I meet Jay’s gaze, and he nods.“You can fight tomorrow.”
I follow our trainer back.
NOVA
Knee contusion.That’s what they call it for the three games Clay sits out before the all-star break.
During the most important road trip of the year, Kyle gets named a starter.
Clay doesn’t get picked as a reserve.
I saw the news pop up on my phone while I was on a lunch break from the studio.
“How’s he going to be?”Brooke asks.
“I have no idea.But I’m going over tonight.”
The team gave him an exemption from traveling this week since it’s going to be a few days before he’s back in.
I pick up donuts on the way over to his place.
When I arrive, he buzzes me in.On the table in the foyer is a mysterious black box that looks like it could hold a bowling ball.
“What’s that?”I ask as I set the donuts on the table next to the box.
He looks over the back of the couch.“Agent had it shipped from LA.”
“Can I see?”I bring it over to the couch where he’s sitting in gray sweatpants and nothing else, watching another basketball game.
Clay pops the lock and opens the lid.
Inside is a clear glass box holding a ring the size of a watch.
Dozens, maybe hundreds, of rubies and diamonds sparkle up at us.
“Holy,” I whisper.
He lifts the glass off unceremoniously and holds out the ring.The sides are gold, studded with even more stones.
“That’s your name in diamonds,” I say, tracing the W-A-D-E with a finger.
“Yup.You don’t have to whisper, though.”
“Right.”I laugh it off.“This thing is huge.”
“Like I said.Good for pawning or busting drywall.”His lips twitch.
“Maybe you could put it on a shelf and resist doing either.At least for the time being.”
“Maybe,” he agrees, his smile fading as he sets it back in the box and moves the box to the coffee table.
“How are you doing since the all-star announcement?”I ask.
“Fine.Seriously,” he goes on at my expression.“It’s not like last year.I’m not riding the edge.But maybe it’s for the best I stay here and rehab.”
“I brought you donuts, but the championship ring kind of overshadows those.”
“Agree to disagree.But, I have something for you too.”
