Page 107 of Wild Card

“We heard about the tryouts and wanted to lend our support,” Harley chirps.

“Ace was on shift with me today,” I explain.

“It’s just t-ball.”

All the guys shudder.

“This is setting the foundation.” Major frowns at her.

“We don’t even know if he will like it.”

“He’s my son; of course he’ll like it,” Chase snaps back.

“There are other sports out there. We have to let him choose. He may like football, soccer, basketball—maybe even hockey.”

Jewls lets out a snort while Ace and Ford laugh. Major’s jaw goes hard.

“What’s wrong with hockey?”

“I love hockey.” Jewls smiles wide.

I tug Willow to me, lowering my mouth to her ear. “Wyatt will like baseball; it’s in his blood.”

“Maybe so, but we have to keep his options open. Especially if we get kicked out of tryouts because of your commentary.”

“I have a contact at the county athletic association. He’ll get Wyatt in front of the right coaches.” Major holds out his hand to Chase. “Major Powers.”

The crew goes around with introductions while I watch Wyatt send a ball straight down the line.

“Sorry I’m late, what did I miss?” Bex dashes up and stops quickly at the crowd. “Whoa, are all of you here for Wyatt?”

“We are,” Ace confirms. “What’s up, Bex?”

“Hiya, guys, good to see you again.”

Chase stands straighter. “You know these guys?”

“We met at the park a few weeks ago.” She bends to pet the dogs.

There’s a small growl under his breath, his jaw ticking. Sterling covers his mouth but I catch his knowing grin.

Willow’s oblivious to the vibes rolling off him as she introduces Bex.

“Still feeling okay?” Rowan closes in on us.

She’s been in contact with Willow throughout last night, calling and texting to check in. The other women did the same, but Rowan was more tireless in her efforts. Knowing how zealous Rowan can be, I paid close attention to Willow’s responses, ready to act if the situation turned uncomfortable.

Turns out I had to step in to cut off their text marathon. Chase wanted Willow to limit her screen time and I was happy to enforce his rule.

“Not even a small headache,” Willow reports. “And except for him confiscating my phone last night, I had an exceptional nurse.”

“I made a serum that may help with any tenderness. And it’s safe for your lip, too, but that appears pretty healed.” Rowan hands over a small vial.

“You made this?”

“It has tea tree and aloe, and it may tingle. You’ll have to let me know if it helps.”

“You made this for me?” There’s a softness to Willow’s question that sets off alarm bells.

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