Page 43 of Coach Sully
Her smile is frozen. “Wow, thank you so much! I wasn’t expecting a compliment like that!”
“You said it’s normally out of your comfort zone, have you noticed that the women on the show seem different from the type of women you usually date?”
That’s an easy answer: they’re not, but it’s a rude thing to say, so I go in a different direction—which is also out of my comfort zone—but if it’ll shake her up, it’s worth it. I want her to see me again. I could understand if there was anger, because it would mean she still was affected by me. Apathy is so much worse. I need a reaction.
“Having my life filmed has taken some getting used to, that’s out of my comfort zone. Have you ever experienced that?”
“I can’t say I have. Is it—”
“Why don’t you experience it for yourself. How about I interview you instead? What do you like most about working on television?”
Her nervous laughter is cute. “I think viewers are more interested in you andScoring with Sully. Let’s talk about—”
“Let’s talk about you.” I narrow my gaze on her.
“That’s not really what we’re doing here, Mr. Sullivan,” she utters.
“Mr. Sullivan… that’s new. I like it more when you call me Sully. How about for every one question I ask you, you can ask me one? Is that fair?”
She laughs again, trying to act casual, but she’s staying calm, which can’t be easy, considering I’m going off script. Not once does she look toward Jeremy or Pierce for help. She’s determined to get me under control.
“I mean, if you’d like to talk after the interview, I’d be happy to answer any of your questions. Right now, we need to hear your update on coaching and—”
“Should I take my mic off and walk out, then?”
There’s a gasp from somewhere behind me.
She clears her throat. “I don’t know if the network is going to like that,” she teases. “You might get fined.”
“I’ll take that fine.” I rest my elbows on my knees. “What are you going to do with your remaining time on air?”
We’re at a stalemate. The fire behind her eyes is only rivaled by hell itself.
“Alright, you win. Looks like we’ll be interviewing each other today.” She claps. “By the way, that last one counts as your question, so it looks like it’s my turn. What challenges do you feel the Minnesota Rogues will face this season?”
I smile wide and sit back in my chair. “Lots of challenges from an organization standpoint. The PWHL is a new league, and there are always a few kinks to work out. But overall, it’s been very positive so far. We have an incredible team. They’re talented, but more importantly, they are good people and I’m very grateful to be their coach.” Even though that was one of my scripted answers, I mean every word. Now it’s my turn to ask a question. “What song is stuck in your head right now?”
“What song—”
“Be honest.”
“The Liberty Mutual jingle.”
“Wait, seriously?” I bark out a laugh. “The one with lyrics that consist of saying liberty four times?” I speak-sing it. The corner of her mouth tips up with genuine amusement at my impression, it’s not the fake smile she’s been sporting for the cameras.
“That’s the one, perhaps they should contact you for their next commercial… What has been your favorite date so far?”
“Easy. One time I shared a hotel room with a woman, we sat around eating calamari pizza and—”
“Sorry, let me clarify: what has been your favorite date you’ve had while filmingScoring with Sully?”
“Technically, I still gave an answer, so it’s my turn now. Next time, be more specific. What is your death row meal?”
“Like if I could only eat one more thing? Paella.” Good answer. “Are you feeling a connection with anyone on the show so far?” she asks.
“Yes, one woman. What is your favorite part of filming this show?” I want her to say it’s me.
She rattles her answer off quickly. “Personally, I’ve really enjoyed interacting with the women of the Minnesota Rogues hockey team. In addition to being tremendously talented, youcan really see their dedication to the game when they’re on the ice.”