Page 124 of Playing for Keeps
Blending into the crowd, I follow the flow toward the entrance, pulling up my ticket on my phone as I go.
Once I’m inside, I follow the signs toward my section. The energy in the stadium is electric, and this is just a practice. I can’t even imagine what a real game must feel like.
When I reach my seat, I silently thank Ronnie. The view is incredible, front and center with a perfect line of sight to the field. The seats around me quickly fill, and just minutes later, the players begin running out onto the turf.
I sit up straighter, scanning for Wyatt. My heart skips when I spot him, helmet tucked under one arm, his stride confident and easy. He looks ridiculously sexy in his gear, and my eyes linger on his perfect ass for a second longer than necessary.
The crowd erupts with cheers as more players join him on the field, waving and soaking in the atmosphere.
For the next hour and a half, my eyes barely leave Wyatt. I don’t totally understand all the drills. He never did show me any of his old game footage, but watching him out there now, I realize just how insanely fit he is. The whole team is in constant motion, barely pausing except for the occasional water break. Meanwhile, I get winded vacuuming the stairs.
When practice ends, I keep my focus on Wyatt as the team heads off the field. A tiny part of me hopes he’ll spot me in the crowd, but with thousands of people here and no reason to expect me, it’s a long shot. Besides, I really want to surprise him back at his apartment.
Only now does it hit me that he might be going out with the team after practice. I hope not. I’ve been looking forward to this all week.
It takes longer than I expected to make it out of the stadium and through the packed parking lot, but eventually, I’m on my way to Wyatt’s place, my heart racing with anticipation.
I park a little down the street so Wyatt won’t spot my car, then grab my purse and overnight bag before making my way to the front entrance.
Fred’s on duty behind the concierge desk, and I flash him a warm smile when I walk in.
“Hey, Fred,” I say, giving him a quick wave. “If Wyatt comes through here, you haven’t seen me. I’m trying to surprise him.”
He winks. “Discretion is my specialty.”
I grin. “You’re the best. Thanks!”
Heart fluttering, I head straight for the elevator and press the button. I briefly consider the stairs, but I’ve already had enough cardio today dodging fans and stadium traffic. When the elevator doors open, I hesitate for a beat before stepping in.
I press the button for his floor and close my eyes, picturing Wyatt’s arms around me. The thought makes the ride bearable,my eyes opening as the soft chime sounds, announcing I’ve arrived on Wyatt’s floor.
As soon as the door opens, I rush out of the car and dig in my purse for the key. Unlocking the door, I breathe a sigh of relief when I’m met with silence. I’ve beaten Wyatt home.
Now to wait for him to get here.
Wyatt
“Hey, man, we’re heading out for food,” T.J., one of the running backs, calls out as I step out of the shower, a towel slung low on my hips. “You coming?”
I shake my head. “Appreciate it, but I’m gonna head home. Need to call my girl.”
That’s all it takes.
“Aww, Brookes is whipped!” Jayden shouts, grinning as he slaps T.J. on the chest.
“He said heneeds to call his girl, like he’s been married ten years,” Marcus calls from across the locker room.
“Leave him alone,” T.J. says, laughing. “Let him go and whisper sweet nothings to her.”
I roll my eyes, chuckling as I dry off and grab my clothes. “You guys just wish you had someone worth missing dinner for.”
That earns a few cheers and some fake offended gasps.
“She better be making it worth your while,” Jayden shouts as I grab my bag and head for the door.
“Oh, she is,” I say as I walk out, not looking back.
And she really is.
