I run my finger over it, tracing the etchings.
Declan Paddack.
“Wow.”
Alice leans down next to me, both of us staring at my name. Right there. Forever in the history of the game.
She presses a kiss to my cheek. “I’m so proud of you.”
“I never thought this would happen.”
Going from the worst team in the league to the best was something I only dreamed of happening. Getting to spend the day with the Stanley Cup? It was a far-off fantasy.
Now? Now it’s sitting in my living room.
“Ready to spend your day with the Cup?”
Gettinginto the suite at the Denver Miners game, our professional baseball team, took a lot longer than I thought. Carrying the Cup through the ballpark was like a giant beacon to have everyone stop and take a picture with it.
After drinking a mostly Champagne breakfast out of the Cup, Alice and I took it to the shop so she could show Leon and Jacob. They loved it. From there, we decided to come to a baseball game.
I mean, what fans don’t want to see the Stanley Cup?
“Mr. Paddack. Congratulations on winning.” The suite attendant bustles up to us as we come inside.
“Thank you.” I set the Cup at my feet and shake his hand.
“We have seats saved up front for you. Help yourself to whatever you’d like, and if you need anything, let us know.”
“We appreciate it,” Alice tells him. “Thank you.”
Eyes follow us as we take the first row. Fans below us, ready for the game, turn and eye the Cup as we drop down into the leather seats.
“They are really rolling out the red carpet for you,” Alice says.
“I think it’s for the Cup,” I say.
“Either way, I’m glad you get to celebrate today. You deserve it.”
I beam at her. The best part of today is that she’s by my side. I wouldn’t want anyone else with me. Even though we’vebeen posting pictures of our day on social media to keep up appearances, it’s not a chore.
Getting to spend the day with my wifeandmy best friend?
What else could I want?
“You know,” Alice starts, “I really don’t know much about baseball.”
“It’s okay. We’re here to have fun.”
“I mean, hockey is about all I can stand.”
“All you can stand?” I quirk a brow at her.
“It’s stressful watching you play. I can’t add in any more sports.”
Laughter bubbles out of me. “Good to know. You want anything to drink?”
“I’ll take a beer.”
