Page 98 of Slap Shot Scandal
“Ms. Hayes, you’re the new face of the Coastal Crushers administrative team. But you’re in no way new to the game. Your father’s the legendary Coach Doug Hayes. How does it feel to be embroiled in the professional game of hockey yourself, with that mantle resting heavy on your shoulders?”
Of course my question’s difficult—and personal. Not the easy shots both the guys had.
I smooth my hair over my shoulder, standing tall. “It feels amazing, actually. I love hockey—always have. The transition’s been seamless and I look forward to a fantastic season with this stellar team in this amazing town.”
Too many superlatives, Harbor. Overcompensating.
“I mean, who could blame you? This team is amazing. So talented.” The reporter fawns over Weston, and I swallow down a little bit of vomit.
“Yes, they are. The team’s committed to the local community and we’re excited to invite every Driftwood Cove family to Opening Night!” I beam at the camera, praying the interview’s almost over.
Mercifully, Riptide and Lil Rip skate over and ham it up. The cameras cut to the mascots, and the reporter follows close behind.
“Thanks, guys.” I turn to Coach Keller and Weston. “I appreciate the help with the local media.”
“Sure, no problem.” Weston rakes his hand through his hair, relaxed and smiling.
“Glad this worked out. An event like this during pre-season’s fine. Once we get rolling, we’ll have to keep the distractions to a minimum.” Keller’s tone is gruff and no-nonsense as he flicks his eyes to mine, then Weston’s.
“Right.” I nod, trying not to spiral.Is he talking about the clinic? The interview?
Or is this a veiled warning?
“Well, thanks again, Coach. Looking forward to a fantastic season.”
He tips his chin at me and stalks away without another word, leaving me and Weston alone together.
Dropping my voice to a whisper, I hiss, “Do you think he knows anything? Was that a threat?”
Weston shakes his head, careful not to look at me while the cameras roll. “No. He’s focused on winning. Don’t worry, Hurricane.”
Despite his reassurances, I am worried.
Really fucking worried.
I’ve dealt with a lot of scandals in my career, but none have felt quite this personal.
Because this time, my life’s on the line—and I’ve never had so much at stake.
CHAPTER 27
WESTON
I’ll admit it—the hockey clinic was actually kind of fun. Much as I bitched about it, I enjoyed watching the kids faces light up when I taught them a new stick skill or they connected with the puck.
Hell, maybe one day I’ll be coaching my own kids.
My mind instantly flashes to Harbor. I have to give her credit. The whole Hockey with Heart thing is her vision—and it seems to be working. Everyone in town’s excited about the upcoming season and they love the hammerhead shark mascots, Riptide and Lil Rip. She managed to nail the right blend of intimidating and family-friendly—not the easiest task in the world.
The woman’s damn good at her job.
She’s good at a lot of things.
Scrubbing a hand over my face, I grab my phone from the nightstand.
Weston: You up?
I blink at the bright screen in the dark. It’s after 10 PM and today was a long day for her. She’s probably already asleep.
