I know he’s working extra with Shuck and his other guys. We’ve changed the philosophy of the team, and some people just need time to get on board.”
Of its own accord, my gaze wandered across the room to Killian. I was listening to Stan with half an ear as I watched a woman snuggle up to Killian’s chest, her arm in the air with her phone held high for a selfie.
“ . . . and trust me, clearing ’em all out is the way to go sometimes,” Stan said. I turned back to him and nodded my acknowledgement.
“I know what you’re saying,” I said.
“I was VP of Operations at a major manufacturing company for four years. Leadership involves making those tough calls and sticking to ’em.”
“It sure does.”
I glanced back at Killian. The fan, who barely looked eighteen, still had her arm around his waist. I located both of his hands. Neither one was on her. That was something, but I still felt a burning stab in my chest over knowing she was groping either his lower back or his ass beneath his suit jacket.
“When can I expect you to makeover the D?” Stan asked. His brow was furrowed impatiently.
I crossed my arms, matching his stance. “All major decisions about our roster are made by Orion and Bruce. I’m not a coach; I’m just the owner. I hired them because I believe in them, and they handle all hiring and firing.”
Stan grunted dismissively. “I’ve tried talking to Orion. He just blows me off.”
I forced myself not to smile. “Well—”
“Now, listen here,” Stan continued. “I’ve been leading people in the corporate world for more than twenty years. Played hockey in high school, so I know a thing or two about that. You probably spent more time in a sorority house than you have running companies.”
My spine tingled as my fight response kicked in. “With all due respect, I’m a self-made success. That success allowed me to buy a hockey team and run it as I see fit. And I see fit to hire outstanding coaches and let them run their team. They’re doing a pretty outstanding job of it.”
“No need to get defensive,” he muttered.
“No need to insult my capability. I was no sorority girl in college, not that I didn’t have some smart friends who were. I was busy making my first million before I graduated.”
Keri appeared beside me. “Hi there. So sorry, but I need to take Sidney for a quick interview with a radio station.”
I extended a hand to Stan. “It was a pleasure. Thank you very much for your support and passion for the Flyers. We don’t have to agree on everything for me to consider you a friend.”
He squeezed my hand in his massive one, pumping it enthusiastically. “You’re a real peach, Ms. Stahl.”
Keri led me away.
“Thank you,” I whispered. “That was getting a little tense.”
“I wish I could take credit for that save, but you actually do have to do a radio interview,” she said.
I snuck another look at Killian. His eyes met mine. He’d been looking at me, which filled me with a heady sense of power. The teenager with the cell phone was still gazing adoringly at him, but her hands weren’t on him anymore.
“I just need to eat a couple of these veggies first,” I said, popping a baby carrot into my mouth. “I skipped lunch.”
“The way you were just looking at Killian, I thought you wanted to eat him,” Keri said softly.
I gave her a panicked look. Was I that obvious?
“Don’t worry,” she said. “I’ve known you for a long time, so I can read you better than other people can.”
I bit down on a cracker and nearly spit it out when I noticed Nicole walking across the room. My assistant had apparently changed for this event. She now wore a sparkly red top and a short black skirt with heels.
“Is she moonlighting as a hooker?” Keri muttered.
“I’m horrified right now,” I said softly. “I’ve told her the dress code applies at any work-related event.”
“Honey, she is a total ditz,” Keri said. “I’m sorry, but I’m not a fan.”
“I’m writing her up for this. One more strike and she’s fired.”
“The radio guy needs to get you on tape so he can get out of here.” She grabbed my plate from my hand. “Let’s see your teeth. Not that you’ll be on camera.”
I flashed her a quick smile.
“No broccoli in there. You’re good to go.”
She turned to lead me to the hallway