PUCK (A BAD BOY HOCKEY ROMANCE)

by Marx, Jessica

  I sigh at the thought of having to drive home so late just to come back in the morning. There is plenty of extra space here if I want to stay over. Steven has mentioned it several times. It would make my life a lot easier than leaving late and coming back early, but I’m not comfortable doing that - not at this point anyway.

  When I’ve almost finished cleaning up, I glance at the clock like I have so many times already tonight. It’s almost ten and Puck still hasn’t come home. I don’t know what time his ‘meeting’ with Amanda was scheduled for, but I can’t imagine it would run this late. I start picturing what they’re meeting is like, and if it’s going anything like ours did the other night.

  I try to stop thinking about it. Puck and I haven’t even seen each other since our kiss. Unless Amanda said something, he doesn’t know I met her, although something tells me she did. I leave just about everything on my desk knowing I will be back soon enough. Keys in hand, I walk out to the foyer, hoping Puck will come in before I leave, but he doesn’t.

  I drive away still hoping to pass him, just to know that he made it home, but it never happens. Luckily I’m so exhausted by the time I get home and shower, even my anxiety about tomorrow can’t keep me awake. I fall asleep as soon as I hit the pillow, my last thoughts of Puck, as they have been for several days now.

  ___________

  * * *

  I wake up before my alarm goes off in the morning. This is the big day. I nervously get ready, putting some extra clothing and chef coats in my bag so I can change into something clean and fresh for the event. I’m very jittery, and have to recheck to make sure I have everything I need several times.

  As I’m driving to the estate, I listen to my voicemail from yesterday. I was happy to get a message from Joanne that her and my father will of course be in attendance. It will be nice to know they will be there for some extra moral support and to cheer me on while they also support Puck. I also haven’t seen them since I started working with Puck, so hopefully I’ll have some time to spare that I can spend with them.

  My train of thought leads me to Puck again. I think about all of the trust he has put in me to man this event. I’m sure other people on his team besides Steven tried to talk him out of using me, but he stood his ground, and I respect him for that. I’m going to try and keep this in mind when I see him today.

  I still have no clue what the deal is with him and Amanda, but I have to assume their relationship goes beyond professional. Today is not the day to get into that conversation, but depending on where things lead us, I’m going to ask him at some point, especially if I decide there’s any chance we’re going to get involved.

  The sun has barely risen and there are cars parked down the long drive as I pull in. The circular driveway is crowded with delivery trucks so I squeeze my own car in where I can. I know we will all have to move later anyway to make way for the valet.

  I give a polite smile to each person I pass as I make my way to the kitchen. There is so much that has to be done today so I’m glad some of my crew is already here working on the list I left for them last night.

  I greet them good morning and lay out the boxes of donuts and coffee I picked up on my way over. There’s no time to make breakfast today. I quickly put my things down and reach for my binder. I need to go over my checklists for today and get everything in order before I begin. I notice a folded piece of yellow note paper with my name on it. I assume it's a note from Steven reminding me to do something or other, even though he's been sending me texts at all hours for the last few days.

  I'm pleasantly surprised when I open the paper and see it's a note from Puck:

  Dani-

  I've missed you the last few days. I look forward to spending some

  time together after this weekend. Good luck tonight - I know you'll be a big hit. More than anything, I'm glad you will be a huge part of tonight's success. See you this afternoon.

  -Puck

  I'm grinning ear to ear after finishing his note. I was so upset last night thinking that Puck was with Amanda that I was not expecting this at all. Maybe I was wrong after all, there could be nothing going on between them. Then again, maybe he’s just playing me, not knowing I have any knowledge of Amanda. Although it's a small gesture, I don't think he would have bothered writing to me if there was someone else in the picture. Why bother?

  I tuck the note into my back pocket and pick up my lists for today. As long as we stay on schedule, we will be done in plenty of time. I tape each list onto the refrigerator and call my temporary staff over. I explain everything that needs to be done and the time frame in which it needs to be completed. We'll have to move into the outside kitchen by early afternoon, so I want to finish up most of the prep work before we do. They seem excited for the day ahead and I'm feeling pretty confident myself.

  The crew helps themselves to some coffee and donuts and quickly get back to work. I peer outside into the backyard - it looks incredible. There are black tablecloths laid out on the tables, the chairs are covered in a white fabric with a teal accent bow on the back. There are tall, elegant floral arrangements displayed in the center of each table. The faux crystal chandeliers are all in place, and right now they’re reflecting the day light.

  Steven and the people he hired have perfected every detail. They did an incredible job. I can't wait to see it tonight when everything is lit up. It amazes me how something so simple can become so lavish with the right elements.

  I notice Steven walking up toward the house. He's holding his signature cup of coffee. He looks like he's talking to himself, which means he must be talking on his blue tooth to someone. I turn around and get started on my first task of the day. I want to complement him on a job well done, but he never makes his way inside.

  The morning flies by as the crew and I work through each check list. By the time noon rolls around, we are ahead of schedule and just about ready to move into the outdoor kitchen and let the cleaning crew come in and take care of this one. I have a couple more people coming in to help us work through the next part of the day. The rest of my staff will be here later in the afternoon.

  I tell them to take a short break before we start moving everything outside. I want to see what the outdoor kitchen looks like today and be sure all of our deliveries made it to the walk in refrigerator.

  Our tent is open on two sides to allow for ventilation but also hide us from the guests at the party. I do a walk through, making sure all the burners work and everything is in it's place. I check in the fridge to ensure that my orders were delivered and put in their proper places. I walk through the other side of the tent and notice one of the grills won't light. I kneel down to check if anything's wrong and hear the sound of Puck's voice.

  My heart skips a beat. I'm actually excited just knowing he's here. I guess I missed him more than I thought. I hear him talking, but no one is answering, so I assume he's on the phone. I can't help but overhear what he's saying:

  I’m only here for a few - just looking around before I leave. The set up is unbelievable. I hear him say excitedly.

  I can’t wait to see you tonight,

  There’s a pause and then, I know. Just having you there will make the night that much more special.

  I don’t want to hear the rest, but I can’t help myself. I want to know who’s on the other end, although I’m pretty sure I know already.

  I’m sure you will look beautiful. Just try not to be late, okay?

  He laughs at whatever is said on the other end. Then, love you too.

  I’m floored. Love? He loves her? What the fuck? Really? It was barely minutes ago when I was reading his sweet note. I touch my pocket, feeling the carefully folded note, assuring myself that it really happened.

  How can I be so stupid? One dinner, a few kind words, promises of change, and I’m eating out of the palm of Puck’s hand. I feel sick. I honestly believed him. I’ve been giving him the benefit of the doubt. Talking myself into thinking his ‘meeting’ with Amanda Adams was, in
fact, a meeting. I’m such a fool.

  I hear Puck walking in the opposite direction and breathe a sigh of relief. I didn’t realize I had been holding my breath. I don’t want to look at him right now, and I certainly don’t want to have a conversation. I don’t know how to handle this and today, I have way more important things to think about. I stand up and stride back toward the house at a quick pace so I can hopefully avoid running into Puck on my way.

  ____________

  * * *

  Back in the kitchen, things are in full swing. Luckily our space is big, but it’s time to move our operation outside. We’re still running ahead of schedule so I give everyone a warning and let them finish what they’re doing before having them regroup by the table. In the meantime, I try to compose myself and get my mind where it belongs - on the event that’s about to happen.

  Steven passes quickly though the kitchen, giving a quick nod as if to say ‘hello’. He’s still on the phone and I’m sure he will be for most of the day. Moments later, he’s back and refilling his coffee cup from one of the boxes on the table. I hear him end his conversation as he adds some milk to his cup.

  “How’s it going?” he addresses me, “actually don’t answer that. I’m just going to assume everything is perfect.”

  “Actually, it is,” I reply happily.

  “Excellent. I’ll take your word for it,” he answers, sounding exasperated.

  “I won’t ask what’s going on, but if you need an extra hand, let me know,” I offer.

  “Thanks, but I would rather you just focus on the food. I’m just glad Puck left, his questions were slowing me down. You would think he has no idea what’s going on, even after agreeing to every detail.”

  I’m silently thankful. Knowing he is out of the house makes me feel a little more at ease.

  “I guess that’s why you’re so good at what you do,” I smile.

  “I guess,” Steven replies with less confidence than ever, “I just want tonight to be over so I can relax again.”

  “Agreed.”

  His phone rings again. Steven salutes me with his coffee cup and is off to the yard again.

  I’m feeling much more secure with Puck out of the picture, at least for now. I have no desire to run into him. I wish I could avoid him the whole night. I’m not sure I can make that happen, but I’m sure going to try.

  I call everyone over and we huddle around the kitchen table. I go over the plans to move outside. I explain where I want everything and we immediately get moving. We are almost completely set up by the time the next shift of help arrives. I run through the details with them and we’re up and running in no time.

  We are still ahead of schedule shortly before guests are expected to arrive. I instruct everyone to take a break and relax for a few minutes. Tonight is going to be crazy and much of the menu is going to be prepared to order. We are as ready as we can be and I’m confident the guests will be pleased with what we are serving.

  I leave the kitchen tent for the first time in hours and walk up to the patio. I sit down and look out over the yard. The sun will be setting soon so the staff is illuminating the chandeliers and mood lighting. I inhale and get a whiff of garlic and herbs emanating from the grill.

  I wish this night wasn’t for Puck’s benefit, but there’s nothing I can do about it. I’m going to focus on my own responsibilities. I’m going to make sure everything I’ve planned and executing is perfect. Maybe something else will come of it. Maybe I will be offered something else that will get me out of here. I’m not going to let Puck - or Amanda Adams get under my skin.

  I glance around once more. The yard looks like something out of a fairytale. The savory aroma in the air smells of all my hard work. This is what I love. This is my passion. A knowing smile crosses my face. Forget Puck, this is going to be an amazing night.

  DANI

  I have my staff reconvene in the inside kitchen. We take a moment to revel in how clean it is. It looks like like no one has ever cooked in here - definitely not like we prepared hors d’oeuvres and dinner for over a hundred people just this morning.

  I assign everyone a station and make sure they’re each clear with their duties for the night. I give them a pep talk and thank them in advance. I’ve worked with each of them in some capacity before and feel confident everything will go smoothly. I hand out some crisp, white chef coats and advise them to eat a little something and get cleaned up. We have very little time left before we need to be back outside. They answer me with ‘yes chef’, as they have all day. It gives me a sense of satisfaction to feel like I’m in charge of something after feeling so out of control in my own life.

  I take my change of clothes into the guest bathroom. I look at myself in the mirror and make a face. I look like I’ve been running around all day, which I have. I’m glad I brought some things to freshen up and change. I wash my face, put on some light makeup, and fix my hair. I switch my dirty chef coat and well worn chef pants for a fresh white coat and fitted black pants. I look at myself again and feel much better now. I won’t look as beautiful as the other women who will undoubtedly be dressed to the nines, but for someone working the event, I look dam good.

  A picture of Amanda Adams dressed in a classy gown crosses my mind. I let the thought pass. I can’t let her take up space in my head right now. I’ve already lost Puck to her, and as far as I’m concerned, she can have him. I’m not looking for a fling, and I don’t need to try and claim a man who’s so obviously a player.

  I pin my hair up and take a deep breath. I take in the last minutes of peace and quiet before the mayhem sets in. I throw my clothes in my bag and place it in a locked closet so it doesn’t impose on the immaculately clean and tidy house. I notice the valets standing out front and the first set of headlights making their way up the drive. It’s go time.

  Chapter 14

  DANI

  * * *

  It’s dusk when I walk outside and my eyes widen when I view the scene. The ‘tent’ doesn’t look anything like an actual tent anymore. Inside, the chandeliers are shining, casting an amber glow throughout the converted space. The delicate lighting and foliage around the perimeter makes it appear like an actual castle-like building. The band is playing some light music for the cocktail hour, setting the tone for the elegant affair. I have to remember to tell Steven what an amazing job he’s done.

  With that thought, I realize I haven’t seen him or Puck since earlier this afternoon. I’m glad I haven’t run into Puck, although I’m surprised he hasn’t made an appearance yet. Maybe he’s out front greeting guests. I don’t know and I honestly don’t care. The less I see of him tonight, the better. I scan the yard once more, taking it all in, before I go in the outdoor kitchen to work for the night.

  About halfway there, I begin hearing the sounds of pans and plates moving around. I pick up my pace as the adrenaline starts to kick in. I’m happy to see that the staff has begun plating the hors d’oeuvres to pass around to the guests. I call over the wait staff and go over the menu with them one last time, making sure they know what they are serving. I answer a few questions and send them off, then get to work myself.

  I load up some of the silver serving platters with the first round of appetizers. I don’t want the guests waiting for food, so I’m pleased to see we have several things ready to serve before anyone enters the pavilion. I check my list and make sure everything is in the correct place one last time so we can avoid any surprises.

  After the first guest arrives, a steady flow of people follows close behind. The pavilion is filling up in no time and the first round of hors d’oeuvres is already being served. I’m anxious to see what the feedback is, but I’m too busy to ask at this point.

  “Hey! Dani!” I hear a familiar voice calling my name and turn around.

  “Joanne,” I answer, a huge smile crossing my face.

  I wipe my hands and quickly stride over and give her a warm kiss hello.

  “You look so beautiful. I don’t want to hug
you and ruin your dress,” I say, gesturing to my chef clothes.

  “Thanks,” she replies, “even in that outfit, you still look ravishing.”

  “I don’t know about that,” I laugh. I notice my father walking up behind her.

  “Hey, Dad!” I exclaim, giving him a gentle kiss hello.

  “Well hello, stranger,” he kids, “haven’t seen much of you since you landed this classy gig.”

  “Yeah, sorry. I’ve been a little busy,” I reply, nodding to the kitchen crew behind me.

  “Very impressive,” he replies sounding genuinely proud as he looks around, “I’m glad you finally work for someone who allows us the opportunity to see you in action,” he says with a wink.

  “I’m so glad you’re here,” I address them both.

  “And on time at that,” my father jokes, shooting a glance at Joanne.

  “I promised Puck I wouldn’t be late,” she answers.

  “Sadly, I have to get back to work,” I tell them, looking back at the kitchen, “come back later and let me know what you think.”

  “Of course. I’m sure everything will be outstanding,” my father assures me, “shall we?” he turns to Joanne and holds his elbow out.

  She links her arm in his. I smile at how happy they are together. Joanne gives me a reassuring look and they walk off to the pavilion.

  We are all working in a nice groove, and time seems to be moving fast. I hear the band playing some dancing music as the salads for the first course are plated and dressed. We are already working on the entrees while the salads are being delivered. The second course is a warm pasta salad that is easily spooned into bowls and ready to pass out while we continue with the intricate main course.

  Our tent is extremely hot with all of the equipment running. As soon as the last of the entrees is ready to go, we all breathe a sigh of relief and high five each other. We still have the dessert course, but that’s nothing compared to what we just completed.