Free PUCK (A BAD BOY HOCKEY ROMANCE) by Jessica Marx Page A

hear or read about it.
    “Oh, it’s publicized?” I ask, seizing the opportunity to get the scoop on Amanda.
    “Of course. It does wonders for his personal reputation and never fails to bring in a second wave of donations.”
    “I guess that’s where the public relations firm comes in?” I ask.
    “Yup. They’re amazing. They’ve been representing Puck for years,” he informs me.
    “Oh. That must be who Amanda Adams works for then,” I add lightly.
    “Yes. She’s great. Have you two met?” Steven asks.
    “She stopped in yesterday. I forgot to mention it - she said she would call Puck anyway,” I don’t want him to think I’m trying to hide anything.
    “Yes, she’s a little unorthodox, but she’s one of the best in the business,” he says, snapping the lid on his coffee, “she likes to be pretty ‘hands on’,” he emphasizes with a facial expression that tells me he has some gossip he’s not sharing.
    “We didn’t spend too much time together so I wouldn’t know much about how ‘hands on’ she is,” I emphasize the same phrase back to him, hoping he will expand on his thought.
    “Well, let’s just say, she knows what the public wants and how to give it to them,” he chuckles, “I have to get back outside. I’ll check in with you later.”
    I stand in the kitchen alone, reviewing what Steven just told me. Amanda certainly made it sound like her and Puck have a ‘thing’ going on. She didn’t make any attempt to hide it. Steven just basically confirmed everything she was insinuating - at least that’s what he made it sound like. What am I supposed to think now? I’ve been out of Puck’s life for so long and I am aware that he’s been with many women, probably more than I would like to think, but this bitch seems to be pretty present and doesn’t sound like she’s going away any time soon.
    For now, I need to focus on the fundraiser. I can’t let her or Puck get in my head right now while I have way more important things to think about. There is a lot riding on my success with the catering end of this event - Puck’s success, my pride, and my future career. I can’t let childish jealousy get in the way of my performance.
    With that thought, I take my notes, my coffee, and one of my home made protein bars, and return to the yard. I need to have this kitchen in full working order as soon as possible. I hired some outside staff and they’re coming in later to help get the prep work underway.
    Of course Puck has a beautiful outdoor kitchen on the property, but it doesn’t have the equipment or capacity for what we need for this event. I explain my plans to the small crew that is setting up the temporary kitchen. I make sure they are clear on what needs to be done and watch them for a few minutes. Once I’m comfortable with what they’re doing, I start to walk back to my own kitchen inside.
    I take the long way through the main event area. It’s looking even better than a short time ago. It seems almost everything is in place for today. Tomorrow the linens and decorations will be brought in and arranged.
    Marla is in the kitchen when I get back inside. She looks a little anxious, which is out of character for her.
    “Hey, Marla, are you okay?”
    “Yes, Ms. Dani,” she replies sweetly, “there is so much to do in the house today. All these people running around are giving me more work to do.”
    I give the older woman a look of understanding, “just take your time, Marla, I’m sure everything will get done, and we are all here to help.”
    She answers me with a polite smile and a nod, picks up a basket of folded linens, and leaves the room.
    There is clearly a lot going on all over the estate, inside and out. Everyone seems to be slightly on edge trying to get their jobs done while other people come in and out, disrupting the flow. I’m happy the kitchen is pretty clear of traffic and I can use my own space uninterrupted.
    I get busy with some sauces and marinades that need