When she ran into Nicole in the bar, Ariana took the opportunity to make sure Nicole was okay. Ariana chuckled as she thought about Nicole’s friend’s quip about a lap dance.
She turned the TV on but couldn’t stop thinking about that moment when she opened her eyes and stared into Nicole’s. Ariana felt something shift inside her. She’d always guarded her heart because basketball was her focus and she couldn’t let anything get in the way. That’s why she didn’t have a girlfriend. It didn’t mean she didn’t occasionally go out after the game and end up celebrating with a beautiful woman.
But landing in Nicole’s lap and staring into her beautiful eyes extinguished any fear she had from the fall. Those eyes broke through and Ariana felt like her heart was gaping open, inviting Nicole to come inside.
“Whew!” Ariana shook her head. “What is wrong with me? Nicole Neal is way out of my league.”
She started the playback of the game and listened as Shealyn and Nicole welcomed everyone to the new season of the WNBA. A pleased smile grew on Ariana’s face as Nicole told the listeners what she’d be looking for on New York’s team and named Ariana.
The game began and Ariana relived the tip-off where she went down the court and surprised everyone with a three-point basket to begin the game. The camera did a close-up of her as she high-fived her teammates and winked at Cameron.
Ariana didn’t know how many times she’d listened to Nicole commentate a game, but it was different tonight. It felt like Nicole was talking directly to her, appreciating good plays and waiting for what Ariana would do next.
“Maybe I did hit my head,” Ariana grumbled. She reached for her phone and pulled up Nicole’s number. She hesitated then sent a one-word text.
Thanks.
Three little bubbles appeared and Ariana smiled at Nicole’s quick response.
???
Ariana replied:
You said nice things about me.
The bubbles once again appeared.
I try to say nice things about everyone. You know you’re one of the best point guards in the league.
Ariana chuckled and decided to reply the same way Nicole did when she’d complimented her earlier that evening.
I wasn’t aware.
This is fun,Ariana thought as she waited for Nicole’s reply.
Hahahaha, yes you are!
Ariana laughed and sent another text.
I’m just now watching the first half. I’m enjoying the commentary. You and Shealyn really are the best.
Thank you. We work hard to bring the game to the viewers.
She was a little surprised Nicole had responded in the first place, so she decided to push her luck.
Once I get to the second half and my flying leap, I may want to ask you a few questions. Is that all right?
The bubbles once again appeared as she stared at her phone and smiled.
It’s okay. I’ll be up for a while.
Ariana gave her a thumbs up and put down her phone. She looked back at the TV and as the game continued she kept thinking about Nicole. Was she sitting on her couch watching TV, too?Why am I enjoying this playful banter so much?
The halftime whistle blew and her attention was drawn to her face on the screen. She listened to the quick interview Keeley did with her and paused the game when she walked off the court.
Ariana took a short break and went to the kitchen. She pulled a Diet Coke out of the fridge and opened it. She was serious about her nutrition and fitness, but they’d won tonight and she decided the small indulgence was warranted.
Ariana settled back on the couch and started the second half. She was pleased to see better defense by her team as the game continued. After checking the stats and rewinding a few plays here and there, she reached the place in the game where she dove for the ball.
