Olivia has the grace to look apologetic. “Sorry, I didn't mean to pry.”
“It's totally fine. Just don’t want to ruin dinner with my crazy ex drama.” She laughs it off easily, but now I’m intrigued. Was this crazy ex why she moved to New York? Just how crazy was he?
The topic shifts to safer territory. Theo talks about the upcoming season, and Olivia shares stories about Maya's latest antics. Natalie laughs and asks thoughtful questions, fitting into the group like she's always been there.
I try not to stare at her. I try to focus on my food and the conversation and anything other than the way her eyes crinkle when she laughs or the way she tucks her hair behind her ear when she's thinking.
But my eyes keep finding her anyway.
An hour later, the food is gone, and Olivia is yawning into her wine glass.
“We should head out,” Theo says. “Early morning tomorrow.”
“Me too,” Natalie adds, standing. “Thank you for dinner, Ethan. And for the invitation.”
“Thank Olivia. She's the one who kidnapped you.”
Natalie smiles. “I didn't mind being kidnapped.”
There's a flurry of goodbyes and promises to do this again soon. Olivia hugs Natalie and makes her promise to come to the next brunch. Theo shakes her hand and tells her it was nice to meet her.
Then they're all gone, and I'm standing alone in my apartment. It’s late enough to go to bed, but I’m too wired up.
A story for another day.
That's what she said when Olivia asked about a boyfriend.
Some guy back in Charlotte is probably calling her every night. Some guy who knows what it's like to wake up next to her. I grab my crutches and hobble to my bedroom.
It doesn't matter. She's my physical therapist. Whatever happened in that locker room was a mistake, and it's not happening again. She can have a dozen boyfriends back in Charlotte for all I care.
But why the fuck does the thought of another man touching her make me want to put my fist through a wall?
8
Natalie
“So you're the one who got stuck with Ethan Ward.”
Ivory Brock is leaning against the doorframe of my office with a sympathetic smile. She's the team therapist, blonde and willowy and really pretty. I met her briefly during my first week but we haven't had a chance to really talk until now.
“Stuck isn't the word I'd use,” I say with a laugh.
“How's that going? I heard he's been difficult.”
“He has his moments. But we're making progress.”
Ivory nods and steps into my office, settling into the chair across from my desk. “If you ever need to consult on anything, don't hesitate to reach out. I've been working with the team for three years now so I know all the quirks. Each player is different.”
“I appreciate that. Same goes for you. If you ever have overflow or need a second opinion, my door is open.”
“I might take you up on that once the season starts. Things get crazy around here when the games begin.” She crosses her legs and tilts her head. “It must be hard, being new to the city.”
“My cousin actually works for the Renegades. She's in the PR department. And I've met a few people through her. Olivia, Harper, some of the other wives and girlfriends.”
Ivory makes a face. “The WAGs? I don't know them very well. They seem a bit...” She waves her hand vaguely. “You know. Exclusive. I always assumed they were kind of snobbish.”
“They're super nice,” I say. “Very down to earth. They're nothing like what you'd expect.”
