Page 14 of Cold as (N)ice

“Okay. I’ll make sure and be gone so you can have some privacy…”

“I’m ordering for all of us,” Barrett interrupted. “There’s no reason you can’t unwind, and both of you join me for dinner.”

“Except it would be weird.”

“Only if you make it that way.”

“This is not romantic in any way, shape, or form – right?”

“You are killing my ego – but no. It’s not. This is one friend extending a hand to another.”

“And a paycheck,” she reminded him. “It’s Friday.”

“Already waiting on the counter, Miss Bossy,” he chuckled softly. “See you later – and try to have a good day.”

“You too – and thanks.”

“Yup… welp,noooo, because my agent is calling now. Gotta go!” And he ended the call, hanging up quickly before she could say ‘bye.’

Mashing on the brakes, Irene looked at the mass of traffic on the highway before her and groaned. Not only was she going to be late – it was going to beextremelylate before she got there.

Yeah, today was one of those days where you wished there was a ‘do-over’ button. Sighing, she called the school to talk about Stephen since she was obviously going to be sitting in the traffic jam for quite a while.

5

COEUR

“Sup Jimmy…”

“Mon Coeur…” his agent bragged in an exaggerated manner, immediately incensing him.

“What did I say about that?”

“You love me – or you will after this phone call,” Jimmy said confidently and had Barrett’s attention immediately.

“Give me the news. What’s going on?”

“It’s going to be announced as soon as they have the team together,” Jimmy began, and Barrett could practically see the man rubbing his hands together in glee. “Now, they are going after a few more people to set themselves up nicely – and that is why they are willing to pony up on the contract. And how much do you love ol’ Jimmy?”

“Lots,” Barrett retorted flatly, wishing the man would just spill the news. “But I’m only listening, remember? I’m not really looking for a change.”

“How does 1-point-two million sound… and two endorsement contracts up front?”

“What?”

“You heard me. I negotiated a bigger payout for you…”

“Jimmy, are you serious?”

“They are completely in love with you after your last game where you scored twice. You don’t end up in the penalty box, you are in perfect health, you play hard, get along with the team, plus with that stellar image you have… they love you, Mon Coeur!” This time, Barrett simply chuckled and listened, fascinated as his agent laid on the praise thickly. “The Wolverines want you on their starting lineup.”

“In Quebec.”

“Yes.”

“So, I’d have to move…”

“I’ve got that handled too. Relocation allowance,” Jimmy said smoothly. “I could have movers there tomorrow for you the second you snap your fingers – and I already emailed you a few listings in the area that are up for sale.”

---