The Game by Vi Keeland by Vi Keeland

“Oh, sorry. I didn’t even think about people calling you today.”

“It’s fine. But I am getting some calls. So do you mind sharing how your visit came about? I could use a few speaking points. Unlike most people here, I can’t ignore the media when I feel like it, because they’re often my partners in crime. If I want them to show up at the things I want spotlighted, I have to give them at least a snippet when they’re the ones doing the calling.”

“Of course.” I nodded. “I understand.”

“I left a message for Christian, but haven’t heard back from him yet. Can you tell me who Wyatt Kane is?”

“Sure. He’s the son of a good friend of mine. He used to play soccer, but the football coach recruited him as kicker, and he’s broken every school record since he started.”

Beau scribbled on his notepad. “And he’s a junior?”

“That’s right.”

“Committed to a college yet?”

“No. That’s actually the reason Christian decided to come to the game. Wyatt and his teammates haven’t received many visits from college coaches.”

Beau smiled. “I’m guessing that’s about to change…”

I smiled back. “It has already.”

“And you and Christian?”

My forehead wrinkled. “Went to the game?”

Beau chuckled. “Sorry. I was trying not to be too nosy. But a reporter asked how long you and Christian have been a couple.”

I blinked. “We’re not. Why would they ask that?”

Beau pulled out his cell phone. He punched in his code and swiped for a minute before setting the phone on the table and turning it to face me. “Sean Haggerty from Sports Network sent me these and asked for a comment.”

In the first shot, Christian and I were standing together on the sidelines at Wyatt’s school. We were looking at each other. I was laughing while he sported a dimpled smile. There must’ve been a breeze, because my hair was blowing back, giving the moment an oddly romantic feel. I swiped through to look at the rest. There were a few more of us looking cozy at the game, and then the last few were me getting into Christian’s truck. One showed him opening the door for me, while the next few showed his hand on my back while he made sure I climbed in okay. I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach.

“This isn’t what it looks like. Christian and I were just talking. We stayed to ourselves so he wouldn’t get bombarded by fans, and then he was only being a gentleman by opening the car door and helping me in. His SUV is really high.”

“So the official statement is nothing is going on.”

“Well, not just the official statement. It’s also the truth. Everyone around here already has such low opinions of me. I don’t need more gossip.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you. Sean Haggerty is the only one who asked that question, and he’s a decent guy. I’m sure I can get him to bury the photos.”

I sighed. “I’d appreciate that. Thank you.”

Beau and I spoke for a little while longer, and when he had everything he needed, he closed his notebook and stood…just as Christian appeared at my door. He flashed his signature boyish smile and held up a bag. “I brought tacos for dinner.”

Beau looked between Christian and me. He didn’t say a word, but his face questioned everything I’d told him over the last ten minutes.

“Hey, Christian.” He lifted his chin, then nodded to me. “I’ll get out of your way. No one likes cold tacos.”

I felt a little deflated, yet forced a smile. “Thanks again, Beau.”

Once Beau walked out of my office, Christian stepped inside. He thumbed behind him. “Should I shut the door? Probably don’t want people hearing us talk about the team.”

I sighed. “Please. They’re already talking about us…”

Christian set the bag on the table. “Who’s talking about us?”

“At least one reporter. He snapped some pictures of you and me on the sidelines laughing and looking oddly cozy. He wanted a statement from Beau about our relationship.”

A devilish grin spread across Christian’s face. “Everyone seems to see it except you…”

“Just shut up and give me a taco.”

He reached into the bag and offered me something covered in silver foil. “You’re one of those who gets hangry, huh? I’ll have to keep that in mind for when you stay over so I have breakfast ready.” He winked, and I pointed to his eyes.

“Next time you see the team doc, you might want to get those checked. That one keeps shutting on its own.”

Christian smiled and dug into his food. “So how was your chat with Julian?”

I opened my taco and motioned to two small plastic containers. “Are these both hot sauce?”

He gestured to a red dot on one of the lids. “That one is extra hot. I like spicy, but this place crushes up the seeds in the habaneros in that. It’s like eating fire.”

I took the other one. “Thanks for the warning. I love spicy, but lately I’ve been getting the worst heartburn.”

“Stress.” He nodded.

“Really? Stress gives you heartburn? I assumed it was because I’ve been eating more takeout than usual.”