Page 32 of Drop Pass

She cocked her head.

“I misunderstood something I heard some of the women from the Pride say. I thought they said another bimbo replaced you and you came here to be one. I thought that was what it was called to talk about the weather on TV.”

Her eyes softened and slowly a smile formed on her pouty lips. “You thought a weatherman was a bimbo?”

I nodded and shrugged. “I know it’s stupid, but I don’t know all the English words for things.”

She held up a hand and placed it on my bicep. “So, you don’t think I’m some dumb girl?”

I shook my head. “And no one on the team does. I’m sorry. I got mixed up.”

She laughed and for a second I thought she was laughing at me but she smiled and nodded. “I’m sorry I didn’t have you clarify last night. I’m just a little insecure when it comes to my job and people thinking I’m too dumb to really do it well.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that at all. You’re very smart and beautiful, but I don’t think you’re just that.”

She smiled up at me and my chest ached. I shouldn’t be feeling anything for her. I can’t.

But my body wasn’t listening.

“You think I’m beautiful?”

I groaned.

She giggled and it was the best sound I’ve ever heard. “I’m kidding. I really appreciate you telling me.”

I nodded and took a step away. I needed space between us. She dropped her hand and the warmth disappeared. I shouldn’t miss it.

I clenched my jaw and looked away. “I’ll try not to make that mistake again, but if you ever think I have, will you tell me?”

She didn’t respond right away so I glanced down and met her eyes. “Like if you accidentally insult me?”

I rolled my eyes and nodded.

“Yes, I can do that.”

“Thank you.”

“Do you want to come in?” Her voice was quiet like she wasn’t sure she should ask.

I shook my head. “I’ve got a call with my lawyer.”

She smiled. “Right. I’ll see you later.”

I watched as she disappeared behind her door before returning to my home. I could have gone in for a little while, but I didn’t want to push things. I’d just fixed things with her and didn’t want to risk messing that up, and I knew I probably would.

I was the bimbo around her. I did stupid things. I said the wrong thing. I forgot what my purpose was.

I needed to get away while I could, and I wasn’t lying. My lawyer, John, sent me a message to call him during practice, but I’d put it off. I wasn’t sure what he was going to say and I wasn’t ready for more bad news until I cleared things up with Elena. Now, I had no more excuses.

I called him and waited. “Nikolay, I’m glad you called me. I’ve got an update for you.”

“What is it?”

“The team provided the stats and salary information and I’ve had someone at immigration take a look. They think it will satisfy one of the three requirements, so we’re one step closer.”

“That’s good.” I appreciated his direct nature. No small talk.

“Your agent has been in touch with the coaches and they said you’ll be receiving the ‘Rookie of the Year’ award so that will count as the award.”