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Dylan nodded. They were on the same page there. But there was something that wasn’t clear to him. “Why is the MPRC involved with WPRC bulls?”
“Shelby Miller, the CEO of the women’s rodeo, asked for our help. After all, we’ve been doing this forever and since bull riding is a new event for her, she wants to make sure her athletes are safe,” Jackson said.
That was a relief.
“Besides, and this stays in this room, it might be time to combine the women’s and the men’s rodeo into one big company. With venues being scarce and costs on the rise, it could be a big crowd pleaser to have one large weekend show where the fans could see all their favorite riders.”
It would also mean that he and LeAnn would be traveling together. Dylan liked the idea of seeing her more often and who knew? Maybe they could try a relationship? Stranger things had happened on the road.
“But that’s putting the cart before the horse,” Jackson said. “Right now, the ladies have their own calendar of events for this year, but you can be sure we’re going to be looking at the numbers when we’re at the same venue.”
“Like we are tomorrow, and then again in Fort Worth and San Antonio.”
“That’s right,” Jackson said.
Mr. Hickory refilled their glasses. “The bulls that show promise will get promoted to the men’s events and eventually go out to stud. The ones that aren’t so exciting will be reserved for the women’s events.”
That wouldn’t go over well with LeAnn if it became common knowledge, but Dylan was strangely comfortable with it. “Are you sure that won’t take the excitement out of the event for the audience?” he asked. Not to mention for the women athletes.
“Not necessarily. These bulls aren’t pussy cats after all. Besides, when we announce the event after Ms. Degas’s wild ride, we’re hoping to go viral,” Jackson said. “Can you confirm that Killer is going to throw her hat in the ring and compete?”
“Yes, she definitely is.” Dylan knew he should probably tell Jackson to talk with LeAnn himself, but he didn’t think it would do any harm to confirm what they all already knew.
“Good. She’s very photogenic. I’ll advise Shelby to throw some marketing behind her. Her sister, Dolly, knows how to sling the bullshit. This will get some butts in the seats,” Jackson said. “It’s been a hard couple of years profit-wise for both the organizations, so we’re looking to do more joint promotions to pool resources. Wasn’t she dating Luke Mickleson?”
Dylan fought not to grind his teeth. “Yeah, it was an ugly breakup.”
Jackson snorted. “Too bad. They look good together.”
Not if Dylan messed up his pretty face. He allowed himself a small smile at the thought.
“They could be the glue that sticks the two organizations together,” Mr. Hickory said.
“Mick’s a piece of shit,” Dylan said and then shrugged at their shocked looks. “Ask around. If you’re looking for a wholesome image, he’s not your guy.”
“Neither is Killer. She had some issues a few years ago,” Mr. Hickory said.
Dylan felt the need to defend LeAnn. “She was a kid. Who didn’t make a few mistakes when they were that age?”
“True,” Mr. Hickory said.
“It’s all about winning,” Mr. Jackson said. “That’s what’s keeping the fans from coming back.”
“LeAnn’s a winner,” Dylan said confidently.
“I’m sure Shelby is keeping an eye on her.”
“Aside from letting Muriel ride in tomorrow’s event, how much more will the MPRCA be involved in the women’s event?” Dylan asked.
“Officially, not at all.”
“Really?” Dylan was surprised, because Jackson seemed to be concentrating on the women riders more than he was his own athletes. If he knew anything about the bull riders, Mick would not have been anyone’s choice to represent the organization. Mick was a petulant, reckless, entitled ass—and those were his good points.
“There’s been some pushback, as the women’s organization is worried that they’ll lose out on television and event programming, if we merge. But it makes financial sense in the long run.” Jackson stared at him coldly. “I need to remind you that the potential for this acquisition is not for public knowledge.”
“I don’t gossip,” he said.
“I’m glad to hear that,” Mr. Hickory said.
