8. Marissa

Ihesitate outside Isaac’s office door, my heart pounding. I know this plan is a little unorthodox, and I’m not sure how he’ll react. But I’ve spent hours perfecting the details, and I’m confident it could work. So, taking a deep breath, I knock on the door.

“Come in,” Isaac calls out, his voice firm and authoritative.

I push open the door to find him sitting behind his large mahogany desk, his eyes fixed on some papers in front of him.

“I have a proposal for you,” I begin, my voice steadier than I feel. “It’s about Charlie Elwood and our efforts to improve his image.”

Isaac raises an eyebrow, intrigued. “Go on.”

“Charlie and I have come up with a plan. We think that if we enter into a serious but fake relationship, it could help change the public’s perception of him. It would show that he’s capable of commitment and has turned over a new leaf.” My fingers fidget nervously as I gauge his reaction.

To my surprise, Isaac leans back in his chair, looking thoughtful. “Interesting,” he says, stroking his chin. “I can see how that might work. People love a good romance, after all.”

“Exactly.” I nod, relieved that he seems open to the idea. “And it could lead to more opportunities for Charlie, both professionally and personally.”

“All right, Marissa. I trust your judgment on this.” His lips turn downward. “But remember one thing: don’t mix business with pleasure. Keep things strictly professional between you and Charlie.”

“Of course,” I assure him. “I know how much is on the line for him.”

“Good.” He nods firmly. “Now, get to work on making this happen.”

It’s probably the most respectful and productive conversation we’ve ever had. In fact, I’m having trouble believing that it’s real.

“Thank you, Isaac,” I say gratefully, then turn and exit his office.

As I close the door behind me, I fight the urge to pump my fist in the air. The plan is a go! This could be the turning point not only in Charlie’s life but also in mine. Taking a deep breath, I sit at my desk and call Charlie up.

“Hey, Marissa,” he answers, his deep voice sending shivers down my spine.

There’s something undeniably sexy about him, something about the way his words seem to wrap around me, warming me from within. But I shake off the feelings; I’ve been down that road before, and I’m not about to fall for another player.

“Hi, Charlie,” I reply, trying to keep my voice steady and professional. “I have good news. Isaac approved the plan.”

“Really?” He sounds genuinely surprised. “That’s fantastic!”

“Isn’t it?” I smile, feeling the weight lifting from my shoulders. “We should meet tonight to discuss the details. There’s no turning back now.”

“Sounds good,” he agrees. “Why don’t you come over to my place? We can talk privately there.”

I hesitate. His house? That seems risky, considering our commitment to keeping boundaries in place.

Then again, he promised to behave himself, and even if he were to make a move on me, I wouldn’t reciprocate. And we can’t talk about this matter in public and risk someone overhearing.

“Sure. I’ll see you tonight, then,” I say, my heart pounding with anticipation.

“Great.” His voice is smooth like velvet. “See you soon.”

“Bye, Charlie,” I say, ending the call and taking a deep breath.

I’m buzzing with excitement, nervous energy thrumming through my veins. I need to make calls. I need to write a backstory for the two of us. I need to look for deals on flights.

And I need to stop thinking about how sexy Charlie’s phone voice is.

Shaking my head, I bring myself back to the present moment. There’s a ton to be done, and drooling over my new client will only make me lose focus.

I waste no time opening up the list of NFL teams I can cold call. My fingers tap the first number on my list, and I wait for the rep at the other end to pick up. When he does, I launch into my pitch without hesitation, my voice strong and confident.

“Hi there! This is Marissa from Abernathy Athletes. I’m calling for Steven Trissolini.”

“This is him. How are you doing, Marissa? I’m rushed, but I can give you two minutes.”

“Great, thanks. Listen, I’ve recently picked up a new client. I’d Love to discuss?—”

“A new client?” I can hear the hesitation in his voice.

“Yes.” I lick my lips. “I represent Charlie Elwood, and I have some exciting news to share — Charlie is happily in love and completely committed to his relationship. He’s a changed man and ready to get back on the field.”

“Charlie Elwood?” Steven snorts, skepticism dripping from every word. “You’re telling me that notorious playboy has suddenly settled down? I’ll believe it when I see it, sweetheart.”

“Believe what you want,” I reply, not letting my irritation show. “But I assure you, it’s true. And if you’re interested in seeing it for yourself, perhaps we can arrange a meeting?”

“Fine, fine,” the rep concedes, chuckling. “I’ll bite. Set it up, and we’ll talk.”

“Thank you,” I respond, grinning as I jot down the details. One down, many more to go.

As the day wears on, I contact five more teams, each conversation following a similar pattern. Doubtful laughter, sarcastic remarks, but ultimately, they all agree to meet with us. By the time I hang up the phone after the last call, my cheeks ache from smiling so much.

This is it. Get ready, world.

Here we come.