The Commissioner hummed through the phone. “That you do, son. And I promise, next time we won’t interfere. And I’m going to release an official statement and hold a press conference later today. I’m going to explain how stupid we all were and beg for everyone’s forgiveness…including yours.”
Colton sighed. “Thank you, sir. I won’t lie and say I wasn’t incredibly hurt. I felt that the league I dedicated my life to didn’t have my back. And it made me question a lot of things. But the fact that you took the time to call and apologize, well, I really appreciate it.”
“You’re welcome, Colton. I can’t say I won’t ever make another stupid mistake, but I’m going to do better. And good luck in the game this weekend!”
Colton ended the call and tossed the phone onto the chaise with a satisfied smirk. He couldn’t be sure how much of that was just bluster and backpedaling from the tsunami of bad press, or if there were some shreds of sincerity in his words, but it was a relief, just the same.
Chapter 45
Dean
“Wheels up in two hours!” Colton shouted as he entered the loft, finishing his walk with Cocoa. “Dean? Are you ready?” He released Cocoa from her leash and she galloped into the bedroom in search of Dean, her floppy ears flying behind her.
She found Dean zipping his luggage and eagerly yipped for attention. Dean dropped to one knee and gave her a belly rub. “Did you have a nice walk? Hmmm. Did Daddy take you for a nice walk?” he cooed at the pup as she wriggled enthusiastically on the floor.
Dean stood and pulled Colton into a steamy kiss when Cocoa scampered to the kitchen in search of her food bowl. “Hey. I missed you.”
Colton barked out a laugh. “I was gone fifteen minutes!”
Dean dropped his head and forcefully sniffed into his collarbone. “And that was too damn long!”
Colton returned the kiss as hands began to roam, but a ping from Dean’s phone interrupted.
It was a group text from Jordan…
Jordan: Airport shuttle arrives in 20. Meet in the lobby.
“Well. Looks like we’ll have to save this for later.” Dean smiled and squeezed Colton’s ass. “The Grammy awards wait for no one, not even an NFL champion!”
Colton guffawed. “True. I’m just glad I get to go!”
They gathered their bags, checked in with the dog service, and said goodbye to Cocoa.
The dancers and key Harris Entertainment staff gathered in the lobby, ready for their trip to the Grammys in L.A. Everyone was buzzing. Dean had been nominated for multiple awards and they had an amazing performance planned for the show!
Colton’s season had ended, so of course he was tagging along.
After the MVP awards, and the shitstorm of bad press the Commissioner received from denying Dean’s attendance, the Niners dominated Kansas City and easily won the championship game. Colton was also named the MVP of that game, with an impressive 300 yards rushing, two rushing touchdowns, and one touchdown reception.
If ever there was a consolation prize for how the NFL Honors had gone, winning the championship was totally it!
And Dean was able to watch the game with Colton’s family. After the debacle at Dean’s show, Mary and Dean had become thick as thieves. They spent the entire game sipping wine, chatting, and cheering for Colton.
Colton’s dad even joked about the halftime show, which had been entirely comprised of classic rock bands. “They need some new blood in these halftime shows.” He nudged Dean with his elbow as they watched the show below. “Maybe one day you’ll get to perform at halftime?”
As everyone settled onto the jet and prepared for takeoff, Dean sent a text to Aiden.
Dean: Hey Bud! At the airport, heading to the Grammys. We’ll see you in a few days. Love you!
Aiden: GOOD LUCK! I hope you win all the awards! I’ll be watching. Say hi to all the famous people!
Dean smiled as he pocketed his phone.
He and Colton were seated in the back of their private jet. It was a good thing too, because up front, the dancers were bouncing off the walls with excitement.
Nelly tried to start a betting pool for who would hook up with the most famous person.
“Honey, ain’t nobody gonna give you a second look at the Grammys!” Sean snipped and dropped into the seat across from him.
