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"I know," I tell him. "But...I have some news."
"Is that so?" he says. "Well, I'm always happy to hear from my favorite sister."
"Youronlysister," I say. "The thing is--I actually got a great job up in Portland, and I was wondering if I could come and stay with you and Sarah."
"Of course, you're always welcome here," Jake says. "And congrats on the job! What is it?"
"I'll be covering the Portland Pucks."
"No way," Jake exclaims. "That's awesome! You'll have to talk to Johnny and maybe come and see him coach here in town. He's been killing it lately, you know."
"That's actually why I called," I say, feeling a little nervous. "I was hoping you could...introduce me to him. I want to see if he's willing to give an interview."
There's a pause on the other end of the line. "Uh, sure," Jake says finally. "But...you know he's kind of a ladies' man, right? He's got a bit of a reputation in that department."
"I can handle myself," I say confidently, even though I'm suddenly feeling a little unsure. "And I'm not looking to get involved with him romantically, if that's what you're worried about."
Jake chuckles. "Alright, alright. Well, I'll talk to him and see if he's willing to meet up with you."
"Thanks, Jake," I say, feeling grateful. "I really appreciate it."
"No problem, sis," Jake says. "I'll call you back once I've cleared everything with Sarah. You're really gonna love Fern Hollow."
I hang up the phone and take a deep breath. This is it. My chance to prove myself as a journalist in this new city and bigger market.
I know it won't be easy, but I'm ready for the challenge. And if that means getting a little spicy to get the story, then so be it.
I'll do whatever it takes to make it to the top.
Chapter two
Johnny
Ireallyfuckinghategiving interviews, especially in the off-season...but you do what you have to for your friend's little sister.
When Jake Hart told me his sister was a sports journalist, I didn't really believe him. I don't meet a lot of women in the industry, and I've always known them to be willing to do damn near everything to get a scoop. The Harts are so damn virtuous that I figured she would be the same way.
Then I read some of her work.
Exposés on famous football players down south.
Revealing coaches' affairs.
She's cold as ice.
Which is why I think she'll fit right in with the hockey community...though I don't want to land in her crosshairs.
I stroll in early to the Snowcap Diner in Fern Hollow, wanting to get the up-and-up on her by picking out where we'll sit. Journalists can fuck with you like that, choosing seating arrangements that put you at a disadvantage. It's a lot like playing sports, actually.
You have to think ahead and anticipate your opponent's moves.
As I scan the diner, I spot a lone young woman sitting in the back booth. Everyone else here is elderly, town locals up early for a bite to eat--so that has to be her. She's already taken control of the seating, but I'm not surprised. She's got an air of confidence about her that's equal parts intoxicating and frightening.
Still, she's not exactly what I expect.
She looks...well, angelic. She's got light blonde hair pulled into a ponytail, and huge blue eyes that I can see even from here. Her lips are pouty and pink.
She's got damn kissable lips.
