33. Jackson
Jackson
Right now, I’m looking at my life and thinking about where fairness is in the universe.
I’ve just read Splash’s brief, shattered letter, and I’m staring at my reflection in the mirror. How can I be a hockey player earning millions of dollars, while we have people in the line of duty just so I can play my shifts? I have to do more. I want to do more.
Grabbing my phone, I dial the only man I know who will have an answer. “Hey man,” I say. Donovan sounds completely out of breath on the other end. “Sorry, have I interrupted anything important?”
I hear some grunting over the line, followed by a door slamming closed. “No, you’re good. What do you need, Hayes?”
I take a deep breath. “So, I want to do something, but I have no idea what.” Did I really just say that to my captain?
“Erm, ok… you’re going to have to give me a bit more than that,” Donovan replies. Yeah, no shit.
“I got another letter from Splash,” I explain. “He said they lost people today. And here I am, not doing anything to help.”
Over the phone, I can hear Donovan making a drink, the clink of ice against a glass.
“Hayes, you cannot say that you’re not doing anything.
You’re always the first to volunteer for any charity events we host. Don’t think I don’t see the extra money you pass over at those benefits, either.
They’re not part of the job; that’s all you, man. ”
I didn’t realize anyone knew anything about those donations.
“Yeah, well, I want to do something else. How about holding a themed game and raising money for a military charity?” My brain is racing now.
“Yeah, I think that’s a great idea. Let’s talk to Coach later.
” Hanging up, I felt a sense of purpose.
I close my eyes and think of Splash. I haven’t got a clue where he is in the world, but I want him to know that he isn’t forgotten. Every single day he steps out and risks his life, we will forever be in his debt.