Page 14 of Love in Overtime

“My lips are sealed,” I say, touching my finger to my lips.

His expression changes slightly.

“My friend Keira and Dan dated back in high school,” Itell him. “And now they’re both back in Maple Falls. Things might get interesting.”

“At least you can spend time with your friend while you’re here.”

I smile. “I know. It’s been a long time, but we always pick up right where we left off.”

That’s one of the best things about my friendship with Kiki.

“Careful, she might try to talk you into moving here,” he suggests.

“Oh, she’s already tried,” I tell him. “Although, now that I’ve seen the town, who knows.”

“So you’ll never want to leave orleaf?” he asks with an eye roll. “That slogan is so lame.”

“You say that now,” I tell him. “But six weeks in this cozy town and the crisp fall weather might win you over.”

He shrugs. “Eh, the leaves change in Tennessee too.”

“That’s true,” I say. “But it’s a different vibe. I’ve only been there once—to Nashville, and it was a lot of fun. Of course I was there for a bachelorette party, so fun was in full supply.”

“I don’t think I could see myself living anywhere else,” he says. “And I have no plans to leave unless the Wolves decide to get rid of me.”

Ha. There’s no way the Tennessee Wolves will trade Cooper. Plus he’s been very vocal about never going to another team. I believe he mentioned retirement before that possibility.

“From what I’ve seen, you’re safe,” I tell him. “Although there have been rumblings that other teams are going to do what they can to snag you. I’ve already received a few emails.”

“Nope,” he says adamantly. “I’m a Wolf for life. I don’t care how much money they try to throw at me.”

Wow. Cooper’s loyalty only makes him even more attractive. I haven’t heard of many other players who wouldn’t take advantage of more lucrative offers.

“The Wolves are very lucky to have you,” I say.

“Thanks.”

We both grow quiet for a few seconds. I know what I’ve heard, but Cooper Montgomery seems different from the stories. Ugh. This is insane.What’s going on with me?

“All right, so the rest of the team will be here tomorrow,” I remind him. “Then we’re off and running.”

“Sounds like it.”

The server drops our check on the table, and Cooper quickly snatches it up.

“I got this,” he says.

“What do I owe?” I ask reaching into my bag to get my wallet.

Cooper studies the receipt. “You owe zero dollars.”

“That’s funny,” I retort. “Cooper, it’s a business lunch. I can expense it.”

“I know you can,” he says, waving to our server. He hands her his credit card without another word.

“Well, thank you, Cooper.”

“You’re welcome.”

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