Three days later, Mackenzie called just as Brent stepped out of the doctor’s office.
“Calling to hear my good news?” he said in lieu of hello.
“You can play?” Mackenzie asked.
“I can play,” Brent said, unable to hold back a grin.
“Well that is amazing news! But no, I’m calling because I found her.”
“Found who?”
“The face of the women’s line,” Mackenzie said. “Duh.”
“Oh, right!” Brent said, smacking himself on the forehead, then wincing when he realized how stupid it was given he just got cleared from a concussion. “Kind of forgot, what with being able to get back on the ice and all.”
His sister laughed. “Understandable.”
“So,” Brent said, unlocking his truck and opening the door. “Who is she?”
“Danica DeVries,” Mackenzie said. “She’s the starting goalie for the Boston Fury. She’s crazy good, freaking beautiful, and personality-wise seems like a perfect fit.”
“Personality-wise?” Brent asked, dubious. “How can you glean that from her Instagram?”
“Well, for starters,” Mackenzie said, “she’s a lesbian, so we don’t have to worry about her coming onto you. She seems amazing. Does a lot of work in the community, Boston born and raised, and everyone just loves her.”
“Okay,” Brent said. “I’ll check her out and take it from here. Thanks, kid.”
“You’re welcome, B!” Mackenzie said. “Let me know how it goes.”
“I will!”
He disconnected and opened Instagram, typing “Danica DeVries” into the search bar.
Mackenzie wasn’t lying. Based on her photos, Danica was very active in the Boston community, working with schools, hospitals, and various nonprofit organizations. From the looks of it, she wasn’t currently endorsed by anyone but a regional health foods store.
“Perfect,” Brent said, and tapped the button to send her a message.
@Brent22Jean:Hi Danica! I know this is super random, but I just started an activewear company and I’m currently in the market for someone to be the face of the female line. I would love for you to be that face! Do I need to contact your agent, or is this something we can work out amongst ourselves? Please let me know! I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Brent Jean
Brent called his sister back.
“Hey, B.”
“She’s perfect, Kenz!”
“I told you! Did you reach out to her?”
“Yep, I sent her an Instagram message.”
“Let me know what she says! I’m really hoping this works out,” she said. “If she signs on, I’m flying out for the shoot. I want to meet her.”
“You’re part owner of this thing, Kenz,” he reminded her. “You’re well within your right to do that.”
“I know,” she said quietly. “But I’m not a big shot like you are. I’m just a kid.”
“No,” Brent said. “You’re Mackenzie Jean. This line wouldn’t be the same without your input. You’ve been with me every step of the way, and your help has been invaluable.”
“Thanks, B.”