“We’re about to have three away games, which is an opportunity for us to connect with fans in other locations. It’s also a chance for you to find willing donors for the Warriors Foundation.”
I rub the ache beginning to throb in the center of my forehead. How can I perform in a job I have no background in? My bachelor’s degree is in business, sure, but that’s because I wanted to make sure no one could steal from me when I hit it big. As it is, I hired an accountant and other people to run things to free up my time for hockey. Schmoozing donors never entered my thoughts.
“I’m not sure what to think, Coach.”
“Well, talk to Morgan in the community relations department. She’ll give you the rundown, and you can go from there.”
“But I’m still on the team?” Uncertainty has me wanting to squirm in my chair again.
“Definitely. You’ll travel with us for game days. The front office is hoping while we’re out of town, you’ll chat with some influential people and receive some donations. You’ll make the powers that be happy.”
I guess if someone has to be content, it’s those who pay everyone’s paycheck. Right now, though, I want out of this chair and out of this room, so I can talk this over with Val. Will she agree with the Warriors and tell me to go for the opportunity?
“Thanks, Coach.” I traverse the halls that’ll take me to the frontoffice to find Morgan. As soon as I make a couple of turns and find an empty hallway, I whip my phone out and call Val.
“Hey, you. What’s up?”
“Is this a bad time?” It’s only two in the afternoon, which means she’s probably working.
“No. I just left a meeting, so the rest of my afternoon is pretty clear. You okay?” Concern enters her voice.
I can’t help but smile. Knowing Val cares on some level—I’ll take any level I can get—eases some of the worry in my gut.
Focus.Right. I bring her up to speed. She’s completely silent as I wait for her response. Even though the quiet makes me want to come out of my own skin, I remain mute. Val is all about sorting out her emotions, and I threw a lot her way.
“You’re on your way to speak to Morgan now?”
“Yes.”
“Hmm. How about you go to the meeting with an open mind? As soon as you’re done, let’s meet up and discuss everything.”
“Can you do that?” I wince. “I mean, obviously we’ll have to meet somewhere discreet, so your family doesn’t find out.” Here’s another reminder why my desire to be with Val is selfish. She’s getting the short end of the stick. Drama with her family, a legally blind friend, and no benefits.
Where’s my brain at? Didn’t I say to remain friends with Val and not hope for anything more? But now even friendship seems like a slippery slope. Plus, there’s no way Val’s meeting with me in a public place.
“Actually, they already know we’re friends, so I see no point in pretending like we’re not.”
My brows raise. Who is this Val, and how long will she be sticking around? “Are you sure? We can meet somewhere private. Besides, I have to draft a statement and don’t want to discuss everything in public anyway.”
“Fair point. How about you come by my place? We can talk and go from there.”
Her place? I glance at the phone on instinct, then shake my head. “Are yousure?”
“Yes. I promise it’s okay.I’mokay.”
But shegoes along with what others want over her own self-preservation.
Yet I don’t think Val has ever treated our friendship like that. Right now I’m going to have to trust she’s sincere when she says she’s okay.
“Thanks.” I blow out a breath. “Text me your address, and I’ll be there after this. Wait, you’re at work.”
“Yes, but I’ll be leaving soon. I should be there before your meeting is over. I have to tie up some loose ends first.”
“Okay. See you then.”
I’m not sure what to think about Val inviting me to her place, but it feels significant. Despite the weirdness with my career, I’m strangely happy.
Because of Val. She’s the missing piece.
