Page 36 of Necessary Roughness

That wasn’t how I wanted to make my way to the top.

With my microphone on, and my heart open, I started my show.

“Welcome back toPinnacle Playbook, your go-to for all things sports, stats, and controversy. I’m your host Brett Mercer, here to break it down with brutal honesty. But today’s going to be a little different. Let’s talk about someone who has madeheadlines for years—and not just on the field but in the hearts of fans everywhere. Today we’re talking about Luke Dalton.”

To my surprise and delight, it felt wonderful to speak positively of the man who had saved my life.

“I know I’ve had a lot to say about Luke in the past, but today I want to talk about one of the biggest reasons his name comes up on this show. I talk about him for the same reason you all listen. Because you cannot give a thorough analysis of the state of the NFL without including his name.”

“Luke Dalton didn’t just play football,” I continued, hoping my words would keep the interest of my listeners when they heard it later in the day, “he changed the game. He was a cornerstone of the league for over a decade, the kind of star you build franchises around. Retired or not, it doesn’t matter. That kind of legacy doesn’t fade.”

Something shifted inside me. I couldn’t wait for Luke to hear my podcast.

Even though I wasn’t sure if he actively listened or if he had only browsed the highlight reel of my previous nasty comments.

I cringed as I thought about him perusing compilation clips of me lambasting him with insults.

Today, we were turning a page. I was going to put my best foot forward and give it my best effort. Hopefully, my listeners would appreciate it.

“The interesting thing about Luke Dalton?” I added. “He’s the kind of guy brands want to align with. He is incapable of being ordinary and escaping the spotlight. Because when you achieve greatness in the NFL, it paints a target on your back. Because, despite all the criticism from the press, he’s never responded unprofessionally or let it get in the way of his goals. And most importantly, because he’s proven repeatedly that he’s more than an athlete—he’s a champion that has captivated fans and turned their attention to anything he’s touched for years,and that doesn’t vanish just because he’s not on the field anymore.”

Finally, the energy in the air around me had changed. This was my new legacy.

10

LUKE

Left to my own devices, I’d prefer to be on my comfortable couch watching television, not rubbing shoulders at a gala in an opulent hotel.

Nevertheless, here I was. Fortunately, it was to support a cause near and dear to my heart, Guardian Paws. They were an animal rescue organization that had recently caught my eye. After donating a six-figure sum to support their work, I’d agreed to make an appearance at an auction.

My presence there would bring media attention and that could further their cause, saving animals.

It was a win for everyone.

But as I stood in the silent bathroom of the hotel lobby, I couldn’t help but take stock of my surroundings. There I was—dressed to the nines, surrounded by glamorous people, and completely alone.

No date, no one to accompany me.

All the money in the world couldn’t cure loneliness.

My eyes roamed the bathroom, glancing under the stalls to make sure I could embrace my melancholy alone.

I didn’t want anyone seeing me sad.

It was, by far, one of the nicest bathrooms I’d ever stepped foot in. The polished marble floors shimmered under the elegant, recessed lighting. Intricate mosaic tiles lined the walls, crafting a blend of modern luxury with timeless style. The sinks, encased in beautiful granite, featured gold fixtures that gleamed like extravagant jewelry.

Hovering above each sink was a large, backlit mirror with a soft, flattering glow, framed in brushed nickel. The stalls, made from frosted glass with gold trim, offered complete and total privacy.

Great, I thought,in case I want to cry out in anonymity.

But before I could devolve into tears, the door swung open and in walked two party attendees.

My cue to exit.

As I walked through the door, I heard my name being called loudly behind me.

I turned to see Joe Miller, head of Great Paws.

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