Page 147 of Whistle

So yeah, when I saw him break some of that rigid wall he kept himself hidden behind and try to give more than was comfortable, I turned ravenous.

No one else in this room knew how hard those words probably were to speak, but I knew. And the fact that I knew because he’d shared that part with me made me want even more.

Ryan’s throat bobbed, and he took a step forward. His expression was still slightly stunned. “Coach, I?—”

Emmett made a gruff sound, cutting Ryan off. I knew he was probably at his limit and couldn’t give any more. “And that’s why you’re doing the auction. Leaders pick up the slack.”

Ryan nodded once. “Yes, Coach.”

Rory wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her head on his shoulder, smiling.

Emmett seemed a little startled. “No argument?”

“No, Coach.”

Emmett looked suspiciously at Jamie. “What about you, Owens? What fuckery do you have brewing?”

Jamie shook his head. “I’d never do my bro dirty and ruin his moment.”

Wes, Lars, Kruger, and Prism all nodded.

“Moment’s over,” Emmett announced. “You two head backstage and get ready to smile. Why anyone would pay for time with either of you is beyond me.”

Just like that, the dynamics went back to normal.

Kruger stepped forward. “Bros, I think we should get a betting pool going.”

“My swimmers don’t gamble.” Emmett shut that down immediately.

“Aw, come on, Coach,” Kruger cajoled. “Just a friendly little wager to see which of you three gets the highest price.”

Wait. Three?

“Five Elite are doing the auction.” Jess reminded him.

“Yeah, but we all know the main competition is standing right here.”

Emmett glowered. “This isn’t a competition. It’s for charity.”

“You worried you won’t win, Coach?” Rush jeered, and Landry elbowed him in the ribs.

“It’s hardly a fair wager. I mean, just look how handsome Dad is tonight.”

I couldn’t help but sweep my eyes over him, silently agreeing that the man was a full-course meal.

Wait.

“You’re doing the auction?” I blurted out.

“I know you been keeping the bleachers warm, bro,” Kruger said. “But you were at the team meeting.”

My stare remained on Emmett as I worked to understand. I asked him not to do it. He wasn’t going to do it.

Something ugly and voracious unfurled in my stomach. Gone were any butterflies he’d inspired when he showed up looking like a fucking wet dream, and in their place was a pit of poisonous snakes.

“The dean personally asked for Coach to do it.” Ryan reminded me.

“But I thought…”

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