Fourth Down (Portland Pioneers 1)

“Elle’s a bitch,” I tell him.

Noah laughs. “Elle is engaged, and even if she wasn’t, she’s not the one for you. Come on, let’s get this lift in so we can get the hell out of here sooner.”

Five

Autumn

I thought starting a new job was nerve wracking, but nothing compares to meeting a sorority sister who seems to have hit the jackpot when it comes to life. After I sent the “hey, let’s be friends” email to Peyton, I spent the next hour or so of my life on the couch with a glass of wine in my hand, looking her up. Why? Because I’m a glutton for punishment, apparently. I had it in my mind that there was no way in hell someone like her would email someone like me back. I am a Plain Jane, the I don’t belong in her circle type of person. All over the internet, Peyton is living this luxurious life. Her father is a drummer in a very popular band. Her husband is the quarterback of an NFL team. Her sister is one of the most sought-after band managers, who it seems took their brother's band and skyrocketed them to stardom. Who am I? Someone she may have crossed paths with in the halls of our sorority house. And that’s a big giant maybe. Honestly, I should’ve done all this research before sending her an email because now I feel like a complete fool for reaching out to her.

The café Peyton chose to meet at isn’t far from my house. I made sure to let Lisette know I was busy until about three, just in case. I’m not suspecting any earth-shattering weather patterns to arise, but you never know, and since I’m new, I want to make sure everyone at the station understands I’m dedicated to my job.

My eyes are constantly roving over every face that comes into view, even the men. There have been a few times since I’ve sat down that I’ve looked from a very handsome face to a left hand, just to check. Not that I’m interested in dating, at least I don’t think I am. I remember when I took the job in North Dakota. I told myself I’d wait six months before I start looking for someone to spend time with. I tried dating, but the few men I went out with made it such a huge deal that I was on television. Honestly, it’s a turn-off. I want someone to like me for me not because I’m the person in front of a green screen telling you how much snow you’re going to get on Wednesday.

I’m in a daze, staring off into the abyss of moving bodies when I hear my name. The woman in front of me, dressed to kill in a pantsuit and heels and putting my flats to shame, is definitely Peyton Westbury. She looks exactly like the photos I found online, with long chestnut hair and a rock of a diamond on her hand that I found a dozen or so articles written about. She married a childhood friend, and there’s an age gap between them that critics have questioned. “Are you Autumn?” she asks again.

“Yes, sorry.” I hold my hand out to shake hers. Peyton pulls the chair out across from me and sits. The next thing I notice about her is she’s beaming, making me feel as if this meeting is actually a good thing.

“I was so excited to get your email. It’s not often I get invited out for coffee.”

My mouth drops open at her admission. “I’m sorry, what?”

“What?” she asks, looking at me like I’m speaking another language.

“Okay, don’t get me wrong, but you’re Peyton Westbury. I looked you up on the web. You’re famous without being famous. I honestly thought you wouldn’t give me the time of day.”

Peyton chuckles. “I’m not famous. My dad, uncle, brother, and husband are. Even my sister could be considered famous. I’m just me.” She’s humble, a rarity these days.

“Well, I appreciate you meeting me. Being new to town, I want to branch out from work friends and really get to know the area.”

“And this is perfect because I want friends who aren’t associated with football. I think it’s a win-win. So, tell me, what have you done in the few days you’ve been here?”

Before I can answer, our waiter comes to take our order. We both ask for coffee and a blueberry muffin. “Let’s see,” I start as soon as the waiter moves onto another table. “I’ve walked along the harbor, this neighborhood, and the station. That’s about it. It’s been a week, but I’m eager to explore so much more. I think when we have a storm or something, I’ll see about doing some remote work.”

“Leon is a great guy to work with.”