Page 38 of Playing for Keeps

I watch them disappear into the crowd, my whole body trembling. Gunnar turns to me and cups my face in his massive hands. "Hey Salty, look at me. You're safe."

"I'm so sorry," I whisper. "I never thought they'd?—"

"Stop. You have nothing to be sorry for." His thumbs stroke my cheeks. "Listen to me. You don't owe them anything. Not your talent, not your time, not your life."

I lean into his touch, fighting tears. "But the board?—"

"Fuck the board.” He pulls me against his chest. "You're part of my team now, and I put my body on the line for my team every single day. Nobody gets to hurt you. Not even your parents."

I wrap my arms around his waist, breathing in his clean, familiar scent. Behind us, I hear the excited chatter of fans, the barking of puppies, and music pumping through speakers. This is my new world. This is my choice.

"Thank you," I murmur into his jersey.

He kisses the top of my head. "Always, Salty. Always."

"Let's get you back to the hotel." Gunnar keeps an arm around me while texting someone. Within moments, Cam and Essence appear, their faces tight with concern. Gunnar hands me a bottle of water and briefly explains to my friends what happened. I hate that they know I’m dealing with such an embarrassing scandal. I begin to protest, wanting them to be able to enjoy this event with Banksy and Cappy, who have now also made their way over to us along with Gunnar’s brothers. The twins, seeming to sense Gunnar’s rage, crack their knuckles menacingly.

Gunnar waves them back, keeping one arm tightly around my shoulders. “I have to stay for team stuff, but I don't want you alone." Gunnar's thumb traces circles on my shoulder as he appeals to Cam and Essence. "Would you guys mind...?"

"Of course not." Cam wraps me in a hug, pulling me away from Gunnar’s side. "We'll order room service and watch terrible movies."

Gunnar tips his chin in thanks and walks us to the edge of the festival space, pressing his forehead to mine. "I hate leaving you like this."

"I'm okay." My voice wavers. "Really."

"Liar." He kisses me softly. "I'll come straight up after the game. Don't argue—my brothers already cleared it with Coach."

"But you need rest?—"

"I need to hold my wife." His eyes are fierce. "I'll rest better knowing you're safe."

Essence appears with my purse and coat. "Car's here."

"Text me when you're settled?" Gunnar cups my face. "And Salty? I meant what I said. You don't owe them anything."

The Plaza is exactly as grand as I imagined, but I hardly notice the ornate lobby. Cam and Essence hustle me straight to my room, where they immediately start raiding the mini bar.

"Tiny expensive vodka?" Cam waves a bottle.

I shake my head, curling into the plush armchair. "I should stay clear-headed."

"Fair." Essence flops onto the bed. "But we're ordering every dessert on the menu."

"And watchingThe Princess Bride," Cam adds. "Non-negotiable."

My phone buzzes with a text from Gunnar:

Miss you already, Salty. Try to rest. I'm coming for you after we win this thing.

I clutch the phone to my chest, overwhelmed by the contrast between my old family and this new one I've stumbled into. Cam and Essence chattering about room service options. Gunnar's promise to return. Even my growing collection of Stags who've been texting support since security escorted my parents out.

"Hey." Essence tosses me the room service menu. "Choose something decadent. Doctor's orders."

"You're not a doctor."

"No, but I play one on TV," she winks. "Seriously, though, you're safe here. Let us take care of you until your man gets back."

I frown at the menu and let it fall to the bed. “You two are missing your chance to see the Fury play. I hate that. I feel like such a burden.”

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