Page 38 of Timelessly Ours

“Media stuff today,” I say flatly.

“Coffee will help. I made plenty.”

“I see.” I step over to her and reach for my tumbler in the cabinet above the coffee machine.

“Breakfast? I made scrambled eggs.”

“Thanks. No. Just coffee today. I need to prep for the conference later.”

“Sounds exciting. What’s it about?”

“My guess, Robbie Hastings expressing interest in becoming Head Coach for the Blades.”

Her brows knit. “But you’re Head Coach.”

“And I have no intention of stepping down.”

She nods understandingly, her features softening. “Good luck. I’d offer to make that coffee Irish for you, but your liquor cabinet is shockingly empty.”

I hold up my full coffee mug and refuse to take the bait. “This is perfect as is, thank you.”

“Rory, if you’re done with breakfast, go brush your teeth,” Nicole instructs dryly.

She sighs sluggishly and hops off the stool. “Come on, Rover.”

I wait until my girl is out of the room before turning to Nicole. “Okay, really. How was last night?”

She gives me a warm smile. “She was perfect.”

“Really?”

“Yep. Everything we needed to do, we did. Dinner, homework, bedtime reading…”

“Bath time?”

She blinks twice. “Mmhmm.” She nods and turns to dump the fresh coffee she’d just poured. “Better make sure she’s brushing well. Good luck today.”

With a narrow gaze, I watch her rush the room.

Shit.

I don’t bother calling bullshit. I need to get my head on straight for the press conference and deal with whatever really happened last night later.

It’s no wonder Rory ate her eggs quietly this morning. She was making nice—at least while I’m still home.

It’s no secret Nicole isn’t the most honest person in town, but lying to my face when it concerns my daughter is becoming a habit I need to put an end to.

I make a mental note to be home earlier this evening and head out.

“You ready, Coach?” My assistant, Perry peeks into my office, letting me know they’re ready for me.

No.

“Yes.” I stand and button my suit jacket. “Where are they set up?”

“Same as last week, Coach.”

I arrive on location just down the steps from the front entrance of the arena and greet management, stepping around them to take my stand at the mic.