Chapter 24
TWENTY-FOUR
AG
Good luck in the playoffs, Everett.
GE
Thanks, Green. I appreciate it.
And you all too! Still think it would be so cool if we played each other in the Stanley Cup final!
AG
We’ll have to go through San Diego to make that happen. They’re the best team in the league for a reason.
GE
I’m worried about Boston in the East, but we need to win the opening round first.
AG
Any offseason plans if you have an early exit?
GE
Ouch. Straight to my heart! I’m doing a week in the Bahamas with a couple of the guys!
AG
The Bahamas? Sounds awesome. Hopefully that’s in June, not in early May!
GE
You’re not speaking it into existence. I won’t let you!
GE
Guess what.
AG
What?
GE
My agent called and said the Stars want to set up a meeting for contract extension conversations this summer!
AG
Congratulations! You must be so excited!
GE
I’m so pumped. Need to finish the season strong so I can prove I’m worth the investment.
I’m even more motivated heading into round two.
AG
That sweep was damn impressive.
GE
Gotta love when the brooms come out. Nice matchup against LA, by the way. The Suns are a good team.
AG
Thanks :)
AG
Do you believe in aliens?
GE
It’s six in the morning.
Can I have some coffee before we start talking about extraterrestrials?
AG
Sure.
GE
Thanks so much.
Okay. I’m back and becoming caffeinated.
So, do I believe in aliens?
Yes. This universe is too big for us to be the only things out there.
Do YOU believe in aliens?
AG
I do. I’ll be really disappointed if I don’t find out the truth about them before I die.
GE
Mortality is a great way to start the morning.
What in the hell fueled the extraterrestrial question?
AG
I couldn’t sleep in the hotel last night, and old X-Files reruns were on. It had me curious.
GE
Dude. You’re in Dallas, right? I can never sleep when I’m there either.
What if Texas is the hotspot for aliens?!
AG
Now you’re talking.
GE
Way to squeak out that win last night. I watched highlights and was on the edge of my seat!
AG
Such a barn burner, but those are my favorite kinds of games!
GE
Which do you prefer? A seven game series or a one-and-done elimination game?
AG
One-and-done elimination. Everything on the line and only 60 minutes to make it happen? Amazing.
GE
Same. Risky things are way more fun than the safe option.
AG
Can’t believe there’s a chance we’ll face off in the Stanley Cup final.
GE
I know!!!! Boston is giving us a run for our money like I knew they would. Fuck em!
AG
Go park your car in Harvard yard and see how they like it.
GE
I’m giggling on the plane. That was funny.
AG
Maybe I’ll be a standup comedian if coaching doesn’t work out.
GE
Tater tots are such an underrated potato. They deserve more love.
AG
Sorry I missed your text. It’s been a busy few days. Losing a 2-1 lead and getting knocked out in the conference finals sucks.
GE
I’m sorry, Amelia. I know how hard you’ve worked this season.
AG
The agony of sports.
A failed season.
GE
It wasn’t a failed season. The Goldminers were good, but the Bearcats were better. It happens.
AG
Good luck against them. Don’t tell anyone, but I’m rooting for you all to win.
GE
It’ll be our secret.
AG
Go win the Cup, Grant.
GE
Will do, Coach.
AG
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I know you’re probably out celebrating, but I just wanted to say I’m so proud of you.
GE
LIAAAAAAAAAAA!!!
Stanley Cup CHAMPIONS!!!
I’m crying in the club. Don’t care. This is the best day of my life!!!!!!!!!!!
AG
Don’t spend your night texting me!! Go enjoy it with your teammates!
GE
*Attachment: 1 image*
AG
Your hair is DRENCHED.
GE
Champagne shower in the locker room earlier!! Even got Liam to come out with us. Feels like I need to buy a lotto ticket!!!!
AG
I’ve never seen you smile so big. Enjoy it, Grant. I’m so happy for you.
GE
Thanks, Amelia. And thanks for being my friend.
AG
One month of being a Stanley Cup champion. How are you feeling?
GE
Like I’m on top of the world!
I’m meeting with the Stars tomorrow about my contract. Fingers crossed it all goes well.
AG
Text me after?
GE
Obviously. Send good vibes.
AG
I will, but you don’t need them.
Your game speaks for itself, Grant. Go get what you deserve.
GE
Holy shit.
Holy SHIT.
AG
I hope that’s a good holy shit??
GE
Eight year extension.
AG
Oh my god. GRANT.
That’s INCREDIBLE. Congratulations!
You must be so stoked.
FUCK. I’m so stoked for you!!
GE
It’s surreal, to be honest.
Like, are they sure? Me?
AG
Yes. Get that self-doubt out of here. You’ve earned your spot in this league, and you should be compensated for it. You work hard, you won the Cup, and you’re an integral part of your team.
I’m not saying that as your friend either. I’m saying it as a coach who has watched your game.
GE
That means the goddamn world to me.
Thanks for being along for the ride. I appreciate you so much.
Can’t wait to see you again soon.
AG
Me too.