Page 30 of Scored

That’s when my agent, Jackson Blanch, encouraged me to take an offer from LA. My time in sunny California made me miss what I’m seeing out the windows. Despite the cold weather, the sidewalks and activity areas were filled with people all decked out in Packers attire.

While the Hubbards and Marshes had done tremendous things in Lexington, there was something almost spiritual about Green Bay: Lambeau Field, Lombardi Avenue, and Titletown District. Everyone was a fan. Little babies were dressed in green and gold from the time they were born. And old men and women proudly identify as cheeseheads.

Lodge Kohler was smack dab in the middle of the pregame festivities, and Rupert was waiting in line to drive us up to the entrance.

“I’d forgotten about the inner tube slide,” I said.

Vee and Ashley looked out the window.

“That’s tall,” Ashley said.

“Forty-six feet tall.”

Vee turned to me with her wide green eyes. “Did you ever…?”

“Are you kidding. Coach would have killed us.”

“You never did it? Snuck around?” Ashley asked.

A laugh bubbled from my throat. “Me, our center, and one of our running backs.”

“No,” Vee exclaimed. “Did the coach find out?”

“If he did, he never said anything. It was after the postseason. Do you know why they call this area Titletown?” I asked.

Vee pressed her lips together and furrowed her forehead. “I do.”

“I don’t,” Ashley said.

Vee answered. “The Packers franchise has won twelve NFL championships, including four Super Bowls.” She sighed. “More than any other team in the league.”

“Well,” Ashley replied, “they’re not going to get past the Vikings this year.”

Vee’s smile returned. “I like your attitude.”

Rupert stopped the SUV in front of the entrance to Lodge Kohler. As we made our way out of the Suburban, Rupert went around to the back and removed our luggage.

“Thank you, Rupert,” I said.

Vee added, “We’ll see you back here at 4:45 p.m.”

“Yes, Ms. Hubbard. I’ll surely be here.”

We spoke to the bellmen, thanking them for the welcome and declining assistance with our bags. The foyer of the hotel was stunning. Walking on the black-and-white checkered tiles, we approached the reception desk.

“Reservation for Graham,” I said. Turning to Vee, I whispered, “This time I know your room number.”

Pink blossomed in her cheeks.

Ashley went to another desk to our side.

“Fin.”

I’d recognize my mother’s voice anywhere.

“Lisa,” Vee said as the two embraced.

Mom hugged Ashley and then laid her hand gently on my sling-wrapped arm. Her smile dimmed. “How are you?”