Page 17 of Love in Overtime

Dan’s expression changes, and his confident smile fades. “Keira.”

“That’s it,” I say.

Dan grows silent for a few seconds. “Anyway, are you ready for the media event?” he asks in an effort to change the subject.

Hmm … I wonder if I struck a nerve with the ever-cool Dan the Man.

“Of course I’m not ready to sit in front of the press,” I say. “If I could skip it, I would.”

I gather my gear, and when I finally check my phone, I find several messages from Blair.

Yes. Everyone likes a fruit basket.

What did they say about them? I thought it would be a nice thing to do since they are giving of their time to coach your team.

Another message pops up on my screen.

Are you jealous you didn’t get one?

I smile to myself. There I go again. This woman really knows how to get to me. I start typing my response.

They were very appreciated. Coach Strickland said it was a first in his career, and Scotty MacFarland said his daughter thought it was the best thing ever.

My phone buzzes again after a few seconds.

I knew it. If you want a basket, let me know.This message is followed by a winky face emoji.

Wow. Blair Radcliffe is unlike anyone I’ve ever met.

A low groan escapes my lips as I put my phone away and head back to the lodge to shower and prepare myself for being in front of the press.

Maybe I can suddenly come down with a fever, but Blair is probably too smart for that.

I’m sure she will have plenty of advice for me about how to handle the reporters’ questions because she seems to have her own ideas about how things should be done. Now we just have to get through our first media event—my least favorite part of this career.

The Regent‘s Hotel seems more like the places I usually stay with the Tennessee Wolves. It’s older, but more upscale thanthe lodge we’re staying at. Of course the most beautiful sight in this hotel is Blair. As soon as I walk in, I spot her. She’s wearing fitted black pants and a gold sweater. Her shiny hair cascades down her back and her smile lights up the room—as usual.

I stand back and watch as she wanders around talking to people. It’s obvious she’s in her element. I couldn’t be more opposite. Everything about this makes me uncomfortable. Yes, I know I should be used to the pressure of all eyes on me. My career is out in the open for all to see and pick apart when I’m not at my best. Estelle always handled the meet and greets with poise and skill. From what I can see, Blair is taking it to new levels. She’s so engaging, it would be impossible not to be drawn to her. At least that’s what I’m telling myself.

Blair glances toward the entrance, and her eyes meet mine. It’s too late to move or play it off. I was staring at her, and she caught me.

“You’re here,” she calls as she rushes over to me. Why does it feel like people are surprised when I show up?

“Where else would I be?” I grumble.

She leans her head to the side. “Anywhere else.”

That’s a valid point.

She launches into instructions and gives me some helpful tips, including avoiding the shark reporter Yolanda Simms. That shouldn’t be a problem since I heard her main target is Zach Hart.

“You know I have some experience with these events, right? I’ve been playing hockey for a while.”

She nods. “Yes, but this is different. You’re all here for Happy Horizons Ranch, not for your personal gain. Oh, and that reminds me, I need to find Angel and introduce myself. We’ve spoken on the phone, but I haven’t met her yet. AndZach and Troy Hart. By the way, I sent them all fruit baskets too.”

Of course she did. My head is spinning trying to keep up with everything she’s saying.

I furrow my brow. “How much coffee have you had today? Are you able to blink?”

---