4. Blair
CHAPTER 4
BLAIR
“ D ad, I promise I’ll tell Cooper you’re his biggest fan, but not yet,” I exclaim. “We literally got here yesterday.”
Seriously, I’ve barely arrived in Maple Falls, and my father is already harassing me about not sending him a photo with his new favorite athletes. I should’ve known better than to answer my phone this morning.
“Are you with him now?” he asks, ignoring everything I’m saying.
“No, it’s super early here on the West Coast,” I remind him. “He’s probably over at the rink already.”
After the long travel day, I didn’t see Cooper again last night. He sent me a text letting me know he was tired and wanted to be up early to get a workout in. Then he asked if I could just give him his to-do list today. I was both relieved and disappointed, but it gave me time to get organized before the craziness begins. The rest of the team arrives tomorrow, and then practices and activities begin. It’s going to be a whirlwind, but I’m excited.
“Shouldn’t you be there handling the reporters and all that other stuff?” Dad asks. “I’ll be tuned in to catch you on TV. I’ve told all the guys over at the club about the all-star game, and we’re planning a watch party.”
Who knew all my dad’s golf buddies would start watching hockey because of my job?
“Honey, it might be good for you to get to the rink,” he suggests. “I’m sure there are reporters hanging around there hoping to get some photos and a scoop.”
“TJ, enough,” my mom scolds. “Blair doesn’t need you telling her how to do her job.”
“No press yet, Dad,” I tell him. “Most of the players haven’t arrived yet.”
I’m beginning to wonder if I’ll have to resort to avoiding all my father’s calls over the next few weeks. “I promise I’ll keep you updated.”
“Good,” he says. “This is such a great opportunity for you. We’re so proud.”
I smile to myself. I know my parents are proud of me, and the fact that my client is a professional athlete only magnifies it.
After I’m off the call, I check to see if Cooper has messaged me. He must still be at the arena. At least he’s getting out and about in town. Hopefully he’s getting acclimated to the rink. One of the coaches told me a few of the players have already started doing drills and getting in some solo practice time. Maybe this will give Cooper the chance to get reacquainted with his teammates. I believe he knows a few of them from his years of playing, so that’s good—as long as they’ve had positive interactions. I’m sure the dynamic is different for everyone. They’re opponents in their everyday lives, but in Maple Falls they’re on the same team. At least it’s a good cause that’s brought them together. Happy Horizons is such a wonderful program. I’ve spoken to Angel, the woman who runs it, and I’m honored to be involved. Her vision for helping the children is contagious, and I want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to assist with that.
I stretch out on the bed and reach for my laptop. As soon as I open it, a picture of Cooper pops up on the screen. That’s what happens when you’ve been studying up on your new client for weeks. My stomach instantly does a flip, which isn’t something that should happen from simply looking at a picture. This is bad, very bad. I had no idea I’d have this strong of a reaction to meeting Cooper. It just proves that interacting in person is so much different than being on the other side of a screen. At least in this case.
I quickly close my laptop. Maybe I should follow Cooper’s lead and get some fresh air or … I quickly scroll through my phone to Keira’s number.
“Hey B,” she answers after one ring. “I was just thinking about you.”
“Can you believe I’m sitting in my room at the Hawk River Lodge in Maple Falls?” I ask.
“I know,” she squeals. “We need to get together asap. Can you meet for coffee this morning, or do you have publicist stuff to do?”
I giggle. “I’d love to meet up. Cooper is already at the arena. Hmm … I wonder if other people are there practicing with him?” And by other people I mean her ex-boyfriend Dan who is Maple Falls very own celebrity hockey star.
“I have no idea,” she retorts. “Anyway, have you ventured out into town yet?” Clearly Keira doesn’t want to talk about a certain hockey player and I’m not forcing it.
“No. Where should we meet?”
“There’s a cute café at the bookstore,” she suggests.
“Perfect.” I exclaim .
“Great. Let’s meet at Falling for Books around ten.”
“I can’t wait.”
After we’re off the phone I head out to take a walk around the lodge.
Once outside, I remember how much I loved being in Washington for college. Keira used to tell me all about how gorgeous Maple Falls was, but I never made it here. I wander down a path and find a weathered wrought iron bench. I take a seat and pull my sweater around me. Fall is in the air, and it’s glorious. It’s still very warm back in Texas, so I’m grateful for the drop in temperature. I take out my phone and scroll to my friend Sophie’s number.
I’m in Maple Falls. It’s been interesting so far.
Everyone needs a Sophie in their life. She’s the low-maintenance friend who tells you exactly what you need to hear—even if you don’t like it.
She responds a few seconds later.
I was wondering when I’d hear from you. Good interesting or bad interesting? I’m assuming you’ve met the hockey star. What’s the verdict on him?
Ha. I wish I had an answer. The verdict is definitely still out.
So far so good.
That’s vague enough, but still leaves some room for interpretation.
That’s all you’re going to tell me? Come on, Blair, I need more info. Does he live up to all the hype?
I smile to myself. From what I can tell, the stories about Cooper are pretty accurate, but I have a feeling there’s a softer side he doesn’t show often. I noticed it when he mentioned his childhood and his desire to help others in need.
Cooper is reserved but not as cold as I thought he’d be. He asked me if I was sure I wanted to take on this job—meaning being his publicist.
I chew on my lip as a soft breeze picks up, moving a few leaves across the path. My phone buzzes again with Sophie’s response.
Really? And what did you say?
Another breeze blows a strand of my hair into my face and gives me a chill. I glance around at the lodge and the colorful trees. The image of Cooper flashes through my mind, making me shiver.
I told him I don’t believe everything I hear.
I pause before I continue typing.
Anyway, I’m already in love with this adorable town. I may never want to leave. Funny enough, that’s exactly what it says on the welcome sign when you arrive.
I actually think I could see myself living in a small town. And I’ve always been open to going wherever my path leads.
My phone begins to buzz again.
What? Are you serious? You know I was kidding when I said you’d meet a rugged, hot, small-town guy. Hold on …
My phone immediately starts ringing, and I sigh when I see Sophie’s number. It was only a matter of time.
“Good morning, this is Blair Radcliffe,” I answer in my most professional tone.
“Very funny,” Sophie exclaims in her Texas drawl. “Now give me all the details. Did you meet a dashing man who lives in Maple Falls? Is he the town’s favorite fireman or does he own the general store?”
I laugh. “Someone has been binging Hallmark movies.”
“Maybe a few,” she says.
“Shocker. And to answer your question, I haven’t met any local single men. ”
“Yet,” she retorts. “I’m sure there are a few roaming around up there. Otherwise, I’d be very disappointed in Maple Falls.”
Suddenly the thought crosses my mind that one of the things I don’t know about Cooper is if he’s single. Not that it matters—or does it? As his publicist I should be able to answer any questions I might be asked. Although I hadn’t thought about how I’d answer a question about Cooper’s romantic life. Estelle told me Cooper’s main focus is his career and no mention of anything or anyone else. I guess that’s the response I’ll give should the subject come up. Everyone knows that personal lives are a hot gossip topic. I’m sure the press will want all the information they can get.
“I promise you’ll be the first to know if I run into any single firefighters,” I assure her.
“Good. That should be one of your top priorities.”
“Of course,” I say. “My job is only a close second.”
We both laugh, and I go on to tell her about the lodge and ask about life back in Dallas. After we’re off the phone, I take my time before returning to my room. I slow down as I pass Cooper’s room. I wonder if he’s back from the arena yet. We do need to have a meeting to go over our itinerary. Aside from practices, extra workouts, and games, we have the first media event tomorrow. And the big Maple Fest where Cooper is expected to be at the signing table with some of the other players. He's going to be a busy guy in the coming weeks. I want to make sure he’s very present in the community, and this might be my biggest challenge. I know Cooper just wants to play hockey, but the charity aspect takes it to a whole other level. The people will want to interact with the players—that’s part of the experience.
I start typing a text to Cooper. I read through it several times before sending, which is silly .
Morning. I hope you slept well. I’m having coffee with my friend Keira this morning. Can we meet up for a late lunch to go over a few things?
I look over the limited list of restaurants in town before I send him a follow-up text. I want to try all of them, but a casual place would be good for today.
The menu at the Bistro looks fantastic. Does that work for you?
I hop in the shower, and when I’m finished I’m met with a text from Cooper.
Yep.
I let out a sigh. A man of many words, as usual.
Great. Let’s meet there around one.
I put on a pair of wide leg jeans with a ribbed, cream-colored long-sleeved shirt. I couldn’t be more excited for the sweater weather of the Pacific Northwest. I blow dry my hair and then gather my laptop and notes for my afternoon meeting with Cooper. There’s a nervous surge of excitement in my stomach. All the weeks of preparation are finally coming together. Like my grandma used to say, “It’s showtime.”
Maple Falls is so picturesque it almost doesn’t seem real. The downtown area is quaint and fully decorated for fall. Sophie would be in Hallmark movie heaven here. I can only imagine how it looks at Christmas time. I wander down Maple Road which runs through the middle of town. Every shop window is decorated for the season and it’s as magical as I dreamed it would be. I pass by several local places I want to visit—a massage and wellness center called Sparadise and a cute shop called Maple Falls Made. I immediately notice a sign in the window that says Welcome Ice Breakers , and very large display of Dan Roberts #29 merchandise. It makes sense since he’s from Maple Falls and the town superstar.
The local bookstore, Falling for Books, is exactly how I expected it to be—cozy, dimly lit, the wonderful scents of books and coffee filling the air. The tall shelves are stuffed with all different genres of stories. I’ve always loved to read and can’t wait to find the time to hold a book in my hands again. Thank goodness for audiobooks.
“Welcome to Falling for Books. Can I help you find something?” a gentle voice says. I see a pretty woman with brown, shoulder-length hair organizing some shelves. She has a warm presence, the perfect energy to work in a small-town bookstore.
“Hi, I’m actually meeting a friend at the café.” I pause. “But I’m early so I’ll probably browse for a few minutes.”
“Of course. My name is Emmy if you need any recommendations.” She gives me a friendly smile.
“Thanks. I’m Blair. I just arrived in town yesterday.”
“Welcome to Maple Falls,” she says. “You picked the best time of year to visit.”
“That’s what I’ve heard. Do people really travel here for the Maple Fest?”
She nods. “Oh yes. Maple Fest is our claim to fame.”
I wander around the shop for a few minutes before finding an empty table in the back of the café. There are people reading and a few typing away on laptops. There’s also a table with three older women who have their heads together. If I had to guess, I’d say they know everything there is to know about Maple Falls and everyone in it. Doesn’t every small town have people who love to gossip ?
They all turn to look at me, so I smile and give a friendly wave. “Good morning.”
“Hello. Are you new in our little town?” A petite older woman asks.
“Yes. I’m in town with the Ice Breakers hockey team.”
Her face lights up. “Ooh, how are you connected to them?” The other women at the table suddenly seem more interested.
“I’m Blair Radcliffe, Cooper Montgomery’s publicist.”
The woman gives an uninterested shrug. “I’ve never heard of him.”
“Well Cooper will be out and about in the community with the other players over the next six weeks,” I tell her. “He’s thrilled to be a part of the team to help Happy Horizons Ranch.”
“We’ll all be there to support Dan Roberts,” she says while the other two ladies nod in agreement. “He grew up here in Maple Falls.”
“I know—it’s wonderful that he’s able to come back and play in his hometown.”
“Yes,” she agrees as she stands up. “Anyway, it was good meeting you. I’m Mary-Ellen McCluskey. I hope you enjoy your time here.”
“Thank you. It was nice meeting you too.”
After they’re gone, I check my phone. Keira should be here soon. I can’t wait to catch up with my friend. Spending time with her will help to take my mind off other things and other people. One thing’s for sure, the Ice Breakers are already causing quite a lot of excitement in Maple Falls.
The Bistro is another adorable local spot. The vibe is inviting and romantic—or at least it would be if I weren’t here for a working lunch with my client. It’s a nice day, so I find a table in the corner of the outdoor seating area near a heat lamp. I order a Diet Coke, and just as I open my laptop, I spot Cooper. He’s wearing a pair of baggy jeans with a tight, blue Henley shirt that leaves very little to the imagination. Cooper obviously hasn’t missed many early morning training sessions. Look away, Blair. Look away.
Too late—our eyes lock as he makes his way to the table.
“Hey,” I say cheerfully.
“Hey,” he replies, his voice deep and soothing.
“I guess you’re ready to get to work,” he asks, pointing to my open laptop.
“I was just reviewing a few things before lunch,” I say, closing it.
He sits down across from me and exhales slowly.
“How’s the arena?” I ask.
“It’s nice. I guess I was expecting something different or smaller, but it’s a good space.”
“Excellent,” I exclaim. “And have you had a chance to interact with your teammates?”
He nods. “Yes. It’s fine.”
A feeling of relief falls over me. Despite doing my research and many conversations with Estelle, I haven’t been around Cooper to see how he is with other players or the coaches .
The server arrives to get Cooper’s drink order and asks if we have questions about the menu.
We both look over the selections, and I decide on a Cobb salad, while Cooper orders a chicken sandwich and extra french fries. I guess when you look like he does, you can eat all the french fries you want. Must be nice.
“I’m ready, let’s get this over with,” Cooper says as soon as the server is gone. “What do I have to do? Shake hands, smile for photos, sign autographs? That’s all, right?”
I take a deep breath before launching into the itinerary. Cooper silently nods along as I go through the events we have lined up. He’s not leaping for joy, but so far he hasn’t objected to anything.
“Like I said in the Zoom, since you were intently listening”—I flash him a knowing smile—“I feel like this is your time to shine. Helping the children is very important to you, and your story adds a personal touch. That’s ultimately why this team has been brought together. You’re taking a break from your own hockey season to give of your time. This shows your fans and the critics the type of person you truly are. Happy Horizons is a wonderful organization, and I’ve been able to speak to Angel Davis, who runs it. This community is so grateful. It’s very touching, and you guys are definitely making a difference.”
Cooper doesn’t say anything. He actually looks very deep in thought.
“You okay?” I ask.
He clears his throat, looking uncomfortable. “Yeah, sorry—just zoned out for a second.”
“Okay, so we have a media event after practice tomorrow,” I continue. “It’ll be the first time the entire team will be together in front of the press. It’s obviously extremely important. ”
“Try to smile—got it,” he replies, a gleam in his eyes.
I snort. “Yeah, you don’t want people saying you never smile.”
He shrugs. “It’s a common assumption.”
I take a sip of my drink. “Well, this is your chance to show otherwise.”
He folds his arms. “Estelle used to the say the same thing, but she finally gave up on me. I’m surprised it took her as long as it did to retire. I think I wore her out, and she only stayed because she thought no one else would want to work with me.”
I purse my lips. “Well, you’ll learn I’m extremely stubborn and it takes a lot for me to give up. If anything, I thrive when I’m faced with harder tasks.”
Cooper groans dramatically. “I guess that means I’m in trouble.”
I giggle. “That all depends on you. I may seem calm and sweet, but there’s a whole other side that comes out when I’m in work mode.”
“Really?” he asks, not sounding surprised. “I never would’ve guessed.”
“Hmm … maybe you should’ve listened on the Zoom calls after all.”
Crap. That sounded flirtier than I wanted it to.
“I did”—he pauses. “Mostly.”
“Ah-ha, moment of truth,” I exclaim. “I think I already have you figured out, Mr. Montgomery.”
A hint of a smirk appears on his face, but then it quickly fades.
“I saw that,” I exclaim. “Where is the paparazzi when I need them?”
I hear him chuckle under his breath, which makes my pulse pick up. Thankfully the server arrives with our food. This will give me a few minutes to regroup before I say something I’m going to regret. I feel like every word is coming out the wrong way.
Cooper and I eat in silence for a few minutes before he’s the first to speak up.
“So, do you like Dallas?”
“I love it,” I say, welcoming a new topic of conversation. “Dallas has the best restaurants and shopping. It’s a fun place to live.”
“It’s a nice city,” he agrees. “And quite a bit bigger than Pine Falls.”
“ Maple Falls ,” I emphasize.
“Yeah, about that. Doesn’t it feel like Pine Falls to you?”
“No,” I say with a laugh. “Maybe I should hold up a sign for you or write it on your hand.”
Without thinking I reach over and tap him on the hand. An electric current surges through my body as soon as I touch his skin. I quickly jerk my hand back, and Cooper looks as startled as I feel.
“A sign might help,” he suggests. “Or we could talk to someone about changing the town name. I’m sure Dan Roberts has some influence. He’s the town celebrity—they worship him here.”
Ah Dan Roberts, also known as Mary-Ellen McCluskey’s favorite player and Keira’s ex-boyfriend. I feel like I know everything there is to know about that guy.
“Do you know Dan personally?” I ask.
He nods. “I’ve played against him in the league. And he’s as good of a player as everyone thinks he is, but don’t tell anyone I said that.”
“My lips are sealed,” I say, touching my finger to my lips.
His expression changes slightly.
“My friend Keira and Dan dated back in high school,” I tell him. “And now they’re both back in Maple Falls. Things might get interesting.”
“At least you can spend time with your friend while you’re here.”
I smile. “I know. It’s been a long time, but we always pick up right where we left off.”
That’s one of the best things about my friendship with Kiki.
“Careful, she might try to talk you into moving here,” he suggests.
“Oh, she’s already tried,” I tell him. “Although, now that I’ve seen the town, who knows.”
“So you’ll never want to leave or leaf ?” he asks with an eye roll. “That slogan is so lame.”
“You say that now,” I tell him. “But six weeks in this cozy town and the crisp fall weather might win you over.”
He shrugs. “Eh, the leaves change in Tennessee too.”
“That’s true,” I say. “But it’s a different vibe. I’ve only been there once—to Nashville, and it was a lot of fun. Of course I was there for a bachelorette party, so fun was in full supply.”
“I don’t think I could see myself living anywhere else,” he says. “And I have no plans to leave unless the Wolves decide to get rid of me.”
Ha. There’s no way the Tennessee Wolves will trade Cooper. Plus he’s been very vocal about never going to another team. I believe he mentioned retirement before that possibility.
“From what I’ve seen, you’re safe,” I tell him. “Although there have been rumblings that other teams are going to do what they can to snag you. I’ve already received a few emails. ”
“Nope,” he says adamantly. “I’m a Wolf for life. I don’t care how much money they try to throw at me.”
Wow. Cooper’s loyalty only makes him even more attractive. I haven’t heard of many other players who wouldn’t take advantage of more lucrative offers.
“The Wolves are very lucky to have you,” I say.
“Thanks.”
We both grow quiet for a few seconds. I know what I’ve heard, but Cooper Montgomery seems different from the stories. Ugh. This is insane. What’s going on with me?
“All right, so the rest of the team will be here tomorrow,” I remind him. “Then we’re off and running.”
“Sounds like it.”
The server drops our check on the table, and Cooper quickly snatches it up.
“I got this,” he says.
“What do I owe?” I ask reaching into my bag to get my wallet.
Cooper studies the receipt. “You owe zero dollars.”
“That’s funny,” I retort. “Cooper, it’s a business lunch. I can expense it.”
“I know you can,” he says, waving to our server. He hands her his credit card without another word.
“Well, thank you, Cooper.”
“You’re welcome.”
We walk out of the Bistro together, and a crisp breeze hits me immediately.
“It’s so beautiful here,” I say.
“It’s nice if you like a lot of nature,” he says. “I’m a city boy through and through.”
“Oh, city life is great, don’t get me wrong,” I agree. “This is just a nice change of pace. ”
“I’m surprised there isn’t a big farmers market right in the middle of town,” he says, holding out his arms.
“There is on Saturday and Sunday,” I exclaim. “My friend Keira runs it.”
“Of course there is,” he says. “Although, I do like a good farmers market. They have the best stuff. Everything is always so fresh.”
I smile. “Good to know. I’ll add it to your schedule. It’ll be another opportunity for you to interact with town residents and your fans.”
He groans and throws his head back. “I shouldn’t have said anything.”
“Too late,” I tell him. We stroll along the sidewalk, neither of us in a hurry to get anywhere.
“Anyway, I think I’ll head back to the arena and enjoy the calm before the storm,” Cooper says.
I laugh. “That’s probably a good idea. I’m not sure what to expect because I’ve never spent weeks with a bunch of hockey players.”
He shakes his head. “Oh, you’ll figure it out very quickly, especially with the variety of personalities who will be arriving in the next twenty-four hours.”
“You make it sound so ominous,” I tell him.
“It might be.” The sound of his phone ringing interrupts him.
He glances at his phone and then excuses himself to answer the call.
I try not to watch as he walks toward the arena. The good news is I feel like we had a productive meeting, and other than my pulse spiking when I touched his hand, I’m hopeful for a successful professional partnership.