns I knew wouldn’t be next season’s Suns.
I wondered which ten friends the Russian would be bringing ... well, nine plus himself. He wouldn’t tell me. Maybe his family? Maybe some Saints, maybe some friends I hadn’t met yet? Then I pulled into the Suns’ home ground for the last time as a player, and into the players’ parking lot. I looked at the car that pulled up beside me, and Steffi was at the wheel. She waved enthusiastically and we walked in together.
“So good to play together again,” she said, wrapping an arm around my shoulder. We could easily reach each other.
We entered the very familiar dressing rooms and got into our usual routines. Our opposing team, the Seattle Sky, were already there and milling around their area as well.
Coach entered and we all quietened down for her update.
“Carla, if you can do a media interview on court fifteen minutes before the game, Latoya at half-time, and Lia and I will do post-match,” she said.
I nodded my understanding and Coach went on to give us a briefing and updates on player changes for the opposition. I was pumped, so were the other girls, and in the stadium you could hear the fans arriving. It was going to be big; the noise was already drifting into our changing rooms. When Coach finished, Aimee and I snuck out to have a quick look, and the place was pumping. The merchandise booth had a huge queue, membership sales for next year had a few people signing up and there were stacks of fans in our colors and those of the opposition, getting food and drinks, or photos with our mascots.
I heard some cheers and a lot of noise from the entranceway – what was going on? Then I saw them ... The Russian had brought his big gun mates from the Saints and they were heading to the VIP area.
