"So let's talk business," he says, giving me a reprieve from memories I'd rather not dwell on.
I push a folder at him. "We're meeting with Roughneck Armorworks first. Tough Rider is after them."
"What's the chances of securing a platinum sponsorship?" Wyatt questions.
"Not sure. I'll feel them out to see what their budget is, but there's no guarantee they'll give us anything," I remind him.
He clenches his jaw.
The front door opens, and Brent Wallace, Roughneck Armorworks' VP of marketing, booms, "You in here, sugar?"
Wyatt's eyelids lower to slits. His jaw clenches and fists curl tight.
"Behave," I mutter, then rise. Brent's no different from most of the male contacts at the companies that offer sponsorships. But as long as I secure the deals for my riders, I suck it up.
I meet him at the door and offer a sweet-sounding, "Happy Holidays."
"You too, sweetheart." He pulls me into a hug.
Wyatt interjects in a cool voice, "Mr. Wallace. Nice to meet you."
Brent pulls back. "Call me Brent. And I have to say, we're impressed with your riding, Wyatt," Brent says, shaking Wyatt's hand.
"Thank you, sir," Wyatt replies.
"Please. Let's sit," I suggest, motioning toward my conference table.
We all take a seat.
Before I can speak, Brent says, "I don't have tons of time. The grandkids are coming over tonight. But I wanted to meet you in person, Wyatt. You've always had a strong track record."
Wyatt nods. "Appreciate that. I'm just focused on getting back to where I should've been all along."
Brent tosses me a glance I can't decipher, and I'm immediately on guard. He looks at Wyatt and states, "The footage from your last two events speaks for itself. You're riding sharp. Confident. But you know why we're cautious."
"Because of my past," Wyatt answers directly, no hesitation. "I own it. And I won't pretend it didn't happen. But I'm not that man anymore. I'm here to ride and represent any sponsor that's willing to take a chance on me the way I'm taking a chance on myself."
I can't help the small flicker of pride that swells in my chest at how steady and earnest he sounds.
Brent replies, "That's good to hear. But you're a risk, Wyatt. Hopefully a calculated one if we decide to back you. This vest launch is a significant milestone for us. We've invested millions of dollars. We want a face that represents strength, safety, and stability."
Wyatt meets Brent's gaze head-on, declaring, "And that's what I'll give you. I'm not just here for a second shot. I'm here to build something lasting."
Brent nods slowly. "When's your next ride?"
Wyatt looks to me for help.
I clear my throat. "We're figuring the schedule out."
Brent raises his eyebrows.
"We should have it solidified in the next week," I add.
He nods and points at Wyatt. "If you handle the pressure and stay on track, we'll revisit this after your next competition." Brent extends his hand.
Wyatt shakes his hand. "Fair enough. I appreciate the consideration."
I interject, "Before you leave, I have one question."
