Page 64 of Exes Don't

“Care to share who you were playing for?” Erin doesn’t bother to mask her curiosity.

I’m acutely aware, in this moment, of how much I prefer having Rose ask me interview questions. Erin is good at her job, but it feels like she’s out for the next big story. Rose has never once acted opportunistic with her questions, and she almost looks pained when she has to probe. A point in her favor, to be sure. I’m not about to spring the spotlight on her right now, not when the new relationship I’m painstakingly trying to build with her still feels so fragile.

“My cousin is here from Penwick. We used to play ball together as kids. I had to show him how far I’ve come from the days when he would kick my butt in the backyard.” I grin.

I can’t tell if Erin buys my answer, but she’s a professional about it. “If he’s your good luck charm, I’m guessing River Foxes Nationis going to want him in attendance for the rest of the season. Best of luck next week.”

“Thanks. Go Foxes.”

“Back to you, Jim.”

The cameraman gives us the all-clear, and Erin thanks me for my time.

“Your cousin is a royal too, then, huh?” Erin’s eyes dance. I bristle. She doesn’t even know the guy. He could be a complete tool. He’s not, but would she still be so keen to meet him if he was a regular Joe?

“Yep.” I turn to go.

“Want to introduce me?”

“Sorry, Erin. I’ve got to get to the locker room for the team meeting and then the presser.”

“You’ve got my number.” She gives me a finger wave and turns to leave.

Finally.

Ned is next to me again. “You’re all set to head to the locker room, Bates.”

“Thanks, man.”

He moves aside, and I fall into step with Rose.

I glance over at her. She’s even more stunning up close. “Nice coat.”

“This old thing?” She swings side to side. “Nice game.”

“Eh. It was average.”

Rose rolls her eyes. “So humble. But seriously, thank you for this.” She holds out her arms, hands tucked under the sleeves of her jacket. “Unnecessary, but totally appreciated. This thing is like an oven. I’ve never been warmer.” She tucks her chin into the high neckline.

I’m aware that there are cameras everywhere, so I’m careful not to let my emotions play across my face. I don’t knock my shoulder into hers, like I’m dying to do. I don’t smile. I keep my expression completely neutral, even though all the adrenalinethat’s coursing through me from my good game and from having Rose here, next to me, in a coat with my name on it, makes me want to scoop her into my arms, throw her over my shoulder, and take her someplace where I can kiss her without an audience.

Caveman much, Bates?

I spot Duke in his seat near the tunnel. He waves, and I grin at him. I’m looking forward to spending some more time with him this week, before my mom shows up for our family Christmas celebration.

I turn my attention to Rose. She’s looking up toward Duke too.

“I’ve got to shower and do press. I can meet you right after that, though. It’ll probably be another hour.” I wince, hating when I’m an inconvenience to other people.

Rose doesn’t seem fazed. “Sounds good. I’m going to collect my sisters. They really want to meet you.”

“Yeah?” My heart rate kicks up. If I can impress Rose’s family, that’ll be another win for today.

“Yeah, for some odd reason,” Rose deadpans. “It’s like you’re the star of the team or something.”

She’s teasing me. She’s sort of flirting with me. This is good. This is very good.

“I’ll go fast,” I tell her as we split off, me to the locker room and her to corral her guests.

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