Fake Dating My Ex's Hockey Star Brother (Maya Scott) novel Chapter 139

KATY’S POV

“Let’s see that smile,” my photographer calls out, the camera clicking nonstop.

I tilt my chin, flick my hair over one shoulder, and give him another pose. I’ve been perched on this tall stool for almost an hour, and all I want is to take off my jacket and breathe.

“Perfect. Hold that,” he says.

The shutter fires again.

“And… that’s all!”

I let out a breath of relief and slide off the stool, my legs stiff as they hit the floor. Almost immediately, Sam is at my side, pressing a cool face towel into my hands and passing me a bottle of water.

“You were amazing, ma’am,” she says, her eyes bright.

“Thank you, Sam.” I dab at my forehead and take a drink. “Please pick the best photo for the magazine.”

She nods eagerly, and pulls out her tablet. Then her smile fades slightly as she scans her screen.

“I forgot to remind you,” she says quickly. “The speech for the GEG Awards.”

I pause. “What about it?”

“They are asking for the finalized version.”

I run a hand through my hair, wishing…no, needing to disappear. I really need a break and annoyingly, this is supposed to be my break since Braydon has the kids in Chicago. So why do I feel even more stressed?

“When do they need it?” I ask.

“Tomorrow.” She presses her lips together, hesitating a second before adding, “And… you also have that meeting with Mr. Gregory from MI Investments.”

My eyes widen. I snatch the tablet from her and scroll through my schedule, just to be sure I actually approved all of this.

“Can none of this be adjusted?” I ask.

She shakes her head. “No.”

I shove the device back at her and head to my office. Part of me wants to rest, another part of me wants to pull my hair out. I haven’t decided which yet.

It’s been exactly five days since Braydon took the kids to Chicago. I thought I’d finally get to relax, go to the spa, and reclaim a little of my younger, carefree self. I haven’t done any of that.

Four days ago, I was on the news after being named one of the most successful businesswomen in the last decade. And of course, that comes with tons of invitations to interviews, to write articles, to be on magazine covers. I’m happy for the recognition, but my kids are coming back today, and life is about to get chaotic again.

I really needed this rest.

Shutting my office door, I take off my jacket and feel my phone buzzing in my pocket. I drag it out and glance at the screen. Speak of the devil.

“Hey, honey,” Braydon’s voice booms from the speaker.

“Hi, love,” I say, settling into my chair. I press the phone between my shoulder and ear while trying to finish up my speech and clock out. “How are the kids?”

“They’re great,” he says. “We’re at the airport and should be there soon.”

“Please have Mason in the window seat, if there’s one,” I tell him.

“I’ve got that. See you soon. Love you.”

“Love you too.”

As the call ends, I sit back for a moment, staring at my speech. I may have needed a break, but… I miss my babies and I’m already excited at the thought of seeing their little faces.

About an hour later, just as I’m about to leave, my phone buzzes again.

I grab it, and sling my handbag over my shoulder. “Hello, Bryan. How have you been?”

“I’ve been great,” he answers and there’s a pause on the line. “You… well, I’m sure you’re doing great. Vivi just told me about your recent accomplishment.”

I chuckle softly. “Is Vivi doing okay?”

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