Love's Final Match: Black Gold Management Agency, #1

By Anne Stone

Ashley Hamilton and Morgan Cameron have been best friends since childhood. Now married, they are the 'It' couple of tennis, winning title after title, tournament after tournament.  Together, with their best friend and fellow tennis star Tony Regada, they are unstoppable on the court.

However, Ashley and Morgan's relationship is tested when Ashley receives a series of death threats after her continued winning streak. She's not ready to retire from playing, but how can they start a family when her life is in constant peril?

Love's Final Match takes you on Ashley's journey to become the number one women's tennis player in the world while simultaneously navigating love and loss, family and friendship. When tragedy and hardship threaten to tear Ashley's world apart, will her faith and inner strength be enough to see her through?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Anne Stone
• Release date: Dec 10, 2019
• ISBN: 9780999786000

Book preview

Prologue

Ashley Hamilton pressed her forehead against her bedroom window and sighed. After the long cold winter, she wished to be outside on the first mild day of spring running through the fresh green grass. She smiled thinking of the yellow daffodils that had bloomed along the walkway while she’d been at school. She closed her eyes and imagined the smell of fresh cut grass that she loved and the feel of the warm soft breeze on her face. She then blew out a frustrated breath.

She flopped down on her bed. She was tired of living in jail! It didn’t matter that her cell was a ten thousand square foot confinement of luxury. A twinge of guilt pinched her conscience, thinking of her family’s home and colorful lawn as a prison. She knew her friends envied her lifestyle and that was part of her problem. She heard the squawk from a flock of birds and ran back to the window. They were free, why wasn’t she?

What does it matter that Daddy owns Hamilton Oil, if he has so many enemies? I never get to go anywhere fun or even play outside the confines of these walls. All I do is go to school and come home. I might as well be in solitary! She was twelve years old and didn’t have even one true friend.

From the time she was three years old, the family had lived in constant fear. It seemed every time she turned her back, she was surrounded by bodyguards, protecting her from the family’s latest threat.

And then today, some of the other kids at school had rambled on and on about how they planned to spend the afternoon, playing in the park. She had never experienced the freedom they so happily talked about. Why couldn’t she? As she sat on her window seat, staring at the sun reflecting brightly off the pool, a thought hit her. Why can’t I? Fighting down a surge of uncertainty, she stood. I’m not a child anymore. What will it hurt if I take a short walk? If I’m alone, no one will notice me.

Except Ralph, her bodyguard. He was nice; she didn’t want to get him in trouble. Still, she wouldn’t be gone long. I’ll sneak through the terrace doors, then run across the back yard to the park that goes along our property. I’ll be back before anyone misses me.

Time was of the essence. She cracked open her door, praying it wouldn’t squeak, and eased her head around the doorframe. She looked both ways and took a deep breath. Ralph could hear a pin drop, and she feared he’d hear her breathing.

She ventured outside her room, sneaking past Ralph who was talking on the phone, probably taking care of some crisis.

As she cleared the corner, with a whoosh she released the breath she’d been holding. Her heart raced. She’d never done anything like this before, and she felt nervous but also excited.

When Ralph turned to write something on a notepad, she slipped out the terrace door to the side yard. Once she cleared the patio, she ran as fast as she could to the back of the property, pumping her hands in front of her, wishing they’d give her extra speed. She was sure she heard something behind her and her throat nearly closed in fear. Was Ralph giving chase? She glanced over her shoulder—and laughed. Just a squirrel scampering up a tree.

Finally, she reached one of the back gates that surrounded their massive estate. She eased the gate closed behind her, then leaned over, hands on her knees, to catch her breath. Her legs trembled. Gasping for air, she did her best, taking a deep, deep breath. I made it.

She couldn’t believe she’d not only slipped past Ralph, but had successfully snuck out of the house. All by her lonesome self. That wasn’t so bad!

She regulated her breathing and started to meander down the path that ran alongside her home and entered the neighborhood park that abutted their grounds.

With the mild spring breeze flowing through her hair, she walked along the pathway that led to the playground. Originally, her intent was to swing on the swings, but when she reached them, she didn’t feel like swinging and instead continued on her way. As she walked along, she whispered to herself, I’m taking advantage of my freedom because it may be over with sooner rather than later.

At a snail’s pace, she took in the beauty around her. Trees were budding and tulips were sneaking their heads out of the ground. Spring was definitely in the air.

She’d been walking in a state of bliss when she came upon the tennis courts.

Out of nowhere a ball bounced across the path in front of her, and she heard a loud voice. She was sure that whoever owned the ball was unhappy with his play. She didn’t hear the first part of his comments only that he needed to keep his eye on the ball.

The owner looked just as surprised by her presence when he stepped in front of her and halted mid-step. Oh hi, he said as he approached, brushing the sweat from his brow. Sorry about my little tirade. I thought I was alone.

He must’ve been at least sixteen years old, maybe older. He had blond hair and hazel-colored eyes. And he was cute. She bent over, retrieved the ball, and dropped it into his hand, Oh, that’s okay. Here you are.

Thanks. By the way, my name is Morgan.

She extended her hand. My name’s Ashley.

Shaking her hand, he said, Nice to meet you Ashley. Thanks for rescuing my ball.

Sure thing.

He returned to the court and began hitting his tennis ball against a large piece of wood attached to the fencing. She stood for a few moments watching. She whipped her head around when she thought she heard her name. No one there. Her conscience was playing tricks on her. She knew she was lucky. Glancing at her watch, she discovered she’d tested her freedom for almost a half-hour. She didn’t want to get caught, so she’d better say her goodbyes and return home.

I’ve got to go.

Okay, Ashley. Maybe I’ll see you around some time.

She turned away and headed for home. If she was lucky enough to get home without being detected, she’d try to flee again.

The next day was another beautiful day. Her entire time at school she thought about Morgan and breaking out of ‘prison’. She couldn’t wait to tell her classmates about meeting him. Her excitement waned as they’d shown no interest and went on and on about playing hide and seek the day before. She could care less about that stupid game. She’d made a friend. Maybe he’d be at the park when she returned.

Ashley didn’t think twice when she again sneaked past Ralph and hurried to the tennis courts. She hoped Morgan would be there like the day before, practicing his swing.

As she neared the copse of trees at the edge of the tennis courts, she heard the ball pounding off the backboard. She sighed. It was her lucky day when she turned the corner and saw him hitting the ball.

She stood along the fence line watching him knock the ball back and forth. The longer she stood there, the more she got into watching his play. With her hands gripping the aluminum fencing and her nose plastered through the opening, she realized she’d never truly watched anyone play tennis. Not that she was now, but she was consumed, watching the ball as it bounced off his racket against the backboard.

She looked on in awe as Morgan ran back and forth using one side of the racket and then the other. Finally, he stopped playing and approached her. Aren’t you getting tired of watching me?

Smiling broadly, she couldn’t believe he remembered her. No, not at all. You’re really good.

I don’t see how you came to that conclusion since I’m just hitting the ball against a board.

I think you are, doesn’t that matter?

Yeah, it does. What’s your name again? My name is Morgan Cameron. Sorry about yesterday. You disappeared before I could really introduce myself. I mean I didn’t tell you my last name.

I’m Ashley Hamilton. It’s nice to meet you again. She stepped onto the concrete court and followed him as he reached his equipment bag.

Same here, Morgan slid his racket into the cover and zippered it closed. Do you live nearby?

I do. In fact, right over there, she said pointing towards her home.

She grabbed ahold of her ponytail and nervously twisted the ends through her fingers as she watched him slip off the lid on a canister and dropped his tennis balls into it.

Guess I lost one. He shook his head and looked up at her. Hey, is your dad Ace Hamilton?

Yeah, why?

I walk past your house all the time. I love the oil well symbols on your front gates.

My dad does too. He’s so proud of his company. She was surprised that he knew about Hamilton Oil. I can’t believe you know who my dad is. That’s impressive. Most people don’t have a clue what Hamilton Oil is all about, let alone putting the oil well symbols together with the fact the he discovers oil.

My uncle follows the commodity market and always comments on it. He’s fascinated with the whole process. What interests him, interests me too.

She looked to his left and noticed the missing ball. She jumped up and trotted over to the bushes. Reaching down she grabbed ahold of the yellow orb. I found it. She skipped back to his side. Here ya go.

Thanks. He slipped the ball into the canister and snapped on the lid.

They talked a few minutes longer before Ashley realized she’d been gone longer than she’d expected. She knew she needed to sneak back home.

Do you come here often? He asked in a calming voice.

She didn’t know how to respond. He seemed interested in her. Perhaps she’d found a friend. She stood alongside him, wringing her hands. I do, she lied. She didn’t want to give him a bad impression, then asked, Will you be here tomorrow?

Yep, every day as long as the weather’s good.

Walking home, she realized even more flowers had sprung-up along the pathway. For two weeks now, she’d successfully bypassed Ralph and discovered a freedom she never knew existed. It felt remarkable and she loved every single minute she spent with Morgan.

By the end of the first week, Morgan had started teaching her how to hold a racket. He’d surprised her one day with an extra racket after discovering she had courts at her home and didn’t know the first thing about the game.

You really don’t know how to play? he’d asked.

Nope, sure don’t.

Okay then, I’ll teach you.

The next day he presented her with a racket so she could learn to play alongside him. Morgan taught her the basics of holding a racket and then showed her a forehand and backhand swing and then how to serve. Daily she improved and seemed to have a natural talent for the game.

Every day she slipped out of the house, often wondering how she was able to continually sneak past Ralph. She knew he wasn’t that dumb, especially if her father had hired him.

Daily her game improved. She caught on quickly and even challenged Morgan with her play. One day, Morgan was showing her how to hold her racket better when she heard her name called. She’d just landed an impressive shot when she heard it. She halted mid-step. Morgan had just approached her side and was showing her how to hold racket better.

What’s wrong, Ash? he asked.

Her name was called even louder. She knew the voice.

Oh no. I’m in trouble.

Trouble?

Yeah. That’s my dad and he doesn’t know about me sneaking out of the house.

Exasperated and in a loud whisper, Morgan said, You snuck out of the house? He turned towards the voice and then back to her.

Yeah, long story short, but it’s true.

At a distance, her father yelled, "Ashley, what are you doing out here all by yourself without Ralph?"

Morgan threw his hands up exasperated, Ralph, who’s Ralph?

Uh, he’s my bodyguard, she whispered.

Morgan raised his seemingly agitated voice. Your what?

My bodyguard. She glanced up at him all the while gnawing on her lower lip. I’ve been…

You lied to me. He pointed at her. You said you came here often.

She hung her head. No, I… She sighed. It doesn’t matter what I said. I’m busted, that’s for sure.

She was so focused on Morgan and his reaction that she didn’t hear her father’s footsteps as he approached. She closed her eyes briefly and then apprehensively turned around, surprised by her mother’s presence too.

Ahh, hi M-m-mom and Da-aa-ad, she stuttered.

What are you doing here? her father asked.

Playing tennis.

I can see that. And who is this young man?

Now she knew Morgan was aware of her situation. She felt his gaze as he looked at her. Her stomach churned as she wrung her hands. Just as she looked up, Morgan surprised her when he approached her father, clasped his hand, and looked him in the eyes. Sir, my name is Morgan Cameron.

Her father grabbed ahold of his hand. My name is Ace Hamilton and this is my wife, Anna. Ace glanced back at Ashley.

It’s good to meet you, Morgan said then winked at Ashley.

Ashley was surprised with the welcoming way her father reacted to Morgan. She breathed a sigh of relief. In fact, her father didn’t seem upset at all.

From that moment on, their friendship had been sealed. Ace and Anna welcomed Morgan into their home. Ashley soon discovered that she hadn’t been pulling a fast one on Ralph. He had followed her on her daily forays to the park and had remained at a distance. Not only had he told her father, he’d investigated Morgan’s background which Ace approved.

In the end, all was good. Ace allowed Morgan to continue to work with Ashley. He was proud of her accomplishments, he’d told her, and couldn’t wait to see where she went with her talent.

Six weeks later, Ashley’s happiness came crashing down. Morgan had decided to join the pro tennis circuit.

Great practice, Morgan said as they left the court.

With a broad grin she replied, Morgan, I really love tennis! Pausing, she spun her tennis racket around in her hands. You may think this is weird, but every day when I wake up, I immediately reach for my racket and just stare at it. It might sound kind of odd, but nowadays I feel like a totally different person. I'm not scared anymore. I have a lot more confidence in myself. You've helped me so much. You've taught me to believe in myself. Thank you for being there for me and being my friend.

Ashley paused. In her excitement she finally noticed Morgan struggling. His Adam’s apple bobbed up and down. She knew he was keeping something from her, she just knew it. She stopped spinning her racket and walked towards him.

She rested her hand on his forearm. What’s wrong? I can tell something’s upsetting you. She waited patiently while he formulated his words. Her knees began to shake and then he spoke in a trembling voice.

Blue-eyes, sit down. I want to have a serious talk with you.

She wasn’t sure her legs would support her as they made their way to the nearby bench. Although he used his favorite nickname for her, she feared what he was going to say. He was leaving. She’d known this day would come, but she had no idea they’d be having this conversation so soon. She’d hoped she'd always have him by her side, coaching her and being her friend.

Morgan sat beside her and turned his racquet between his knees. Blue-eyes, you know I've been working towards becoming a pro for some time now. She nodded. Well, I've got the chance to play on the pro circuit and I'm going to take it. I'm sorry to do this to you now, but I have to. I've been waiting for this opportunity for an awful long time.

Her hands were trembling. She lost grip of her racket and it clattered to the ground. When are you leaving? What about school?

I’m leaving the beginning of the month. It was only ten days away. She gasped. Tears immediately sprung up, but she somehow contained them. He’s leaving me. I’m losing my best friend. She put her selfish thoughts aside and listened.

About school…I’ve taken so many advanced classes, I could graduate tomorrow. He reached out, grabbing her hand. School’s not an issue. What bothers me most is leaving you.

She couldn’t prevent the tears any longer as one tumbled down her face. He brushed his thumb against her cheek. She tried her best to smile. I’ll miss you. Life won’t be the same without you. You’ve given me so much. Taught me… She couldn’t go on. She threw herself into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably. She’d miss him terribly. He’d opened her world to so many possibilities and now she wasn’t sure where it left her as she navigated her new world.

She knew he was following his dreams. He hoped to be number one in the world someday. He’d fantasized with her about winning Wimbledon and all of the major tournaments. And maybe someday, if he was good enough, he’d win the Grand Slam— winning all of the major tournaments in order: The Australian and French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open.

His dreams had become hers too.

But now she wasn’t sure where life would take her or even if she’d be good enough to become a professional player.

The ten days passed in a heartbeat. She knew he was aware how difficult it would be for her. She’d shared with him her fears of never seeing him again, and he promised her over and over that’s he’d visit later in the year. But deep down she wondered if this was it. Was she going to lose the only friend she’d ever had?

The day he was scheduled to leave was a difficult one for her. Her tennis game that day was outstanding. She created a scene that he'd never forget. As they walked off the court, he said, Excellent practice, Ash. I hope you keep it up after I leave. You’re talented but remember to always keep practicing. Morgan reached for her hand, grasping it tightly in his. I'll always be your friend. Call or text me whenever. I'll be there for you. Remember that always, Ashley. She nodded and he hugged her tightly.

It was an emotional goodbye for both of them. You became my first real friend, but you also introduced me to this wonderful game, she said.

She tried to keep her tears at bay but wasn’t successful. She swiped at her cheeks and squeezed her eyes shut, but that didn’t stop the tears from falling. She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek goodbye, then as she started to run off, Morgan grabbed her by the arm. He pulled her into his arms and hugged her. She broke out of his embrace and dashed towards the house. The final words that she heard from him were, Goodbye, Blue-eyes. I'll never forget you!

The name Blue-eyes echoed loudly in her ears. No one called her that but Morgan and no one would ever call her that again. In that moment as she ran through the terrace doors, she promised herself they’d meet up again. Maybe as Grand Slam champions.

Chapter 1

Six years later…

Nearly six years has elapsed since that spring day when Ashley decided to escape her room and visit the neighborhood park.

She took Morgan’s advice and practiced every day, entering tournament after tournament. She swept all the junior tournaments and was finally ready to join the professional tour.

Morgan was never far from her thoughts. The uncertainty she felt of never hearing his voice again was put to rest when she received that first call. They spoke often, texting back and forth almost daily. Unfortunately, their schedules never meshed and they hadn’t seen one another in person since he walked away to join the pro circuit.

Three days before she was expected to leave on tour Adam Cromwell sent her a text. It was her tour schedule for the coming months. Adam was her quasi manager, having been hired by her father to run Black Gold Management Agency. Her parents were busy with the oil company and didn’t have the time to focus solely on her career, so her dad created the sports management agency for her benefit. She knew her father hoped his new endeavor would grow over the years; Adam would make that happen.

She smiled at the text and then realized she wasn’t alone. She glanced up from the chaise lounge she’d been sitting in by the pool as her father cleared his voice.

Ashley, I need to speak to you.

Quietly she replied, Sure, Dad. What’s up?

Ace quickly gathered his thoughts and said, I know no other way to tell you this, so I’ll just come out and say it.

Ashley looked up at him. What’s the matter? Is it Mom? Is she alright?

Raising his hand, he said, Ashley, it’s not about your mom. It’s about you.

Me? I’m just fine. She sat up straighter.

Ashley, it’s starting all over again.

What’s starting again?

All of a sudden, the color drained from her father’s face. She knew whatever he was about to tell her was bad. A chill ran up and down her arms. She was scared and knew the words he was about to say would shape her career going forward.

She held her hands in front of her face waiting for those two words, and when they came her world dropped out from under her.

The threats.

She drew her arms around herself. She felt like she was being transported back in time to the protective bubble she’d lived in prior to meeting Morgan. She was in shock and turned away as her father reached out to her.

No, Dad. This can’t be happening. I’ve been so happy these last few years. Why now, when I’m beginning to make a name for myself?

She looked directly into her father’s eyes as he spoke. I have to be honest with you. For the past six years, I’ve received a few threats, but I never told you about them because they targeted Hamilton Oil and not our family directly. But since you beat Darlene Marler, almost daily I’ve received a new one. It’s always the same caller and he always leaves a message on my voicemail. Ace fingered the gold cross that hung around his neck.

Her heart dipped and she began to tremble. He’d kept this all-important news from her. She was devastated.

Why didn’t you tell me sooner? she asked, hurt. Her heart beat wildly waiting for his answer.

I didn’t want to alarm you, dear. Since there were so few, and many were directed towards me, I thought I’d keep quiet and not upset you.

But, Dad, what am I going to do? Anyone can take a pot shot at me out on the courts, she said.

Her father clenched his hands and began to pace in front of her, making her more unsettled.

That’s what I want to discuss with you.

Her head popped up. What? she asked as her hands shook uncontrollably. She tried to take a deep breath to calm herself and waited for her father’s response.

I know it’ll be hard, but I’ve spoken with Adam, and he is canceling your tournaments for the next few months.

Only minutes ago, she’d received a text from Adam confirming her schedule. Without hesitating, Ashley screamed, No! Dad, you can’t do this to me. Adam just sent me my schedule. When? How did you do this?

Yes, Ashley, I can. I can’t explain Adam’s text, but he’s in complete agreement with me, as is your mother. It’s for the best. I can’t be with you at all times, nor can your mother. What has to be, has to be. I’m going to call Joshua to tell him we’re canceling the next four months of tournaments.

Four months? You’re crazy! Don’t you dare phone Joshua. She jumped up from the chair and rushed her father. Grabbing ahold of him, she cried, I’m happy now. Happier than I’ve been in my entire life. No one or nothing is going to put a damper on my happiness. I’m going to be number one in the world. If I stop now, I’ll never make it. No, Dad. You aren’t going to call Joshua. I had a hard-enough time getting him as my coach. If you make me quit now, I’ll lose the best coach there is.

Ace interrupted her. You are my daughter, and you will do as I say.

Ashley pulled away, catching her hand in her father’s cross. Not this time I’m not. I’m not your little girl anymore. I can make my own decisions, and I’ve decided to stay on the circuit. And that’s final. She turned towards the house and started walking away discovering she was holding her father’s cross and necklace in her hand.

Don’t you talk to me like that, and don’t you dare walk away from me, Ashley, he roared. Listen to me. It’s for your own good.

She paused but quickly started walking again.

Seconds later, she heard her father grunt in pain, and she turned back as he grabbed his chest. Ace’s face was drawn. She screamed as he fell back against the chair.

Dad? Dad! She raced to his side.

With phone in hand, she dialed 911. While she waited as they dispatched the ambulance, she watched her father grasp for breath as he tried to speak. Don’t talk, Dad.

Between gasps, he said, Ashley, please be careful. You are very precious to me. I’m sorry you had such an awful life, but there was nothing I could do.

She reached for a towel to cover her father. She patted his arms, doing her best to calm him. She could tell he was in extreme pain.

Ashley started to cry again. What are you talking about? I’ve had a good life.

Through clenched teeth he said, I love you and your mother very much. Be careful! If you need help whatsoever, contact Morgan Ca-Cameron. He’s a true friend. Just as he said this, he closed his eyes. Ashley fell over his body and wept as she waited for the ambulance. Her father never regained consciousness and died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

Three days after Ace’s funeral, the garden was in full bloom. It was beautiful outside but inside, the Hamilton home brimmed with sadness.

Ashley had a breakdown after her father practically died in her arms. She had nightmare after nightmare. Vividly, she saw her father clutch his chest and fall. His last words reverberated in her dreams.

Her mother was constantly by her side, witnessing her nightmares. On several occasions, she woke-up after having called out for Morgan. He was her guiding light and she needed him.

Ashley had texted him after her father’s death, but he was overseas playing in a tournament and couldn’t come home.

Her dreams consumed her sleep, and she was slipping into a deep depression. One night as she suffered in the throes of another awful nightmare, she awakened to a pressure on her hand, as though someone held it; then she felt a warm hand caress her cheek., She cracked open her eyes. Sitting beside her was Morgan. She bolted upright and cried out his name and was instantly wrapped in his arms.

Morgan, she breathed as he brushed a kiss across her forehead.

Blue-eyes, I’m here. Just hold on and I’ll protect you.

Morgan remained by her side as she climbed out of the abyss she’d fallen into. She knew he’d overheard her most intense dreams to date. He remained with her until she dealt with the memories and found her way back to the tennis circuit. She had her ups and downs along the way but Morgan was just a phone call away. He became her sounding board and always made time for his ‘blue-eyes’.

With their schedules, they rarely saw one another face-to-face until the following year when she made her way to the French Open. She had fought long and hard making it to where she was—ranked fifth in the world.

She and Morgan spoke daily and planned to meet-up but between his games and constant practice, it never happened.

She was ecstatic with her play and had blown through all of her matches until she reached the semi-finals. If she won that—she’d be headed to the finals of her first Grand Slam tournament.

The afternoon before the semi-finals, her heart was in her throat when she walked onto the practice court. Two more matches.

Her thoughts were all over the place with nervous anticipation as Joshua put her through the practice session of a lifetime. She couldn’t seem to get her stroke down. She was so frustrated she sent a ball sailing over the fence.

She threw her hands up in the air, dropping her racket in disgust. Yesterday had been one of the best days in her life. And today? If she were playing right here, right now, she’d be the laughing stock of the circuit.

She leaned over and braced her hands on her knees as she composed herself.

How about we call it a day, Joshua said as he retrieved her racket from the clay surface.

"That’s a good idea since I can’t seem to keep the ball in this court."

Joshua laughed and headed off to the sidelines.

Ashley grabbed her gear and threw it into her bag. She needed to take a breath and calm herself. She glanced at her watch. Too late to phone Morgan. He was preparing for his match.

Upset with her practice session, she didn’t pay attention as she left the court, and tripped on the uneven pavement. She felt herself flying through the air and knew she was about to hit the ground when warm arms encompass her.

Are you okay?

Her hair covered her eyes, and as she reached to brush it aside, she looked into a face she was quite familiar with although they’d never met in person. Antonio de la Regada. He was Morgan’s nemesis and was ranked at the top of the men’s field alongside Morgan. He righted her as she caught her breath.

You seem upset. He set her on her feet sweeping the hair from her eyes.

She groaned. Just finished up a practice session from hell.

Everyone has an off day. Oh, by the way, I’m Tony Regada.

I…I know who you are. She rolled her eyes, embarrassed by her statement. Everyone in the world of tennis knew him. I didn’t mean it like that. Sorry. Can we start over?

She introduced herself with an outstretched hand. Ashley Hamilton, a wanna-be Grand Slam winner.

Tony Regada, he laughed as he shook her hand. I think you’re well on your way to winning your first Grand Slam tournament.

How did you—never mind. It’s nice to meet you. Her face warmed and she knew she was blushing. She stood there speechless, then realized her equipment had fallen from her bag and was strewn across the sidewalk.

Thank you for the save. I was sure I was going to be a casualty to the sidewalk. She stepped away and reached for her things.

Tony squatted down beside her and retrieved the tennis balls that had exploded all over the ground. He popped the lid onto the can and stood.

I’m really impressed with your play. I’m going to attend your match tomorrow.

Really? Why?

I’ve heard a lot about you. From what I hear, you’re the next Chris Everett.

I don’t know about that. She was embarrassed by his comparison and hung her head.

Either way, it’s time I finally saw you play. I’m looking forward to it.

She glanced up and caught his smile that spread across his face. She reached for a stray hair and pushed it behind her ear.

I better get going. Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow.

Oh, you can count on it.

She zipped her duffle bag and threw it over her shoulder. Thanks again for the rescue.

I’m glad I was able to help.

She walked away, then paused and looked back. Tony raised his hand in goodbye.

That chance meeting with Tony Regada changed her life. She won her semifinals match the next day, beating Alice Hunter. She was headed to her first ever Grand Slam finals. On top of all that excitement, Tony was sitting in the stands just like he said he would.

Two days later not only was Tony at her match. but she also received a beautiful bouquet of roses right before she took the court. It was an odd bouquet. Only ten roses— not a dozen. Maybe they do things differently in France she thought as she read the enclosed card:

To the wonderful Ashley Hamilton. These are just a good luck present before your first major title match, THE FRENCH OPEN!! Good luck. I’ll be sitting in the stands.

Her nerves were getting the best of her. She’d been a tad nauseous all morning. Not only was she playing in her first Grand Slam finals match, but she was also playing against Darlene Marler whom she hadn’t played since prior to her father’s death.

She was constantly on guard and more so today as she glanced Darlene’s way. She was ever mindful of the threats that still plagued her. Whoever was behind them was cunning and knew how to rattle her. Since her father’s death, there’d been a few instances that tested her. She’d received what Adam believed to be a letter from a fan and when she opened it a suspicious white powder exploded into her face. She was rushed to the hospital. Thankfully, it was only talcum powder.

She grabbed her gear, took one last whiff from the sweet-smelling roses, and with shoulders back and head held high she walked through the doors onto Roland Garros’ center stage. As she stepped onto Philippe Chatier Clay court, she realized she’d finally made it.

She’d fulfilled a portion of her dream, making it to a Grand Slam finals match. It was nothing to sneeze about—that was for sure.

She set her bag down and glanced towards the stands. As promised, for a second day, Tony was seated awaiting play. She nodded at him as she took her seat. It was her way of thanking him for the flowers and providing his support.

Adam and Joshua were there too, but seeing her new friend put her at ease. This was a huge match not only because it was the Grand Slam finals, but also because she was playing Darlene.

She pulled her hair back and secured it with a ponytail holder and reached for her racket. She took a calming breath.

As far as she knew, all was quiet in regards to threats. The last had been the powder-laced envelope. The police had warned her to stay vigilant. Adam ensured all precautions were taken for her safety, having hired and secured several undercover cops around the stadium. She felt relaxed as she took the court.

Ashley felt exceptionally well as she and Darlene warmed up. She started to prepare herself for the first serve when she felt a cold shiver course throughout her entire body. She had finally made it to the finals of a prestigious tournament—a Grand Slam tournament. All of her hard practice was finally paying off. She pictured her father and Morgan when they first met at the park. Today, neither one of them was present to see her play this most important game of her life. She knew that her father was present in spirit, but Morgan definitely wasn't there to witness this milestone. She wondered where he was as she hadn’t run into him during the entire tournament.

Oh well, here I go, she said to herself. The umpire announced Play which ceased Ashley's thoughts and moved her to the present. She had to do it. She had to win.

Ashley's first service was an ace.

Ashley won the first game with ease. She played the first set well despite her nervous condition and won the set six games to two. At court change, she heard the formidable reporter, Jack Forbes, bet that she’d blow Darlene right off the court.

Even with the confidence she gained overhearing Jack Forbes, the second set started off badly for her. In the first game, as she went to hit a top spin volley, her racket head snapped. It plummeted to the ground, scraping her hand in the process. Just her luck. The most important match of her young career to have such a freak accident. She needed first-aid to apply a bandage, then proceeded with the game. A double fault cost her the fourth game of the set. She was losing quite badly, having dropped all four games in the second set when a flash caught her eye from the stands. She thought nothing more, but then it happened again.

All of a sudden, the fears from her past came rushing back. She was playing Darlene Marlene and the last of the verbal threats against her life were associated with her. Her mind began spinning, wondering if the flash she saw was a gun. She became anxious, wondering if what her father had been protecting her from was happening all over again. But then, she realized that the brilliant flash came from the direction of the Friends box. She automatically glanced up there to see someone sitting beside Tony. The person looked quite familiar in stature. The build, the stance— It couldn't be true. Was it? Could it be… Morgan?

Ashley gasped. She tapped her racket off the side of her head realizing who the unexplained roses were from him. The note attached to the flowers immediately repeated in her mind. Your first title match… Only someone who’d closely followed her career would know that it