From Fling to Ring: A Hockey Romance (The San Francisco Aftershocks)

Chapter 52

TYLER

The Aftershocks were knockedout of the playoffs in the first round. And while I’d never say this to the guys or Coach, or anyone else for that matter, I hardly even cared.

I have the love of a good woman and am so surprised at my luck that I keep pinching myself to make sure it’s real.

Not that I tell anyone that, either.

It’s somewhat of a relief when the adrenaline rush of the season is over, even if your team isn’t the champion. I can’t lie though, the adjustment from the screaming fans cheering with unwavering passion to dead quiet is always something that takes a little getting used to.

The playoffs push a guy to his limits, and I’m no exception. The speed is intense, the hits are brutal, and the competition is unrivaled. I love it though, and give it everything I’ve got. After all, every play could be the difference between victory and defeat. It’s what I love about this sport.

Talk about a rollercoaster. The pressure and weight of expectations beats down on a guy, all fueling the desire to hoist that championship trophy. It’s filled with endless highs and lows, and while we didn’t win this time, I have to say, as corny as it sounds, that playing alongside my teammates is the real reward.

Now, it’s time to recharge and get even stronger for the next season. I don’t get to sit around on my ass, not that I’d want to do that anyway, but the off-season pace is much more sane. There will be workouts, skills training, camps, and clinics, but I’ll have more time for my volunteer work and my family, and of course, Lucy. I even suggested we go back to Paris to resurrect the trip I pretty much cheated her out of. We won’t be letting Frenchie know we’re coming, of course. She burned her bridges down to the damn ground.