“Wear this.”
I draw back like he just offered me a coiled rattlesnake. “I can’t wear that.”
“Sure you can.” He unbuttons it from the hanger before extending it again. “Zona is always stealing them and wearing them over leggings. Just tie it at the waist.”
I accept the shirt, butonly becauseit’s actually a good idea, and I have no other options. This stadium is in the middle of nowhere. It would take too much time to go to a store, assuming I could find something appropriate, or go back to my hotel to change.
“Thank you.”
“Oh, I didn’t do it for you.” I’ve never seen Tenny’s smile look so malevolent. It doesn’t suit him. “I want you to be presentable when you report on my incredible game later.”
Before my brain can come up with a good zinger, Tenny marches toward the field exit.
I huff, blowing a strand of hair out of my face before finding a single-use bathroom to change.
“If he thinks he can insult me and then try to fix things, he can just—” I pause my muttering as I pull off my ruined blouse.
Fortunately, like most of my clothing, I bought it on discount. There’s a ridiculous double standard for female reporters. A man can wear the same suit on camera without anyone noticing, but if I don’t change my outfit every broadcast,someone complains. It’s utter nonsense, but it also means I need to devote more of my meager paycheck to my wardrobe.
Setting it on the sink lip, I slide my arms into Tenny’s shirt. An involuntary groan leaves my lips as I’m enveloped in his bright, citrusy cologne. Now I’m mad for two reasons: that I had to change in the first place and that he smellsthis goodwhile actively getting on my last nerve.
I pull my shoulders back, fixing my reflection with a hard stare. “It’s fine. Just ignore it. Or just don’t…breathe for the next few hours.”
With renewed indignation, I tug at the fabric, rolling the bottom of the shirt inward before securing it over my waist with a tidy square knot. With the first few buttons undone and the sleeves rolled to my elbow, Tenny’s shirt looks very chic over my pants.
I should be overjoyed, but my blood simmers.
Whatever I thought we were before, it’s clear now—we’re definitely enemies.
Waves Group Chat
Colton
Quick question. Did anyone else notice something odd about the men’s dress shirt Alex was wearing during pregame?
Tenny
Women wear oversized dress shirts all the time. My sister does it. It’s a thing.
Colton
That shirt looked suspiciously like YOUR thing. TAJ was stitched on the inside of the collar.
Rhett
I told you having your collarsmonogrammed was extra.
Tenny
I have no idea what either of you are talking about. Also, Colton, why are you looking inside her shirt, you creep?
Colton
She was adjusting her hair, and I saw it. It was totally innocent.
Tenny
It better have been if you want to keep your teeth.
