Smiling into the camera, I shook my head. “I’d prefer to do this on my own. What do I have to lose?”
Coach smiled but deferred to Mr. Carlisle. “I suggest you get an attorney to look over the paperwork before you sign, especially since we’re dealing with the US Government and your visa requirements. If you want an American agent when you get here, we can recommend one. We won’t finalize everything until after training camp to give you time.”
He was right. It was best to protect my interests.
“Thank you. Both of you. I’m excited about the opportunity.”
“We’re delighted to have you, Colin,” Coach said. “Marilyn, my assistant, will fill up your inbox and make your appointment at the US Embassy. Reach out if you have questions.”
Nodding, I couldn’t wipe the smile from my face. “I will. And thank you again.”
After ending the call, I grabbed a bottle of stout and went to sit on my balcony. Even though it was two a.m., I was wide awake.
Sipping my beer, I wanted to call Owen and tell him the good news, but waking him wasn’t a good idea. It could wait until morning.
As I watched the ships in the harbor below, I made the decision not to tell Leland where I was going. Part of me wanted to rub it in his face with a big fuck you, while another part wanted to hear him say he was proud of me.
It was time to move on, and I intended to do this and stand on my own two feet. The one-year contract for ten million dollars was none of his concern. He had not acted as my agent, had not negotiated any of the terms, and was not entitled to a cent. And as soon as I could, I would sever all ties with him.
I was starting a new life without my old baggage.
Over the next four weeks, with Marilyn’s help, I secured my visa, made travel arrangements for me and Allister, and packed up my high-rise apartment for six months. I’d miss my home and the tranquil view of the harbor with the bright blue water, but there was something more for me in the States. I could feel it.
With everything boxed and ready to ship when I needed it, Owen picked us up and headed for the airport.
“Do you have your passport, visa, cellphone?”
I grinned over at my friend. “Yeah, Dad. I’ve got it all.”
Owen snickered, but I could tell something was weighing on him. I waited him out as long as I could before just asking.
“What’s on your mind, mate?”
He shrugged but kept his eyes on the road. “Nothing. Just hoping you won’t forget us back here.”
By us, he meant him. He was the best friend I’d ever had. “I could never, O. Besides, I’ll be back when the season’s over in February. You won’t even have time to miss me.”
He huffed out a breath. “Yeah, you're right. I’ll try to watch you play on satellite TV.”
I grinned. “You better. I’m gonna be a big star.”
“You’re so humble,” he groused.
When he pulled up to the drop-off at departures, he helped me with my bags while I took Allister in his carrier. When he sat them down, he looked down at the concrete before meeting my eyes.
“Take care of yourself, Colin. Keep in touch, eh?”
I swallowed hard. My eyes became misty as I yanked him in for a big hug. “Yeah. I’m gonna miss you.”
He nodded but said nothing. Patting me on the back, he stepped back and smiled. I could see the same thing I was feeling mirrored on his face.
“Remember to wrap it up,” he said.
I grinned and saluted him. “Yes, sir. Always do.”
Waving as he rounded the car, a sudden wave of sadness engulfed me when he got in. Standing on the curb, I watched as he drove away.
“Are you checking in, sir?”
