Page 55 of Playing for Keeps

"Already taken care of. I spoke directly with their board members. It turns out that several of them have had experiences with controlling family members." He smiles grimly. "Rich people problems, I suppose."

I stir my shake, processing all this. "I can't believe how quickly everyone has mobilized."

"Family takes care of family." He says it so matter-of-factly, as if it's the most natural thing in the world. For him, it is.

"I'm still scared," I admit quietly.

"I'd be worried if you weren't. But Emerson—" he catches my gaze, his blue eyes intense, "—we are going to win this. Your parents have money and connections, but we have the truth and some pretty decent connections of our own."

I draw a deep breath. "Zara says running would only prove their point."

"Smart woman, that Zara." He winks, lightening the moment. "Almost as smart as my wife."

I manage a small smile. "What should I expect at this meeting?"

"Tim is bringing his two best associates, along with a family law specialist who deals with conservatorship cases." Gunnar checks his watch. "We should head out soon. Tim wants us to review some documents before the full team arrives."

I hesitate, as something that's been bothering me finally surfaces. "Gunnar, I noticed you didn't start the last two games. Is that because of all this?" I gesture vaguely, encompassing the legal mess we're in. "The rotation schedule changed."

He sighs, running a hand through his damp hair. "Coach thought it might be better if I focused on this for a bit."

"I knew it." My chest tightens with guilt. "You're losing ice time because of me and my family drama."

"Hey, look at me." He cups my face gently. "I'm okay riding the bench for a few games while we get this sorted. Grentley's playing well, and the team is winning."

"But your career?—"

"It will be fine," he interrupts firmly. "We've got years ahead of us, Salty. A few games now don't define anything. What matters is ensuring that your parents can't control your life anymore."

"You're sure?"

His smile is genuine. "Positive. Besides, Coach says the rest might be good for me. Keep me hungry." He winks. "And trust me, I'm very hungry to get back out there and show everyone what I can do." As we walk to his car, I feel something shifting inside me—fear is giving way to determination. My parents thought this legal threat would break me and send me crawling back to them. Instead, it's only strengthening my resolve.

CHAPTER 36

GUNNAR

I adjustmy tie as we enter Uncle Tim's law office, Emerson's hand firmly clasped in mine. The entire floor exudes money and power –polished wood and glass complementing views of the three rivers converging. Tim's domain. And today, our war room.

Emerson looks small beside the massive conference table, but her spine is straight as she arranges her notes. I've never been prouder of her. Three weeks ago, she might have run from this fight. Now, she's preparing for battle.

"Sorry we're late," Mom announces, sweeping into the room in her pantsuit, briefcase in hand. "Docket ran long."

I wasn't expecting her, but I'm not surprised. The Stags mobilize for family.

"Juniper." Emerson's face brightens. "You didn't have to come."

Mom squeezes her shoulder. "Of course I did. Besides, I've dealt with family court judges for over twenty years. I might as well put that knowledge to use. Besides," she rolls her eyes, “Tim’s focus is sports law. He needs me, whether he’ll admit it or not.”

Uncle Tim enters with three associates trailing behind him. His usual scowl deepens as he tosses a folder onto the table. "These Saltzer people are something else."

"Tell me about it," I mutter, pulling out Emerson's chair.

Uncle Tim slaps the table. “I've reviewed the conservatorship filing. It's aggressive but deeply flawed."

Emerson's fingers tighten around mine. "So, they actually filed it?"

"Yesterday in New York," Tim confirms as he takes his seat. "But we've already filed a motion to dismiss along with a counter-petition for harassment and defamation."

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