Chapter 16

“I appreciate the opportunity you’ve given me to prove myself these past two weeks,” Jack said, his composure admirable given the circumstances. “I understand your decision, and I respect it.”

Emma studied him across the conference table, searching for signs of the volatile Jack she’d grown to expect. Instead, he sat straight-backed in his suit, accepting the trade news with surprising grace.

“Seattle is excited to have you,” she said carefully. “Their offensive system should complement your playing style.”

“Fresh start for everyone,” Jack nodded, echoing her words from weeks earlier. “When do I leave?”

“Physical examination in Seattle on Monday,” Alek explained. “Press conference Tuesday if everything checks out.”

“And the announcement here?”

“This afternoon,” Emma said. “We’ll emphasize this is a mutual decision focused on your career growth.”

Jack’s eyes betrayed a flicker of something—pain, perhaps, or resignation. “Thank you for that ki