Page 3 of Unexpectedly Falling
She heckled me on the field and made passive-aggressive comments about me on social media, feeding reporters enough gossip to keep them coming back for more.
I was no angel, running my mouth as much as the ball and getting away with as many hits on the field as I could—it was part of the game. But yesterday had been something else entirely.
She’d gone after my family, and I’d burn the whole world down before I let that happen. We were supposed to be setting an example, showing respect for our teammates and opponents as much as ourselves.
You offered a hand when they were down or acknowledged a particularly well-placed goal. When had we let the love of the game be replaced by cattiness and disdain?
“I don’tdodowntime.”
Her lips twitch, and suddenly I feel like I was woefully unprepared for this meeting.
“Lucky for you, I have a friend who’s the athletic director at Blackstone University and they’re trying to build their soccer program.” She grins. “They’re moving from club to conference, and while they have a lot in motion, everyone can use a little help.”
“For how long?”
She shrugs. “A couple months.”A couple months.“I figure you can help the baby transition and check in with the university until things die down. You’ll be back in time for spring training.”
I want to ask if she’s kidding but she’s not.
She never is.
“The university has offered to let you stay in one of their off-campus apartments for the duration of your stay.” She snorts. “Maybe try and school your expression when you meet with Coach Turner. He’s a friend of mine, and despite this being a favor of sorts, you’re still representing this team.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“Good. Now go pack. They’re expecting you the day after tomorrow. We’ll pay for your hotel if you choose to go down there before that.” She looks down at her papers and then back at me. “Anything else?” I shake my head and she nods, her expression softening. “Let me know when you’re settled, and you have my number if you need anything.”
“Thanks, Coach,” I say as I stand.
“Cheer up, Hart.” Her mouth curves up on one side as she adds, “Who knows, you might like it.”
Not likely.
Not likely at all.
2
JENSEN
MASON: Bonfire
JENSEN: I’m busy
MONTANA: No you’re not
ARCHER: Not optional
BODHI: You need this
I’m about to argue again but Bodhi’s message has me pausing. I’d barely made it through my shift, my nerves making it practically impossible to sit still, and coming home hadn’t been any better. I was half a lap from wearing a hole in the floor.
But who could blame me?
I was literally hours from having my daughter here with me.
Soon,Remi.
MASON: It’s all set up
