Page 13 of Game Day

But Nova’s watching me, her eyes shining with pride and expectation.

I turn the key in my hands. It’s sort of like a trophy, smooth and gold, and I’ve accepted my share of those.

“Thanks for this.” I lift it in the air and nod to the room. “I’m sure it’ll open a lot of doors.”

The guys are cracking up before I reach my seat.

* * *

Miles turns the key in his hands. "Think this actually unlocks something?"

"Yeah, a big treasure chest full of loot."

"Really?"

"Mhmm. Latest espresso maker and everything," Rookie quips, and Miles snorts.

I've made the rounds, shaking hands and accepting congratulations from CEOs and a mix of public officials.

I’m talking with Miles and Rookie, Miles demanding to see my key up close.

Nova leans against my side, and I wrap an arm around her to tug her closer.

She stretches up on her toes to whisper, “I’m proud of you for making nice with all these people.”

“I can play nice, you know.”

“But it makes you so grumpy to do it.” She’s teasing, and I want to kiss the smile off her face.

I settle for stroking my knuckles down her bare arm. “Depends on the company.”

“I mean it, though. You’re a big deal here. You inspire so many fans to love the sport, to get involved, to feel proud of where they’ve grown roots, whether it’s for a short time or forever.”

I want to make a joke, but there's a seed of satisfaction in my chest.

I’m determined to make her proud, to be the man she thinks I am.

A throat clears at my elbow. The mayor and her husband are standing next to Nova and me.

"I hate to interrupt, but I do want to speak with the man of the hour,” the major says with a wide smile.

The guys clear out, and Nova starts to as well, but I take her hand. Stay, I say without words.

“I need a fresh drink,” she murmurs, then presses up onto her toes to whisper near my ear. “You’ve got this. There’s no one in the entire league you can’t take one on one.”

“Thanks for the pep talk,” I grumble as I watch her go.

"You two are really the most lovely couple. You met your girlfriend here in Denver?" the mayor asks.

"Fiancée," I correct.

Her eyes round. "There must be something magic in the water here."

A waiter offers me a drink from his tray. I ignore the champagne and grab a club soda instead.

"Listen, Clay,” the mayor starts. “My secret agenda, if you can call it that, is that I’m hoping to secure your commitment as an ambassador of the city going forward into the new season.”

The mayor wants visibility. A poster child.

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