Page 25 of Face Off

“Which one?” I asked.

“Oh, sorry. I forget not everyone knows everything about the players sometimes. Derek’s mine. Olli’s wife is …” She paused and looked around. “Oh, there’s Emma.” She pointed into the kitchen where a woman with long blond hair pulled back into a high ponytail was talking to two women.

“Emma has a child, right?” I was pretty sure she was one of the women Chloe mentioned.

“Yeah, and so does Addi.” Elena scanned the room before hurrying away and bringing another woman back. Her bright blond hair was just above her shoulders, and she had the warmest smile.

“You’re the Holly I’ve been hearing so much about!” She wrapped her arms around me in a hug, and I froze for a half-second before remembering how to return the gesture. I couldn’t remember the last time someone hugged me.

“Grant and Chloe told me about you, and I’m so happy to finally meet you.” She pulled back. “Taylor introduced me to Sadie, who is precious by the way, and I think they’re gathering all the kids to play.”

I’d have to thank Taylor later. That was really sweet of her to not only distract Sadie but the other kids too.

“There’re a lot of us,” Chloe said as if she was just realizing it. “The Pride has grown a lot over the past couple of years. The team has grown up and settled down a bit.”

“We’re a lot to take in,” Addi agreed.

“Don’t worry about remembering everyone’s names or who is with whom. Just try to relax and enjoy yourself.” Chloe patted my arm. “I’m going to check on the food.”

Addi replaced her next to me. “Welcome to the pack. When we overwhelm you, which will happen, just know that we come from a place of love.”

“And boredom.” Elena smiled.

“I’m sorry, but I feel like I know you from somewhere.”

“The news?” she asked. “I’m a meteorologist.”

I nodded. “That’s it. I was racking my brain, trying to figure it out.”

“That happens a lot more than you’d think. I’m a face you see all the time but haven’t met, so it’s hard to place.”

“Any other famous people I need to know about?” I asked.

“Um, have you met the guys?” Amelia joked.

“Most of them, yes.” I laughed.

“Then no. We’re all normal and boring,” Addi answered.

“Let’s make the rounds and introduce you before dinner starts,” Amelia offered.

Addi came with us, and I met more women than I could remember. I did my best to smile and stay calm, remembering Chloe’s recommendation. It would take time to get to know everyone, and frankly, I was excited about it.

Each woman was uniquely beautiful and so kind. I couldn’t believe I’d stepped into this world with instant friends and connections. I didn’t realize it until then, but I had been desperately craving this. It felt like a turning point. From this moment on, I didn’t have to be alone.

10

Mikey

There was one reason I agreed to come with Lance and Jess to Reese’s house for a team dinner, and it had nothing to do with the guarantee of good food or even the honor of being invited when we used to get skipped over. No. Those would be logical and completely acceptable.

The slim chance Holly would be there and I’d get another opportunity to talk to her.

I was willing to admit that—only to myself––since I needed to keep my attraction to her on the down low. I didn’t want the teasing that was sure to come if any of the guys found out, or worse, the Pride trying to play matchmaker. Plus, Reese made it clear there would be consequences if I pursued her. Maybe not from him, but definitely his wife.

“Parker and Vivi are already here.” Jess pointed to Parker’s car as we walked by.

“They said they would probably beat us,” Lance reminded her.