We pull into a VIP parking lot, and I see the Mudflaps bus parked nearby, the logo on full display. That stupid fish with that stupid mullet makes me let out a pained laugh. And yet … it’s growing on me.
Kind of.
At least, I hate it less than I used to.
Yay, progress!
Scottie’s next to me on her phone, and my own vibrates. It’s Sean, answering my “How did it go?? I’m thinking about you!” text.
SEAN
Practice with Otto went well. Now he wants to take me and my parents out for lunch. I feel like an 18yo recruit.
KAYLA
Aw, I bet you’ll look so big and handsome in your daddy’s suit! Remember, the little fork is for shrimp, the little spoon is for dessert.
I’m so glad it went well! How are you feeling? Has he given you any indication what way he’s leaning?
SEAN
He seemed pleased. And the fact that he’s sticking around to meet my parents is a good sign. They don’t stay to talk to families when it’s a hard no, in my experience. They’re usually halfway back to the airport before you’ve unlaced your skates.
KAYLA
Keep me posted. I’m rooting for you.
SEAN
That’s nice of you. Thanks, Kayla.
KAYLA
That’s not lip service, Cap.
I snap a quick selfie and send it before I can talk myself out of it.
SEAN
Where did you get an Arsenal jersey?
KAYLA
It’s not just any Arsenal jersey. It’s an O’Shannan.
SEAN
…
How did you get it? They didn’t sell those.
KAYLA
Your wife is a woman of vast resources. One of those is my dogged assistant. Another is money.
SEAN
Am I allowed to tell you how good you look in it?
