“Not like this. And as for why I am here, I need your advice—your help—to do it.”
Mark straightened and folded his arms. “All right. Start again.”
I took a breath, then another. By the time I had finished, neither of us spoke for several seconds.
He rocked back on his chair and stared up at the ceiling. “Well.”
I waited.
He dropped back to the floor. “That’s certainly mademymorning more interesting.” My lips twitched, and he pointed at me immediately. “Don’t do that.”
I stilled. “Do what?”
“Look relieved. I haven’t agreed to anything yet.”
I settled into my chair. “Fair enough.”
Mark rubbed both hands over his face before meeting my eyes again. “Does Mila know?”
“Yes.”
“And?”
I smiled. “Who do you think told me I needed help?”
“Smart woman.”
Another silence followed. He studied me, his gaze thoughtful.
Finally Mark asked, “Have you actually thought this through?”
I bit my lip. “Not completely.”
A heavy sigh rolled out of him. “You have a remarkable ability to make my life complicated.”
I blinked. “You’re a coach. You work with elite skaters. Isn’t this what you do?”
“Apparently I made the wrong career choice in my youth.” He laughed. “God help me.” Then his expression sobered. “Does Dean know?”
I hesitated. “Not yet.”
He arched his eyebrows. “Are you planning to surprise him?”
“No.” Not even a heartbeat’s hesitation that time.
Mark appeared relieved. “Good. Because if your plan involves springing this on somebody five minutes beforehand, my answer becomes no.”
“That was never my intention.”
His eyebrows went skyward again. “I’ve met you. I like to verify these things.” He paused. “How much time do you need?”
“As much as possible.”
Mark winced. “That’s never the answer anyone wants to hear, especially when the event in question is only three days away.”
“I am aware of that.” Which only added to my panic.
“And you’re certain you can do it?”
