1,067EPOV - Fifteen Years Later
"Ugh, they're so annoying!" Ava, our eldest child, whined as she stared at her phone.
"Who's annoying?" I asked, even though I had a feeling. This past fall, Ava, who inherited my skill, had been promoted from the North York Stars' double-A under fifteen to triple-A under eighteen girls' hockey team. She even had some scouts from Team Canada eyeing her for the U18 team. Her goal was to eventually play in the Olympics and the Professional Women's Hockey League for the Toronto Scepters. While she loved playing at a higher level, some of her older teammates got to her occasionally. It wasn't rare to listen to her and Lily, her best friend and Emmett and Rose's daughter, vent on the drive home from games or practice. Thankfully, the girls had each other.
"Alexis is sharing stupid celebrity gossip. AGAIN!" she scoffed. "Just because it's about athletes doesn't mean it's sports-related!"
"What's happening this time?" Bella asked, placing a coffee cup on the kitchen island in front of me. Even after all these years, she could still take my breath away doing the most mundane tasks.
Life had been quite the adventure since our wedding day. After we got home from a dream honeymoon, I figured we would ease back into a comfortable schedule, however, life had other plans. I came home from the first day of training camp that same year to find Bella sitting shell-shocked on our bathroom floor. I was terrified something was wrong with her, but that fear quickly turned into joy when she directed my attention to the little white stick on the counter. She admitted she was worried about how I would take her being due toward the end of the season, but nothing could bring me down. Bella was carrying my child. That following April, Bella and I welcomed Ava Elizabeth Masen. Shortly after she was born, we found our dream home in Thornhill, not far from Emmett and Rosalie. Four years later, Edward Jonathan Masen, or EJ as we called him, joined the family, followed by our baby girl Zoe Susan Masen five years ago. Thankfully, I had a rare career of playing with the same team so our kids were able to grow up close to family.
Sadly, Emmett's playing career ended earlier than he would have liked after a torn ACL, but that didn't stop him from taking a broadcast job with TSN. He was a natural on air. Jasper retired a few years before me and joined the coaching staff for the University of Toronto Varsity Blues. He quickly became a favourite goalie coach in the university circuit.
"It's just about some stupid football coach," Ava brushed off before picking up her phone and reading the article robotically. "LA Chargers' Head Coach Trey Dawson catches wife Tanya Denali with rookie kicker Landon Blake." Bella and I looked up and caught each other's glance, willing the other not to react. "Really, who the fuck cares?"
"Language, Ava," Bella scolded, biting her lip to keep from laughing. "Why don't you grab your brother and sister? Henry will be here soon."
"Okay," she shrugged and hopped off the kitchen stool, heading upstairs.
Once she was out of earshot, Bella and I burst out laughing. "Well, that was a blast from the past," Bella sighed as our laughter calmed down. "I didn't even know she was in LA."
"I guess she took my advice," I chuckled, shaking my head. Bella looked at me in confusion, and I shared the story of my last run-in with Tanya so many years ago.
"You gave her good advice. She chose to mess it up," she shrugged with a grin.
"Not all of us can get it right," I sighed dramatically, pulling Bella into my lap and kissing her neck.
"Edward," she squealed. "Stop, I have to get Zoe's breakfast on the table."
"Gross," EJ grimaced as the kids entered the kitchen. "We eat there."
"One day, you'll realize how lucky you are to have parents in love," Bella snickered but climbed off my lap to make Zoe's breakfast. While EJ and Ava were old enough to take care of their own, our littlest one still needed help.
"I just don't want to see it," EJ grumbled as he grabbed a box of cereal out of the pantry.
"I think it's sweet," Ava added, throwing a bagel in the toaster. "Uncle Em and Aunt Rosie… now, they're gross!"
"They've always been… extra-affectionate," I explained, trying not to laugh.
"Dad, do I have to skip Robotics tonight?" EJ asked, taking a seat beside me. While Ava had inherited my talent and passion for hockey, EJ was his mother through and through. He loved data and numbers, but instead of math and finance, his interests were more about science and technology. He was currently the only middle schooler on The York School's Senior Robotics team.
"You'll be fine," I assured him. "We don't have to be at the arena until six."
"And you promise I'll be able to make my game tomorrow?" Ava added.
"I promise. The Fan Forum's at one-thirty, and your game's at eight. Plenty of time to make it from downtown to the arena."
"Mommy!" Zoe called running down the stairs as fast as her little legs could move her. Once she made it to the kitchen she gave us all the sweetest little pout I'd ever seen. "I can't find my cargon."
"Your cardigan?" Bella confirmed, getting a nod from Zoe. "Where's the last place you had it?"
Zoe scrunched up her face in thought until the memory came to her, making her mouth and eyes pop wide open. "It's in Daddy's car! I got hot and lefted it there," she announced proudly.
"You left it there," Bella corrected as she placed her Cheerios and banana on the table. "You can get it before Henry picks you up for school."
When Henry got his G2 licence, he all but begged his parents to get him a new car. Of course, Rose was able to get him something perfect but they wanted him to earn it. So, in exchange for the car and insurance being paid for, he had to drive Lily and our three kids to school every day.
"Can Henry take Dad's Aston Martin?" Ava asked. "It would be so cool to show up to school in that."
"I'm not trusting a seventeen-year-old boy behind the wheel of that car," I snickered. "He's got a perfectly good one of his own."
"Daddy, can I wear my tutu tonight?" Zoe asked with puppy dog eyes. While Ava had followed me into hockey and EJ took after Bella, Zoe was our adorable anomaly. The girl loved to dance. She was currently all about ballet but also enjoyed her tap classes.
"It might be a bit much, Peanut," I smiled indulgently. "Why don't you and Mommy pick out something when you get home tonight?"
"Okay," she sighed and started munching on her breakfast.
It was hard to believe there was a time when breakfast was a solitary event. Over the years, these family mornings have become such a blessing. Between activities for all the kids, our evenings and weekends sometimes got sucked up, but mornings were always ours. At least until-
HONK HONK! "That's Lily!" Ava yelled, swallowing the last bite of her bagel.
"Zoe, let's grab your cardigan before you leave," Bella offered, holding out her hand to our youngest and leading her to the garage while the older two grabbed their bags and jackets and I went to work gathering up the dishes. Once all jackets, bags, and cargones were assembled and everyone was loaded into Henry's car, I joined Bella in the kitchen where we worked quickly to clean up the dishes from breakfast.
"So…" I started, pulling her into my arms. "What are we going to do with ourselves this morning?"
"I know exactly what we're doing," she replied coyly before kissing me deeply. When she finally pulled away, she was giving me a sarcastic smirk. "I have a video call with the PR team, and you wanted to pick up your parents at Pearson." Shortly after Ava was born, my dad retired and my parents sold their house in Chicago, deciding it was time to become snowbirds. They ended up buying my condo off of me, but split their time between Fort Lauderdale and Toronto.
"Ugh, must you ruin my fun?" I groaned playfully as she pushed me off.
"I think we had enough fun last night," she winked at me. "And this meeting is important. We're prepping for your interview tomorrow."
About halfway through her maternity leave with Ava, Bella realized that, while she still wanted to work, she also wanted to be able to spend more time with our kids. Her contract status with Eclipse offered her some flexibility, but she still had to follow some of their timelines. It was around the same time a conversation with Earnest got me thinking. I loved working with youth players, but I wanted to help more. On top of my trips to Chicago, I also started doing some mentorships locally but still didn't quite reach as far as I wanted. Earnest had been telling me about this kid who wanted to play hockey more than anything, but his parents couldn't afford it. Not surprisingly, hockey is a pretty expensive sport, but this kid broke Ernie's heart. While talking about the Mission's fundraising efforts for this kid, it got me thinking. A year later, Bella and I founded The Masen Youth Foundation, an organization focused on bringing hockey and other athletics to low-income families. With her finance background and keen interest in the non-profit sector, Bella was an easy fit as the CEO. Once I retired, she offered to step down so I could take a more active role, but I declined. I was happy being on the board of directors along with the face of the organization, there was no way I could run it any better than she did.
"I know, I know," I waved. "Nine AM, Hall of Fame TSN theatre. I've already got it on my calendar. Go rock that meeting, I'll finish in here." I couldn't help but give her a light spank on her way out of the room, making her squeal. God, that woman was adorable.
"G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S, we flyin' first claaaass up in the sky-"
"Ew, Dad! That song's so old!" Lily grimaced while Ava snickered beside her. "Didn't it come out back like… in the aughts?"
"Bah, you kids don't know good music!" Emmett scoffed, turning to me and Jasper. "Come on, back me up!"
"Em, you've never had good taste in music," Jas snickered.
"I wouldn't be so judgmental," I chuckled. "I seem to remember a certain locker room duet."
As Jas and Em brought back their Cruise duet, I caught a glimpse of Bella snickering in the corner with Alice and Rose. "Something amusing you ladies?"
"Why is it that you three act like kids whenever we get you together?" Bella asked with a sigh.
"Worse! The actual children are well-behaved!" Rose added, gesturing to where Zoe was sitting with her eight-year-old cousin Emily and Alice and Jasper's six-year-old son Jesse, all happily nibbling on their dinner in the luxury box.
"Mr. and Mrs. Masen?" A voice called out from the entrance of the suite. "I hope this isn't a bad time. I'm Daniel Richler, Game Presentation Coordinator. I'm here to escort you down to the ice."
"Of course," I grinned, putting down my drink and offering my hand to Bella. "Ready?"
"You bet." She took one last sip of her wine and took my hand. "Kids, behave while we're gone."
"Don't worry, we'll take care of them," my dad replied, as Charlie nodded agreement, holding our newest nephew, Seth's two-month-old son Alexander.
We followed Daniel out of the suite and to an elevator that would take us down to the ice level. Once we started our descent, Daniel piped up once again. "I just wanted to say it's an honour to meet you again, Mr. Masen."
"I'm sorry, I don't remember when we met," I replied contritely. I didn't think I was gone that long.
"I'd be surprised if you did," he laughed. "It was years ago. My dad and I were catching a train at Union Station and we happened to run into you."
A lightbulb went off in my head. "Wait, I remember that. Danny! And your dad was Gord, right?"
His eyes lit up at the memory. "Right! I can't believe you remember that day. I'm sure you've met hundreds of fans."
"I happen to remember every detail of that day." I looked at Bella with a gentle smile and squeezed her hand. "That was the day of our first date. I was waiting for her train to arrive."
"I remember thinking how sweet he was with you and your dad," Bella added. "What are the odds?"
"Well, I'm honoured to be the one escorting you today," Daniel smiled widely as the doors opened. "We'll just be heading this way towards the ice. Although I'm sure you know better than me," he chuckled.
"I know the way from the dressing room," I corrected. "I'm sure you know this route better."
After a few more minutes, we finally made it to the entrance. "Okay, here we go. There will be an introduction done, and then you'll just walk the carpet up to the spot beside the podium. Once the introduction is complete, you'll take your spot and say a few words. Do you have any questions?"
I shook my head. "Nope, it seems straightforward," I assured him. "Thanks, Danny."
"My pleasure, Mr. Masen."
"Please, call me Edward."
He smiled brightly at me once again. "My pleasure, Edward."
"That was unexpected," Bella added once Daniel had left.
"You could say that again," I sighed with a smile as the lights went down in the arena.
"Ladies and gentlemen, tonight we gather to honour a legend in the world of hockey, a true hero of Toronto, and the newest member of the Hockey Hall of Fame," the announcer started as a slideshow of professional and personal photos played on the screens. "Over his illustrious career, this man has not only demonstrated unparalleled skill and dedication on the ice but has also shown an unwavering commitment to his team, his sport, and the city he proudly calls home. From his beginnings as a passionate young player to his meteoric rise as a cornerstone of the Toronto Maple Leafs, he has inspired countless fans with his tenacity, sportsmanship, and heart. His leadership and determination have been instrumental in the team's most memorable moments, and his legacy extends far beyond the rink. His generosity and dedication have left an indelible mark on Toronto, making our city a better place for all. Tonight, we celebrate not just his achievements in hockey, but his impact on all of us."
The photo was replaced by a video slideshow of many moments throughout my time - many replays of goals over the years including game seven of the Stanley Cup finals, various meet and greets with children at Sick Kids Hospital, and even some sillier moments like the Sobey's commercial with Emmett, Jasper, and Garrett. But it was the personal videos that got me. The footage from our wedding, of baby Ava at her first game, of little EJ enthralled at the shiny silver stick during my thousandth game ceremony, and of all three of my children and my wife with me after playing in my final game. I felt myself choke up as Bella leaned into my side, rubbing my chest. "Please join me in welcoming to the ice, for the final time as we retire number eighteen, a true champion – Edward Masen!"
The applause was deafening as I walked out across the blue carpet leading to centre ice with Bella by my side. I don't know if I could have named a time it was louder, and that includes winning the Stanley Cup on this very surface. As the cheers finally settled, the announcer once again spoke. "Fifteen years ago, Edward and his wife Isabella created The Masen Youth Foundation, which is dedicated to giving kids from low-income backgrounds the opportunity to participate in sports. Last week, they announced the creation of The Masen Foundation post-secondary scholarship, offering needs-based funding to college athletes. Tonight, we're proud to announce that Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment and Volterra Financial will partner with The Masen Youth Foundation to make sure that as many worthy applicants are able to pursue their education as possible. This scholarship is just one of many examples of Edward's contributions and commitment to hockey, sports, and the city of Toronto! Congratulations, Edward, and thank you!"
The crowd once again began to cheer as I made my way over to the podium. "Wow. What a night," I breathed out, feeling overwhelmed by the love and support flowing through the building. "First, I want to thank everyone for being here tonight. Seeing all of you - the fans, my family, my friends, and my teammates - it brings back so many memories. Memories of incredible victories, tough losses, and everything in between. When I first laced up my skates and stepped onto the ice, I never imagined I would be standing here today, being honoured in such an incredible way. This city, this team, has been my home for so many years, and I'm truly humbled by this honour." I took a look at the bench where some of my youngest former teammates still stood, as well as up to the VIP box Emmett and Jasper shared with my family. "To my teammates, past and present – you are my brothers. We've been through the highs and lows together, and I couldn't have asked for a better group of guys to share this journey with. Thank you for pushing me to be my best and for all the unforgettable moments we've shared on and off the ice. To the coaches and staff – your guidance and support have been invaluable. You believed in me and gave me the opportunities to grow as a player and as a person. Thank you for shaping me into the athlete I am today."
I glanced around the arena, taking in the vast number of eighteen jerseys dotted in the stands. "To the fans – you are the heartbeat of this team. Your unwavering support, your cheers, your passion, have fueled us through every game. There's nothing like the energy of this arena when it's packed with all of you. Thank you for making every moment here so special." I looked over to Bella, who had a hand on her heart and tears in her eyes. "To my family – my parents, who made countless sacrifices to help me chase my dreams. For all the early mornings they endured while I followed my dreams. My in-laws who cheered me on even before I knew they existed. Especially my brother-in-law Seth, the best Skater of the Game in my career. And to my children and my wonderful wife, Bella. Ava, EJ, and Zoe – you are my greatest pride and joy. And Bella - Your love and support have been my rock. You've been with me through it all, and I couldn't have done it without you. Thank you for being my biggest fans." I gave Bella a quick wink as she blew a kiss in my direction and mouthed 'I love you'.
"Lastly, to the city of Toronto – thank you for embracing me as one of your own. I am honoured to have had the chance to play for you and to give back to this incredible community through the Masen Youth Foundation. Together, we've made a difference, and I'm excited to continue that work in the years to come. As I look around this arena, I see more than just a place where we played hockey. I see a second home, a family, and a lifetime of memories. Tonight, as my number is retired, I am filled with gratitude and pride. Thank you for this incredible honour. Go Leafs Go!"
I waved to the roaring crowd as I moved back beside my wife, who wrapped an arm around my waist. "That was fantastic," she said, kissing me chastely.
"I couldn't have done it without you," I replied honestly, smiling down at her before the music started to play. There were no words for the emotions coursing through my body as we watched the flag bearing Masen 18 and my photo being raised to the rafters, taking its place between Borje Salmino and Frank Mahovlich.
We were soon joined by the captains of the Leafs and the Canadiens at centre ice. "Good to see you again, Mase," Riley Biers, who had taken over as captain after my retirement, greeted me.
"Good to be back, Ri," I grinned, clapping him on the arm as he and the Canadiens captain got in position.
"Okay, on the count of three, drop the puck!" The cameraman called out. "One, two, three!" On his signal, I dropped the ceremonial first puck before shaking hands with both captains, and the anthem was introduced. As the final notes were sung out, I waved one last time before leaving the ice for the final time. I was overwhelmed thinking of the highlights of my career - a Stanley Cup championship, two Eastern Conference championships, two Olympic medals for Team USA - one bronze and one silver, my silver stick, various NHL awards…
However, as Bella and I walked back into the VIP suite, I looked around at the greatest prize of all. My family, both by blood and by choice. My beautiful wife by my side, and my three children watching the game below.
"Daddy!" Zoe squealed, jumping on my leg. "You did so good!"
"Thanks, Peanut," I chuckled, hugging her back.
"Was it scary? Talking to all those people?" EJ asked with wide eyes.
I shrugged. "It was, but having your mom helped me."
I gave Bella a quick smile and wink. "Now, why don't we watch the game?" Bella picked up Zoe and carried her over to the seats with EJ close behind while Ava and I slipped into a pair of seats close by.
"Hey, Dad?" Ava piped up. "Are you gonna come watch me when I play for the Scepters?"
I smiled at my daughter and wrapped an arm around her shoulder. "Nothing would make me happier."
A/N: It's with a heavy heart that I hit complete on today's chapter. Scoring Hearts has been a labour of love that started two years ago while attending a game my husband received tickets for as a Hanukkah gift. It all started when I saw that Skater of the Game glide across the ice with his flag. There was a long lull when I hit a wall back in chapter nine, but it was encouragement from my fb group, hmerdan's Fiction Spot, that inspired me to go back. Thank you to all of them for their on-going love and support. And a special thank you to Kneon for being the best beta a writer could ask for. Whether it's cutting errant commas or talkng through inspiration, she's always there.
Sadly, I have recently hit a wall with my next planned story, however I may have a couple of holiday treats coming this week *wink*.
Thank you to everyone who read along! Make sure to follow me or come join us on fb for updates on future stories to come. I love you all!