Page 142 of Pucked Up Plans
Thankfully, he continues. “I signed the papers. You’re looking at the new head coach of the Aspenridge Maple Moose men’s hockey team.” Under the dim lights of the arena, Kenny’s face radiates joy.
Liliana throws her arms around him. “Dad, that’s amazing. I’m thrilled for you.” Pride exudes off her in waves.
“Wow. Congrats. The team is in excellent hands.” I reach my hand for him to shake when their hug is done.
“Thanks, Walsh. They asked if I had anyone to replace me as rink manager. Expect a call tomorrow.” His fervor deepens, fine lines creasing his eyes and mouth.
What does he mean by “expect a call tomorrow?” A call from who?
My brain tries to process the significance of the words, but it’s not firing on all cylinders. “Huh?” is the best I can do.
“Walsh.” Tate tugs on my sleeve. “Say something else. Thank you at the least. Isn’t this like a dream job?”
“My dream job?” I parrot back. Manager of the Aspenridge College ice rink. Me, Walsh Keeley. Am I dreaming? “Pinch me.”
Tiny fingers squeeze my knee. “Only because you said to, Dad,” Lennon squeaks when my eyes nag her sight.
I’m not dreaming. Holy hell. This could really happen.
“Oh, it’s happening,” Kenny agrees, reading my mind. Or did I speak aloud? “You’re more than qualified, and I don’t think we could find another candidate as dedicated to the rink as you.”
“Hey, can I get a cookie now?”
Leave it to the five-year-old to ruin my moment. Oblivious to how my world’s going to change, Lennon sits on the bench, legs swinging back and forth, feet still in skates, a hopeful countenance only an innocent child has settled on her face.
“Sure, kid. Life’s all about your cookies.”
A chorus of laughter slices the hollowness of the empty arena.
Liliana retrieves the cookies from her bag while Kenny and I chat logistics. As if the job is already mine.
Fifteen minutes later, he’s leaving with one last shake of my hand. “I’d say welcome to the team, but you’ve been a member the last four years. I’ll be in touch.”
“Thank you, Kenny.” I push the words I should have said from the beginning out of my mouth.
“My pleasure.” With his arm looped around his daughter, they head back for his office. I can’t help but think that will be me someday. The entire picture, daughter and all.
Tate’s voice breaks into the image. “Walsh. This is amazing,” she singsongs, admiration evident in her tone.
“I’m a bit stunned, to be honest.IfI even get the job.”
There must be a protocol to follow, procedures, and rules in place. Kenny can’t recommend me and voilà. The job is mine. It can’t be that easy.
“He seemed pretty confident.”
“Guess we’ll wait and see what happens.”
I don’t want to get my hopes up.
Would it be an ideal job? Yep.
Would I accept if offered? Yep.
Would it solve my job woes? Absolutely.
But it’s been a hot minute since Kenny mentioned it. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
“Walsh, I’m really cold. Is it time for Mommy to cook the meatloaf now?”
