Page 10 of Love in Overtime

I giggle. “I’d love to meet up. Cooper is already at the arena. Hmm … I wonder if other people are there practicing with him?” And byotherpeople I mean her ex-boyfriend Dan who is Maple Falls very own celebrity hockey star.

“I have no idea,” she retorts. “Anyway, have you ventured out into town yet?” Clearly Keira doesn’t want to talk about a certain hockey player and I’m not forcing it.

“No. Where should we meet?”

“There’s a cute café at the bookstore,” she suggests.

“Perfect.” I exclaim.

“Great. Let’s meet at Falling for Books around ten.”

“I can’t wait.”

After we’re off the phone I head out to take a walk around the lodge.

Once outside, I remember how much I loved being in Washington for college. Keira used to tell me all about how gorgeous Maple Falls was, but I never made it here. I wander down a path and find a weathered wrought iron bench. I take a seat and pull my sweater around me. Fall is in the air, and it’s glorious. It’s still very warm back in Texas, so I’m grateful for the drop in temperature. I take out my phone and scroll to my friend Sophie’s number.

I’m in Maple Falls. It’s been interesting so far.

Everyone needs a Sophie in their life. She’s the low-maintenance friend who tells you exactly what you need to hear—even if you don’t like it.

She responds a few seconds later.

I was wondering when I’d hear from you. Good interesting or bad interesting? I’m assuming you’ve met the hockey star. What’s the verdict on him?

Ha. I wish I had an answer. The verdict is definitely still out.

So far so good.

That’s vague enough, but still leaves some room for interpretation.

That’s all you’re going to tell me? Come on, Blair, I need more info. Does he live up to all the hype?

I smile to myself. From what I can tell, the stories about Cooper are pretty accurate, but I have a feeling there’s a softer side he doesn’t show often. I noticed it when he mentioned his childhood and his desire to help others in need.

Cooper is reserved but not as cold as I thought he’d be. Heasked me if I was sure I wanted to take on this job—meaning being his publicist.

I chew on my lip as a soft breeze picks up, moving a few leaves across the path. My phone buzzes again with Sophie’s response.

Really? And what did you say?

Another breeze blows a strand of my hair into my face and gives me a chill. I glance around at the lodge and the colorful trees. The image of Cooper flashes through my mind, making me shiver.

I told him I don’t believe everything I hear.

I pause before I continue typing.

Anyway, I’m already in love with this adorable town. I may never want to leave. Funny enough, that’s exactly what it says on the welcome sign when you arrive.

I actually think I could see myself living in a small town. And I’ve always been open to going wherever my path leads.

My phone begins to buzz again.

What? Are you serious? You know I was kidding when I said you’d meet a rugged, hot, small-town guy. Hold on …

My phone immediately starts ringing, and I sigh when I see Sophie’s number. It was only a matter of time.

“Good morning, this is Blair Radcliffe,” I answer in my most professional tone.

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