The Gift Ch. 02

"Well, Liam, Josie," Jacy's tone shifted, taking on a more deliberate note. "I'm bringing a fresh perspective to our training approach. Liam, your expertise as the athletic department trainer will be crucial. And Josie, as the assistant coach, I'm counting on you to establish a strong bond with the girls, helping them navigate their challenges. If you come across any significant concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with me," her words held weight, reflecting a genuine commitment. "My aim is to keep their love for the game alive, steering clear of any resentment."

The three of them came to an agreement that this strategy had merit. "Last year, I had created a detailed plan tailored to each player, though regrettably, it was never put into action," Liam elaborated. "I'll review and adjust it based on the injuries they faced last season." He continued, "Half the team quit before the end of last year's season. Over the summer, I was able to convince most of them to return, but Glena's new recruits were not very experienced. We might face a couple of difficult years until things settle down."

"That won't be an issue," Jacy interjected. "A number of players from my previous college are transferring here. Moreover, the recruits I had been cultivating since their high school years have also opted to join our team. I wouldn't normally do that to a previous employer, but over the last couple of years, the volleyball team was always overshadowed by the football team as it started winning. The resources and support were consistently directed towards football, leaving the volleyball players feeling neglected. Now, as I step into this role, I am fully committed to establishing a robust volleyball program. That commitment is what's motivating these players to make the switch."

As she spoke, Jacy's gaze seemed to linger on Liam for a moment, her eyes holding a knowing glint that left him wondering if there was more to her words than met the eye. Liam couldn't help but acknowledge the commitment Jacy had brought with her as part of her hiring agreement, but the current reality stood in stark contrast.

The Athletic Director, Austin, had historically given football priority over the volleyball team. Despite the volleyball team's previous accomplishments, Glenda's time as coach had led to defeats and players leaving. Liam held a strong desire for positive changes, yet he couldn't overlook Austin's intricate motivations tied to football's success. As the meeting progressed, these thoughts continued to churn in Liam's mind, leaving him torn between his hopes for transformation and the complexities of the situation at hand.

"Thank you both for sharing your insights," Jacy acknowledged, her gaze shifting between Liam and Josie as she assessed their reactions. "It's clear that we have some challenges ahead, but I believe in the potential of this team."

Liam nodded in agreement, finding reassurance in Jacy's optimistic outlook. He organized his notes, striving to regain his focus on the meeting's agenda. "I've been considering potential collaborations that could greatly benefit the team. Given my background as a physiotherapist, I've been exploring partnerships with nutritionists and sports psychologists. These collaborative efforts would focus on the players' overall well-being, mental resilience, and physical performance. By adopting this multifaceted approach," Liam continued, his voice steady as he navigated the sea of sensations that enveloped him, "we can work towards preventing injuries, enhancing their endurance, and maximizing their potential on the court." As he spoke, he tried to focus on the topic at hand, his mind grappling with the alluring distractions of Jacy and Josie's proximity.

Jacy's attention seemed locked onto him, her eyes holding a depth of interest that seemed to peer into his very soul. Josie's playful laughter and her occasional touches fueled the fire that raged within him. He could almost feel the magnetic pull of their presence, drawing him into a realm where professional boundaries blurred and desire took center stage.

With a concerted effort, Liam directed his thoughts back to the meeting, determined to contribute meaningfully to the conversation. He glanced at his notes, mentally reminding himself of the points he needed to address, yet the intoxicating allure of the two women beside him continued to cast a tantalizing spell, threatening to unravel his self-control.

Just as Liam felt himself succumbing to the magnetic pull exerted by Jacy and Josie, the spell was abruptly broken as Jacy ended the meeting. Liam blinked, his senses reeling as the fog of desire lifted from his mind. Disoriented, he found himself caught between the conflicting sensations of frustration and relief. As they exchanged parting words, he couldn't shake the lingering ache deep within his core, a sensation that left him on the brink of something he hadn't quite grasped yet.

Leaving Jacy's office, Liam's steps felt unsteady, his thoughts a whirlwind of confusion. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had been under their spell, that they had toyed with him and left him wanting more. The allure of their presence lingered, leaving him to wonder if what he had experienced was real or merely a seductive illusion.

As Liam walked back to his office, his mind still clouded by the encounter, he was greeted by Austin's concerned expression. "Do you have a couple of minutes to talk?" Austin's request was laced with tension, and Liam nodded, signaling him to enter.

"Sure, come in," Liam replied, his tone neutral. They both settled into their chairs, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken thoughts. Austin wasted no time unburdening himself with the news that had been bothering him. "Angel dumped me, man."

"Well, Austin, she's married to the football coach, and you're lucky no one found out. The board isn't exactly fond of you either. They've been itching for a reason to let you go," Liam replied, his tone matter-of-fact. He leaned forward slightly, curious about the details. "So, why is she breaking it off?"

Her husband got a coaching job at another college. He's not too pleased about us cutting his budget this year," Austin explained with a hint of sorrow, his gaze momentarily distant. "I really thought she was the one for me." His face displayed a mix of disappointment and resignation, yet there was an unmistakable flicker of frustration as well. "Finding someone to replace him is going to be a challenge with those cuts to the football budget."

"Do you think I could talk to the board and ask them to reconsider the cuts to the football budget? I really don't think we need to allocate all those resources to the volleyball team. It's football that everyone cares about," Austin said.

"No, football is all you care about, and no, the board would fire you. They were pissed about how you let the volleyball team fall apart with your horrible hire of Coach Glenda. She had never coached volleyball before coming here; she had been an assistant coach for a lacrosse team. That's really not the same, Austin," Liam said, his frustration with his boss evident. "I had to bust my ass this summer to get those players to come back. I sure hope this volleyball coach you found is good."

"Honestly, I had nothing to do with finding her. I had Josie take care of it. She knows more about volleyball than I do. How hard can it be to find a volleyball coach? Anyone can coach volleyball; with football, it takes skill," Austin explained, his tone a mix of dismissiveness and a hint of frustration. "And Josie spent at least two weeks secretly watching Jacy during her sand volleyball season. She did her research, and Josie came back changed after that trip--hell, she even looked a little different."

"What the hell, Austin? The board wanted to fire you for the mess you created, and I covered your ass by getting all those players to come back. What's going on, man? You had one job to do: find a volleyball coach that didn't suck. And Josie? She's great and all, but recruiting a new coach? That's not her area of expertise. I really hope this works out, or you won't last another year, and my reputation with the board will be ruined for supporting you," Liam responded, his frustration evident in his words.

"Liam, you worry too damn much. Jacy seems fantastic, and she's attractive too. You met her--do you think I have a chance with her?" Austin asked.

"OMG, your dick is going to get you fired, and probably me along with it. I really need to focus on my work, and you need to actually act like the AD I told the board you are," Liam said, his exasperation evident.

"Sorry to change the subject, I suppose you're right. Anyway, how about on the next game night, we hit the bar for a few drinks?" Austin inquired.

"No, it's never just a few. You either end up leaving us with someone you've picked up, or you're bummed out all night because you can't find someone. Just get a Tinder account or watch porn," Liam replied. "Shut the door on your way out," his tone dripping with sarcasm.

Liam was frustrated by the idea of Austin involving Josie in finding the volleyball coach's replacement. While Josie was a great assistant coach and secretary for the athletic department, the task of finding a coach seemed beyond her expertise. And Jacy's behavior, while intriguing, left him feeling uncertain about her intentions.

As the day unfolded, Liam focused on his tasks, reaching out to nutritionists and sports psychologists in the area to support Jacy's efforts. Despite his frustration with Austin, he was determined to do everything he could to help Jacy succeed.

The remainder of the day flowed more smoothly than its turbulent start. Immersed in his work, Liam managed to compartmentalize the morning's events in the shower, pushing them to the recesses of his mind. Hours passed in a blur, with Liam's focus locked on his tasks until the clock struck five. Finally looking up from his work, he realized the workday was coming to an end. He swiftly gathered his belongings, packing his backpack and gym bag, eager to leave the office behind.

As he closed his office door, Liam noticed that the office had emptied out, except for Josie, who was heading in his direction. Her attire had undergone a transformation since their morning encounter--this time, she wore an outfit that left even less to the imagination. A pair of tight yoga workout shorts clung to her athletic frame, and her sports bra showcased her toned physique. These shorts were smaller than before, affording Liam an unmistakable view of the tattoo on her stomach--a heart with wings. The realization that his earlier thoughts had been correct sent a tingle of intrigue down his spine.

"Hi Liam, you're here kinda late," Josie remarked. "I got lost in the day, I suppose. You're also here kind of late," Liam replied. "Oh, I have some, after hours 'cardio plans with a friend at 5:30. I'm just heading down to meet them. Maybe you'd like to join us? We really get a good burn on, and I find it's a great way to release the pent-up pressure from the day," Josie replied in a voice that dripped with seduction.

"Um, I would, but I usually do my workouts in the morning, and I need to get home to Aurora," Liam replied.

"You don't know what you're missing. Maybe I will join you for one of your morning workouts, if you wouldn't mind?" Josie said, her tone still carrying a seductive and suggestive undertone.

"Yeah, sure that would be great, Its alway good to have a work out with someone else." Liam said starting to get little more flustered.

Josie's tone somehow flipped a switch, and the events of the morning rushed back--the shower encounter, the meetings with both Jacy and Josie. Liam felt a surge of arousal, and his cock started to stiffen in his shorts. Confusion flooded his mind. What was happening? Josie was a coworker, attractive, yes, but he had always maintained a professional distance. Yet, today, there had been something different about her, something enticing. Her flirtatious behavior was hard to ignore. And now, she looked incredible--almost as if she had aged backward by 10 years. He needed to change the subject, to clear the lustful fog that was clouding his thoughts.

"So Austin tells me you're the one who found Jacy? She seems like a significant improvement from Glenda. Austin also mentioned that you took an unconventional approach--almost like scouting a player--by doing some undercover reconnaissance on her coaching skills before reaching out. It's a different strategy, and considering the past issues we had, the traditional hiring process clearly didn't work well. Did you gather any insights about her? You must have, considering you recommended her and invested a couple of weeks observing her," Liam inquired, intrigued by Josie's unique and effective approach.

"Oh, she was incredible. The whole experience down there was life-changing for me. I went through a transformation during my time spent there. She's going to bring a breath of fresh air to this college. I sense major changes on the horizon, ones that will open us all up to new possibilities. And, Liam, I believe you'll also undergo a transformation of your own," Josie said, her tone still laced with seduction but now infused with excitement.

"Well, I'm hopeful that she can address the issues with the volleyball program. You're right, that could potentially trigger positive changes for the entire school. Elevating that sport could bring us national recognition and even boost enrollment. And if she can offer insights to help us rethink our approach, that's definitely something we can benefit from," Liam responded.

Stepping into the front foyer of the athletic department offices, their attention was immediately drawn to a shirtless football player, proudly displaying his well-defined physique as he confidently approached them. Liam couldn't help but notice a fleeting, hungry look in Josie's eyes--a look that resembled that of a lioness on the prowl, hungry and ready to sexually devour her prey. This observation added another layer of intrigue to her playful words. The unexpected intensity of her gaze left him wondering about the true intentions behind her suggestive invitation.

Without missing a beat, Josie's voice cut through the air with a playful tone, seamlessly transitioning the conversation. "Ah, there's my running buddy. Hey, Liam, any chance I can still convince you to change your mind? We could make it a three-way," she suggested with a mischievous grin, her words carrying a playful hint of naughtiness.

"Um, I should probably get going. Have a great workout," Liam said, tearing his gaze away from Josie reluctantly as they went their separate ways. His body had reacted, his arousal evident by the tightening in his shorts. A voice in his head whispered enticingly, suggesting he could join Josie and the football player, but Liam pushed that thought aside. He had a commitment to Aurora, a promise he intended to keep. As tempted as he was, he needed to head home; Aurora was waiting for him, and he couldn't let her down. The battle between his desires raged on within him, leaving him torn and confused about this sudden attraction to Josie.

Liam's thoughts churned in a tumultuous whirl as he exited the office. The image of Josie with the football player had ignited a firestorm of conflicting emotions within him. His body was both inflamed with desire and restrained by a sense of duty to his relationship with Aurora. His arousal strained against his shorts, a tangible reminder of the magnetic pull that Josie seemed to exert on him.

As he neared his home, the intensity of his yearning only increased. Thoughts of Aurora flooded his mind, mingling with the lingering allure of Josie. The anticipation of reconnecting with his wife, sharing intimate moments with her, filled him with a mixture of excitement and guilt. Liam couldn't shake the bewildering effect Josie's presence had on him. It was as if his world had been turned upside down, caught between his unwavering commitment to Aurora and the unexpected and primal desires Josie had stirred within him.