Zane grinned. “Just channeling my big brother.”
After dinner, Ashley and I offered to help with the cleanup.
“Nope,” Fin said. “Family tradition. Dad, Zane, and I are on cleanup duty. The ladies get to watch Green Bay kick the Lions’ asses.”
“They have similar records,” I said.
Zane nudged Fin. “He played for Green Bay for six years. They’ll always have his allegiance.”
“Unless I’m opposite them on the field,” Fin said before kissing me softly. “Go. We’ve got the kitchen handled.”
“It’s really nice to meet you,” Ashley said as we sat before the fireplace. “I told Zane I was more nervous about meeting you than I was Fin.”
My lips curled in a smile. “Why?”
“You’re Maeve Hubbard, the talk of the NFL.”
“Oh, I hope not.”
“You are. Owners like you and the Seahawks and the Colts…you’re making a way for women in the NFL that hasn’t always been welcoming. You’re inspiring.”
I lifted my hand to the base of my throat. “Thank you. That means a lot.”
“Can I get either of you another glass of sparkling wine?” Lisa asked.
We both declined.
“I’m not sure I’ll eat or drink for the next week,” I said.
By the time Fin and I bid everyone goodbye, Zane and Ashley were on their way to the airport. Coming to the Grahams’ for a day trip was easier from Lexington than Minneapolis.
“So?” Fin asked once we were in the car.
“I had a fantastic time. You didn’t tell me that Zane was dating someone.”
“They started dating during last season. I was sworn to secrecy.”
“You kept your word.”
He grinned. “I try.”
“Ashley told me I’m inspirational.” I let out a long sigh. “It caught me by surprise. I haven’t really thought about what other people think about what I do. She compared me to the Indianapolis Colts’ owner, or one of the owners. She’s also on the sidelines.”
Fin squeezed my knee. “You are inspirational, Vee. With all you’ve been through this season, you are a sight to behold, and the heart of the Coopers.”
“Dad used to say that.”
“Dennison told me the other day to let you know the players have your back. They’re there for you.”
Leaning my head back, I closed my eyes. “Sometimes, like right now, I wish I could bottle the way I’m feeling.”
“How are you feeling?”
Opening my eyes, I took in Fin’s sexy profile. “Happy. Too full. Blessed. And if I’m honest, envious.”
“Envious?”
“Your family. You and Zane. There’s no competition. You two support each other. And your parents. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have parents like Theo and Lisa.”
