Page 68 of Bride Games

Zach kissed her as a lone tear ran down her cheek. Winking, he said, “There’s no crying in sports.”

Smiling finally, Paige said, “You’re right. If I’m going to get back in the game, I’ve got to be as tough as a linebacker.” She shook her head, as if trying to clear it. “I don’t know how to convince viewers to trust me again. How to persuade Mr. Hales to put me back out there.” She snorted. “And how to get rid of that bitch Marie.”

Zach held her. Feeling safe in his arms, she yawned. “I’m suddenly exhausted. I should have told you about this sooner. Much sooner. I guess coming clean about not understanding sports was cleansing.”

“I’m glad the yawn wasn’t because you were bored with me.”

Giving Zach a playful punch, Paige fluffed her pillow. “Why don’t we discuss my career failures over coffee tomorrow. I can barely hold my eyes open.”

“I like that ide—” Zach didn’t get a chance to finish his sentence before Paige rolled over and fell asleep.

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After her first good night’s sleep in weeks, Paige made coffee early. “Want bacon and eggs?” Zach held up his mug. “Nah. I’m not hungry. I think I’ll go for a run later. I’ll eat afterward. Coffee tastes great. Thanks.”

Paige drank her coffee while she paced between the kitchen and living room.

“Coffee would be more enjoyable if you’d sit down.” Zach patted a chair.

“Sorry, I’ve been a nervous wreck over my career, you, and Marie.” Paige brightened. “But I do have the coolest exclusive story ever, thanks to my best friend.”

“Emma?”

“Yeah, Emma and Eli are getting married. He was her daughter’s kindergarten teacher last year.” Zach got up to refill his coffee. “Want any more?” When Paige shook her head, he filled up his mug and leaned against the counter. “Great that they’re getting married, but that’s hardly a scoop. I mean, you must have a unique angle.”

“Oh, I do. This is hush-hush. I haven’t told anyone except the bridal store owner, Nigel.”

Making a zipper motion with his mouth, Zach sat back down. “I’m all ears.”

“It’s all so great. The elementary school where Emma and Eli met has agreed to host the wedding.”

“That is cool. Unusual venue.” He studied Paige. “Is there more?”

“Much more. All of the students and teachers are handling the decorations and food. The classes are working together. Younger students are creating simpler things, of course, while the older students are building stuff, handling hosting, and hospitality duties. I interviewed the principal and teachers recently and heard several heartwarming details about their wedding projects. Some of them had me in tears.”

“Now, that’s going to be an amazing scoop. What a learning experience for those kids.” Zach’s eyes widened. “But…Emma and Eli are just letting them have a go of it? Letting the kids make whatever they want?”

“Yep, in their wedding colors, of course.” Paige beamed. “I think that’s the beauty of it. Their vision will be innocent and childlike.” She touched her chest. “It makes my heart swell to think of these kids creating a memorable day for a beautiful couple. Eli still teaches there and Lucy, Emma’s daughter, is in first grade at Appledale, so it’s full circle.”

Leaning back in his chair, Zach sniffed. “I’m not going to cry but that might be the most touching community relations story any station haseverdone. That’ll get your good name back, Paige.”

“In our community but not in sports, unfortunately. But thanks. This is a one-off story. Granted, averybig one that has to be flawless. Well, not flawless if little kids are involved because any flubs will make it endearing.” Paige drummed her fingers on the table. “Hopefully, this exclusive will get me backon the air at least. I need help getting my sports career back on track. I’m at a loss. Any ideas?”

“I think better when I’m jogging. Maybe I will take some bacon and eggs. I’ll help you cook or clean up when I get back.” Zach drained his coffee and stretched.

“You’re going to run in jeans?”

“Yep. Your career’s important. There’s no time to waste. Be back soon.”

Paige was alternating between frying bacon and whisking eggs when Zach came bursting through the front door ten minutes later. She turned when she heard his footsteps. “That was fast.”

Sweat ran down his face. “I’ve got it. You need a podcast.”

Knowing he was trying to help, Paige refrained from rolling her eyes. “A podcast? Aren’t there a zillion podcasts?”

“Not like this one.” Zach rubbed his belly. “That bacon smells amazing. I told you I’d help.”

“Okay, pour some orange juice and grab some plates and silverware. The eggs will be done in a minute. Hold that thought.” They both wolfed down their food as Paige added more pepper to her eggs. She turned to Zach. “Why do you think a podcast would help?”

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