Page 80 of Bar Down

Three hours of deliberation over a single punch thrown at a man who had blackmailed him, threatened his career, and then cornered Stephanie in her office.

Marcus checked his watch. Again.

The door finally opened, and Westfield emerged with Commissioner Davis right behind him. Their faces gave nothing away.

"Mr. Adeyemi," the commissioner said, extending his hand. "Thank you for your patience."

Marcus stood and shook it firmly, saying nothing. The less he spoke, the better at this point.

"In light of the evidence presented by Coach Vicky and Ms. Ellis, along with character testimonials from your teammates, we've decided not to pursue supplemental discipline."

Marcus exhaled slowly. "Thank you, sir."

"Don't thank me. Thank your PR director. Her recording was illuminating." The commissioner's mouth tightened. "We don't condone physical altercations, but context matters. Reed's actions were unacceptable."

Westfield looked distinctly uncomfortable. "Reed has been terminated from his consulting position. Darby and Darby has also rescinded their offer for the Analytics director role."

"Good," Marcus said, not bothering to hide his satisfaction.

Commissioner Davis nodded once. "Be smarter next time, Adeyemi. Take it out of the bar at least."

"Yes, sir."

The commissioner left them standing in the hallway. Westfield turned to Marcus, his expression softening.

"For what it's worth, I should have listened when you both raised concerns. I was too focused on the acquisition."

"It's done now."

"Not quite," Westfield said. "Darby and Darby still wants to develop our analytics program. They were impressed with your insights, despite everything. They'd like you to consult during the off-season, if you're interested."

Marcus blinked. "I'd have to think about it."

"Of course." Westfield handed him a business card. "No rush. For now, focus on hockey. We need you on the ice, not in hearings."

As Westfield walked away, Marcus pulled out his phone and texted Stephanie:

No suspension. No fine. Meeting you at your place in an hour?

Her response came immediately:Already here. Door's unlocked.

***

MARCUS PAUSED OUTSIDEStephanie's apartment door, a paper bag from Malone's Deli in one hand and a bottle of champagne in the other. Not ideal for nutrition plans, but some celebrations required exceptions.

Inside, he heard music playing softly—one of those indie bands she liked. He pushed the door open.

Stephanie was curled on her couch with a blanket wrapped around her shoulders, hair still damp from a shower. She looked up at him, eyes soft with exhaustion but bright with something else.

"You brought food," she said, straightening.

"Sandwiches from Malone's. And this—" he held up the champagne, "—is for after we eat."

"Come here," she said, patting the cushion next to her.

He dropped his bag by the door and joined her on the couch, setting their dinner on the coffee table. Before he could reach for the food, she leaned over and kissed him—slow and deliberate.

"What was that for?" he asked when she pulled away.

---