Page 73 of Waiting Game

As a roar of laughter cascades through the locker room, McIsaac’s cheeks pretty much glow as he gets cuffed around the head by his cubby buddy.

“For those of you who were here last season,” Gracie continues, “I’m not like Justin DeLaney. For those of you who are new to the Stars, you’re here because you don’t suck but also because I made sure you were approached.

“I’m going to be hands-on, more than your coach would like, I’m sure, but we’ll make it work because I’m not having any of this bullshit where we don’t bring home the Holy Grail this season, do you hear me?”

Dead silence is her answer.

Even Liam’s surprised by her introductory speech, which tells me she didn’t run this by him.

Trust Gracie to take the bull by the balls and not be afraid of getting gored.

The silence perseveres until Gracie barks, “Do you hear me?”

A chorus of blurted “Yes, ma’ams!” greet her.

“Good. Chicago managed to steal the Cup right from under our noses, but that’s it. The Stars are going to make history for more than being wise enough to have the first-ever female GM, and if we don’t, you’ll have me to answer to.

“Trust me, I live up to whatever you’ve heard about me.

“Before I go, I’ll have an open-door policy. While Coach seems to think that isn’t necessary, last season, it came to my attention that some players thought blackmail was funny?—”

My brows lift. To Liam, I mouth, “Blackmail?”

He shrugs, but I notice the rest of the team, those from last season, are peering at one another blankly.

“—but I’m running a tight ship and I won’t stand for any of that bullshit. Earn those bucks because, unlike DeLaney, I’m not afraid to drop deadweight before the trade deadline.” She dips her chin and storms off without a backward glance.

Her statement has me grinning; a little pride mixes in with mirth at her take-no-prisoners’ attitude, but my grin only widens when I notice that Liam can’t decide on whether to check out her ass or to glower at the idiots who are busy gawking at her curves.

“Okay, peewees, now that thewomanhas left, let’s focus on getting changed and heading onto the ice.” Bradley stomps off, too, one of the assistant coaches hovering behind him as he makes a retreat.

“Was that with respect or disrespect?” I muse.

“He doesn’t like her. Called her a nobody cunt from the Prairies last season.”

“He did what?!”

His mouth is tight as he confirms, “Wanted to beat the crap out of him when she told me a couple nights ago, but she wasn’t even mad. More amused?—”

“Gracie found it funny?!”

“Said she wiped the floor with him.” His lips twist. “You know how she is.”

Oh, yeah, I do.

“Why didn’t she get him fired?”

Liam pulls a face. “I think she’s got payback in mind.”

I whistle. “This season’s gonna be…”

“An experience?” Lewis chimes in.

Gagné tacks on, “Fun as fuck?”

“Victorious!” Liam growls.

I grin. “All of the above.”

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