Page 53 of Across the Boards

“They’re actually Tommy’s,” I admit. “But the principle stands.”

She laughs again, and I notice Matthews frown at the sound, clearly displeased to see her enjoying herself. Good.

As the song ends, Elliot steps back slightly, maintaining a friendly but not intimate distance. “Shall we check out the silent auction? If I don’t bid on at least one item, Sarah will never forgive me.”

“Lead the way,” I agree, letting her set the pace both literally and figuratively.

The auction tables are busy with guests writing bids and examining the various offerings. I spot Melissa Cooper and two other hockey wives watching our approach with undisguised interest.

“Incoming,” I murmur. “Your three o’clock.”

“I see them,” Elliot replies quietly. “Just follow my lead.”

“Always.”

Melissa intercepts us before we reach the first table, her smile sharp and practiced. “Elliot! You look fabulous. That color is perfect on you.”

“Thank you, Melissa,” Elliot says with a warmth I know is entirely fabricated. “You remember Brody Carter? He was with the team a few years back before being traded.”

“Of course,” Melissa turns her calculating gaze to me. “Welcome back to Phoenix, Brody. I’m sure Jason will be thrilled to hear you’ve returned.”

The dig doesn’t escape either of us. I feel Elliot tense beside me but she doesn’t take the bait.

“I’ve been trying to convince Elliot to join our monthly brunch,” Melissa continues, addressing me as if Elliot isn’t standing right there. “The wives and girlfriends get together at La Maison. Very exclusive.”

“Sounds lovely,” I say neutrally. “Though Elliot’s schedule is pretty packed with her editing work.”

“Of course,” Melissa’s smile doesn’t reach her eyes. “Being a working girl and all.”

I bristle at the condescension in her tone, but Elliot places a calming hand on my arm.

“I’m actually expanding my client base,” she says smoothly. “Just landed a contract with that tech startup downtown. The hours are demanding but the work is fascinating.”

Melissa’s smile falters slightly, unprepared for Elliot’s confident response. “How... fulfilling for you.”

“It is,” Elliot agrees pleasantly. “Career satisfaction is so important, don’t you think? Oh, look at this auction item—weekend cooking class with Chef Morales! Brody, didn’t you mention wanting to improve your pasta techniques?”

Her expert pivot leaves Melissa momentarily off-balance, and I take the cue gratefully. “Absolutely. My bolognese needs work.”

“You cook?” asks one of the other wives—Karen something, I think. Her tone suggests she finds this slightly emasculating.

“He’s quite good, actually,” Elliot interjects before I can respond. “Made an incredible risotto last week.”

The complete fabrication startles a laugh out of me, which I quickly turn into a cough. “Elliot’s being generous.”

“How modern,” Melissa comments, her tone making it clear she doesn’t consider this a compliment. “Jason never set foot in the kitchen, did he, Elliot?”

“No,” Elliot agrees calmly. “He had many talents, but cooking wasn’t one of them.”

The diplomatic response seems to disappoint Melissa, who was clearly fishing for something more provocative. Before she can try again, Sarah appears like a guardian angel.

“Elliot! There you are. I need your expertise on the book collection auction item. The bidding has stalled.” She nods to the wives. “Ladies, if you’ll excuse us? Charity emergency.”

Sarah practically drags us away, leaving the trio of wives staring after us with varying degrees of frustration.

“Thank you,” Elliot murmurs once we’re out of earshot. “Melissa was just getting warmed up.”

“I could tell,” Sarah says grimly. “She’s been on the prowl all evening. Half the wives are Team Jason, half are Team Elliot.”

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