Page 5 of So Pucking Over You
Squaring my shoulders, I turn to Dash. “Are you sure that woman is who you think?”
“Yes.”
I meet my brother’s furious gaze. “Gordy, think this through. There are two scenarios. The Arctic Bears are really close to us in the standings. We’re undefeated, but the Bears are only four games behind. We lose because of internal fighting and their chances improve. Maybe this was a set up to divide the team, distract everyone from the real goal.
“They could also be trying to recruit him for next year,” I continue.
“Fuck,” Coach spews.
“That’s right. Fuck him and his new toy. The best revenge you can give me is bringing home the Stanley cup. With or without him.”
“Damn, girl. You after my job?” Coach smiles at me.
“Nope. But it’s easier to see what’s going on from the stands. Keep going like you are and get Fitch, your back up, in every chance you can. The kid’s got talent and just needs more confidence and time playing with the first stringers.”
“Uhm, guys,” Phil interrupts. There’s some new posts.”
We gather behind Phil to view the screen. Pictures of Trevor and the raven goddess on the beach, at restaurants, dancing. Another back shot of Dash, arm wrapped around my shoulders and leaning into my ear as we walk down a sidewalk then enter a motel room.
TROUBLE IN BUFFALO?
Golden boy and center for the Buffalo Blades, Trevor Markel was caught with his pants off with Sabrina White, daughter of the owner of the Arctic Bears.
While Blades goalie, Dash Fahey, was seen sneaking Markel’s ex, Oakley Wells, into his room.
Talk about stiff competition both on and off the ice.
I can’t believe my eyes. “God damn it! My newspaper put that out! How the hell do they know? I’m their reporter on site.”
Grabbing my phone I dial my editor.
“Put it on speaker,” Dash whispers, then looks at the group. “No matter what, keep your mouths shut, she can handle this.”
I meet his gaze in appreciation as my call goes through. “Stan, what the hell is this internet story I’m looking at with my name in it?”
“You tell me what’s going on. I send you to report on the team and instead you’re the story. You break up over the holidays with the star player and he’s now dating the competition? And you’ve moved on to his teammate. Are you trying to ruin my favorite team?”
“Who gave you this story and told you we broke up over the holidays?”
“An independent I buy from once in a while. He had the hot photos of Markel and the girl in Florida as well as today’s shots. He can get the stories that catch attention.”
“Let me get this straight, you promoted me just because I was dating a hockey player? Not because I have a master’s in communications and journalism?”
“I was looking for some good juice. It’s what sells papers nowadays. Instead, you come back with stats, play breakdowns and team dynamics. Any idiot can do that.”
“Obviously not, since you can’t.”
“You’re useless to me,” he snaps. “Send back my equipment. You’re out of a job.”
I disconnect and carefully slide the phone back into my jeans. Holding my head high, I meet the gaze of each man in the room.
Gordy heads for the door. “This is all Markel’s fault. I’m gonna break his neck.”
Dash steps in front of him and talks softly. Dash is four years older than my brother, but they’ve been friends since Gordy joined the team. I’ve heard him confide in Dash as if he were an older brother. They respect each other’s work ethic. My parents love Dash like a son. If anyone can control Gordy’s actions, it will be Dash.
“So, you’re fired? Out of a job?” Coach Nugent interrupts my thoughts.
“Yes, apparently so.”