Chapter 10: Reese Opens Up About Her Past
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
At a baseball owners’ conference in Las Vegas, Reese is trying to network but is largely ignored by the other team owners. Her ex-husband, Jeremy, approaches her with a condescending greeting. Before she has to endure a long conversation, Emmett steps in and ushers her away, claiming he needs a private word with his boss. Reese is tipsy from drinking wine while alone at the event, and she appreciates Emmett’s protective move.
They leave the noisy ballroom and walk through the casino to a quieter cocktail bar in a different hotel. Over drinks, Emmett gently presses Reese to talk about her past with Jeremy. She reveals they were married for three years and that Jeremy tried to claim half ownership of the baseball team she inherited. She explains that her grandfather made her earn her MBA and work in MLB before she could take over, and Jeremy’s sudden interest in the team was a betrayal. Emmett supports her anger and admits he had his eye on her all evening, concerned about how she was being treated. He also apologizes for his earlier skepticism, saying he doesn’t want her to lump him with the people who doubt her. Reese admits she is desperate to do well, and they end the conversation reaffirming that they are on the same team.
Key Events
- Jeremy, Reese’s ex-husband, greets her at the conference and Emmett quickly intervenes.
- Reese and Emmett leave the ballroom and walk through the casino to a quieter bar.
- Over drinks, Reese opens up about her three-year marriage to Jeremy and his attempt to take control of the team.
- Emmett apologizes for his own earlier doubts and expresses his support for Reese.
- The two bond over their shared goal of winning games and beating the other owners.
Character Development
Reese: For the first time in the chapter, Reese lets down her guard and shares her insecurities. She admits she was nervous about seeing Jeremy, who had predicted no one would take her seriously as a female owner. His theory seemed to be playing out as other owners ignored her all night. Reese’s vulnerability shows a deeper layer: she is desperately trying to prove herself and fears that the doubters—including Emmett initially—are right.
Emmett: Emmett shifts from a purely professional, sometimes combative employee to a protective ally. He physically removes Reese from an uncomfortable situation, then deliberately creates a space for her to talk. His apology is sincere, and his admission that he had his eye on her all night reveals he cares beyond the job. He reaffirms that he wants to help her succeed, both for the team and for her personally.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Trust and Vulnerability: The chapter centers on Reese choosing to trust Emmett with painful details about her past marriage. Her willingness to be vulnerable contrasts with the tough, professional facade she usually maintains. Emmett’s supportive response builds the foundation for a deeper partnership.
Partnership vs. Professional Boundaries: The line between boss/employee and personal connection blurs. Emmett’s physical touch (hand on her back, arm around her waist) and his emotional investment go beyond what a field manager typically offers. The chapter questions whether they can maintain a purely professional relationship.
Overcoming Doubt: Both characters address the external and internal doubts about Reese’s ability to run the team. Jeremy’s presence symbolizes the old skepticism, while Emmett’s renewed faith represents a turning point.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter is a crucial turning point in Reese and Emmett’s relationship. It moves them from adversarial coworkers to genuine allies. Reese’s backstory explains why she is so driven and defensive, humanizing her in Emmett’s eyes. Emmett’s apology and support show that he respects her as a leader, not just a boss. Their agreement to beat the other owners together sets up a united front for the remainder of the season. The chapter also deepens the theme of trust, making future conflicts and romantic developments more meaningful.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Emmett decide to pull Reese away from Jeremy?
Emmett sees that Reese is uncomfortable and tipsy, and he wants to prevent Jeremy from continuing a condescending conversation. He acts protectively, signaling that he prioritizes Reese’s wellbeing over conference etiquette.
2. What does Reese reveal about her marriage, and how does Emmett react?
Reese explains that she and Jeremy were married for three years, and he tried to claim fifty percent ownership of the team upon marrying her. Emmett responds with anger on her behalf, saying “He can go fuck himself,” and reaffirms that she is capable of doing the job.
3. How does Emmett apologize, and what does that apology achieve?
Emmett apologizes for his earlier doubts about Reese’s decisions. He clarifies that he doesn’t want to be compared to the other men who underestimate her. The apology earns Reese’s trust, allowing them to move forward as a united team.