“I’d love that.” Nicole smiled. “And then Phoenix.”
“Hey, if we play Phoenix in the playoffs you’ll have to do that game,” Ariana said. “Maybe I can meet your parents then.”
“Slow down, babe. I want to call that game more than anything, but we’re getting too far ahead.”
“Speaking of ahead and looking past the season,” Ariana said, gazing into Nicole’s eyes, “do you know what you’re going to do?”
“I’ve been thinking about it, but we have to get you that championship first.”
“I thought you were supposed to be neutral.” Ariana interlaced their fingers and pulled Nicole’s hand over her heart.
Nicole smiled. “You may think Livi is your biggest fan, but you’d be wrong.”
Ariana pulled Nicole’s hand to her lips and kissed it softly. “You don’t think they’ll let you keep calling the WNBA?”
“Do we have to talk about this right now?” Nicole said. “I’m trying to get you to stop worrying and play with abandon and the freedom that makes you so damn good.”
“It makes me worry that I don’t know what’s next for you,” Ariana said. “We know what I’ll be doing. I’m under contract.”
“Okay, I didn’t realize you were so concerned about it,” Nicole said. “But babe, we already have plenty to worry about.”
“So?”
“It will make you feel better to know that Misty Bell has wanted me to come coach with her for years. She always has a place for me if I decide to give up the mic.”
“Really!” Ariana’s eyes lit up. “That’s a great option.”
Nicole chuckled. “You don’t think that would be too much togetherness?”
“Never.”
“She isn’t the only one interested in my research and analysis talents,” Nicole said. “I could also write for the network and do the kinds of pieces where I can give my opinion for a change. So stop worrying, I have options.”
“Yes, but none of those include commentating,” Ariana said. “I know that’s your love.”
“I have thought about that,” Nicole said. “I could go into the studio and do the pre- and post-game shows. Those could be fun. I could definitely show off my analytical skills. Or I could alwaysgo back to calling college games. I still do some now and I do love watching these young players blossom.”
Ariana smiled. “Are you sure about this?”
Nicole scoffed. “What?” She sat up and stared down at Ariana. “Are you changing your mind about us?”
“No!” Ariana sat up and grabbed Nicole’s hands. “Will you be happy doing any of those things you just listed?”
“You make me happy, Ariana Villa,” Nicole stated. “I can do any of those things.”
“Or, there’s another you haven’t mentioned.”
“What’s that?”
“You could spend your time with me and travel with me during the season,” Ariana said. “I make a lot of money from my endorsements. We’ve made the decision to do this life together, so what I have is yours.”
“Oh!” Nicole’s voice went up and down as she grinned. “Being your girlfriend has perks, does it?”
Ariana chuckled. “It’s an option, babe. Think about it.”
“Okay, I will add it to the list,” Nicole said. “But right now there are other things I’d rather do.”
Ariana gazed into her dark brown eyes and gave her a sexy smile. “Oh yeah? What might that be?”
