Page 80 of Penalty Shot

Aurora missed that memo completely when she tried to convince me to be the spokesperson for a sad used car dealership.

What part of Corvette did she not understand?

At any rate, publicity stunts and sponsorship events can wait. I’ve got a hotshot Shakespeare nerd to track down.

Me:Are you at the theater?

Elise:I had to be here at eight. You looked too peaceful to disturb.

She texted right away, so that’s encouraging. Feeding her yesterday worked for me, so I’m running with it.

Me:Have you eaten today?

Elise:I’m fine. There are eggs and veggies in the fridge if you want to make yourself something.

Me:If I make you an omelet and walk it over, will you eat it?

Elise:You’re like my personal food service. I could get used to that.

Me:Get used to it. I’ll be there soon.

I make quick work of scrambling eggs with tomatoes and spinach. I’m about to put it in a Tupperware when my phone lights up. Aurora again. She’s persistent, but this is another level of tenacity.

Aurora:I’m outside your townhouse open the fuck up.

What the hell. She’s based in Philly, which is where we usually meet.

Me:What are you doing there?

Aurora:Answer and find out!

Well, shit. The phone rings again.

“I’m not in town,” I answer.

“I can tell.”

“Why are you in Columbus?”

“Meetings,” she says.

In my mind’s eye, I can practically see her wave the word away like so many flies.

“I represent a few people the Mavericks are interested in. Great series for you, by the way.”

“If we were so great, we would have won.”

“I saidfor you. I’m not gonna lie, Randall. Everyone used to think you didn’t have the chops to be first goalie. Not anymore.”

Am I expected tothankher for that backhanded compliment?

“What’s your point?”

“I’m getting calls. A lot of calls.”

“About?”

“About your prospects next year.”