Page 37 of The Worst Pucking Deal

The marred flesh is like a fucking beacon, making it impossible to look away from it. So many questions swirl around in my head. And, to my surprise, pure rage at whoever did this to her. It’s one thing to force her to be naked, another to scar her so badly she’s clearly still suffering from whatever happened to her.

I know I shouldn’t care, but I do. I really fucking do, and I don’t like that some jerk put their hands on my bunny.

Motherfucker!

Lucia

Iglance at myself in the mirror one last time, adjusting the sleek, form-fitting black blazer I’m wearing. Beneath it, I wear nothing but a lacy black bra. Paired with tailored black pants that hug my curves and strappy heels that elongate my legs. My long red hair cascades down my back, and I’ve kept my makeup light.

As I step out of my apartment, I find Sawyer waiting by the limousine. He’s wearing a tailored suit that makes his impressive body look incredible, his beard is neatly groomed, and his long hair is gathered on top of his head. His jaw is set in a determined line, his eyes focused ahead. But as he sees me approaching, his demeanor softens, and a small smile plays on his lips. Stepping forward, he leans in to press a gentle kiss on my cheek before offering me his hand to help me inside the car.

He’s so smooth I almost believe the lie we’re concocting. At least until I remember his demand last night. I have no problem being naked if that’s what he wants, that’s not what kept me awake last night. It’s the way he studied my scars. Like he saw more than just the remnants on my skin, and I don’t like that.

During the drive to the studio, neither of us speaks. The weight of our impending interview hangs heavy in the air, and I can feel my nerves beginning to fray at the edges. But I push aside the doubt, forcing myself to stay composed.

As we pull up to the studio, the paparazzi descend upon us like a swarm of locusts, shouting questions from every angle.

“Sawyer, is it true that you and Lucia are dating?”

“Lucia, how does it feel to be dating one of the hottest hockey players in the league?”

“Are you two planning to get married soon?”

“Lucia, can you give us any details about your relationship with Sawyer?”

“Are you guys planning on starting a family?”

“Sawyer, do you have any comments on the rumors about your relationship with Lucia being a PR stunt?”

“Oh my God, is that an engagement ring you’re wearing, Lucia?”

I keep my head down, pretending I didn’t notice the last question. It’s not an engagement ring, obviously. But it is a diamond on my left ring finger. With any luck, people will draw their own conclusions. I know it’s desperate and somewhat foolish, but right now, I don’t have anything else. Nothing else I can do to move my plan along.

I feel Sawyer’s hand slip into mine, his touch offering a small but comforting anchor amidst the chaos. Together, we navigate through the throng of reporters. I thought I was prepared for this, but as I struggle not to acknowledge or answer any of the questions, I get a new appreciation for what it’s like for the players. These reporters are relentless, and no question is too personal or off-limits.

Finally, we make it inside the building, where we are greeted by the station manager. His smile is warm but tinged with a hint of anticipation. “Welcome, Sawyer and Lucia,” he says, extending a hand to each of us. “We’re thrilled to have you here for the interview. Follow me, please. We have a waiting area set up for you before you go on stage.”

We’re led to a cozy lounge area where he tells us to wait until the host couple calls for us. Sawyer takes a seat on one of the plush sofas, and I join him. Though my immediate reaction is to sit with distance between us, I sit so close our arms touch.

With every minute we’re waiting, my nerves grow stronger. “Relax,” Sawyer breathes, taking my hand and squeezing it. “You’ll be fine. And if you run out of things to say, talk about my stats.”

I look up at him from beneath my lashes, unsure of what to say. This is a lot harder than I thought it would be, and the interview hasn’t even started yet. So, yeah, I’m grateful for Sawyer’s small act of kindness. “Thank you,” I murmur.

After what feels like an eternity, the station manager returns with a nod. “They’re ready for you now. Just follow me, and I’ll take you to the stage.” We rise from our seats, exchanging a final glance before following the station manager out of the lounge and toward the stage.

As we step onto the stage, the bright lights of the studio blind me momentarily, and I can feel the electric energy of the live audience wash over me. The roar of the crowd fills the air, a cacophony of cheers and applause that reverberates through the room.

Sawyer’s arm is wrapped securely around my waist, his touch offering a steady anchor for me to lean on, and I feel a wave of gratitude wash over me as I lean into him, the weight of the moment almost too much to bear. My heart is racing, and despite the cool air of the studio, I can feel sweat trickling down the back of my neck.

But Sawyer’s presence beside me is a reassuring constant, his strength bolstering me as we make our way across the stage. With each step, I can feel myself sagging against him, needing his support to keep moving forward.

The host couple smiles warmly at us, but the thunderous applause of the audience drowns out whatever they were trying to say. I force myself to straighten up, to plaster a smile on my face and project an air of confidence, even as my nerves threaten to overwhelm me.

Reaching the area the host couple is waiting in, they pull us in for hugs and cheek kisses. “Sawyer, Lucia, it’s wonderful to have you here with us tonight,” the female host, Cammy, says, her voice filled with warmth. “We’re excited to hear all about your relationship.”

As soon as we begin, I notice the easy rapport between the hosts, Cammy and Cam. Their chemistry is palpable, and it’s clear that they’re not just professional partners but also a couple in real life. The set of the show, aptly named “The Cams Know,” exudes an aura of intimacy, with cozy seating arrangements and soft lighting that adds to the atmosphere.

“So, Sawyer and Lucia,” Cammy begins with a playful grin, “rumors have been swirling about your relationship ever since you two became a known item. Care to shed some light on any of the juicy gossip?”

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