Page 63 of Unexpectedly Falling
“You’ve got something special here, Coach,” I say honestly and he nods.
“Proud to be a part of it.” Eyes twinkling, he adds, “Speaking of bein’ part of it, I know it’s late notice but would you be interested in coaching the club team this Friday?”
“They’re not all home for the holiday already?” A spark of excitement bubbles inside me at the idea.
“A lot of the students are local, so they scheduled this makeup game to fit with the end of the semester.”
“Where’s their coach?”
“Had to fly out for a wedding this morning. Funny how things keep working out, isn’t it?”
“Maybe you should buy a lottery ticket with all that luck you’ve got.”
“Not a bad idea.” He chuckles as he sits forward. “So can I tell them you’re in?”
“I’m in. But no cameras and we keep my identity a secret as long as possible. I don’t want to take away from the school or the team.
Studying me for a moment, he nods. “I’ll make sure it happens.”
“Thanks, it just makes it easier for everyone. Am I allowed to run practices before then?”
“I’m sure they’ll love that.”
“And I’m sure you’re lying.” He grins and brings the computer to life as I mentally go through Jensen’s schedule. “How’s four o’clock?”
“Sounds great.” Tapping away with more force than the poor keys deserve, he finishes whatever he’s telling them and clicks send.
I know it’s only a few days before the game, but if I’m going to do this, I need to know what we’re working with.
Pulling open another desk drawer, he hands me a lanyard with a keycard and a small gold key.
“This’ll get you into the complex after hours, and this key gets you in the equipment room. I’ll have some of the kids set everything out. Just lock it up when you’re done.”
“Will do, Coach.”
Standing, I pocket the lanyard and move toward the door. I’ve almost pulled it open when he speaks again, “Nessa?”
“Hmm?” Turning, I find only sincerity as he stares at me.
“Would you do me a favor? Off the record?”
“That depends.”
“Would you see if you can get Lana out for a ladies’ night? Or lunch? Hell, even coffee would be a start.”
“Coach?” I ask, unable to hide my smirk. He rolls his eyes and it’s adorable.
“She’s been workin’ here a while but she keeps to herself—doesn’t go out when some of the other staff does.” He shrugs like this isn’t the sweetest thing I’ve ever heard.
Because I can read between the lines.
He wants Lana to have a friend.
“Aren’t you a big ol’ softie?” I joke but he just waves me off.
“Don’t you have a practice to run?”
Laughing, I make my exit and stop in front of Lana’s desk with my most winning smile. I’d never do something like this inNashville. Kinsley and I choose to stay to ourselves as much as possible outside team events.
