“Which one?” Nicole replied, knowing she was referring to Ariana.
Shealyn stopped and turned around. “Okay, I see you,” she said with a chuckle. “Ariana Villa.”
“Ah.” Nicole nodded nonchalantly. “I’m sure she’s ready for another big game.”
As they neared the broadcast desk Nicole gazed around the gym searching for Ariana. When her eyes landed on her, Ariana was standing with a basketball in her hand staring at Nicole, her mouth slightly agape.
Nicole grinned. She remembered how much Ariana liked her pants and vest outfit from opening day, so she’d paired another fitted vest with sleek pants, this time in cobalt blue. She chose not to wear a shirt under the vest and added high-heeled boots to complete her look. Yes, she’d been thinking of Ariana when she chose the outfit and by the look on Ariana’s face she knew it, too.
Ariana regained her composure and smirked at Nicole, giving her a quick nod of approval.
Nicole sat down, opened her laptop, and prepared to go live for the pregame, wearing a pleased look the entire time. She didn’t dare glance back at Ariana, afraid her reaction would give them away.
She and Shealyn smiled for the camera and summarized what they expected to see between New York and Washington this afternoon. The camera cut to highlights of several players from both teams while Shealyn listed their stats and Nicole commented on their past games.
“We’re ready for tip-off,” Shealyn said as the players gathered around the center circle. “Nia Stevens wins the jump and tips it to Ariana Villa. She dribbles to the three-point line and takes the shot.”
“It goes in,” Nicole said as Ariana backpedaled to the other end of the court, but not before glancing her way and givingNicole a wink. Nicole chuckled. “No surprise there. Villa has come out with her signature ton of confidence.”
“And she steals the ball, dribbles toward her basket,” Shealyn said with excitement. “There’s a pass to Benson and back to Villa for an easy layup. Those two have been doing this for years. What team work.”
“New York has come out and set the tone,” Nicole said.
“Here we go,” Shealyn added.
The game was back and forth for most of the first half. Ariana had played tough defense and let Cameron shine on the offensive end of the floor. Nicole was able to control her desire to cheer for Ariana and had exchanged a smile or two when she came back on the floor after halftime.
The second half was no different, but in the last two minutes Ariana was able to hit two three-point shots that gave New York a four point lead. The game ended with New York securing the win.
Nicole and Shealyn finished their commentary, sending the broadcast back to the studio. As they closed their laptops Nicole gazed over to where the players were mingling and exiting the gym. She spotted Ariana and smiled at her just before she left the court.
“We have a problem,” Keith said as they put their equipment away.
Shealyn and Nicole looked at him and waited.
“Something happened to our plane and they’re trying to make other arrangements.” He shrugged.
“I’m supposed to be home for my kid’s school fair,” Shealyn said. “She’s been working on this for weeks.”
“Can’t we fly commercial?” Nicole said. “Surely they have flights going to New York. It’s Saturday.”
“Talk to Jeannie,” Keith said. “She’s in the truck.”
“I will!” Shealyn exclaimed.
“I’ll bring your stuff. Go.” Nicole shouldered both computer bags then headed for the exit which would lead her to the dressing room. As she entered the hallway Nicole was surprised to see Ariana walking her way.
“You played another great game,” Nicole said, trying to sound professional.
“Thank you,” Ariana replied. “I’m sure you and Shealyn called another extraordinary game. Let me help you.”
Nicole gave one of the bags to Ariana. As their hands brushed their eyes met and Nicole could feel her heart leap in her chest. They started towards the dressing room, neither of them speaking for a moment.
“I wanted to compliment your outfit,” Ariana said with a sly grin.
“Oh, do you like it?”
Ariana chuckled then said quietly, “You knew I would.”
