Page 25 of Love in Overtime

“Chase, I need to call you back. I have a meeting.”

Blair raises her eyebrows.

“A meeting? Sure. Make sure it’sproductive.”

“I’ll do that.”

“Sorry,” Blair says. “You didn’t have to end your call.”

“Yes, I did.”

“Are you ready to go?” she asks.

“As ready as I’ll ever be.”

I’m going to a farmers market with the woman I’m falling for. There are worse things I could be doing.

This might be the nicest farmers market I’ve ever been to. There are rows of stalls with impressive items. I admit I’m here for the food. Waffles, sandwiches, cupcakes, and cinnamon rolls from the Maple Grounds Bakery. I’ll take it all.

And it seems like everyone knows each other. I guess that’s typical when you live in such a small area.

I could stroll the rows all day, especially with Blair. She’s been chatting away about the flowers and the food and the autumn breeze. I just nod along as I try not to stare at her gorgeous face.

“Isn’t that one of your teammates?” she asks.

I drag my attention away from her to see Ted “The Bear” walking with a petite woman. That must be the best friend he’s always talked about. Whoever she is, he likes her.

“Yep. That’s Ted ‘The Bear’ Powell,” I tell her.

“As inTeddy Bear?” she asks with a giggle. “That’s cute.”

“I’ll tell him you think so.”

“Let’s say hi to Keira,” Blair suggests. “I’m sure she’s busy, so we won’t stay long.”

I follow her through the rows because at this point, I’ll follow her anywhere.

“Kiki,” Blair shouts, rushing to hug a pretty blonde woman. Kiki? Also known as Keira, Dan Roberts’ ex-girlfriend.

“Hey, B,” she says.

B? Does everyone have a nickname here?

I stand back and let the friends chat. It’s a good day to be outside, the sun is shining, and the temperature is comfortable. Although I should be spending all my free time at the rink trying to get out of my slump.

I’ll never admit it out loud, but this is a nice town. Next weekend’s annual Maple Fest is the hot topic everyone seems to be currently discussing. There are flyers posted everywhere, including the men’s room at the arena. Apparently, people travel from all over to attend the fall-themed event. Of course the Ice Breakers are going to be a major addition this year, and we are supposed to be front and center in the crowd. It’s no surprise I’m feeling less than thrilled.

Blair has insured I will be at the signing table with my teammates throughout the day but told me I’ll still have time to enjoy the activities like the corn maze and the haunted house. Whew. I was so worried.

Again I’m just going for the food … and because I’m contractually obligated as a member of the Ice Breakers. All these fun-filled social gatherings are a part of the deal I agreed to when I signed on.

“Hey,” Blair says, pulling me out of my daydream.

“Hey,B,” I tease.

Blair scowls. “Keira is the only person who calls me that.”

“Mm-hmm. How’s your friend?”

---