She smiled despite herself, typing back:
I'm screenshotting this admission for posterity.
His response was immediate:
I said might. Don't let it go to your head. Good night, Libby.
Good night, Liam.
It wasn't until she was falling asleep that Libby realized it was becoming easier to use his first name. That probably wasn't good for maintaining professional distance.
But as she drifted off, still wearing the smile his texts had caused, she couldn't bring herself to care.
Liam reviewed the social media explosion on his tablet, watching the TikTok for the fourth time. Varlenko's secret filming should have annoyed him more than it did. Instead, he found himself replaying specific moments—the way Libby's eyes sparked whenshe caught the flaw in his reasoning, her hand grabbing his to make her point.
How she'd instantly understood his counter-argument without needing explanation. The natural rhythm of their debate, like a well-executed passing play.
They looked... convincing. More than convincing—they looked genuinely engaged with each other. The comments weren't wrong about the chemistry, though Liam preferred to think of it as intellectual compatibility.
His phone showed a text from Georgia:
Georgia
Just saw the TikTok. Oh. My. God. Liam!!! You're actually INTO her! This isn't just PR!
Liam
It's a professional arrangement. The video is misleading.
Georgia's response was instant:
Georgia
I HAVE EYES. You're totally into her and everyone can see it!!!
Liam
It's tactical appreciation. She understands hockey.
Georgia
And she's brilliant and beautiful and challenges you. I'm coming to the next home game. I HAVE to meet her.
Liam
Please don't make this more complicated.
Georgia
Too late! Mom and Dad have 100% seen this.
Liam set down his phone, unsettled. The arrangement was temporary, lasting only through the playoffs. His family's involvement would only complicate things.
But as he pulled up Libby's latest article—a breakdown of Portland's power play that echoed his own analysis with uncanny precision—he found himself wondering if the Herald's budget included sending her to Portland for Game 4. Local print media didn't always travel for away games.
He pulled up his phone, then set it down. Then picked it up again.
It would be a simple call to the team's media relations. Ensure she had credentials, perhaps mention the PR value of having his girlfriend present for away games. The Herald would likely accept travel assistance if framed correctly.
