Page 2 of Love in Overtime

I’m going to miss Estelle more than I’ll ever admit, but I know she’s long overdue for retirement. She’s earned it after putting up with me all these years. The truth is I’m not great with change. Maybe because I never felt like I had stability as a child. Because of this I’m now a creature of habit to the point some might say is over the top. It’s my comfort zone, and no one likes being forced out of their comfort zone.

I’ve played hockey for the Tennessee Wolves since my rookie year in the league. Despite being offered other opportunities for more money, I’m content where I am for as long as they want to keep me. Who knows how long that will be even though I stay out of trouble and do my job—very well. I’m not paid to be Mr. Congeniality. Estelle understood this—and hopefully Blair will too.

I stare at the rerun ofThe Officeon the TV, though I should finish packing for my extended trip to Washington. I keep reminding myself these next six weeks are for the kids. More precisely, Happy Horizons Ranch, which benefits kids in their community. Troy Hart, who used to play for the Chicago Blizzard, is putting together a team called the Ice Breakers with the help of his zillionaire brother Zach, and has brought in current and retired hockey players to play five games. The hockey world can be small, so I’ve met many of them over the years. Scotty MacFarland, Dan Roberts, Dawson Hayes, Ted “The Bear” Powell, Noah Beaumont, and a few other players I barely know—I’m surprised the Hart brothers were able to nail down so many of these guys.

Blair has a deeper connection to the town because she attended college in Washington. While we were on one of the introduction conference calls, she made severalcomments about it being fate this opportunity came up for us. Of course I made a sarcastic comment, and she didn’t waste any time with a quick-witted response. Estelle enjoyed every second of the conversation and cheered Blair on. I don’t stand a chance with those two teaming up, but it’s still better than having to meet and interview other potential publicists.

Anyway, tomorrow morning I begin my extended journey to the Pacific Northwest. It’s not the Caribbean, but apparently there’s a Fall Festival with a corn maze, so I guess that makes it a close second to relaxing on a white sand beach.

“No, please tell me you're kidding?” I exclaim, rubbing my face as I stare out the window of the large SUV. It’s four o’clock in the morning and I’m on my way to the airport. I didn’t expect to kick off my day with the news Estelle won’t be able to meet us today. At this point I’m not sure she’ll make it to Washington at all.

“I’m so sorry,” Estelle wails. “I have an emergency. My sister-in-law needs me to fly to Boston. You know if it wasn’t urgent I’d be in Washington today.”

“I know—I understand,” I say glumly.

“Don’t worry about anything. Blair has all the travel information, and she will meet you at the airport when you land.”

I sigh. “Okay.”

I don’t know why I’m sulking like a child. I have a new publicist—so what? It’s not the end of the world.

“You and Blair are going to work well together,” she insists. “Just be nice.”

“I’m always nice,” I retort. This is a common misconception the media has encouraged because I’m not a fan of doing interviews or events or photos—all the typical things that go along with being a professional athlete. I’m still a nice guy, despite what people may think.

Estelle laughs. “True. Well, then be cooperative.”

I groan. “Fine.”

“I can’t wait to hear all about these next few weeks,” she says. “Blair promised to keep me updated. And I hope you will too.”

“I will.” I pause. “I hope everything is okay with your sister-in-law. Go take care of your family. I’ll survive.”

“I never had a doubt,” she assures me. “Everything will be fine. Safe travels.”

Before I know it, Estelle is off the phone. That’s it. I’m doing this on my own.

It’s probably for the best—I’ll be thrust into my new normal and there’s nothing I can do about it. Part of me wonders if this was her plan all along. Ripping off the Band-Aid is less painful for all of us. Estelle is ready to dive into retirement, and she should be. A clean break is probably best for everyone.

Just as the car arrives at the airport, my phone starts buzzing with multiple text messages—one right after the other, and they are all from Blair. Wow, either she’s already had several cups of coffee, or she’s a morning person.

Good morning, Cooper. Today’s the day. Washington, here we come!

I’m so disappointed Estelle won’t be joining us today, but family comes first. I have all the travel details, so we won’t miss a beat. The plan for today is to get settled into beautiful Maple Fallsand hit the ground running tomorrow. We’re going to be very busy—are you excited?

She probably doesn’t want my answer. Of course my phone buzzes again with a few more texts.

I’ve been in contact with the coaching staff, and everyone is thrilled to have you on the team.

We will chat more when we get there.

Maple Falls better be ready for us.

Whoa. It’s too early for this. Blair Radcliffe is going to give me a run for my money, and it’s my own fault. I send her a response.

Yep.

CHAPTER 2

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