Page 43 of Calm Before the Score

“Yep! Just the two of us. I was getting bored here by myself, so I figured I would hire a friend. When you walked in, I knew you would be the perfect fit for Coastal Books,” she adds with bubbly confidence.

“Thank you so much for this. I love reading romance books, so this is the perfect job for me.” I subconsciously start picking my nails.

“You’re gonna love it here! We have awesome customers and weekly book signings, so you’ll get to meet some of the local authors.”

“What? That is amazing,” I can't hold back the smile that takes over my face.

“Let me show you around. It’s pretty simple once you know the layout of the books, and the register is fool-proof.” I’m glad Paisley has confidence in me. It’s making this transition easier than I imagined. Paisley spends the next hour or so showing me how the books are organized, the bookmark and stickers section, and the register. She was right. The register is super simple.

“I think that’s enough work for now. Are you hungry? I know the best pizza spot, just a few doors down. We can lock up and enjoy lunch out?” she offers with the friendliest eyes.

“Sure. I would love to.” Everyone at Springs U has been so friendly and welcoming. I could see myself setting roots in this place. First Liza, then Ryan, and now Paisley. I may have finally found the place where I belong.

Paisley locks the door, flips the sign from “open” to “be right back”, and we’re off. On our walk to lunch, I take in the beauty of this small town. I love it here. Paisley pushes open the door to the restaurant, and we seat ourselves. We decided to share a cheese pizza with cokes.

“So, Mason tells me you are dating one of his teammates?” Her hands lock under chin waiting for my response. I get a really good vibe from Paisley, and I would love to make another friend.

“Yep, Ryan Shane. He’s a running back.”

“Ryan?! Yes, I know him. Ryan and Mason played little league together at the local park. He always came over to the house for lunch after the games,” she says with joy.

Before I can answer, she says, “I’m so glad he found you. He was always so quiet. Like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. You seem like a good match for him.”

“It wasn’t in my plans to find a boyfriend my freshman year, but he bulldozed into my life in the best way,” I laugh.

“That’s Ryan for ya. I wish Mason would stop messing around and find someone like you.” She picks up a big slice and hovers it over her mouth before taking a bite.

A flashback of my drunken night at Downtown Tap flashes before my eyes. Ryan grabbed me and flung me over his shoulders so I wouldn’t talk to Mason.

“I met Mason once after the first home game. He seems like a nice guy. He introduced himself to me at the bar, and I felt comfortable around him.”I spare Paisley the details of her baby brother’s night out.

“Hmmmm. Knowing Mason, he was trying to hook up with you,” she laughs uncontrollably.

I nearly spit my drink out. “Uh, um, no, I don’t think so. I’m not really most people’s type.”

“You’re joking, right?” She looks puzzled.

“No?” I shrug.

“You’ve already made an impression on my brother, his friend, and probably half of the team. You’re memorable, Violet. Take it from me. I’m married to a former Springs U player. I know how they operate.” She flashes me a huge smile.

“You’re too nice to me,” I responded shyly. I’ll admit I’m the worst at taking compliments.

“I speak the truth.”

We spent the rest of lunch discussing my classes and what brought me here for college. Paisley insists on covering the bill for both of us. I argue with her for a moment but ultimately cave to her generosity. I need to get better at letting people do things for me. We take the short walk back toCoastal Booksand spend the rest of the afternoon stocking shelves and helping customers find the perfect book.

When five o’clock rolls around, I help Paisley close the store and head back home to get ready for the game. Liza is meeting me at the apartment. It’s become a tradition to get ready together. I spend my drive home reflecting quietly on the beautiful day and counting the blessings this town has brought me.

29

Ryan

It’s game day, and I’m psyched. Starting the morning off with my girl and an intense workout keeps my head straight and locked in. A few of the guys came to the field early to get reps in. This is a big game. If we win, we move on to the semis. Scouts from the league are watching our every move. Mistakes at this point in the season are costly. My mind is clear for the first time in weeks, that is until I head to the locker room and check my phone.

Logan: We’re locked in.

Me: Ok.

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