“I think he’s a hero,” Beth was saying. “He’s giving up footy for Mara and the little future Hardimans. That’s amazing.”

“A lot of people are going to be pissed,” Byron warned.

“Fuck ‘em! They don’t have to raise Derek’s kids with a shit knee. He’s doing what needs to be done.”

Psycho looked sceptical. “You think?”

“Yeah, he’s focusing on his future. That’s so fucking admirable.”

An idea exploded in Willow’s mind like an atom bomb. He jumped to his feet. Everyone turned to stare.

“Bathroom,” he lied. “Be back soon.”

He strode out of the hangar and into the morning sun. The light stung his shrivelled eyes and the field was wet with dew, soaking his jeans and sandalled feet as he walked across the grass. He couldn’t do it. It was impractical and everyone would think he was crashing Derek’s party. He’d earn half a million dollars playing with The Rams, not to mention TV opportunities and a chance to become the oldest player in the AFL.

So that’s it? Money you don’t need and a stupid title. Is that worth it?

No. And yet… Willow walked faster. Who was he if he didn’t play football? If he wasn’t training and playing and anticipating another game? Just some old guy who used to play sport. A big kid with no skills outside drinking and fishing. And what if Eden didn’t want him? What if he threw everything away, just to have her decide she didn’t need him?

“Oi!”

Willow turned. Derek had followed him out of the hangar. “Fuck me, it’s the man of the hour.”

Derek scowled. “Are you okay? Why are you fucking off?”

“I’m not.”

He gave him a pointed look.

“Fine, I’m fucking off, but it’s not about you. Eden and I split and the Rams are signing me next year… there’s a lot on.”

“Are you freaking out?”

“A bit. I can’t believe you’re retiring.”

“Sorry, I couldn’t tell you sooner.”

“That’s okay.” Willow stared at his mate. “You’re not really leaving, are you? I mean, you can do at least one more year, right?”

Derek rubbed his elbow. “Sorry mate, but I’ve made up my mind.”

“But what about the fans? The coaches?” What about me and the boys?

He shrugged. “It’s hard, but I’m not gonna kill myself before I start a family. It’s my body. My life.”

“Sure.”

Derek glanced back at the hangar. “I’ve only got a minute, so hurry up. What’s the deal with Eden?”

Willow wanted to tell him it didn’t matter, but he wanted his best friend’s advice more. “It’s bad timing. We like each other but she’s got all these obligations and so do I. Being together feels impossible.”