Page 162 of What are the Risks
As I retook my seat in preparation for the third announcement, Mum leaned into me. “This could be you, honey.”
“Not yet,” I whispered back. “It’s too early.”
The pressure wasn’t so bad when the picks were this high, but I knew my nerves would ramp up as we got closer to pick seven. If my name wasn’t called by then, there was a real chance I’d go into cardiac arrest. At least Ruby would be the one doing CPR.
“For the third pick, the Seattle Rangers select...”
Dad’s grip on my shoulder tightened, bordering on painful. Everything was happening so fast, but somehow still so fucking slowly. I was ready to be put out of my misery.
There were countless theories about who Seattle would draft. Their existing QB was out of contract and nearing retirement, their star wide receiver had gone down with a postseason injury, and they had the weakest offensive line in the league.
It was anyone’s guess. But at pick three, I knew it wouldn’t be going to me... as much as I wished it would.
This pause seemed to drag on longer than the previous two. Needing a distraction, I caught myself looking towards Ruby. Her attention was focused on the screen, her eyes wide and her lower lip pulled between her teeth – something I’d come to realise she did a lot when she was nervous, when she was concentrating, and when she was turned on. Though, right now, I doubt it was the latter.
“Quarterback Ryker Richardson from Phil-U.”
Um, what?
Come again?
Did he just say my name?
I didn’t move an inch – not even when a camera was thrust in my face – worried that I’d misheard and I’d make a total ass of myself if I got to my feet.
Had I slipped and hit my head? Was I in a coma, dreaming all of this up? This was Seattle’s pick, right? As in Seattle, Washington? As in Tacoma, Washington? As in thirty-four miles from Ruby?
“You did it, son!” Dad exclaimed, jumping to his feet and pulling me up with him.
If he hadn’t, I might’ve remained frozen on the sofa all day.
Mum threw her arms over my shoulders, forcing me to crouch. “Seattle, honey! I’m so proud of you.”
My brother and sister rushed over, followed by Brady and Tori, then my aunt and uncle. As arms wrapped around me and congratulations came from every direction, I barely registered what anyone was saying, still too stunned to speak.
I’d need to shake off the shock quickly though, before I was expected to front the media. I didn’t want to go viral for the wrong reasons – like freezing like a deer in headlights on national television.
Ruby was hanging back with her parents, a proud smile on her face as she watched my family swarm me. I wasn’t having a fucking bar of that. This was one of the biggest moments in my life, and truthfully, she was the one I wanted to share it with most.
Edging past everyone, including the twins who were shyly clutching my brother-in-law’s legs, I headed straight for her.
She blinked away tears as I neared, happiness plain on her face.
Rising onto her toes, she returned my hug, squeezing me tightly. “Congratulations, Wheels. I don’t even know what to say... no, actually, I do.” She eased back a fraction, just enough to meet my eye. “I love you. And I’m so happy for you.”
Shock hit me for a second time in less than a minute. Could my brain fucking catch up already?
“And that’s theinlove with you one,” she clarified with a perfect smile.
I’d definitely fallen and hit my head. No reality could be this perfect. SeattleandRuby. Footballandthe girl.
“Rubz,” I muttered, finally finding my voice. “Are you saying–”
With a light chuckle, she shoved me backwards. “Go. We’ll talk after.”
Not a fucking chance. I’d just watched the last two guys enjoy this moment with their girls – it was my turn.
As Ruby went to step away, I caught her wrist and tugged her back against my chest, barely giving her a chance to look up before my lips claimed hers.
