Page 97 of Sack

“What did he say in the message?”

“Just that he wanted me there. He didn’t say why. Besides, I probably won’t even see him.”

“You know that’s a lie.”

“It’s not. You know how crazy the stadium gets after a game, and the players are always the last to leave. I’ll get on a plane, go to the game, then hop the next flight back.”

“I don’t think it’s as simple as that.”

“So, I shouldn’t go?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“So, you think I should.”

“I didn’t say that either.”

“That’s remarkably helpful,” she deadpanned.

Emerson chuckled. “Take the night to think about it. Then call him back with your decision.”

“No. I’m going to call now and tell him I can’t go. Nothing has changed. It’s not like he asked to get back together. Going would be stupid.”

“I agree.”

“Good. I’ll call you later.”

Ivy hung up with Emerson and dialed Colt. It didn’t even finish ringing one time before he answered. “Ivy.” Was there a wistful quality to his voice or was that her imagination? “Thanks for calling me back. I wasn’t sure if you would.”

Too late, she realized she shouldn’t have. Pressing the phone tighter to her ear, instead of telling him that she unequivocally couldn’t go to the championship game, she found herself asking, “How have you been?”

“Better now that I’m talking to you. I’ve been wanting to call for a few days now to invite you to the game—”

“About that—”

“I know I promised I wouldn’t call until you were ready, but like I said in my message, I’d really like it if you would go.”

“Colt,” she started to interject, but he must not have heard her because he kept speaking.

“Win or lose, it just wouldn’t be the same without you there.”

Well, poodoo. “Colt…”

“Yeah?” And now was that a hint of expectancy in his tone?

“I’ll go.”

A sigh filled her ear. “I was hoping you’d say that. I’ll text you all the information.”

“Great. Well, I’ve got to run.”

“Ivy?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks.”

Reaching her apartment, she pulled her keys from her bag but didn’t unlock the door. Instead, she sank to sit on the ground, leaning her back against it. She stared at her phone, took a deep breath and redialed Emerson.

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