If anything, Cooper knew how to play the game of social politicking as he was taught from a very young age by his ambitious mother. That particular game meant schmoozing anyone with a camera in his face. Cooper didn’t have a problem with Priscilla. He didn’t have a problem with any of the journalists. He was just a private person who loved the game of football, but hated everything else that came with it.
Priscilla straightened herself out and guided the microphone to her mouth. “It’s so great to see you back on the field. Is there any hope of you returning to the field as a player?”
He should’ve seen that question coming. Hehesitated and scratched at the stubble at the base of his chin. “I’m really just focusing on what I came here to do. It’s an important job and one that I perform with all the same dedication as if I were playing. Fallon has some serious talent and if I can guide him in the right direction, then that’s every bit as fulfilling as if I was throwing the ball myself.”
“Your star player just told me the two of you made a deal before the game…”
He said what?
She continued, “Can you share any details of what that deal entailed?”
Cooper’s smile widened. “He’s a funny guy.”
“The fans are dying to know almost as much as I am.”
Cooper took hold of the mic, sharing possession with the journalist, and looked straight into the camera. “I told him if he won the game tonight that he could take the day off tomorrow because he’s passionate about charity work. He really wanted to go volunteer at a nursing home back in Columbus.”
“He sounds like a real stand-up guy.”
Cooper gritted his teeth. “You have no idea.”
The passengers on the team-owned jet were all asleep. Everyone but Cooper who stared out the window of the plane as it tore through the night sky. He checked his watch and realized he still had two hours to try and get some sleep before landing back in Columbus at five in the fucking morning.
His phone buzzed in his lap and when he looked down, he saw a notification from his not-so-favorite pain in the ass.
Nico
You up?
Typical fuckboy message.Cooper considered not responding but bit the bullet of curiosity.
Cooper
I’m going to regret responding to this message, aren’t I?
Nico
I’m not taking the fall for that stunt of yours.
Nico
Call the press and tell them I will not be going to that nursing home.
Nico
They freak me the fuck out.
Cooper laughed quietly.
Cooper
Your sorry ass is going to be there at noon.
Nico
This is going to reflect poorly on you whenI don’t show up.
Nico
