When a client signs with me, I am not just a sports agent; I also serve as an emotional support system, financial advisor, and friend. I’m not your stereotypical sleazy agent. I want only the very best for my clients, and if that means listening to them cry down the phone because they are injured, tired, or missing family, then I listen. It’s all part of the job.
After listing a dozen ideas, I wrap up, “I’ve taken a quick look at yourBlades on Icecontract, and I believe we should negotiate a higher fee.” Hope’s eyes widen at my suggestion. “You’re a professional figure skater, Hope. There’s the risk of injury that could end your career, and the hours of rehearsal and practice will cut into your training schedule. You’re worth more than seven hundred thousand dollars.”
“But there are only twelve live shows,” Hope gasps, looking utterly astounded at my suggestion.
I confidently reply, knowing Hope hasn’t considered the additional expectations that will be placed on her, “Plus publicity, television interviews during the show, filming, photoshoots, costume fittings, media training, traveling to and from the live shows between America and Canada, and what happens if you win the show? You will be expected to appear on every live television show across North America.”
“Okay, okay. I get the idea.” She holds her hands up to stop me. “So what fee were you thinking of asking for?”
“One point five million.” It’s bold, but her time is precious, and she’s worth it. Ratings will skyrocket, and I know people willtune in to watch Hope. Only twenty-two, she’s super talented, and that dreamy Scottish lilt of hers will have viewers drooling over her; she’ll be theonlyreason they tune in.
Her mouth drops open in shock as she looks at her mom, a mirror image of herself, then turns to her dad, who grins widely like a Cheshire cat. “I told you Leon is the best, sweetheart.” Hunter leans back in his chair and rests his napkin on the table.
His American accent now sounds more Scottish than I remember from the first time we met.I guess after living in Scotland for over twenty-eight years, it’s started to rub off on him.
“Let’s meet again when I return from vacation. We can organize a video call to save time on traveling for all of us.” However, a trip to Scotland has always been on my bucket list. Maybe another time. “I promise you, Eden.” I give Hope’s mom my full attention. “I’ll look after your daughter. My team is like family to me, as are my clients. Hope wouldn’t just be a signature on a piece of paper. We take care of one another.”
“Thank you. That’s reassuring,” Eden replies, her eyes filling with emotion.
“Stop worrying about me, Mom.” Hope leans over and takes her mom’s hand. “I’ve traveled the world dozens of times without you.”
“She’ll be fine, Cupcake,” Hunter reassures his wife. He’s used that pet name several times tonight, and not only do I find it endearing, but it’s also kind of cute. I pray Erika and I have a love that runs that deep and strong after twenty-eight years together.
“You might be twenty-two, but you will always be my baby, and this is different. You’re moving permanently to a whole new country. You’re not coming home after just a few days away at a competition.” Eden’s Scottish accent is soft, almost hypnotizing.
“It’s a big move,” I confirm. “But you’ll be safe with us. We host a monthly meet-and-greet where we celebrate your successes. It helps to let our hair down.” Which Hope has a lot of. “And it’s a chance to talk to others and get to know us on a deeper level. You might be leaving your own family behind in Scotland, but you’ll gain a new one here, Hope.” I pause. “And I can assure you that I am going to work my ass off for you and get you the best sponsorship deals to get you what you deserve.” I already have five companies in mind that will want to work with Hope. Haircare companies specifically. Her long blonde hair makes her look like a mermaid.
“Thank you, Leon.” Hope beams, looking excited about the new prospects I am going to send her way.
I shift my focus to Hunter. “Might I suggest looking at rentals in Windermere? It’s safe, friendly, and conveniently located near the rink where Hope will be training. I would also suggest hiring a personal assistant. Someone who can organize Hope’s schedule, maybe even live-in with her temporarily until she gets settled,” I suggest. “If you decide to sign with me, you’re going to be busy, and you’re going to need all the help you can get.” I impatiently bounce my foot up and down under the table. I want to wrap this meeting up, go home, and get Erika out of that silky black dress she’s wearing like a second skin, clinging to every perfect curve of her body. She looks good enough to eat. Something I plan on doing until she’s screaming my name.
I shake my head to clear my erotic thoughts and remember where I am and why I’m here, then I flick my eyes between Hope, Eden, and Hunter. All three of them are equally important. Without the confidence of one, I will have lost them all. “I can have my assistant email my terms and conditions. That will give you enough time to have your lawyer check them over while I’m on vacation. If you have any questions, call me.” I pull out a business card from the inside pocket of my sports jacket. “This ismy direct number. I might be on vacation, but I will pick up or reply to any concerns you have.” I may have to keep my phone on after all.
“I won’t bother you while you’re away.” Hope shakes her head, then addresses Erika. “I’m so jealous. I’ve always wanted to go to Bora Bora.”
“Maybe that should be one of your treats to yourself. New moms gift themselves push presents. This could be your signing present.” I bet she never thought of that.
My recommendation has Hope raising her glass. “Oh, you are too good, Leon.” She points her wine glass my way. “I might even sign that contract before you leave on Monday.” She takes a long sip of her water.
Hunter interjects, “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, Hope.”
I laugh because she’s already decided. Hunter and Eden have, too, but they’re keeping their cards close to their chest.
“If you do that, I will get you two million forBlades on Ice.” I state firmly.
Hope scoffs, recoiling and almost spitting her water out, then she wipes her lips with the back of her hand. “You’re joking?”
“I don’t make jokes about money, Hope.”
“Think about it.” Tomorrow I’ll send an email to renegotiate herBlades on Icecontract, and I’ll get that deal for her. I not only know the show producer, but the casting manager and someone from legal. It’s already in the bag.
I stick my hand in my pocket and rub my good luck coin Erika gifted me all those years ago, the one I take with me to every meeting and important event. I’ve never told her that I carry it everywhere with me, not just to bring me luck, but it’s always felt like I have a little piece of her with me, no matter where I am.
I inhale deeply and catch Erika’s eye. “It’s getting late, and I don’t want to take up any more of your precious time. Especially if you are only in town for one night.”
“It’s been a pleasure,” Hunter says, standing at the same time as I do, and outstretching his hand, which I shake. “Next time, let’s have a game of golf.”
I throw my head back laughing. “I can’t golf for shit.”
