How To Tackle A Crush (Hearts of the Press #2)

MATCH CHEMISTRY 1 – SELF-CONTROL 0 our shyest sports reporter stepping into the limelight and straight into the path of football’s most charming former heartthrob. Word is, he’s already turning on the full wattage of that smile. She might be immune for now, but I would not bet against a little spark turning into something far more delicious. I trust you can keep a secret… because I’m about to break mine and tell it all.

Ava
I don’t do interviews. I cover the stats, the analysis, the solid, fact-based reporting that doesn’t require me to talk to anyone with abs. But thanks to a flu outbreak, I’ve been sent to cover Carlisle United’s post-match presser. And who’s waiting? Jack Westland. Former Premier League heartthrob turned annoyingly charismatic manager. He’s all dimples, winks, and too many teeth for a Tuesday. I just want to get through the interview without melting into the floor, or worse, laughing at one of his jokes. The man is a walking distraction. In very fitted trousers.

Jack
I wasn’t expecting her. Most reporters come in loud, all elbows and questions, but Ava walks in quietly, eyes sharp and not the least bit interested in the charm I usually get away with. I try to be friendly, maybe a bit flirty, and manage to make myself look like a complete numpty. Turns out she’s not just clever, she’s a proper journalist; observant, brilliant, and probably telling her mates I’m a mansplaining cliché.

He’s all in from the start. She’s got boundaries, rules, and absolutely no interest in being charmed. But as training ground run-ins and locker room “accidents” start piling up, Ava’s about to learn that Jack Westland isn’t playing games. He’s treating this like the transfer window’s about to close, and she’s the only signing he’s got his eye on.

Fair there’s a cheeky dose of adult content inside. Set in England and written in British English.