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“Why?” The question is rude, but I’m kind of over being worried about what one person thinks. I’ve hundreds of thousands of people watching my day to day life and commenting on every aspect of it. I’m over it.
Tony tilts his head and sizes me up like he’s never seen me before. “Because I thought you were a B string player. I hoped you’d prove me wrong, and you did. This has been your best year to date, and I don’t see that momentum slowing anytime soon.”
Hope slips into the cracks made by Trina’s betrayal. Wait. I correct myself. What I perceived as her betrayal.
“Sir, I need you to be real straight with me right now. Are you offering me a spot on your team?” I sound incredulous. Heck, Ifeelincredulous. No doubt it’s plastered all over my face.
Tony’s smile is as iconic as his suit, and when he allows it now, I can’t help taking a step back. His laughter follows me. “Come on, son. You don’t think I’d fly all the way here from California just to say hello, do you?”
I don’t know. Seriously. I know nothing about the guy except what I’ve heard. Most of which is good. He has the number one ranking team, so he must be good. His attitude here is pleasant, even if a bit snotty. I can overlook that.
“We’ll be compensating you with a house and car, all moving expenses paid by us. You’ll also be put on the A string, first ones out on the court. Keep showing me the skill I’ve been seeing here, and we’ll both be very happy people.” He taps his finger to his chin. “Oh, and we’ll be doubling your current salary, with room for that to grow.”
Depending on how I play. That part is never said, but every ballplayer knows if they start tanking, their salary gets cut. Part of the business of being an athlete. Which is why most guys get into commercials and sponsored products.
I have never been more at a loss for words. I open my mouth. Close it. Open it again. Nothing comes out.
I’m torn by two futures. In one hand, I have the chance to make things right with Trina. In the other, I hold the power over my career and my future. More money than I ever imagined.
For a kid who grew up with nothing, money is a powerful motivator. I’d be lying to myself if I didn’t admit I’m intrigued by more money, a bigger house, and a better car.
And I’d be leaving all this behind.
No more worries about Trina and what the reality show would demand of me next.
No deals for more shows in the future. I’d be sure to add that clause into my new contract with Tony.
There’s a third option: take the job and ask Trina to move with me.
I’d be a jerk to ask that of her after shelandeda spot with CNN. Unless they could find her a spot in California. Surely they could.
I could have it all. The money, the fame, and the wife.
Chapter 20
LIAM
