CHANGING THE PLAYER: Charleston Pirates #1 by Chance, Jacob (digital e reader TXT) 📕

blowing in the breeze, she’s the polar opposite version of her work self. I haven’t seen her looking this relaxed and having this much fun in ages. Wish I could do the same.

“Nadia, drink your beer. You’ll enjoy yourself more if you’re not so sober.”

Reflexively, I take a sip of the cold liquid and it turns into a long, refreshing gulp. It’s hot and noisy, but I must admit there’s a sense of excitement in the air. It’s like everyone’s balancing on the edge of their seat waiting for something big to happen. I even find myself perched there, the hard edge digging into the bottom of my ass cheeks, while my eyes remain glued to the field.

Who am I kidding? My eyes are glued to Flynn.

The ball gets snapped into the hands of Darren, the quarterback, and he takes a three-step drop, backpedaling into the pocket. His eyes scan down the field, locating an open receiver before he fires a rocket in his direction. It’s a beautiful throw and the football sails into Flynn’s hands with ease. He runs the ball in for a touchdown, and the roar that erupts throughout the stadium is deafening.

Sadie and I jump to our feet so fast, I spill beer on my hand. Shrugging, I gulp down the rest and cheer along like a seasoned ticket holder.

My gaze stays on Flynn as his teammates close around him to celebrate. His touchdown has placed them firmly into the lead.

“So much talent,” Sadie says, sighing.

“He really is gifted when it comes to football,” I agree.

“I hope he can get his shit together off the field. As you saw, my dad is none too happy about his never-ending shenanigans.”

“It was clutch that you suggested giving him another chance. I really appreciate how you mentioned that,” I say.

“We don’t want to lose him, but if he gives us no choice, we’ll have no other option. Does Flynn understand what’s going to happen if he doesn’t have a complete turnaround in his behavior?” Sadie asks.

I nod. “He does. We spoke about that, amongst other things.”

This would be the perfect time for me to lay the fake relationship groundwork with Sadie. I should tell her I’m interested in Flynn. I can explain how my feelings for him changed and took me by surprise. Even though I should do those things, I can’t bear to outright lie to her. The thought of her seeing us together and jumping to her own conclusions somehow seems less dishonest.

“Good. He’d be impossible to replace, but this team has always been held to high standards on and off the field. My dad may be getting closer to retiring, but he’s certainly not getting lenient.”

“I don’t think there will be any problems going forward,” I try to reassure her.

“One thing’s for sure, he’s hotter than the South Carolina sun.” Sadie fans her face.

“Hey, you’re engaged,” I tease.

“I am, but Brian’s not here.” She winks.

“Speaking of Brian, did he decide where you’re going on your honeymoon?” I ask, taking the opportunity to change the subject.

“Yes,” she squeals excitedly. “We’re going to the Carribean. Hot sun, beautiful beaches, and little to no clothing.”

“That’s awesome. I’m a little jealous. I haven’t been someplace tropical in way too long.”

“You should book yourself a trip. You deserve one.”

I nod my agreement, but all I can think about is how busy I’ll be with Flynn. If we make it past the two month relationship goal calamity free, I’m taking a long fucking vacation.

The rest of the game speeds onward, and before I know it, I’m jumping up and down with the rest of the fans, celebrating the Pirates’ win.

“God, it was fun watching the game from here. Fun but hot as fuck.”

“Does that mean you’ll be forgoing the owner’s suite from now on?” I ask teasingly.

She presses her lips together and shakes her head. “Hell no. I like air conditioning too much and the food’s to die for. How about next week you join me?”

“That’s the best offer I’ve had in ages,” I say.

“Well, that’s just sad. We need to find you a man to take you out places.”

Here’s another chance for me to tell Sadie about Flynn and me.

“I’m so busy as it is,” I reply.

“We should get out of here before we’re stuck in the line. Want to head up to the box with me and see if there’s any dessert left over?”

“No, thanks. I told Flynn I’d meet him after the game.”

Sadie squeezes my upper arm, leading me up the stairs instead of down. “Look at you going above and beyond duty to help out your athlete. I knew you’d do your best to keep him in line.”

Oh, you have no idea the lengths I’m going to.

“Of course I will. But as hot as Flynn is, he’s equally as stubborn.” We slowly climb the cement stairs.

Sadie grins. “Not as stubborn as you are.”

I briefly wrinkle my nose. “I don't know that I’m stubborn.”

Sadie clicks her tongue against her teeth. “Oh, please. You’re a badass female sports agent in a man’s world.”

“It’s not as male dominated as it used to be,” I downplay.

“Shut up and take the damn compliment,” she scolds.

“Thank you.”

She rolls her eyes. “You don’t need to thank me. I’m not blowing smoke up your ass. I’m stating the truth.”

When we reach the top, Sadie pulls me into the hallway, leading me to a private elevator. “I’ll take you down to the locker room area and then I’ll head upstairs for dessert.”

“Thanks. I was wondering why we were heading upstairs instead of down. But I wasn’t looking forward to doing the slow shuffle-walk in a massive crowd.”

“I figured. And this way I know you get to Flynn before he can get into any trouble.” She giggles.

“How much trouble can he get into in the locker room?” I ask.

“I’d say none, but this is Flynn Shaughnessy we’re talking about. Anything is possible.”

“Oh God, you’re right.”

5

Flynn

Coach comes into the locker room smiling, which doesn’t