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“JB is a celebrity.” I wave to our driver and wheel our stuff toward the lobby. “Even the people sitting around us talked about how well behaved she was.”
“My superstar.” Dallas blows a raspberry on her cheek, and she squeals. “Let me help you to your room, and we can put her stuff in mine. Ours are connected, and I figured June could sleep with me.”
“Perfect.” I brush my hair out my eyes and fan myself. “Good thing we didn’t bring her parka or snowshoes. It’s warm.”
“Yeah, until the freak snowstorm hits, and then you’ll freeze to death because all you brought with you are those shorts.” His gaze lingers on my legs before he takes my suitcase and drags it toward the revolving doors. “The guys want to see you and June before we head to practice.”
“Me? Your cute kid I can understand, but why would they want to see me?”
“Because you’re cool. Odell won’t stop talking about that shot you got of him sacking the Tornadoes QB two weeks ago. He printed out a copy and wants you to sign it.”
“You’re joking.” I trail behind him, a backpack slung over my shoulder and pulling June’s tiny suitcase. “Pretty sureSports Illustratedhas way better shots of him.”
“He likes yours the most,” Dallas says, and that fills me with pride.
I’ve been working hard in my role, not because I want to make a name for myself, but because I want to be the best version of Photographer Maven I can be. I’ve spent hours researching angles and lighting and action photography. I’ve devoured every tutorial video on how to focus on the subject while still capturing their surroundings, and I can see an improvement in my craft.
I’m getting better. I’m learning how to move with the athletes, and I’m not afraid to get right in the thick of the action. My favorite spot is at the edge of the end zone where I can wait for a player to run at me full steam.
I’m starting to get that same sensation when I’m holding a camera as I did whenever I stepped out on the soccer field. There’s excitement. The faintest hint of nerves. The thrill that I’m about to do something I truly love, and gratitude that this is my life.
I’m not the best sports photographer out there. Maybe one day I will be, but right now, I’m enjoying the ride, and god,it’s been fun.
The lobby is chaos when we step inside. There are Titans players everywhere, and they take turns passing June around and giving her a kiss on the cheek. I know most of them, and I’m familiar with their numbers and positions.
Dallas still makes it a point to stand on a chair and introduce me to everyone I haven’t officially met yet. There’s a round of cheers when he lifts June in the air, and I smile as I watch them.
“Hey, punk,” Shawn says, and he rests his arm on top of my head.
“What are you doing down here? I thought you’d be at the field already.”
“Not yet. I was talking with my assistant coaches. How was your flight?”
“I’m sure it wasn’t as nice as your charter plane, but not bad. June was awesome, and we didn’t hit any traffic on the way over.”
“Good. How are you doing, kid? I feel like I haven’t seen you in ages.”
“You see me on the sidelines all the time.”
“That doesn’t count, and you know it. I have five different people talking in my ear and can barely hear myself think on game days.”
“I’m doing well. I’m having so much fun as a photographer, and I love spending time with June.” My eyes cut back over to her and Dallas. She’s telling him a story, and he nods along excitedly, like he can’t wait to hear what else she has to say. “I’m really happy.”
“Glad to hear it. I can’t believe how your photography has taken off. You’re getting reposted by some of the biggest sports websites, Mae. That’s pretty damn cool. Lacey wanted me to ask you if you’ve started a social media account designated to your brand yet, whatever the hell that means.”
“Not yet, but I know I need to get around to it.”
“How are things with Dallas?” Shawn asks. “Is he giving you any problems?”
“None at all. He’s so different from when I started helping him. He seems really happy, too.”
“I haven’t seen him smile this much since the season we drafted him. I know I wasn’t totally onboard with the idea of you being his nanny, but you’re doing a good thing by helping him with June. He’s a nice guy, and he’s had a rough time finding the support he needs during the football season. You stepped up when he needed it.”
“No one deserves to feel like they’re alone in the world,” I say, and Shawn hums in agreement. “I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
“You’re right.” He checks his watch and grimaces. “Shit. I need to get to the bus. Darcy will get you the access passes for Sunday.”
“Thanks, Shawn.” I give him a hug, and I smile when he squeezes my shoulder.
