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“What if you get traded to another team?” I ask and instantly regret my careless words.
He barks out a laugh. “Then I’m screwed.”
I swipe my wrist across my temple, wiping away the sweat beading on my skin. Although, after my last question, I should be slapping my forehead.
“Kaiden, I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have asked you about being traded. It was horribly insensitive of me.”
“You don’t need to apologize. It’s a legitimate question and one I asked myself many times before purchasing my house. But I decided it didn’t make a difference, because no matter what, I wouldn’t sell my place.”
“It would be difficult to find another property that could match up,” I say.
“Besides, at this point in my career, my time is limited. I don’t think I’d agree to play for another team.”
“You’d retire?”
“Yeah.” His answer surprises me.
“I’m embarrassed to admit I don’t really follow hockey.”
“You shouldn’t be. Hockey’s not for everyone.”
“I catch pieces of the games on the TVs at my work, but I don’t have time to pay attention. But, of course, I always want the Coyotes to win.” My lips curve and my gaze flicks in his direction.
Glancing back at me, he smiles. “You better.”
“What’s the average age for retiring? Or is it bad mojo to ask about that?”
“There are a lot of factors that weigh into when a player retires, but the average age is between thirty-five and forty-five. If someone doesn’t play as much, obviously that’ll minimize the toll on their body.”
“You play a lot, right?”
“Yeah, I’m a center. I’m also the team captain.”
“That’s awesome. So, you’re the coach’s favorite player?” I ask.
He laughs. “No. I’ve been with the team the longest.”
“I’m sure that’s not the only reason you were chosen. Maybe it’s because you’re mature and can keep a cool head in high-pressure situations.”
“Is that your way of saying I’m old?” he asks.
“Hey, you caught me,” I tease.
“Sounds like you know more about my playing than you let on.”
“It’s hard to miss the bar patrons shouting your name during every game.”
“Coyotes’ fans are known to be vocal whether we’re playing well or not.”
“From what I’ve witnessed, I’d say that’s true.”
“What’s your work schedule like?” he asks.
“I’m on four nights a week. Most of the time that means Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.”
“You’re off tonight?”
“Yep.”
