Page 70 of Scored

“Uncle Darin and the Coopers use Stephens Security Company. He asked why I was looking for their contact information. I told him I received some suspicious notes of late, and I didn’t want to bother the police.”

“Did he ask for more information?”

She shook her head. “He thought calling Stephens was a good idea. Contacting the police could signal bad publicity for the Coopers. He gave me the number for the head of the company.”

“Are you going to reach out to them?”

“I did.” She laid her head on my shoulder. “They’re sending someone to Maker’s Mark tomorrow around noon. The executive meeting will be done. I like to eat lunch with Aunt Rachel when we can. I’ll have to let her know I can’t tomorrow.” She went on, her green orbs on me. “They told me to have the two cards, and that’s it.”

I ran my palm up and down her far shoulder and arm. “Why are you so cold?”

“Have you looked outside? It’s cold and dingy.”

Bringing my face within millimeters of hers, I shook my head. Our noses rubbed. “I’m not looking outside. I prefer the vision I have right here.”

Vee stood and pulled a soft throw from a basket near the sofa. Covering herself, she laid with her head on my lap. Together, we listened to the prognosticators dissect the upcoming Kansas City vs Houston matchup as I gently stroked her beautiful hair. Rogue strands had come loose from her braid.

I wasn’t sure when exactly Vee fell asleep, but I couldn’t deny the flood of satisfaction that circulated through me at the discovery. This complex and stunning woman on my lap was Maeve Hubbard, the queen of the NFL, the woman admired by women and men alike, the one who took on a task much sooner than she dreamed would be hers to bear. It wasn’t just that she was sleeping soundly. It was that in my arms or by my side, she was comfortable letting down her guard. In a world of threats, Vee felt safe with me. It was all I wanted when I chose to involve myself in her life.

Vee loved me and I her.

The AFC game was into the second quarter when her long lashes fluttered.

Blinking, Vee sat up. “Oh my.” She turned her focus to the muted television. “How long was I asleep?”

My grin grew. “I’m not sure. Kansas City is up by a touchdown, 14–7.”

“I’m sorry.” Her emerald gaze shimmered. “I think I promised you something other than a nap.”

“Don’t apologize. How often do you get to curl up and nap during the day?”

Her soft laughter filled the room. “I can’t remember the last time. Everything has been so busy since Dad…” She swallowed and forced a smile. “Since beating Houston in the final game of the regular season, it’s been nonstop into postseason.”

“And you said you didn’t sleep well last night.”

She moved back to her knees and came close. Our lips united in a lingering kiss. This wasn’t breathless and frenzied. As we continued, our connection felt as if we were building the foundation of our future, the groundwork of a relationship that was meant to endure. More than the undeniable physical attraction, it would be strong enough to survive sadness and tragedy, as well as joy and victory.

When she pulled away, her smile beamed. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“Thank you.”

I cupped her cheek. “For what?”

“I didn’t sleep well last night. I woke multiple times thinking about the roses. I also didn’t want to call Uncle Darin and the security company.”

“I know that.” My grin was back.

“But after I did those things, I fell asleep. I think that means I feel better about having someone investigate whatever is happening.”

“Thank you,” I said.

“For what?”

“Accepting our Fin’s-in-control bubble.”

Leaning forward, Vee brushed her lips over mine.