Page 54

She’s become a star, a fan favorite. She plays with flair. She’s also gorgeous and funny, with a sharp mind. I’m so proud of her. So in love with her.

I smile, remembering last night. We had a romantic date at a restaurant, then we came home and had hot, passionate sex. Living together suits us. We know each other so well. We’re so in sync. It’s not just having sex, it’s making love, and it gets better every time.

I feel someone tap my shoulder. When I turn around, I find it’s Rebecca, smirking.

“You couldn’t be more obvious, you know,” she says, nodding at Valentina.

“What?” I ask, feigning innocence.

“You’re practically drooling,” she says. “And everyone can see it.”

I blush. “Shut up.”

She laughs. “It’s cute, though. You two make a great couple. You’re lucky.”

“Tell me about it,” I say. “I still can’t believe she’s mine.”

“Well, don’t forget about us, okay?” she says, gesturing at the team. “We need you too.”

I laugh. “I won’t. I promise.”

She smiles, but this time it seems forced.

“What’s wrong?” I ask.

She hesitates, then sighs. “I need to talk to you about something.”

“Want to get a cup of coffee after we’re done here?” I ask.

Rebecca glances at Valentina.

“She’ll understand.”

“Okay,” she agrees.

We finish our interactions with fans and walk to the locker room. Valentina catches my arm as we pass her.

“I’ll be home soon,” I tell her, kissing her cheek. “I’m going for coffee with Rebecca.”

“Any special requests for dinner?”

I grin. “You.”

She laughs. “I created a monster.”

“It was always there,” I counter. “It was just sleeping until you came along.”

I love the way her ponytail moves.

“We’ll see who’s the monster tonight.”

My breath catches in my throat. “I’m so looking forward to that.”

“Go, have fun with your friend,” she tells me. “I’ll be waiting for you at home.”

We kiss goodbye before I head to the showers. I head in, change into my clothes, grab my bag, and meet Rebecca outside the stadium. We walk to the coffee shop we like, a cozy place a bit farther from the stadium. It’s quiet, and we can talk without being bothered.

We order our drinks, take the table by the window. Rebecca looks nervous. What could she want to talk about?