Page 2 of Saved By the Game

“Same.” Bella replied with a satisfying smile.

“I know that you said you’re good, but I’m hungry. What kind of food do you like to eat? It’s a little after lunch time, aren’t you hungry?” He asked with concern.

“Yes, I’m a little hungry.”

“Okay, I’ll order some room service. I’m vegan but you can order anything you’d like.”

“I’ll take a Caesar salad with fruit.”She replied.

“I see why you’re so fine. I’m sorry, I meant to say fit.”

“Thank you,” Bella giggled. “I try to stay on a strict diet. I want to get my position back on the team.” Adonis didn’t pay attention to her last statement. She was hoping he didn’t hear it. She would provide him with more information about her career later. He’d already turned his back to her to call room service.

“Hello, this is Adonis in room two sixty-four. I would like to place an order for mushroom soup, one roasted pumpkin salad with balsamic vinaigrette, and a vegan egg salad. Then a large cup of fruit and a large Caesar salad. Make sure you provide extra flatware. Thank you.” He hung up with a smile on his face. “The food should be here shortly. They’re usually quick with bringing my orders.”

“Okay, thanks.” Bella solemnly replied.

“Are you always this quiet?” He responded, waiting patiently for her to share more about herself.

“No. I was just in a traumatic experience. I don’t really have much to talk about right now. I’m embarrassed to meet one of my favorite basketball players after getting beat-up by my man. It’s not how I imagined meeting you.”

“Aw, baby trust me, I’m not judging you. I believe that you’re the most stunning woman I’ve ever laid eyes on. You don’t deserve for a man to put his hands on you. I just want to help you and keep you away from that monster.”

Bella laid her hand over her heart. She couldn’t help but blush.In the moment, she couldn’t help acting star struck.Adonis was fine and handsome to her. She was shocked to be sitting next to him. Bella wasn’t a groupie or anything, but she’d always wanted to meet Adonis. They were both in the league, but they’d never played in the same city before. God was funny with how he arranged things. Meeting Adonis in the hotel lobby during her time of need had to be fate.

“There goes that adorable smile. I’m happy to see you’re no longer as stressed as you were before. There was a knock at the door. “I think that’s room service.” Adonis announced.

“I’ll go freshen up in the bathroom while you grab the door.” Bella suggested offering a fake smile.

As he discreetly opened the door, she snuck in the bathroom. It was clear she didn’t want anyone to see her in the room with him out of fear that someone would report it to the blogs. Bella didn’t want to risk it. While in the bathroom she washed her hands and face with a warm washcloth. As she looked in the mirror, she couldn’t help but cry from seeing the many bruises and cuts that Brian gave her. She cried and prayed,God protect me from Brian. Put a hedge of protection around me and keep me safe as well as my new friend, Adonis. In Jesus name, amen.

After a deep breath, she left the bathroom. As she entered the room, Adonis stood beside the chair, waiting for her to sit at the table. The food came plated nicely. While she was in the bathroom, he had room service set up the dining area. There was jazz music playing, and room service had the candles lit in the hotel room.

“Everything looks lovely in here.” Bella spoke as she looked around at the sophisticated scenery. The television was playing the Men’s Olympic games.

“I can’t believe that you aren’t playing in the Olympic games. You’re one of the best players in the NBA.”

“Yeah, you know how the politics are in the league. It’s unfair, but what can I do about it? I love my job, fans, and the game, but hate politics. I share my love for Christ every game and I’ll continue. I believe the reason I wasn’t invited to play in the Olympic games is because I’m a bold Christian.” Adonis expressed.

“I hope that’s not the reason. You inspire a lot of people and you’re helping to bring people to Christ every time you speak about God. It’s unfortunate that you’re not playing in the Olympic games, but don’t let it stop your game.”

“Trust me, it won’t. For as long as I live, I’ll profess my faith aloud. God gave me my gift and I will proudly spread his word.”

“How did you get your nickname, Game?” Bella asked.

“I was given that nickname in middle school when I made the game winning shot in the championship game. Everyone told me that I hadgame. Then from there I was called Game.”

“I like it. I think it’s cool.” She looked at him and cracked a smile.

“What about you? Why aren’t you playing in the Women Olympics? I’ve seen you play, and I must say you’re my favorite WNBA basketball player.”

She began to cry as disappointment filled her mind.

“I’m sorry, but I didn’t mean to make you cry, beautiful.” Adonis got up and ran to the bathroom to grab some tissues. “Here, please take these tissues and wipe your eyes.” He announced as he offered her a light rub.

“I’m sorry, but the Wizards waived me the last game of the season. So, now I’m unemployed.” Bella said as she wiped her eyes.“You must think that I come with a whole lot of baggage, huh? I’ll just eat my food and go.” She insisted.

“Why are you leaving? Please don’t go. I told you that I want to help you.” Adonis replied as he took her hand and walked her back to her seat.“I’m sure you’ll land on another team soon. I can talk to my agent and have him set you up with some team try-outs.”

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