Page 53 of Just One Season
“You want me to name him?” Ava’s eyes widen, and she looks at me, completely serious.
“I’d love it.” That’s not exactly what I meant, but we’re gonna go with it. A bunch of adults have not managed to successfully rename my dog. How much worse could it be if a five-year-old girl did it?
“Lucy? You might regretthis,” Kellen says.
“Nah.”
“I’m gonna come up with the best name.” Ava’s face scrunches into a determined mask.
“Let me know when you figure it out.”
“I will.” Ava nods solemnly.
“Did you have fun at practice last night?”
“Yes, so much fun!”
“Good morning.” A younger woman walks up, and Ava jumps to hug her. The woman takes the backpack from Kellen’s outstretched hand.
“Lucy, this is Grace, Ava’s nanny.”
“Nice to meet you,” Grace says.
“You too.”
“Lucy works at the Blizzard.”
Grace smiles at me and then leans down to touch Ava’s shoulder.
“Time to go, Ava. Let’s get you to school.”
“Awww.” Ava leans over and kisses Bear’s head, and he leans into it.
“He likes you.” I stand. I don’t say that Bear pretty much likes everyone, and I’m glad, because the smile on Ava’s face is worth it.
“Say goodbye to me, Aves.”
“Bye, Daddy!” She leaps into Kellen’s arms and kisses his cheek.
“Did you just kiss me with the same lips you kissed that dog?”
“Yup!” Ava jumps down from Kellen’s arms and walks away with Grace. “Bye, Coach Lucy! Bye, Bear!”
“She’s such a cutie,” I say, aware of Kellen’s eyes on me as I wave goodbye to Ava before turning to him.
“Sure is.” Kellen sticks his hands in his jeans pockets. He’s wearing a Blizzard t-shirt that’s fitted around his chest and loose around his waist. “You’re good with her. And the other girls.”
I shrug. “I love kids. I’m grateful you suggested I help out withthe Snowballs.” Even though I’m pretty sure I begged him to let me help.
“I should be thanking you. Let’s turn this season around for that team.”
I laugh. “I’ll do my best. But they don’t keep score in kindergarten soccer.”
“Fair enough.” Kellen chuckles. “But honestly, telling Ava she can rename Bear wasn’t the smartest move. She definitely loves you now though.”
“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” I squat down and give Bear’s head a pat. He attempts to slime me with his long tongue.
“Hey. Just so you know, I’m not going to tell Ava we’re dating. Especially since you’re also coaching her.”
