Page 107 of Your Play to Call
Explore the hidden coves
Where your secrets stand
We do a few re-records but not many. I know I nailed it and would probably be content with any of the takes I did. It felt right. Easy.
After I record the whole song, two more times, we’re done for the day. They have everything they need for the whole album. Issues could come up when they’re mixing or mastering, but the bulk of the work is done. It feels good.
“Willow—”
“I know, I know. You love the bridge!” I clap my hands together and jump up and down in excitement.
"I do, but that’s not it.” Her brows are creased and the warm demeanor I know is nowhere to be found. “Have you seen this?” She gives me her phone.
No Tripping Here – Tripp Owens to Announce Retirement
I scan the article and immediately know something isn’t quite right. Quotes like “Sources close to Owens” and “An anonymous teammate” are what make up the entire piece. There isn’t a single line attributed to Tripp, his team, or the Cosmos.
“This isn’t true. I have to go.”
“Everything okay over here?” Erik comes over just as I’m about to make a break for the door.
“Yeah, I forgot about a dinner thing tonight. Have to get going.” I tell the white lie because I don’t want to draw a single ounce of attention to the article that’s going to be or is already on everyone’s social media feed.
“Get out of here then. Good work today. We’ll be in touch after we get closer to finalizing the tracks,” Erik says as I’m halfway out the door.
Chapter 58
Tripp
My head coach iscalling me. Probably to check in.
“Is there something you want to share?” he asks, his voice clear and to the point.
“No, not particularly. Is there somethingyouwant to share?”
“This isn’t a joke, Tripp. If you’re thinking about retiring, it’d be nice if you had those conversations with us before anyone else.”
Retiring? The only person I even uttered the thought to was Willow.
“I’m not exactly following…”
“We’ve been fielding calls asking to comment on your pending retirement.”
“This is the first I’ve heard about it,” I say.
“You didn’t tell anyone that retirement was a serious option for you?”
I don’t answer. I can’t answer. My fingers tingle as I hold the phone too tight.
“Listen. I know that hit scared the shit out of you. It should’ve. My advice to you is to not make any decisions without some space from it. And once something like this comes out, the team would be stupid not to put themselves in the best position to win.”
“What does that mean?”
“It means the front office can’t unread this. It puts doubt in their mind. Their minds will be open, even if it’s just a crack, on the roster for next season. I’m not saying it’s right and not that they’re actively looking but I want to be straight with you."
Fuck me. This is not happening.
“No, I appreciate it.” And I do. I don’t think there are many coaches who operate like mine. Straight to the point even when he doesn’t have to.
