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“That’s the best compliment.” She presses her lips to mine and I seize the opportunity to deepen the kiss.
It’s just heating up when Dee eases back and slides her hands up my chest and over my shoulders. “Dinner first, then dessert.”
“Dessert now sounds better.”
“I’ll make it worth the wait.”
My wife can be such a tease. One of the many things I love about her.
“Why don’t you look over some of the collage ideas I found on Pinterest while I finish up the bowls?”
My phone buzzes then. “Saved by the bell.”
Her lips twitch with humor that she tries to hide behind a scowl.
Love you, I mouth, and fish my phone out of my pants pocket, watching Dee’s sexy retreat. She’s always the best and most invigorating part of my day. I look down at the screen. It’s Asher Dumont, my Publicist & PR Manager.
In his midthirties, out of all my business relationships, I’d say ours is the closest to a friendship. While we haven’t hung out as much lately, I like Ash on both a personal and professional level. He’s been in charge of my media relations and branding since I left the NBA and started Papa’s Kids. Asher doesn’t have a rolodex of celebrities. I didn’t want that. He’s skilled at messaging and navigating the nuances of the press. And most of all, he understands that my priority is to do the cause justice, while keeping my private life out of the media.
“Hey, Ash,” I answer, putting the phone to my ear.
“Hey, Mick. Got a minute?”
“Just about to have dinner. What’s up?”
“I won’t keep you long then. Are you familiar with the Chicago Children’s We Care Foundation?”
“Sure, I’ve heard of them. They promote and fundraise for children’s charities. Why?”
“Here’s the why,” he says with an upbeat lift to his voice. “Their board selected you to receive the Generosity of Spirit Award for civic and philanthropic leadership. Major kudos, my friend—congratulations!”
An appropriate response would be that’s amazing news or I’m honored, but I say neither. In fact, I say nothing.
“Mick?”
“Yeah, still here.”
“Shocked you, did I?”
“You could say that.”
“Don’t know why. You’re doing great things for the city. Getting kids off the street. The new facility is gaining lots of attention. The board’s chairwoman is anxious to issue a press release on Monday. The awards dinner and gala will be held later next month and she wants to announce the guest of honor.”
“Does acceptance require me to attend?” I ask, processing my options.
“I don’t know if it’s required but it’s customary. What kind of question is that?”
“I was thinking my managing director could accept on my behalf. Eden runs the show and deserves the credit.”
“Bring her, but with all due respect to Eden, people will come expecting to see you and hear you speak. This is not a quaint little fundraising luncheon, Mick. This is a major event.”
“I’m aware of that.”
“Then it won’t come as a surprise that recipients are featured onSunday Nights with Bianca Keller. It’ll be a friendly interview, aired a week or two before the gala, shot in your home. I know you value your privacy. But frankly, I think it’s a good idea. Connect more of the man to the cause. You’re beloved by the city, dude, and that intimate touch will draw people in.”
I glance across the room, past the wall divider into the kitchen. Dee is setting the table. “There’s a lot to consider. I’ll have to get back to you.”
“On the interview?”
