We all applauded.
Troy stood and bowed dramatically at the waist.
“And if you’re wondering about Cody Simpson, well, Sean Lester from the defensive line is officially on the IR. That means, as Cody and I discussed this morning, he’s still on the active roster.”
I leaned forward and patted Simpson’s shoulder.
“Fin will be starting Sunday in Vegas.”
As he spoke about particulars, it was as if in those few minutes, our minds could forget the loss of the Coopers owner and CEO, the loss of Vee’s father. We could remember that we were, first and foremost, teammates and players.
“Coach Tilson is waiting for us in the large film room,” Pratt said.
“Glad you’re going to be back in practice,” I said to Dennison. “I’m ready to watch you control the field.”
“Man, you’ve shown me some great moves over the last few weeks. It would be a lie if I said I’m content on the bench.” He raised an eyebrow. “I’m cleared. Weights tomorrow?”
My first thought was of Vee. “I think I’m going to follow Pratt’s advice and take tomorrow to give respect to a man I never really knew.”
“Yeah, I didn’t know him either.” Dennison shrugged. “He seemed pretty cool.” We were now walking out of one room and headed to the other. “I’ve gotten to know Ms. Vee over the last few weeks.”
I clenched my jaw as the small hairs on the back of my neck stood to attention. “And your thoughts?”
“She’s something else. If Mr. Reid named her as his successor, I wouldn’t sweat it. I think that woman can do whatever the hell she puts her mind to.” His smile grew. “And she’s nice, you know? Like Grant Marsh can be an ass sometimes. Not Vee. She knows her stuff and isn’t afraid to ask questions when she doesn’t.”
Dennison and I joined the rest of the team and settled into chairs in the large viewing room.
“Do you know her?” Dennison asked in a whisper.
“Maeve Hubbard?” I asked, playing dumb. When Dennison nodded, I nodded back. “Yeah, I do. I agree with your assessment. Anyone who doubts her capabilities doesn’t know her.”
“Gentlemen,” Coach Tilson said. “We’re going to have an abbreviated viewing today. You kicked LA’s ass.”
All the players cheered. Everyone was supposed to be present, the fifty-three active players and the sixteen on the practice squad. As I looked around, I realized we were down from that number. Then I remembered Pratt telling us that Sean Lester, a defensive linebacker, was on the IR. He was probably with the medical staff this morning as well as a few other players. Football had a way of keeping the medical staff busy.
Less than an hour later, Coach Tilson stopped the video. “Lunch and then position meetings. If you need to visit the trainers, make your way there before or after position meetings. Then go home. Ms. Hubbard didn’t tell you what to say if you’re questioned by a reporter because let’s face it—she’s a hell of a lot nicer than I am.”
“Prettier too,” Simpson murmured to my side.
The players around him nodded encouragingly as I clenched my jaw.
“I’m telling you,” Coach Tilson continued, “‘no comment’ is the only fucking comment that should be recorded by any one of you. If it’s not… If I read a comment attributed to a Coopers player, I’m coming for you.” The room was deadly quiet. “Reid Hubbard deserves more than our best play. He deserves our respect. That respect filters down to everyone in the executive offices. Vee called all of you family. Act like it. Tonight and tomorrow are not times for you to be downtown at bars or clubs. Everything everyone in this room does during the next few days or week will be scrutinized. Don’t give anyone anything to make into a headline.” He paused but no one raised their hand. “Come back on Wednesday ready to work your asses off to prepare for the Raiders. They’re at 4 and 1. Sunday won’t be a walk in the park. Who’s in?”
“We are, Coach,” came from every player.
“Who’s in?”
Even louder yet. “We are, Coach.”
“See you Wednesday, ready to practice hard.”
As we stood, I met Simpson’s gaze. “She’s more than pretty.”
Simpson turned my direction. “I didn’t mean anything by it.”
With my lips pressed together, I stared into his eyes. “I just wanted to let you know there’s more to her than looks.”
Simpson leaned back and lifted his hands. “Again, no offense.”
