Page 21 of The Fine Line
“He doesn’t know anything about hockey,” I say aloud before I can think better of it.
Bryan’s brow creases, and he adjusts his tie. “That’s not true. He knows a fair bit. And he actually said you inspired him to become more invested in the sport—his classmate’s father being the head coach of the Storm and all.”
I say nothing, staring down at him, jaw tight. If I speak now, I know I’ll regret it.
“And, in fact, his family actually has some ties to the team as well,” Bryan adds.
I squint, confusion creeping in. “How?” I ask. Because that can’t be true. I’d know.
“Well, his father has made sizable donations to the Texas Storm Foundation.”
My spine stiffens. “How sizable?”
Bryan folds his hands on the desk. “Five million dollars.”
“And when did that happen?” I ask, voice low and even.
The way Bryan hesitates—and the pitying glance from Amy—is all the confirmation I need.
“Let me guess,” I say. “Recently.”
“Caroline—”
I step back, holding up both hands as I clear my throat. “Thank you for the opportunity.”
“Caroline—” Bryan tries again, but I’m already halfway to the door.
“I won’t take up any more of your time. Thank you again,” I say.
“Caroline, please wait,” Amy calls. It’s her voice—not Bryan’s—that stops me.
“There’s more to discuss.”
I spin back, forcing my face to stay neutral. “More?”
Amy nods gently, motioning for me to come back. “Please.”
“A lot went into this decision-making process, Caroline,” Bryan says.
“Oh, I’m sure,” I reply, my voice flat with barely veiled sarcasm.
“The overall consensus was that Mick was a good choice for the analyst role,” he continues, and I fight the urge to roll my eyes. “But even more so, the unanimous consensus wasthat you were the perfect—more obvious—choice for another one.”
I blink. “Another one? What do you mean? What other role is open?”
“Well…” Bryan starts, both he and Amy smiling so broadly I start to wonder if I’m missing something. “Courtney’s, as it turns out.”
My lips part. “What?”
“She’s going on maternity leave in about two weeks,” Amy says.
“Courtney’s… pregnant?” I ask.
Amy nods. “She only found out at the end of last season. But after the summer break, she’s about ready to pop.”
I press my lips together, thinking back to all the times Courtney wasn’t feeling well—especially the day I filled in for her. Suddenly, it all makes sense. “Good for her,” I murmur.
“Yes, very good,” Amy claps. “That said, she’s considering taking the entire season off to adjust to motherhood. And when it became clear she had the perfect replacement, it all just made sense.”
