Page 79 of Delicate Storm

“It would still be a no. He better either live forever or find himself another heir. One that isnotmy brother. He couldn’t handle that kind of pressure. I guess I could sell the team and make billions. Does it work that way?”

Keeley laughs as though I’m joking and she’d be right. But lucky for me, Dad knows I am not cut out for the sports world. But if he wanted to leave me an art studio in his will or a modeling agency, I wouldn’t mind owning those.

“Regardless, can I take you up to my friends?”

“I don’t know.” I scrunch my nose as I think about disappointing my dad. “Dad’s about to be here and—”

“I’m here.”

“And here he is.”

“Hi Keeley.” Dad nods. “Sweetheart,”—he kisses my head—“are you ready?”

“I was just asking Paige if she wanted to watch from the suite with some of the wives and girlfriends,” Keeley cuts in before I can answer, a comfortable air between them, and there goes lying to keep Dad happy.

“I said no.” I shake my head. “Where are we sitting?”

“Actually, I think that’s a great idea,” Dad says, shocking me. “Maybe with new friends, I might be able to convince you to come to more games.”

Keeley smiles, while I study Dad’s expression. “Are you sure?”

“Yes.” He smiles wide and points to his mouth to make sure I saw it. “I’m sure.”

“But—”

“I’m old enough to look after myself, Paige. How about we meet up after the game for a drink?”

“Okay.” I hesitate. I wanted to be here to support him, but how can I do that if I’m not with him?

“Go.” Dad laughs as though reading my mind. “I’m good. See you after we win.” He presses another kiss to my head and smiles at Keeley. “Go, Storm.”

I shake my jersey to show my support and then Keeley drags me away. “You’re going to have so much fun.”

By halftime, my cheeks hurt from smiling. Keeley was right. These women are awesome. Luke’s wife is a riot—the way she teases her husband when he celebrates a touchdown has me laughing out loud. It’s easy to see that she loves him, but it’s refreshing to note that they keep things light between them. The world is dark enough.

And their daughter. My God, is she adorable in her tiny little Bennett jersey and pink bow. I bet she melts hearts everywhere she goes.

Then there’s Hayley, who I recognized the second I saw her. She’s starring in a huge movie they’re making based on a book Iloveand I’m in awe of her. She’s not only stunning and exactly as I pictured the main character, but she’s also incredibly down-to-earth and fun, unlike the character she’ll be playing. On top of that, she’s Australian and I could listen to that accent all day. What’s even cooler is that she recognized me. Said she’s been following me on social media for years, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I pretty much fell in love with her at first sight.

Actually, it’s safe to say I fell in love with this entire group on sight.

Lainey, Thomas’s wife—I discovered they’re newly married—is also an amazing woman. And someone I could see myselfhanging out with. It took no time at all to discover she’s great with advice which I’m told is what led her to become a dance therapist, mixing her passion for dance with her ability to know what to say in any given situation.

I almost asked her if she could help fix my life. Or at the very least, tell me what the hell I should be doing because I have no idea. But that’s a lot to load on someone I just met.

Along with having fun like Keeley promised, being here with these beautiful women made me really miss my female friends back home.

In New York, I was constantly surrounded by friends and then they just disappeared when I moved. Ghosted me as though I’d never existed.

I’ve never had trouble making friends, yet I’ve been here for months and haven’t even tried. Until now.

I bet Lainey would have something to say aboutthatrevelation. Am I holding back because somewhere deep in my mind this is all temporary? I’m here because I was running away. If Christian’s family is caught, like I’m hoping, am I going to go home? I always thought I would, but now I’m not so sure.

Then there’s the other possible reason for my hesitation. My friends broke me and I lost all trust in females. Or maybe I’m just lazy. Who knows.

Whatever the reason, I like this group of women, so maybe things are about to change.

“Okay, ladies,” Keeley calls out as she enters the suite when the second half of the game begins. “I’ve got fifteen minutes. Do you have any gossip for me?”

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