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“Miss McCade, how did he propose?”
“Dylan, does this mean you’ve given up the nightlife?”
“How long have you been dating?”
“What does your grandmother think, Vanessa?”
“When’s the wedding?”
Steve rose, placing his hand on Dylan’s and Vanessa’s shoulders. “Listen, we’re going to take questions, but this is like any post-game press conference.” He laughed. I could tell he was fucking pleased with himself. The press was eating this up. “Barb, you go first.”
“Thanks, Steve.” She shooed her cameraman over to her shoulder. “Vanessa, how will this engagement affect your ability to effectively run the team?”
Fuck. That question had nothing to do with flowers or bridesmaid dresses. I wanted to push my way to the front and shield her. I wanted to tell that reporter to fuck off.
Vanessa smiled sweetly. “Great question.” Dylan’s heavy hand was slung around her shoulder. “It won’t change any of my day-to-day responsibilities of course. Lots of women have jobs and manage to have fiancés at the same time.” She giggled. “Dylan and I have an understanding. Neither of our careers will be affected. I can assure the Warriors if anything, this will make me a better owner.”
Barb continued, even though I was pretty sure her turn was over. “Are you saying, you’ll have more of a focus on player interests now? Is that a departure from how your grandfather managed the organization?”
Damn it, Barb. Who was that woman?
Steve moved to take the mic, but Vanessa slid it from him. I saw a newfound confidence in her.
“I loved my grandfather and we’re all going to miss him, but I have to do what’s best for the team going forward. And yes, that means I’m going to have a different focus. Dylan and I have talked about the team. I’m not going to pretend and try to convince you that we don’t discuss player issues. I want the Warriors to lead the AFA. And that means I’m going to have to make some changes to keep the quality talent we have.”
My jaw almost dropped. Who was this girl? She had changed in front of me. She was on fire. She wasn’t taking any shit. She knew exactly how to answer the questions.
“Next question.” Steve pointed to one of the Sports Now reporters. “Leslie, what do you have for us?”
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“I’d like to know how you plan on negotiating Dylan’s contract.” The reporter folded her arms.
Dylan didn’t let Vanessa land in the trap. He swiveled the mic in his direction. “Hey there, darlin’.” He flashed a smile at Leslie. “My contract will be negotiated by my agent, just like every guy here.” He nodded to the team.
“But don’t you think you have an unfair advantage?” Leslie pressed.
“I’ll re-negotiate just like my teammates. My biggest concern is having a higher completion rating than Isaac.” He laughed loudly.
All heads turned to face me. I lifted my chin and tried to smile, but my lips were contorted. Mother fucker. Why did he draw me into this?
“Is that true, Isaac? Are you and Dylan that competitive?” Leslie shoved her microphone in my face.
I pressed my palms into my knees. “Sure. We like to compete.”
“What do you think about the engagement?”
I swallowed. “I think it’s great. I wish them all the luck in the world. Congrats, y’all.”
Steve tapped the mic. “Let’s move on to some local press. What do you have Danny?”
“When is it? Have you set a date?”
I was relieved everyone was focused on the press table again.
Dylan threaded his fingers through Vanessa’s, bringing her knuckles to her lips. Everyone gasped when they saw the ring. I hadn’t expected it. The rock was fucking huge.
Vanessa smiled. “We’re going to wait and see what happens at the Super Bowl this year and then set a date for the off season,” she explained.
