Really? Because before I selected the two of you, I did some background checks. Both of you have stellar reputations on your respective teams. So, I’m very curious to know what extra information you have. Barb folds her hands together and leans towards Cleo.
She flushes. It’s not my story to tell. I’m sorry.
Ah, Barb says knowingly. Well, Roy is very handsome, and I’m sure he’s broken a few hearts here at Monarch.
Cleo groans and buries her face in her hands. She must be pained by Barb turning character aspersions into a compliment.
Barb places her palms on the desk. Look, cards on the table. While I would never ask students to do anything that goes against their principles, the stakes are pretty high here. While Marjorie Schultz has donated to the college before, now she’s hinting at a six-figure bequest with funds earmarked for both hockey programs. And all you would have to do is eat a few dinners. Is that so difficult?
But we have to pretend to be a couple too? Is that part of it? I ask.
Barb frowns. Whatever you did last Tuesday was fine. I assume there wasn’t any… physical affection.
God, no, says Cleo, as if I’m some kind of leper.
And are either of you in a relationship?
Cleo and I both reply in the negative. Great, one more reason to wish Lana and I hadn’t broken up.
Just between us, my personal assessment of Marjorie is that she’s a bit lonely. Whatever energy the two of you brought to dinner, she must have enjoyed. I think I mentioned that’s she’s been difficult in the past, and this is the first time she’s asked to have anyone return.
Both Cleo and I silently digest this plea.
Barb continues, You don’t have to pretend anything… but perhaps avoid contradicting her expectations? It’s only one night a week.
Cleo shakes her head in refusal, but I request, Can we have twenty-four hours to think about it?
Why? Barb asks, with the shark instincts that must make her a good fundraiser. What will change by tomorrow?
I’d like to do a little research. Into Cleo Nelson, because if she’s like her brother, then I have zero interest in spending even ten more seconds in her company.
That’s fine. As I said, this decision is up to you both. But please keep in mind that the team fundraisers that you both work so hard on won’t raise even a fraction of the money we can get here.
In other words, this donation would be a game-changer for Monarch hockey. I rise. I understand. I’ll get back to you tomorrow.
Cleo glowers at both of us. I’m not sure if I can do this under any circumstances.
Why don’t you stay longer, and we can discuss it more? Barb suggests.
Taking that as my signal to leave, I grab my backpack and head out. As I’m walking home, someone calls my name. I turn to see an attractive woman smiling brightly at me. She has auburn hair and is wearing a white puffer coat.
Hi, Mats. I’m Petra Cole. We were in Econ 101 together last year.
Oh, right, I hedge, trying to place her.
She falls into step beside me. I’ve sent you a few messages, but I guess you haven’t seen them. She makes it sound like we’re friends, but I genuinely have no idea who she is. Econ 101 had at least a hundred students, it’s impossible to remember every one of them.
What’s up? I ask.
I was wondering if you’d like to go out for coffee this week?
Shit. That request came out of nowhere. I don’t even know her. She’s cute, but I’m really not interested. Still, it’s hard to claim that I’m busy when her question is so open-ended. Instead, I opt for the truth.
Look, I just broke up with someone. So, I’m going to take a break before dating again.
She places a hand on my arm and smiles sweetly. Oh, I know all about that. And if you’re unhappy, I could be a shoulder for you to lean on.
Uh, that’s a nice offer, but it’s not really necessary. If I wanted to vent, I’d talk to my friends, not a total stranger.
