“Didn’t really have a choice,” I mutter, narrowing my eyes at Jen. She rolls her eyes dismissively.
Chance chuckles softly. “Well, I appreciate you taking the time anyway.”
“It’s fine,” I assure him, leaning back in my chair. “What’s this all about?”
Chance leans forward slightly, his expression shifting from friendly to serious. “This is strictly confidential.”
I raise a brow, but nod. “Alright.”
He glances briefly at Jen before continuing. “My exhibit opening is coming up.”
I tilt my head. “Exhibit?”
“Yeah. My paintings are getting a show. The gallery I work for put it all together.”
That’s actually impressive. I knew he worked at Muse gallery. I didn’t know about the paintings, though. Why would I? I don’t get close enough to people to learn the intimate details of their life.
Chance continues before I can comment. “The show itself isn’t really the point,” he says. “I’m using the night to reveal something I’ve been working on for the past couple months.”
He rests his forearms on his knees. “I’ve been working with Anthony’s current boss and several professional athletes to help make his dream of opening his ownsports talent management agencya reality.”
“Well,” I say slowly, “that’s…wow. That’s quite the gesture.” My gaze flicks to Jen. “I’m still confused what the ask is here.”
“Well,” he says, smile widening, “there’s more.” He leans back in the chair now, relaxing slightly. “We’re simultaneously launching anon-profit organizationto support at-risk queer youth.”
Now he has my attention.
Chance continues.
“The plan is to build a youth center physically—and financially—attached to the agency. The agency will funnel a percentage of all athlete contracts directly into the organization.”
Chance smiles slyly knowing he has my interest now. “The athletes themselves will dedicate time and resources throughout the year for fundraising, mentorship programs, and community work.”
I lean forward without realizing it, elbows landing on my desk. “That’s… honestly an incredible concept.” My mind is already racing through logistics. Funding. Structure. Legal protections. I tilt my head slightly. “Tell me what you need.”
Chance smiles brightly. “In short, the agency will needlead counselfor athlete contracts and business protections.”
“That’s me.” Jen says with aduhtone.
“The youth center will need an attorney on hand as well,” he continues. “But it will also need aDirector.”
He gestures lightly between Jen and me. “This is Anthony’s passion. But his time will be limited running the agency. After speaking with Jen, I understand you also have strong feelings about the lack of resources for queer youth.”
My pulse kicks and Jen smiles warmly at me.
“Both operations are fully funded for the first two years,” Chance continues. “We can match your current annual income.The agency will also provide additional revenue streams through contract work and overflow.”
He pauses and hits me with a sincere gaze. “We’d really like you to join us, Spence. We need you to run the non-profit.”
I can’t believe what I’m hearing. It’s like something I didn’t know I wanted to do just landed in my lap. And something inside me is screamingYes! Do it!
I was only bouncing around on these streets for six months before getting into ASU and securing enough in student loans for on campus housing. But I quickly learned how limited resources are. I met a lot of queer youth far worse off than I was.
Now that I have the means, I donate generously to the resources that do exist. I make sure Tyler is taken care of. But sitting here now, I realize it’s not enough. These young people need a leg up. I’d rather help them than to spend my time and talent making the super-rich even richer.
Realizing they’re both staring at me, waiting for me to say something, I clasp my hands in front of my chin, and finally respond. “I trust you, Jen. I know you wouldn’t bring this to me if you hadn’t already vetted it.”
Jen smirks. “Iamvery trustworthy.”
