Page 14 of (La)Crosse My Heart (Sweet Sports Kisses #7)

Jessa

H e did not, in fact, handle it.

What can I do to help him, to get him to where he'll be able to look at a camera and not worry so much about it?

Then I think of his mom. Maybe she'd be able to help.

"Can I see your phone for a moment?" I ask.

I reach out my hand to him and he gives me a quizzical look.

"If you want my number, all you have to do is ask."

I groan, knowing while he's improved somewhat, he's definitely got some of that teasing still in his system.

It irritated me several years ago, but after a crappy relationship with Dan, I don’t mind it as much. In fact, it’s flattering that he’d even try to flirt with me. I’m not good at returning it, though.

But I shouldn’t even try, especially since Daphne specifically warned me against any kind of personal relationship with him. Is that why I’m semi-attracted to him? Because she’d originally planted the thought in my head?

I don't need to ruin the chances of me staying here by dating the guy I'm working with.

I take his phone.

"I thought you already had my number," I say, searching for the video call app on his phone. I finally locate it and search for his mother.

The phone rings and Clark steps closer, confused by whom I could've called.

"Hey Clark," Mary's voice says in a singsong tone.

"Hi Mary," I say, waving at her before I hand the phone over to Clark.

"Wait, was that Jessa?"

Clark turns the phone to face me, and I wave again.

"Yep, it's me."

She grins. "What a fantastic surprise. I didn't know you were in Utah. To be honest, I'm surprised you ever talked to him again after the glitter incident in your car." I laugh, grateful the years have softened the frustration of that moment.

"I'm in Utah now, working with the Stockton Group. Clark is my first client here."

"Oh, I'm so glad he's got someone as wonderful as you. Keep him grounded, will you?" She winks at me, and I laugh.

Glancing up at Clark, he looks like he's not pleased with those comments.

"Here he is," I say awkwardly. I'm not sure how to handle the praise from her.

"Hey Mom," Clark says, looking casual as he holds up the phone.

I pull out my phone and film him, a stark difference from moments ago when the camera was in his face.

"How are things going there, darling? I didn't expect a call from you yet, but I always love hearing your voice."

"We're good. Practices have started. Jessa is helping me figure out what to do about my on-camera interviews."

"Oh, that will be such a big help. Maybe you should try some breathing exercises or some mock interviews?" she says.

"Those are already on the plan," I say, still recording the call from my phone.

Clark makes a face at me before turning back to the camera. "Did you get your quilt finished, Mom?" he asks.

"Oh, I did. Let me go get it to show you."

Clark scrunches up his nose, but he's patient as she takes a few moments to return to the screen with a beautiful quilt filled with color.

"That's really cool, Mom. All those tiny pieces must've taken you a long time to put together."

"Not too bad. I just turn on my favorite show and get working on it. I moved my big sewing table into the TV room so I don't have to miss anything."

Clark chuckles, one of those deeper rumbling noises that throws my nervous system for a loop.

"Sounds like the perfect combo."

"It was so great to hear from you, son. Can I call you again later? I'm supposed to be getting ready for a dinner this evening with some friends."

"That's just fine, Mom. Love ya."

Why does my heart melt listening to him with his mom?

I hadn’t seen him interact with her in a long time and wonder if they’ve always been like that or if the passing of his father made him a little more patient with her.

He looks at me, a hint of vulnerability shining through. It only makes me want to protect him, as if he’s a wounded bird.

One I wouldn’t mind kissing.

Wait, no. I don’t need to do anything physical. I need to keep my job.

I'm in trouble and not in a good way.