We’re together. Officially. Out in the open.
And it might just cost us everything.
The statement goes live at noon.
I watch it from my apartment, phone in hand, as the notifications start rolling in.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE DAKOTA DRAGONS:
‘The Dakota Dragons organization acknowledges that Carter Storm and Olivia Rivers have developed a personal relationship over recent weeks. This relationship in no way compromised Ms. Rivers’ professional responsibilities or Mr.Storm’s conduct. Both remain valued members of the Dragons family. We ask that their privacy be respected as they navigate this personal matter.’
It’s sterile. Professional. Exactly what it needs to be.
And the internet loses its mind anyway.
Twitter explodes. Reddit threads multiply. Sports blogs dissect every word. Photos of me from my modeling days resurface—some flattering, some not. Old interviews get dug up and analyzed for hidden meaning.
And the comments. God, the comments.
“Of course she slept her way to the top.”
“Gold digger alert.”
“Poor Carter. He’s being used.”
“She’s way too young for him. This won’t last.”
“Bet she got pregnant to trap him.”
Each one is a knife, sharp and vicious. I tell myself not to read them. I tell myself they don’t matter.
But they do. They matter because they confirm every fear I’ve had since the moment I realized I was falling for Carter.
My phone buzzes. Carter.
Carter:Don’t read the comments.
Me:Too late.
Carter:Olivia, they are trolls.
Me:I’m fine. Really.
Carter:You’re not. I can tell. Can I come over?
I want to say yes. Want to fall into his arms and let him tell me everything will be okay. But Mark’s words echo in my head:You need distance. Publicly visible distance.
Me:Not a good idea. Mark said we need distance.
Carter:Fuck what Mark said. I’m coming over.
Me:Carter, we can’t. Not yet. We have to let this blow over.
Carter:And you’re just going to sit there alone while the internet tears you apart?
Me:It’s what I signed up for.
Carter:No, it’s not. You signed up to manage PR, not to be crucified for having feelings.
