Page 27 of Love in Overtime

It’s probably a good thing Blair spoke up. There’s no telling what might have happened, and it would only complicate our situation.

CHAPTER 8

BLAIR

It’s finally here, Maple Fest. Watching the town get ready for this event has been fun. I love how everyone really gets into the spirit and participates in some way. Keira is very involved in organizing it since she runs the farmers market. I have no doubt it will be a huge success.

The Ice Breakers team is also an important part of the day since the games will be starting soon. They will be out and about talking to residents and guests. Cooper will be at the signing table with his teammates most of the day, and I’ll be making sure everything runs smoothly. It’s been a busy week with practices, extra workouts, and team meetings, so Cooper and I haven’t spent much time alone together. This is probably a good thing after the close encounter we had following the farmers market.

Did I want Cooper to kiss me? Most definitely. However, I need to keep reminding myself that I can’t let my attraction cloud my judgment. I’ve tried to rationalize it in my mind. It was a beautiful setting with the most perfect sunset after a fun day out in the town. And Cooper was able to relax. I think we both got caught up in the moment.

I’m excited for Maple Fest. It has every traditional fun fall activity you can think of—hayrides, a corn maze, a haunted house, lots of pumpkins, plus all the traditional fall treats. It’s going to be a great day.

I put on a pair of dark denim jeans, a long-sleeve black shirt, and sneakers. And I pull my hair up into a high ponytail, so I’m comfortable for the all-day festivities.

I’m in awe how the town has transformed in such a short amount of time. I totally understand why people travel long distances to come to the festival.

I spot Cooper almost immediately as I approach the Ice Breakers’ signing table. He’s sitting next to Dan Roberts, not looking the least bit thrilled to be here. I need to remind him to smile and be friendly today.

“There’s our hometown hero,” Mrs. McCluskey swoons, handing Dan a shirt with his number on it.

“Hey, Mrs. McClusky. Nice to see you,” Dan says warmly.

“Put some kisses on it,” she demands. She is staring at Dan with stars in her eyes. Hmm … Keira might have some competition for Dan Roberts’ affections.

I notice Cooper give an eye roll, and I giggle to myself.

“Remember to smile,” I say under my breath. Cooper’s expression changes almost immediately as soon as he sees me.

He excuses himself, leaving Dan and Dawson Hayes at the table.

“I can’t promise anything,” Cooper says as we step away from the table. “Especially when every woman in this town is practically throwing themselves at Dan Roberts. It’s gross.”

I grin. “Ohhh, do I sense a bit of jealousy?”

“Not at all,” he says flatly.

I notice the line for autographs is getting longer. “You should get back.”

“Do I have to?” he begs.

“Yes, but don’t worry, you’ll have some free time later to enjoy the festival.”

“Oh, yay,” he says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. He lingers for a few seconds and then returns to his seat.

Judging by his expression, you’d think he’d been sent into a pool of sharks. Which is pretty accurate, considering the women that are descending on the table. I hear the guys mention Puck Bunnies, and Cooper doesn’t look the slightest bit amused. A grateful feeling pours over me.

I’d rather not watch the Puck Bunnies throw themselves at the guys, so I turn away and notice Keira also eyeing the table.

“Don’t let them bother you,” I say, walking up beside her.

She frowns. “Could they make it any more obvious?”

“Sure they could, but this is a family friendly event.”

“Ew.”

I laugh.

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