***
I wait until the second period begins before leaving the suite to take a leak. I’m hoping to blend in a little more in Duncan’s jersey than I was in my button up chambray.
Zara made sure the broadcast crews signed NDAs and they’re not allowed to share my attendance.
I hate keeping things on such a tight lockdown but I can’t afford another PR disaster.
I’m looking for the bathroom when I notice a brunette and something about her looks familiar. Just as I’m putting it together that she’s Duncan’s realtor friend her eyes widen in recognition.
"Rhys Reid." She says and I quickly step into a little alcove and pull her with me. She squeaks in surprise but comes easily.
"Shh. People don’t know I’m here."
She looks down the hall. "How?"
"I’ve stayed in the suite and my publicist talked to the media team."
"Whoa, that’s impressive." She licks her lips. "But, youarehere."
"Yeah."
"For Duncan?"
"More or less."
"You’re wearing his sweater."
"Sweater?"
"Jersey."
"Ah, yeah. I am."
She runs her tongue over her teeth. She just has a light gloss on her lips. "Does he know you’re here?"
"Yeah, he set it up."
"Interesting." She nods to herself.
"Listen, Harper right?" She smiles. "People can’t know we’re, umm, that we know each other."
"But why?"
"It’s complicated."
"He deserves to be loved out in the open like he loves everyone else." She raises an eyebrow at me as she props a hand on her hip. Here I was thinking she was sweet and timid but I can tell she knows how to stand for what she believes in. Has she always been that way? Can she teach me how to do it?
"I agree." I say sadly. "I just can’t give that to him right now."
She sucks in a sharp breath. "You love him?"
Alarm bells sound between my ears. "I didn’t say that."
"Fine, I’ve got to get back before the girls start looking for me. I’ll keep your secret, but it’s going to cost you."
"Really?" I didn’t expect to be bargaining with her.
"Yeah, my wedding is next summer and you need to play at it."
