Page 123 of I Got You

He studies me for a second like he’s not ready to let this moment go, either. Cradling my face, he kisses me ever so lightly. Then he grabs my hand and leads us off the dance floor.

∞∞∞

An hour later, we’re still trying to find our way out. We’ve been stopped by just about everyone in this ballroom. I’ve been asked a thousand questions about the show and working with Danny. Shane’s been signing autographs, posing for pictures, and fielding questions about what he’s done with the Moose's defense this season while also listening to advice on how things should be in the playoffs.

We’ve tag-teamed inquiries about how we met, our relationship, and how we make it all work. Through it all, I’ve held his hand, trying to inch us closer to CC so that we can say goodbye and finally go home.

“Excuse me. Hey, Mags.” Cole sneaks up behind me, interrupting our current barrage of questions. “You two trying to make your way out of here?”

“Yeah. My ankle is hurting, and this one,” I nod toward Shane, “has met his word count quota for the next year.”

Cole laughs. “We’ve exceeded the goal already. There’s another hour of bidding, and donations are still coming in.”

I hug him. “That’s amazing.”

“You guys deserved to get out of here.” He hugs me tight. “Make sure you catch up with me before you head to New York. I’m so sorry I can’t be there.”

“I know,” I say. “Just be ready for the playoffs. Keep your focus on that.”

I hug him again, he and Shane slap hands, and we’re free. I set my crosshairs on CC and then make a beeline, determined not to get caught again.

“Maggie, my girl. Did Cole give you the good news?” CC’s booming voice surrounds us.

“He did. It’s wonderful. Such incredible things are going to happen this next year. You and Clara have done an amazing job. Dad would be so proud.”

“I sure miss him,” CC says, uncharacteristically soft.

“Me too.” I give him a squeeze. “We’re going to head out.”

He hugs me back. “I’m glad you two found me. I’ve been meaning to find you all night.” He lowers his voice again. “I got a call from Ted Kent the other day.” Shane’s hand drops mine. “Ohio State, huh? You’re just going to up and leave this old man after all you’ve brought this season. If I were ready to give it up, I’d be pushing for you to take my place.”

I look at Shane, trying to read through the lines and understand what CC is talking about.

“I didn’t realize this was public information,” Shane says, and I don’t miss the bite in his tone.

CC slaps him on the shoulder. “I’ve known Ted for years. He just wants to be sure it’s as good as it looks. I assured him I’ll do everything I can to dissuade you from talking to them. It’s a great opportunity, Shane, and you’ve proven this season that you’ve got a future ahead of you on the sidelines.”

My chest constricts like someone just knocked the wind out of me. Ohio State is courting Shane. Mark and Sean said people would be calling, so I should have expected this. I just can’t believe he didn’t tell me.

Ohio State, really. I know Shane went there, but my dad went to Michigan. I could’ve been a fan, but hell no. Not now. O – Hi - O State.

“Well, I’ll let you two get on with it,” CC says, and I can’t speak. “Thanks for being here and for all of your support. Maggie, your tickets are one of our top items.”

I try to smile and say goodbye before I turn for the door. I know Shane’s following me, but I can’t look at him. I don’t even know what to think. I’m angry, and I’m hurt. Was he going to tell me or evaluate the offer and then let me know when he was leaving?

I’ve opened my soul to him. I’ve given him the deepest, darkest parts of me, and he couldn’t even tell me about a stupid job offer. I’m an idiot. I’m mad at myself for yet again letting myself think I actually freaking mattered.

Outside the ballroom, I grab my coat from the rack, not caring whether Shane finds his or not.

“Maggie.” He tries as he pushes his arms into his sleeves. “Maggie, I haven’t figured out what I’m going to do. I didn’t expect anyone else to know about this.”

I turn, shooting him a glance and seeing the worry in his eyes, but I don’t care. I don’t even know what to say. He didn’t expect anyone to know about this, including me. I’m such a fucking idiot.

“Well, that’s perfect. You were almost successful. Now, I’m going home, so you can either get the truck or I’ll find another way.”

I need a minute or a few hours. I’m hot. I’m mad and can’t look at him, but I want to go home. When he doesn’t move, I just start walking, his heavy steps following. Eventually, we end up at the valet kiosk.

Pushing out the doors, a gust of cold air hits me, suppressing the blaze that burns within me. Shane struck a match, the fuse was lit, and I’m the bomb waiting to detonate.

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