Page 61 of Your Secret to Keep

Blake points to where Lia is standing, and everyone’s attention follows. She stands by herself and lifts her hand in a tiny wave. When everyone realizes she’s in there, they follow Blake and start to clap. People standing near her offer their hands for a handshake, and I know they’re telling her good job and congratulations.

From here, I can see her raised eyebrows and wide eyes—she didn’t expect this kind of recognition, which makes it even more special.

Next thing I know, a reporter is standing. Then another. And another. All the women in the room rise and give Lia a standing ovation. When I see the flashes, I’m so fucking thankful someone is taking pictures of this moment.

Not a single man stands, but they do clap for the women in the room. They’ve probably had to do more than their male counterparts to even enter the conversation or be considered for jobs like this. I can’t imagine the journey was easy and there’s still a long way to go, but fuck, I’m proud of this.

Blake yells from the corner, “Who run the world?”

And the entire room shouts back, in unison, “Girls!”

Lia wipes away a tear just as my own eyes get glassy.

Chapter 37

Lia

I’msweatyenoughtobelieve tonight really happened. If this were a dream, I would be a glowing goddess, minus the sweat.

Tonight. Really. Happened. I sat in a booth and helped call a game. Like, I actually contributed. Blake took the lead, mostly giving me space to reinforce what he was talking about. There was a moment while I was watching the game where I tried telling myself I was back in my apartment, doing it only for me. I’ve practiced a lot—an embarrassing amount, if I’m being honest—so I started doing what I always do.

Blake lit up when I took the lead on a play call. His eyes were like actual sparklers; like I was his protégé and not like we’d just met. He did everything in his power to make me feel comfortable and would coach me or give a heads up on what was coming next during commercial breaks.

It was fucking terrifying, no matter how much I loved it, but this was an experience I’d never trade. I should send a thank you note to wherever the bad food came from—I couldn’t have done this without them.

I’m waiting outside the locker room, trying to catch up on my text messages. Megan must’ve made it home and turned the game on because I have a few messages from her. Unfortunately, some of them are hard to read, riddled with typos, but she gets a pass considering the whole food poisoning situation.

Mostly, they’re from Wes. He tried FaceTiming me during the game, maybe to see if what he saw was really happening. I can’t wait to call him back and tell him everything.

Some of the team’s family members and close friends come up to me, introducing themselves and shaking my hand. The excitement from my night must’ve spread.

The first player to see me is Jalen. I can’t help but be reminded how he’s one of the people in on our secret. How could I forget—he sort of caught us at the hotel.

“Lia! I told Coach the only film I’m watching is the version with your commentary.” He pulls me into a side hug—it’s not surprising that he’s a hugger. “I heard you were awesome.”

I try not to be embarrassed and say, “I’m not so sure about that, but I appreciate it.”

He winks at me before tipping his head to the locker room. “Brooks is finishing up. He’ll be out in a minute.”

A few players who I’ve only exchanged a few words with congratulate me while finding their families to head home. I’ve always loved watching athletes with their significant others and friends; it always feels so wholesome.

Brooks walks out of the locker room, still wearing the crown, and people clap for him. I know this night is significant for him. He was absolutely amazing. This man played like his contract depended on it, and it looks like the Jags got the better end of the deal. This is the type of game that moves you up the ranks—one that has coaches and other teams preparing specifically for you.

When he sees me, he starts to clap. His eyes, bright and like honey, lock on mine. I do everything in my power not to melt right here and now.

And then he does something I don’t see coming—he wraps me in a hug. It’s quick, something you’d expect between friends, but the way mybody leans into his is undeniable. It’s like a missing piece of me has been returned.

“I’m so proud of you,” he murmurs, the words falling over me like the warmest blanket. “This must’ve been one hell of a night. I can’t wait to hear about it.”

I nod, quickly scanning the people around us. Everyone seems to be in their own world, which bodes well for our conversation.

“Me? You were incredible. An instant Jags classic.”

“Good. That means lots of people will listen to you call the game for years to come.”

I place my hands on my belly. “Okay, that sort of makes me want to throw up.”

I smirk as he playfully shoves my shoulders. In this moment, I want to kiss him. I wish we weren’t at the arena, but somewhere we could be just the two of us. Pretending to be only his friend isn’t always easy.

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