I can't hear what she's saying exactly, but Jasper’s agent is talking a mile a minute. He cuts her off quickly, “Sorry, but do you mind if I put you on speaker, I’m here with Vivian.”
She must say okay, as the next thing I hear is her amused voice. “Morning, Vivian. It’s lovely to meet you, even if it’s via a phone call.”
“Likewise.”
Em clears her throat. “I hope I wasn't interrupting anything…fun.”
“You weren’t—it's all good. So, what’s up?”
“There's no easy way to say this, but after many conversations with different teams, the Woodpeckers have decided to trade Jasper as they want to try something different this season.”
Silence falls in the room after her statement, and Jasper’s entire body stiffens against me. “Traded?”
“I'm afraid so.”
“What do they get in return?” he asks hesitantly.
“Jas, don't you want to know where you're traded first?”
“I want to know my worth to the organization that has been one of the most important things in my life for years.”
“They get two players: one rookie and one more seasoned player. They’re rather talented players, if I’m being honest.”
“Well, shit.”
“So, I know this is a shock, but there's something positive about it all—” Em starts to say.
Jasper shakes his head, even though she can't see him. “I bet I'll disagree.”
“Jas, listen—you're being traded to the Peacocks.”
26
THERE’S THE FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING
JASPER
I’m still reeling from the news as I stare at the wall without saying a word. I’m about to embark on a new journey, one that I didn’t expect or prepare for.
As I sit on the edge of the bed, my eyes trail over the room, taking in each detail before I turn to Vivian. She’s looking at me with a mixture of concern and understanding.
“Are you okay?” she mouths, reaching out to touch me. Her touch is gentle and comforting, and I feel a wave of gratitude wash over me. I shake my head, running my hands through my hair.
“Jas, buddy, are you still there?” I hear Em’s voice but can’t find it in me to reply.
Vivian does instead. “Yes, he’s still here but needs a moment to gather his thoughts. I’ll leave you two to it. Talk to you later, Em.”
“Later, Vivian.”
I watch as she leaves the room, most likely going to make us coffee. It takes everything in me not to follow her, but this conversation is my priority right now. My head spins, trying to understand what’s happening. I’ve been part of the Woodpeckers since my rookie season, and it’s hard to imagine leaving them...especially for their biggest rival team.
“The Peacocks? I can’t fucking believe it,” I finally mutter in disbelief. “This is a lot to take in, Em.”
“I know, but the trade is happening no matter what. I’m sorry I can’t be there with you right now…it sucks that I had to do this over the phone, but you know how it is. Once I got the news, you were the first person I called.”
“Thanks. Aretheyeven happy to have me?” I ask incredulously.
“Yeah, they're excited to work with you and expect you to be on the ice tomorrow for practice and then your first game wearing the Peacocks jersey a day later,” Em replies in a calm tone.
