But Noah didn’t care. He wanted to capture this moment forever. After all the aggression they’d faced at the start of the season, it was a revelation. Of course there would always be supporters who resented openly gay players. If they kept up this level, even they would have to admit the club was performing better than it had in years.
Adam waited for him as they walked off the pitch. He clapped Noah on the shoulder.
“Well done,” he said. “You played a fucking blinder.”
Noah grinned. “I had to pay you all back for your kindness. What better way than by doing my job?”
They waved at the fans until their arms ached. Noah threw his shirt into the crowd. A gaggle of women fought over it. He didn’t wait to see the outcome.
He prayed they could rush through the obligatory locker-room celebration. There was only one person he wanted to see.
Noah walked into the lounge to cheers. He nodded proudly and waved. All the while scanning the crowd.
There he was. Noah’s stomach flipped as he walked over. Carmine looked gorgeous in high-waisted black trousers and a striped shirt. They hugged.
Carmine stood back.
“You were amazing,” he said. “Even I saw that.”
“Did you manage to watch the whole game?”
Carmine nodded proudly. “And I shouted the right things at the right time.”
“Proud you.”
Noah allowed Carmine to lead him over to his little group. Noah had arranged a decent amount of tickets. That meant he could host Samantha, Monica, Raoul and Donna. Noah hadn’t officially met Raoul yet as Carmine’s boyfriend.
Raoul took control and shook Noah’s hand enthusiastically.
“Fucking brilliant, mate,” he said. “That tackle was insane.”
Tears stung Noah’s eyes but he wouldn’t ruin the moment.
“Thank you.”
After greeting everyone else, Noah accepted a fizzy water from Samantha and exhaled.
His contentment was broken by Javier joining them.
“Boss?”
“Don’t worry. I haven’t got any notes for you,” Javier said, flashing his dazzling smile. “I wanted to meet the man who’s having such a positive influence on you.”
He shook Carmine’s hand.
“Whether I’m here or not next season, I’m happy that Noah has someone to depend on.”
Carmine frowned. “You just got through to the semis. I’d say you’ve got this nailed.”
Noah burst out laughing. To hear Carmine talking like he was invested in the club was unbelievable.
“You’re right,” Javier said. “Another thing. I wondered if it would be okay to visit your father at some point. I’m very fond of him.”
Noah rested his hand on Carmine’s shoulder. This gesture would mean the world to the whole family.
“He would love that.”
“Wonderful. Noah has my number. Feel free to text to arrange.”
