Page 29 of Penn

I try to smile through the nerves. “It’s an honor to meet you.”

Her smile softens. “The honor is mine.” She looks to Willa and Lilly, then back to me. “Can we chat privately for a moment?”

“Um… sure.”

Lilly touches my arm and winks at me. “We’ll save your seat.”

I return her smile and then follow Brienne as she leads me to a quiet corner of the lounge.

Brienne puts her hand on my upper arm and squeezes reassuringly. “I just wanted to say that I’m aware of everything going on. And I want you to know, I’m here to support you in whatever way I can. You’re a friend of Penn’s and my understanding is you had his back a long time ago, and so now I’ve got your back.”

Emotion pricks my throat. “Thank you. I don’t know why you’d do that, but it means a lot.”

“Well, I take my players safety and well-being very seriously.” Her hand falls away, but she continues gently. “Penn mentioned hiring a private investigator. I think that’s smart.”

“I do too,” I say, although that doesn’t add much to the conversation.

“I’m also prepared to hire security for you, but Penn declined.”

“I appreciate it, but I feel safe with him. We’re good.”

She nods. “Well, hopefully we’ll get to the bottom of this soon. I know Penn doesn’t want this advertised to the team. As I’m sure you know, he’s a very private person so rest assured, this has gone no further than me, Callum Derringer, you and Penn.”

My stomach drops and a wave of guilt crashes over me. Penn is very much a private person and Brienne Norcross has an image to maintain for this team. No one knows that I’ve spoken to a reporter. That the story’s written. Scheduled. Ready to drop.

I don’t know that I thought of the repercussions once this goes public beyond putting a spotlight on me, which would in turn keep me safe. But that spotlight will be on Penn, Brienne… the whole fucking team.

I feel nauseated and I open my mouth to confess all. But it closes just as quickly. Perhaps I can stop this thing.

We talk a bit more—she’s kind, thoughtful, even warmer than I expected. And the longer we speak, the worse I feel.

After she excuses herself to greet someone else, I slip back into the private bathroom. I don’t notice the luxury details, instead pulling out my phone with shaky hands to dial Jillian Towne.

I squeeze my eyes shut in despair when I get her voicemail. “It’s Jillian. You know the drill. Speak at the beep.”

Beep.

“Jillian, it’s Mila. I know I said to run the story, but… I’ve changed my mind. I’ve got someone helping me now. Someone I trust. I don’t think it’s the right time anymore. Please call me back.”

I end the call and stare at my reflection.

Too late? Maybe not.

I just need to hear her say she’ll pull it.

The game starts and I rejoin Willa and Lilly. I try to focus on the ice. The energy. The thrum of the crowd.

But every time I glance down at my phone, there’s nothing.

No missed call.

No voicemail.

No text.

Until, finally, one pings.

From Jillian Towne.I’m so sorry, Mila. I couldn’t stop it. It’s already gone to print. It’ll be out tomorrow morning.

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