Page 90 of Between the Blue
The man looks down at his phone, scrolling through something.
It couldn’t be…
“Hey, Mark. Good to see you,” Coach Barrett calls from down the hall.
My spine steels.
Mark Moreno.
Owner of the Texas Storm.
Husband of Natasha Collins.
I’m in motion before I even realize it.
“Hi there,” I blurt.
Mr. Moreno glances up from his phone, and before I can chicken out, I thrust my hand out in his direction.
“I’m Addison Dixon,” I say. “I’m the Storm’s new social media and photography intern.”
His brows raise, and I begin to question my decision, but then he smiles, accepting my handshake. “Nice to meet you, Addison. I’m Mark Moreno.”
“I know,” I say. “I just wanted to thank you for the opportunity to work with the Storm.” I tell him this, knowing he most certainly has no idea who I am, much less was he involved in my hiring process.
“Well, you’re very welcome. I must say, social media isn’t exactly my forté. But our channels have been looking really good. I’ve definitely noticed a shift in style. You’re doing good work.”
I press my lips together, holding back the massive grin that wants to spread across my face. “Thank you, sir. That means a lot.”
Mr. Moreno nods, giving me a once over before returning his attention to his phone, obviously assuming there is nothing more to say.
“I have a confession,” I utter.
He looks up at me again, his brows raised.
“You see, Mr. Moreno, it’s just…” I swallow against the tightness in my throat. “Your wife is my greatest idol. My biggest inspiration.”
I pause, waiting to see how he’ll react. When his lips curl up at the corners, I finally feel myself relax. “My Natasha is something, isn’t she?” he says.
“She’s everything,” I agree, nodding. “I was just wondering…if she might be coming to any upcoming games.”
Mr. Moreno’s smile fades slightly. “Unfortunately, there are no current plans for that. Natasha’s busier than ever as of late.”
I feel my heart sink automatically.
“But, we do have the team’s annual charity gala next month. She will, of course, be my date to that event.”
My head snaps up. “Charity gala?”
He nods. “Yes. And since all the players will be in attendance, I’d say we will definitely need a photographer there to get pictures for social media.”
My lips part, and Mr. Moreno gives me a wink.
“I–”
“Alright, ready when you are, Mr. Moreno,” Rick says, suddenly reappearing with a cup of coffee in his hand.
“I suppose I’ll see you in a month, Addison,” Mr. Moreno says, giving me one last smile before stepping through the office door after Rick.
