I smile because I have to agree with him. Jax’s taking a large leap of faith right now, and I’m not sure how this is going to go.
“I think we can discuss this as adults. I have Avery here; she’s all I need.”
As much as my heart leaps with the joy at my husband’s comment, I still have the urge to slap him upside the head because this is his career.
“Then let’s get down to it. Jax I don’t need to explain how proud of you we are here. We had a tough season last year, but this year, with your leadership and hard work, has taken us back to number one. That’s not gone unnoticed at all. We want you to stay here in Vegas, as a Gambler, and we want to ensure that you have the time to build a team you can continue to lead.. So we are willing to offer you an eight year contract, and we’ll pay you ten million dollars a year.”
All the air left my body. They’re offering Jax eighty million dollars, and that doesn’t even count his endorsements. This is exactly what Jax needs to show that he’s worth it, and there shouldn’t be any self-doubt.
“And if I turn it down?”
My mouth drops as does Mr. O'Connell's.
“Jax, are you thinking of leaving us?”
“Not per se. I’m thinking of retiring,” he says boldly.
“Retiring? Jax, no offense, but you’re at the prime of your career right now. Is this something you’re serious about?”
“Yes.”
I can’t believe what I’m sitting here listening to. I know that deep down Jax doesn’t want to retire. Hockey is his life. It’s his love. It’s his home.
“Mr. O’Connell, please excuse me for being so rude, but could I have a moment alone with Jax?” I rush out.
He looks between Jax and me, and I know he’s confused. He nods curtly and leaves his office.
“What the hell are you doing?” I grit my teeth at him.
“I told you that I’ve been thinking about this.”
“Jax,” I shake my head. “That’s when you thought you weren’t getting a contract. Here it is,” I point to the stack of papers.
“You’re my number one,” he firmly states.
I search his face as he stares at me. Oh my God. This can’t be what this is about. I cup his face in my hands. “Are you doing this for me?”
“I’m doing it for us.”
I drop my hands. “That’s the sweetest and dumbest thing I’ve ever heard.”
“What?”
“Jax Godwin, you want to give up your career to show me that you love me, right? You’re a damn fool because I will totally kick your ass if you do that.”
“Avery-”
“Stop. Last year was rough on us. I know it. I’ve made a mistake, and I almost lost you, but you can’t do this. You live and breathe hockey. This is where you shine. You’ve helped and inspired so many people, including me. You need to sign this contract.”
Jax doesn’t say anything. He only stares at the table.
“You could finish your career here. Everything is falling into place the way you’ve always wanted it. And if you don’t sign it, I’m taking you to the hospital to have your brain checked.”
“Avery-”
“I don’t want to hear it.” I raise my voice a little bit. “When Mr. O’Connell comes back into this room, you’re going to ask for a pen, and you are going to sign that paper. End of discussion. If you leave hockey for me, you will be miserable, and I can’t stand by and watch that.”
“When did you become so bossy?” he smiles.