Looking to Score(67)

“But I think social media has made bullying more accessible. Things can go viral at the click of a button. It’s why my mother and I have decided to start a foundation called Daisy’s Promise. We are in the process of setting up a team to support victims of social media bullying. We’ve hired a group of experts to assist those who have had their embarrassing moments streamed online—from revenge pornography shared by angry exes to harmful memes created to bully classmates. Our lawyers, therapists, and internet watch dogs are here to help.”

Tears filled my eyes.

Oakley finished the interview flawlessly. After the way he talked so passionately about me and then finished with his new anti-bullying foundation, Mia was eating out of the palm of his hand.

Oakley Davis, former womanizing playboy football god who made my life hell, just gave the perfect interview. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Oakley got offers because of the way this interview showcased his strong character, loyalty to his teammates, and because of how likeable he was on screen.

I met him backstage where he was scrubbing the stage makeup off of his face. I stared at his back adoringly for about two seconds too long. Long enough to be considered creeper territory.

“Solver, were you just checking out my ass?” he asked as he spun to face me. I could tell he was totally feeling himself, and after that interview, he should be.

“No,” I said casually. “I was just waiting for you to hurry up and finish washing your face so we can go. I have a ton to do now that you’re hot shit,” I teased.

Mmm, that ass though.





29





The moment we landed back in Austin, Texas, Oakley had to get to practice. After missing two days and a game, I pretty much assumed the coach would make him run until he puked. Gross. Shelby greeted me wearing clothes—thankfully—and I finally worked up the courage to give Dr. Haynes a call after a long shower and a pep talk in the mirror.

You are a divine goddess.

You fucking rocked this press circus.

Your ass looks great in those overpriced yoga pants.

Dr. Haynes answered on the second ring. “Miss Matthews. Surprised you’re calling.”

“What, did you think I was going to hide? I saw a problem, and I fixed it.” I decided to be confident right off the bat. I was totes rocking this. Dr. Haynes went silent, as if waiting for me to continue. “Although we got lucky with the video going viral, I managed the crisis accordingly. I spun the narrative to best project my client in a positive light. I used my resources to get him interviews with reputable sources and even managed to secure some inquiries about Oakley being the face of a few anti-bullying campaigns.”

“So why are you calling me, Miss Matthews?” Dr. Haynes asked.

I let out a sigh. “Because regardless of your recommendation, I know that I am damn good at this. I had really hoped to learn a lot from you this semester. I still think you’re a god in our industry, despite your shady tactics. But I don’t care if I have to start over with my internship. This is my dream job. I might have messed up, but I cleaned that mess up pretty damn well. I’m like the Hoover vac of publicists.”

Did I seriously just compare myself to a Hoover vac? Fuck.

Dr. Haynes replied. “That’s a very odd analogy, but I’d be inclined to agree.”

“Wh-what?” I asked. I wasn’t expecting him to agree with me.

“I got a call from the university president today, congratulating me on my work with you. They’ve also decided to donate funds to Daisy’s Promise as a gesture of good faith and support for the Davis family. The board and I really like how you managed the press storm. They also got a flood of interest from publications wanting to write pieces about how there is a culture of support on campus. I’ve already suggested you coordinate the efforts. You did good work. You got a little lucky, but that’s half the battle in this industry.”

I needed someone to pinch me. Was this real life?

“I’m going to give you a glowing recommendation, Miss Matthews. Assuming you survive the remainder of the semester. You’ve got about seven more games and a few bowl games to go before graduation. But Coach Howard and I have already discussed it. Keep working hard. I’m here if you need me, and I look forward to seeing you at the commencement ceremony.”

“Th-thank you,” I stammered. I was in shock. I couldn’t believe I pulled it off—and I didn’t need my father to do it.

“Have a good day.” Dr. Haynes hung up the phone, and I did a little dance in my bedroom.

I was so excited that I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. I was bursting to tell everyone I knew. Since Oakley was still at practice, I sent him a text, knowing he wouldn’t be able answer for a hot minute.

Amanda: Talked to Dr. Haynes - I’m graduating early!! I still have the job!

I added about five more exclamation points before sending it. Just to make sure he would know how excited I was.

Next, I called my mom. She answered after one ring. It’s like she sensed from a thousand miles away that I had something important to tell her.

“Hey, honey, what’s going on?” she answered.

“I did it, Mom! I’m going to graduate early with recommendations from both Dr. Haynes and Coach Howard!” I blurted out so fast all my words ran together.