I'm writing this knowing I'll never send it. But I need to put these words somewhere.
I delete it then start again.
Ivy,
Thank you for watching the press conference. Marcus told me you did. I don't know what you thought, if it changed anything, if you're still angry. All of that is your right.
The NHL is holding a hearing in two weeks. My lawyer wants you to testify about the fabricated video. I told her no. You don't owe me anything. If you want to help, that's your choice. If you don't, I understand completely.
I'm probably losing everything. My career. The endorsements. Maybe my freedom if Gregory's lawyers are creative enough with those fraud charges. And I'm at peace with that. Not happy, but at peace.
Because for the first time in nine years, I'm not hiding or performing. I'm not letting fear control my choices.
I love you. I'll always love you. I hope your research changes how teams handle concussions. I hope you save lives.
Declan
I read it twice, then save the letter.
But then Patricia’s words keep ringing in my head. I need to take care of Riley and Rowan. Before I can stop myself, I’ve created a new email and sent the letter to Ivy.
Now its up to her. And whatever she decides, I’ll still love her.
My phone buzzes with news alerts.
“NHL Announces Emergency Hearing. Hawthorne's Career in Jeopardy.”
“Four More Endorsement Deals Terminate Contracts with Suspended Star.”
“Gregory Stallworth's Lawyer: "This is Desperate Retaliation by a Disgraced Player.”
I should feel panic. Rage.
Instead, I just feel exhausted and strangely calm.
Because for the first time in nine years, I'm not hiding behind a persona Gregory created. I'm not performing for cameras or protecting an image that was never real. I'm just me, flawed and honest and facing the consequences of my choices.
My career might be ending, but at least it's ending with integrity.
If I lose everything, at least I lose it honestly.
29
IVY
One Last Chance
The letter glows on my laptop screen, words I've read so many times I've memorized every line. Declan's email arrived from an account I didn't recognize, but I knew it was him before I finished the first sentence.
I love you. I'll always love you. I hope your research changes how teams handle concussions. I hope you save lives.
If you want to help, that's your choice. If you don't, I understand completely.
My phone feels heavy in my hand as I type the message that will change everything.
Ivy:
Meet me tomorrow at 2 pm.
