Page 45 of Obeying the Owner

I wait until he’s out of hearing range before I glance at Sheryl. “That was fun.”

She laughs. “Yeah, fun as in awkward as fuck.”

“Right? So it’s not in my head?”

“Definitely not. He stared at you the entire time. I don’t know what his problem is.”

“Me either, but I hope he gets over it soon.”

We walk to the parking lot together, and once I’m in my car, I dig through my purse for my phone. I’m thinking of ordering a pizza.

There’s a text waiting for me from James.

My pulse speeds up as I open the message.

I hope you’re enjoying your day. I really wanted to see you again this week, but work kept me busy. How about Tuesday?

My heart rate increases until I think I’m having full-blown palpitations.

Hey. I had a nice day, but I’m glad the weekend is here. I’d love to see you on Tuesday.

I’ll see you at seven. Enjoy your weekend.

Sounds good. Have a great weekend with Gwen.

I place my phone in the cup holder and squeal with excitement.

He wants to see me again!

CHAPTER 12

TREY

Being in my new office for the first time feels strange. It feels like I’ve been dropped off in a foreign country where I don’t know anyone. I’ve officially found myself in the proverbial bigger pond. Unfortunately, I’m also expected to be the biggest fish in these waters.

You’d think it would get easier by my age, but it’s still uncomfortable. I’m already missing my usual routine and my familiar employees, but life is about taking risks.

Not that being handed a professional hockey team from my dad qualifies as a risk. I didn’t buy the team; he did. But there is an enormous amount of pressure on me to keep the team thriving like it has been.

Over the years, my father has built a first-class operation and solidified himself as a legend among team owners. And I can’t be the owner’s son who inherits the team and then ruins the success of the Coyotes.

Not gonna happen.

I take a deep breath and look around the large space, checking everything out from my new perspective behind the desk. I’ve been here so many times over the years, but not for the last six months or so.

My mom redecorated this office for my dad since my last visit, so it’s all new to me. I see her touches in the perfectly trimmed moulding panels equally spaced on the lower walls around the room, and the colorful assortment of throw pillows spread out on the couch. Everything looks elegant yet comfortable, which I’d also say is an accurate description of my mother herself.

I tilt my head back and sink into my chair. It’s made of soft, supple leather that feels as if it conforms to my body; it’ll make all the long hours I’ll have to spend here easier.

I guess it’s time to meet my assistant, Maeve.

My dad never told me anything personal about her. Just that she’s been efficient and I should keep her on. I press the speakerphone button and dial her extension.

“This is Maeve.”

“This is Trey. Can you come to see me, please?”

“I’ll be right there.”

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