Page 72 of Just Like Home

“This could be great publicity for the team,” Bilby said. “Really bring the guys together.”

“The team doesn’t need publicity, Bilby,” Cole argued. “We won state last year.”

Matt lowered his voice. “But do you really see that happening this year? This team needs some unity.”

Cole shot him a look.

“I’m just saying, this is the best morale we’ve seen from these kids yet.”

Cole shook his head.

“Come on, Coach, if we have to make fools of ourselves, then so do you,” Hotchke said.

Cole bristled at the attention. “Practice is over,” he called out. “Hit the showers. And don’t stay up all night. I’ve got big plans for tomorrow.”

The guys all groaned, and just like that, Cole threw a wet blanket on the entire mood. So much for that recommitment to being a better coach.

“And there goes the morale,” Bilby said under his breath as he followed the guys inside.

Asher picked up the donut box and handed it back to Charlotte. “Mrs. Ford helped out at Haven House. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help you with this.”

Charlotte’s face brightened. “Thanks, Asher.”

Asher gave her a nod, then turned to Cole. He hesitated a moment, then finally said, “Sorry about yesterday. If the offer’s still there, I’ll take the job.”

Cole nodded. “It’s there. You start tomorrow.”

“I’m gonna do my best for you, Coach.”

“That’s all I can ask.” It occurred to him he should be making Asher the same promise. Why was this so difficult?

“Think about the dance.” Asher backed away (probably survival instinct). “You know the guys would go bananas.”

Cole waved him off, but not before he caught a toothy grin and a wink in Charlotte’s direction.

Once Asher was out of earshot, he turned to his pretty guest. “Don’t tell me you put him up to this.”

Her eyes widened. “Me? I had nothing to do with any of that. That was all them. I have fully accepted that you are unwilling to participate.”

He met her eyes, and got lost for a moment. He was pretty sure she could convince him to do anything.

But not this. He wasn’t going to make a fool of himself in front of the whole town—even for Jules. He knew enough about himself to know the “stand and sway” was about his limit when it came to dancing.

“Unless you’re reconsidering?” Her tone teased.

“I don’t dance,” he said.

“It’s not that hard,” she said lightly.

He found her eyes. “I don’t dance.” His tone was clipped. Terse. Short.

Her jaw snapped shut, and she looked away. He could see the hurt on her face.

Jerk.

Why was it so hard for him to be kind?

Gemma.

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