Page 296 of Well Played

“Is that what they’re calling it now?”

“I’m serious! I needed to distract him to keep him from passing out, so we started talking about video games.”

“Ate,” Jo laughed, “You needed to distract a cute ball player and your solution was video games?” She looked disappointed. “And y’all think I have no game.”

“Hey,” Lila cocked an eyebrow at her. “You’re the one whining about taking care of your own business. At least I havea cute player that wants to play with me.” She snorted, “See if I tell you how it goes.”

“Oh, come on,Ate,” Jo said. “I’m out here, serving our country. The least you can do is tell me about your cute guys so I can live vicariously through you.” On Jo’s end was a short chime, usually sounded when internet chatting was to end. “Tell everyone I love them and miss them, and I’ll put in for leave soon.”

Lila just laughed with her cousin. “I miss you, too, couz. Be good, do good. And stay safe.”

“Always.”

They laughed a bit more before the screen froze then went dark, ending the call. Lila stroked Jaz’s head once more before taking her cup into the kitchen.

Nando did have the prettiest eyes. And he seemed genuine when he said he’d be in touch. Maybe she just needed to give him time. After all, the season just ended and he probably had all the team stuff to finish before heading home, wherever that would be. Maybe playing games with the ball player could wait.

Or maybe the player was just playing games. Either way, she wouldn’t hold her breath.

5

Sittingin his agent’s office was an exercise in tedium. Terry Anders was one of the best in the business, but being the best also meant the most thorough. Nando spent the morning signing paper after paper, initialing here and there. Five years for a ridiculous amount of money. He would pay off his parent’s place in Arizona first. Maybe buy a place nearby for his off-season home. His second year, he’d find a house out here in San Diego. He had a nice apartment, but since the team wanted him for five more years, he’d consider putting down roots. Besides, once he had a home, he’d start looking for Miss Right.

“So, Nando, I think that’s gonna do it for now.” Terry started feeding the papers through the scanner. “Once they’re finalized by the team, I’ll email them to you.” He smiled and reached clapped Nando on the shoulder. “You did it, man. I knew you would.”

“Thanks, bro.” He shook Terry’s hand. “You made this happen.”

Terry shook his head. “We made this happen. You showed them what we both knew you could do. I made sure they paid you what we both know you’re worth. You earned all of it.” Heleaned up against the large desk in his office. “When are you heading back to Arizona?”

“After the Red and Black ball.”

Terry nodded.“Taking a date?”

“Nah. Too many pretty ladies to choose from.” Nando sat back in his chair.

“Yeah, but now you have money, bro. You need to find a nice lady to spend it on.”

“Dude, you sound like my mom.”

Terry laughed. “Just saying.” After a moment, “There’s gotta be a nice girl you want to impress.”

Nando shook his head. “If you find one, send her my way.”

“How about I tell them you’re bringing a plus one, just in case.”

Nando shrugged, “Sure.” They shook hands one more time and Nando headed down to his car. His text alert brought him out of his musings. He looked down and saw the name ‘Lila the Vampire’ on screen.

Lila: Wasn’t sure if you got my last text. If you still feel up to the challenge, Kaori is waiting to put the beat down on Brodie and I’m free all week after 6 and all-day Saturday

Nando smiled widely then in recognition. The sweet little thing from the blood drive. He texted back:

Nando: How about tonight? I can bring pizza.

Lila:Pizza?Today?

Nando: You have something against pizza?

Lila: No, it’s Tuesday. If you bring the beer, I’ll make tacos!

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